Large-Diameter Pipeline Deformation Measurement With Laser and Fiber Sensors

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing technologies face challenges in accurately measuring section deformation in large-diameter pipelines, particularly in three-dimensional space, with insufficient detection accuracy and high error rates, making it difficult to ensure the safe operation of water diversion projects.

Innovation Solution

A safety measuring device comprising a section size measuring device with a rotating platform and full-angle laser ranging, and a bending measuring device with fiber gyroscopes and optical sensors, along with a method to evaluate deformation using section size, axial deformation, and curvature measurements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional field detection methods are used to measure large-diameter pipelines, then the detection process is simple, but the measurement precision and detection accuracy are insufficient with large errors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesection deformation measurement accuracyVSAvoiddetection equipment complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The measurement device is divided into multiple functional modules: laser ranging platform for distance measurement, rotating platform for multi-angle detection, level for orientation reference, and data processing system. Each module performs a specific function, collectively achieving high-precision three-dimensional deformation measurement while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical contact measurement methods with optical laser ranging technology. The laser range finder uses light time-of-flight or phase modulation to measure distances non-contactly, eliminating mechanical wear and human measurement errors while significantly improving measurement precision for large-diameter pipeline section deformation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If comprehensive three-dimensional space deformation detection is implemented, then the measurement accuracy improves, but the device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedeformation detection reliabilityVSAvoiddetection system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The measurement device integrates multiple functions into a single unified system: the laser range finder measures radial distances, the rotating platform enables angular coverage, the level provides orientation reference, and the microcomputer coordinates all components and processes data. This multi-functional integration achieves reliable three-dimensional deformation detection while avoiding the complexity of multiple separate devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a microcomputer as an intermediary that coordinates the laser range finder, rotating platform, level, and data processing. The microcomputer automatically controls the rotating platform's angular position, triggers laser measurements at specific angles, processes the raw distance data, and calculates three-dimensional coordinates. This automated intermediary eliminates manual measurement errors and ensures consistent, reliable data collection throughout the measurement process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The device provides accurate, reliable, and cost-effective measurements of section size, axial deformation, and curvature, enabling safe and efficient evaluation of large-diameter pipelines.

Implementation Method 1

full-angle laser ranging device includes a dial, pointer and laser range finder

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Implementation Method 2

laser range finder follows the pointer rotation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 3

the first forward device is provided with at least two fiber gyroscopes and information integration and speed sensing system; the fiber gyroscope is used to check the acceleration of the measured forward device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGyroscope effect: Gyroscope

Implementation Method 4

at least four optical fiber sensors are evenly distributed in the circumference to monitor the deformation of the connecting rod in real time

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical fiber sensing: Optical Fibre

Data Source

PatentUS12435971B2Safety measuring device and safety evaluation method for large-diameter pipeline
Publication Date: 2025.10.07 NANJING HYDRAULIC RES INST
  • US12435971B2 patent drawing
  • US12435971B2 patent drawing
  • US12435971B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A safety measuring device for large diameter pipes includes an abutment, a rotating platform, a full-angle laser distance measuring device, a level meter, full-angle laser distance measuring device includes dial, a pointer, and a laser distance meter; the bending degree measuring device includes a high power thruster, fiber optic gyroscope, information integration, and speed sensing system; the information integration and speed sensing system are used to gather camera, optical fiber, acceleration, positioning, and other key parameters, and it can be transmitted in real-time; it also provides a safety assessment method for large-diameter pipelines, comprising: acquiring large-diameter cross-sectional deformation in different periods, comparing the cross-sectional size, axial deformation, and curving degree to assess the degree of cross-section deformation; the three indicators are taken as important indicators in the safety assessment method of large-diameter pipelines.