THz Measuring Device for Corrugated Pipe Analysis

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods struggle to accurately and efficiently measure the structural parameters of corrugated pipes, particularly in terms of layer thicknesses and structure widths, especially when dealing with pipes of varying diameters and structure widths.

Innovation Solution

A THz measuring device employing a THz transceiver unit with an upstream lens, utilizing a frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW) radar, emits a convergent THz beam with a focal length to measuring distance ratio of at least 60% and a convergence angle of 1° to 5°, allowing for precise measurement of corrugated pipes without the need for active focusing or adjustment of the measuring distance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a conventional measuring device is used, then it can measure corrugated pipes, but it requires active focusing or adjustment of measuring distance for pipes of different diameters

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to measure pipes of different diametersVSAvoidneed for active focusing or adjustment mechanisms
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by using a THz transceiver with a fixed focal length that is specifically chosen to be at least 60% of the measuring distance. This parameter relationship creates a beam geometry that naturally adapts to different pipe diameters without requiring active focusing mechanisms. The beam's convergence characteristics, determined by the focal length to measuring distance ratio, automatically adjust the measurement capability across various pipe sizes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If a narrow beam is used to resolve waves and valleys, then measurement precision improves, but the device complexity increases due to focusing requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to separate and detect waves and valleysVSAvoidfocusing mechanisms and adjustment systems
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent achieves a narrow beam for resolving waves and valleys by optimizing the focal length parameter relative to the measuring distance. By setting the focal length to be at least 60% of the measuring distance, the system creates a beam geometry that naturally converges to provide the necessary spatial resolution. This eliminates the need for complex active focusing mechanisms while maintaining the ability to clearly separate and detect adjacent waves and valleys on the corrugated pipe surface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Measurement precision

If multiple transceiver units are used to cover different areas, then measurement completeness improves, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompleteness of pipe surface measurementVSAvoidnumber of transceiver units and their coordination
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a single transceiver unit that can measure corrugated pipes of various diameters and structures. The transceiver is equipped with a lens having a focal length that is at least 60% of the measuring distance, creating a beam geometry that adapts to different measurement scenarios. This universal design eliminates the need for multiple specialized transceiver units, reducing system complexity while maintaining measurement completeness across different pipe types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 approach enables secure, efficient, and accurate measurement of corrugated pipes with different diameters and structure widths using a single THz measuring device, allowing for clear separation and determination of layer thicknesses and structure widths without being affected by adjacent structures.

Implementation Method 1

The THz transceiver is designed as an FMCW radar and/or can carry out a direct time-of-flight measurement

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTime of flight: Time of Flight

Implementation Method 2

an FMCW radar is used which puts out a continuous, frequency modulated transmission beam

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFMCW radar: Radar

Implementation Method 3

at least one transceiver unit, the optical axis of which is directed towards the axis of symmetry and emits the THz radiation as convergent beam of rays

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLens focusing: Lens

Implementation Method 4

an upstream lens

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRefraction: Refraction

Data Source

PatentUS12203740B2THz measuring and THz measuring device for measuring a corrugated pipe
Publication Date: 2025.01.21 CITEX HOLDING GMBH
  • US12203740B2 patent drawing
  • US12203740B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a THz measuring method and a THz measuring device for measuring corrugated pipes with different diameters, wave widths and valley widths.