Rollable Pipeline Sensor Unit for Leak Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipeline inspection methods face challenges in detecting anomalies, such as leaks and corrosion, especially in large pipes, due to difficulties in locating sensors within the pipeline and potential entrapment, and existing technologies are not effective for small diameter pipes where human inspection is not possible.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained, spherical or ellipsoidal sensor unit with magnetometers and accelerometers that travels with the liquid flow, allowing for detailed inspection of pipeline conditions without impeding the flow, and can be recovered at a downstream port, featuring a compressible foam exterior for easy insertion and retrieval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an untethered sensor is propelled by liquid flow, then the sensor can travel through the pipeline without impeding flow, but it becomes difficult to determine the sensor's location within the pipeline
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces magnetic field markers as an intermediary reference system fixed to the pipeline. The sensor unit carries a magnetometer that detects these markers, allowing location determination without interfering with the liquid flow propelling the sensor
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical location tracking systems with a magnetic field-based detection system. Instead of using physical markers or mechanical position sensors that would impede flow, the system uses magnetic fields to encode location information that the moving sensor can detect
2Loss of information
If electromagnetic communication is used for sensor data transmission, then data transfer is enabled, but magnetic sensors such as magnetometers cannot be used to sense pipeline conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the sensor unit into functionally independent components: detection sensors (magnetometers, accelerometers, corrosion sensors) that sense pipeline conditions, and a separate communication module that transmits data after the unit is recovered. This allows magnetic sensors to be used without electromagnetic interference during the sensing phase
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
Enables effective detection of leaks and corrosion in pipelines of various sizes, including small diameter pipes, by accurately determining sensor location and avoiding entrapment, while maintaining flow integrity and allowing for detailed data collection and analysis post-recovery.
Implementation Method 1
it contains at least one magnetometer or accelerometer as a sensor
Implementation Method 2
it contains at least one magnetometer or accelerometer as a sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor unit for use in sensing conditions in a pipeline comprises an untethered a ball-shaped surround adapted to roll along the interior surface of a pipeline, and instrument package within the ball-shaped surround. The package contains at least one magnetometer or accelerometer. Preferably, three magnetometers, arranged orthogonally, are present. Other sensors can also be present as required, such as an acoustic sensor to detect leaks and a temperature or chemical sensor. Recording means record the data acquired by the magnetometer(s) or accelerometer and the sensors, and optionally also record a timing trace.