Embedded Optical-Electrical Smart Pipe for Real-Time Leak Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current pipeline monitoring systems lack real-time, continuous, and accurate detection of leaks and anomalies, as well as precise location identification, which can lead to delayed remediation and increased risk in the oil and gas industry.
Innovation Solution
A smart pipeline system equipped with a sensing nerve network comprising optical and electrical fibers that provide real-time monitoring, failure detection, and anomaly identification, integrated into the pipeline during manufacturing or retrofitted onto existing pipelines, using IoT protocols for communication and data analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional pipeline monitoring systems are used, then the system structure is simple, but real-time leak detection precision and anomaly location identification are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds optical fibers and electrical wires directly within the pipeline wall structure during manufacturing. The sensing elements are nested within the pipeline's multi-layer construction, allowing the monitoring system to be integrated into the pipeline itself rather than added as external components. This nesting approach enhances measurement precision while minimizing additional system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple sensing functions (optical sensing for strain/temperature, electrical sensing for conductivity changes) into a unified monitoring system. The optical fibers and electrical wires work together to detect leaks and anomalies, merging multiple detection mechanisms into a single integrated system that improves precision without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Speed
If continuous real-time monitoring is implemented, then leak detection speed improves, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous real-time monitoring by embedding sensing elements that constantly monitor pipeline conditions. The optical fibers and electrical wires remain continuously active, detecting strain, temperature changes, and conductivity variations without interruption. This continuous monitoring enables immediate leak detection while the integrated design keeps system complexity manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensing elements are installed during pipeline manufacturing, performing preliminary action by being in place before the pipeline enters service. This pre-installation approach allows continuous monitoring from day one without requiring complex retrofiting operations, thereby improving detection speed while controlling overall system complexity.
3Measurement precision
If multiple sensing elements are embedded in the pipeline, then anomaly location precision improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the sensing system into discrete segments corresponding to different pipeline layers and functions. Optical fibers are placed in specific layers for strain and temperature sensing, while electrical wires are positioned for conductivity monitoring. This segmentation allows each sensing element to be installed independently during manufacturing, improving location precision while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through systematic placement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the pipeline structure to serve multiple functions simultaneously: the pipeline wall provides structural containment while also housing embedded sensing elements. The multi-layer construction serves both mechanical purposes and sensing purposes, allowing multiple sensing elements to be integrated without requiring separate dedicated structures, thereby improving precision without proportionally increasing manufacturing complexity.
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 continuous, accurate monitoring of pipeline conditions, immediate leak detection, and precise location identification, reducing unplanned downtime and enhancing pipeline integrity through real-time data transmission and analysis.
Implementation Method 1
The sensing nerve network comprises optical nerves, electrical nerves or a combination thereof
Implementation Method 2
The sensing nerve network comprises optical nerves, electrical nerves or a combination thereof
Data Source
AI summary
A smart pipe segment for use in construction of a pipeline. The smart pipe segment includes a pipe body and a sensing nerve network that is associated with the pipe body and is configured to monitor a condition of the pipe segment in real-time. The sensing nerve network comprises optical nerves, electrical nerves or a combination thereof.