Non-Intrusive Pipe Dimension Measurement for Flow Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for measuring pipe dimensions for flow measurement systems are inaccurate, especially for non-circular applications, and require intrusive installation processes, which are costly and unacceptable in certain cases.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a first device to measure the radius of curvature and a second device to measure the wall thickness at multiple positions along the pipe's outer peripheral surface, with a processor determining the cross-sectional area based on this data, allowing for non-intrusive and accurate dimensional assessment suitable for non-circular pipe sections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional calipers and ultrasonic thickness measurement systems are used to measure pipe dimensions, then measurement data can be obtained, but the measurement accuracy is insufficient especially for non-circular pipe sections
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe circumference is divided into multiple discrete measurement positions (e.g., 8 positions around the circumference). At each position, both diameter and wall thickness are measured independently. This segmentation allows the system to capture the actual irregular shape of non-circular pipe sections while maintaining measurement accuracy through systematic sampling of the perimeter.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from conventional single-point or average diameter measurements to multi-dimensional perimeter mapping. By measuring diameter and wall thickness at multiple circumferential positions, the system reconstructs the complete cross-sectional geometry, enabling accurate area calculation for non-circular sections that conventional methods cannot handle.
2Measurement precision
If intrusive installation methods are used for flow measurement systems, then accurate flow data can be obtained, but installation costs increase and installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces intrusive mechanical installation methods (requiring pipe opening, internal sensor placement, or complex external mounting) with a non-intrusive clamp-on design. The flow meter is clamped externally on the pipe, using the pipe's own surface as a reference for acoustic wave propagation, thereby eliminating the need for disruptive installation while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses acoustic waves as an intermediary to measure flow parameters without direct physical contact with the fluid or pipe interior. The clamp-on transducers transmit acoustic signals through the pipe wall and surrounding medium, allowing flow measurement while avoiding intrusive installation requirements.
3Ease of manufacture
If average diameter and average wall thickness are used to calculate cross-sectional area, then calculations can be performed, but the measurement data does not accurately represent the installation location
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single average value, the system segments the pipe cross-section into multiple discrete measurement points around the circumference. Each position provides independent diameter and wall thickness data, allowing the system to reconstruct the actual cross-sectional shape and calculate area with high precision, accurately representing the installation location's geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The system measures and uses local geometric properties at each circumferential position rather than relying on global averages. By capturing the specific diameter and wall thickness at each location, the system accounts for local variations in pipe geometry, providing accurate cross-sectional area data that reflects the actual installation conditions.
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 system provides accurate measurement data for pipe dimensions, enabling precise flow measurement and reducing installation costs by avoiding intrusive methods, and is applicable to pipes with non-circular cross-sections such as those with oval shapes.
Implementation Method 1
A first device is configured to measure a radius of curvature at each of the plurality of positions of the outer peripheral surface
Implementation Method 2
Ultrasonic thickness measurement systems may be used to measure the wall thickness of the pipe at locations where the diameter is determined
Implementation Method 3
The processor is configured to determine cross-sectional area of the predetermined section of the pipe based on measurement data including the radius of curvature and wall thickness
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes measuring a radius of curvature at each of the plurality of positions of the outer peripheral surface of the predetermined section of the pipe is measured through the first device. A second device is detachably coupled to the plurality of positions along the outer peripheral surface of the predetermined section of the pipe. A wall thickness at each of the plurality of positions of the outer peripheral surface of the predetermined section of the pipe is measured through the second device. A cross-sectional area of the predetermined section of the pipe is measured based on a measurement data including the radius of curvature and wall thickness at each of the plurality of positions of the outer peripheral surface of the predetermined section of the pipe.