Pipeline Marker Imaging for Displacement and Stress Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipeline systems lack the ability to detect stresses and changes that could lead to leaks or pipe breakages, as they only identify pipe types and positions without monitoring displacements.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize at least two markers arranged on a pipeline system, recorded together on a baseline image, to detect displacements by comparing follow-up images with the baseline, allowing for the detection of alterations in the X, Y, and Z directions, as well as angular displacements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If only single markers are used for pipeline identification, then the identification function is simple and sufficient, but the ability to detect displacements and stresses is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The pipeline system is segmented into multiple monitoring points, each equipped with markers. By dividing the pipeline into sections with individual markers, the system can detect displacements at multiple locations simultaneously, transforming a single identification function into a distributed monitoring network that provides comprehensive stress and displacement detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Markers serve as intermediary elements between the pipeline structure and the detection system. These markers are attached to the pipeline and act as reference points that translate physical displacements and stresses into detectable positional changes, enabling indirect measurement of pipeline conditions through image comparison.
2Measurement precision
If markers are arranged to enable displacement detection, then stress and displacement detection capability is improved, but the complexity of marker arrangement and baseline image recording increases
Solution Approach 1:
A baseline image is created as a digital copy of the marker positions in the initial state. This baseline serves as a reference template that can be repeatedly compared against subsequent images to detect displacements. The copying approach transforms a complex measurement problem into a simple image comparison task, enabling precise displacement measurement without requiring complex hardware modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from one-dimensional linear markers to two-dimensional marker pairs with spatial coordinates. By arranging markers in pairs and recording their positions in a baseline image, the system can detect displacements in multiple directions (X, Y, Z axes) and angular changes, significantly enhancing measurement precision while maintaining manageable system complexity through visual documentation.
3Reliability
If continuous monitoring is implemented to detect early stresses, then reliability and early warning capability are improved, but the frequency of image recording and data processing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The baseline image is recorded and stored in advance, during the installation phase or before monitoring begins. This preliminary action creates a reference state that enables future comparisons without requiring real-time complex processing. Subsequent monitoring only requires capturing new images and comparing them against the pre-established baseline, significantly reducing the time and computational resources needed for continuous monitoring while maintaining high early detection reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for detecting displacements in installed pipeline systems and identifying components and their properties, comprising:arranging/attaching a marker to at least one of the components of the installed pipeline system,recording/scanning/photographing the marker (3) and generating a baseline image of the initial state,assigning properties and data to and depositing them on the marker,storing the baseline image at a memory location,re-recording/re-scanning/re-photographing the marker,autonomously detecting the marker and comparing it with the stored baseline image of the corresponding marker,determining alterations or displacements of the marker,outputting determined values,wherein at least two markers are arranged such that they are recorded together on a baseline image.