Helical Pipeline Sensor Integration for Strain and Hydrogen Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complex logistics and cost inefficiencies in manufacturing and assembling large pipelines from smaller sections, particularly when bending is required to follow a predetermined route or terrain, and the need for enhanced structural integrity and sensing capabilities within pipelines.
Innovation Solution
A sensor system integrated into a pipeline constructed using helically formed strip materials with interlocking ridges, allowing for simultaneous embedding of sensor lengths during manufacturing, which can measure hydrogen gas presence and strain, and a method for constructing pipelines with these sensors to enhance structural integrity and monitoring capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If pipelines are constructed from smaller sections of butt welded pipes, then the pipeline can be assembled from standardized components, but the logistics and assembly complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The pipeline is divided into multiple helically wound layers, each layer being a separate component that can be manufactured and installed independently. This segmentation allows for standardized production of pipe sections while maintaining relative simplicity in assembly through the helical winding process.
2Adaptability or versatility
If individual pipe sections are bent to follow a predetermined route, then the pipeline can adapt to terrain requirements, but the manufacturing and assembly difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The helical winding structure provides dynamic adaptability, allowing the pipeline to be bent and shaped to follow predetermined routes and terrain contours. The helical configuration naturally accommodates bending requirements without requiring complex manufacturing processes or additional assembly steps.
3Strength
If multiple layers of helically wound strip materials are used, then the pipeline structural integrity is improved, but the manufacturing process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple layers of helically wound strip materials are nested within each other, with each layer contributing to the overall structural integrity. The interlocking ridges between adjacent layers create a nested structure that enhances strength while maintaining a relatively simple manufacturing process through continuous helical winding.
Solution Approach 2:
The pipeline employs composite construction with multiple layers of helically wound strip materials, each layer potentially made from different materials or configurations to optimize structural properties. This composite approach enhances overall strength and integrity while the helical winding process remains relatively simple and continuous.
4Reliability
If sensors are integrated during pipeline manufacturing, then the sensing capabilities are enhanced, but the manufacturing process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Sensors are integrated into the pipeline structure during the manufacturing process itself, rather than being installed afterward. This preliminary integration ensures proper positioning and bonding of sensors while they are being laid down helically along with the pipe layers, enhancing sensing capabilities without requiring complex post-manufacturing installation procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor for measuring a characteristic of a length of a pipeline, wherein the sensor comprises a sensor length arranged to extend helically along the pipeline length; and the sensor length extends parallel to a ridge extending radially from a layer of a wall of the pipeline length. A length of pipeline with an integrated sensor length may be constructed by bending a first strip of material into a helical form that comprises a first ridge; bending a second strip of material into a helical form, wherein the second strip of material comprises a second ridge; forming a tubular shape from the first and second strips of material, wherein the first strip of material at least partially surrounds the second strip of material, and the first ridge engages the second ridge; and wrapping a sensor length about the tubular shape.