Combined Pulse Echo Pipeline Inspection via Multi-Sensor Acoustic Data Fusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipeline inspection methods face challenges in efficiently detecting leaks, corrosion, and other anomalies within long pipeline systems, due to the difficulty of visual inspection and the need for more accurate environmental assessments.
Innovation Solution
The use of combined pulse echo techniques involving an ultrasound transmitter and receiver system with multiple sensors, which transmit ultrasound pulses through the pipe and receive echoes to derive an environmental assessment by combining data from the sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If visual inspection methods are used to detect pipe leakage, then the inspection process is simple, but the detection accuracy is very difficult and insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces visual inspection methods with acoustic detection technology. Acoustic sensors detect leakage sounds, corrosion noises, and flow anomalies through the pipe wall, transforming a visual/mechanical inspection process into an acoustic field-based detection system that operates independently of line of sight and provides continuous monitoring capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces acoustic sensors as intermediary devices that detect anomalies by listening to sound waves transmitted through the pipe wall. These sensors act as mediators between the pipe structure and the inspection system, converting mechanical vibrations and acoustic signals into detectable electrical signals that indicate leakage, corrosion, or other anomalies
2Measurement precision
If single sensor inspection methods are used, then the device complexity is low, but the environmental assessment accuracy is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the inspection system into multiple acoustic sensors positioned at different locations around the pipe. Each sensor monitors a specific sector, and the combined data from all sensors provides comprehensive environmental assessment. This segmentation allows the system to detect and locate anomalies with higher precision while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular sensor deployment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines data from multiple acoustic sensors to create a unified environmental assessment of the pipe condition. By merging signals from sensors positioned at different locations, the system achieves more accurate detection of leakage, corrosion, and external environmental factors than any single sensor could provide alone, while the integrated processing maintains system manageability
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
This method allows for more accurate and efficient inspection of pipeline systems by providing detailed environmental assessments, including pipe coating status and external conditions, thereby improving detection of leaks and other anomalies.
Implementation Method 1
transmitting an ultrasound pulse through a pipe or a fluid container from inside the pipe or the fluid container
Implementation Method 2
receiving echoes via a plurality of sensors, based on the ultrasound pulse
Data Source
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AI summary
In accordance with an embodiment, a method for inspecting pipe is provided. The method includes transmitting an ultrasound pulse through a pipe or a fluid container from inside the pipe or the fluid container. The method further includes receiving echoes via a plurality of sensors, based on the ultrasound pulse, and combining echo data from the plurality of sensors. The method additionally includes deriving an environmental assessment based on the combining the echo data.