Pipe Leakage Detection Using Vibration Cross-Correlation

The patent divides the measurement process into two distinct functional segments: (1) a measurement terminal that collects vibration data and performs cross-correlation analysis locally, and (2) a leakage position analysis unit that receives analysis results and determines the final leakage position. This segmentation allows the measurement terminal to process data efficiently without requiring multiple terminals across the entire pipeline, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement precision through distributed processing.

The patent introduces a new dimension of processing by implementing cross-correlation analysis within the measurement terminal itself. Instead of relying solely on multiple spatially distributed terminals to achieve precision, the system adds a temporal/signal-processing dimension by comparing vibration signals through cross-correlation, enabling accurate leakage detection with fewer physical terminals.

The patent merges the measurement function and the analysis function into an integrated system. The measurement terminal not only collects vibration data but also performs cross-correlation analysis locally. The analysis results are then transmitted to the leakage position analysis unit, which can determine the leakage position without requiring the examiner to make repeated site visits for confirmation. This merging eliminates the time loss associated with separate analysis units and repeated visits.

The system implements a feedback mechanism where the measurement terminal transmits analysis results (cross-correlation values and time differences) to the leakage position analysis unit. This feedback loop enables the central unit to calculate the leakage position based on received data, reducing the need for repeated site visits and confirmation while maintaining measurement precision.

The measurement terminal is designed to perform self-service by conducting cross-correlation analysis locally using its own processing capabilities. Instead of requiring multiple terminals for redundant measurement, the single terminal can reliably detect leaks by comparing its own vibration signals through cross-correlation, reducing the quantity of terminals needed while maintaining detection reliability.

The patent replaces the mechanical approach of using multiple physical terminals for reliable detection with a signal-processing approach. By implementing cross-correlation analysis, the system substitutes additional hardware with computational methods, thereby maintaining reliability while reducing the quantity of measurement terminals and associated costs.