Underwater Pipeline Mapping Using Large-Loop Inductive Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing techniques for locating buried pipes underwater are inefficient due to the difficulty in directly attaching signal transmitters and the limitations of available transmitters, which lack optimal power and frequency capabilities for inductive applications.
Innovation Solution
A large loop induction system comprising a long conductive cable connected to a signal generator, where the cable induces a current in the target pipeline, and a sensor detects the secondary magnetic field to infer the pipeline's location, allowing for effective mapping of buried conductive objects underwater without the need for direct attachment or waterproofing of the transmitter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If a direct attachment technique is used to apply signal to the pipeline, then signal propagation distance is maximized, but it becomes difficult to access the pipeline when it is buried and underwater
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a long conductive cable as an intermediary element that can be deployed from the water surface down to the buried underwater pipeline. The cable serves as a mediator to deliver the signal from the accessible water surface environment to the inaccessible buried pipeline, solving the access problem while maintaining signal propagation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system divides the signal transmission path into two segments: an above-water portion where the transmitter operates in air, and a below-water portion where the cable extends to the buried pipeline. This segmentation allows each segment to be optimized for its environment while working together to achieve the overall goal of signal delivery to the buried pipeline
2Adaptability or versatility
If available transmitters are used for direct attachment, then they can be operated on land, but they lack optimal power and frequency capabilities for inductive applications underwater
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the operating parameters of the transmitter system by adjusting the signal frequency to optimize inductive coupling efficiency. The system operates at frequencies that maximize the transfer of signal power through the water medium to the buried pipeline, overcoming the limitations of standard land-based transmitters
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic AC signals at optimized frequencies to induce currents in the buried pipeline through inductive coupling. This periodic action creates a time-varying magnetic field that efficiently transfers energy to the target pipeline, enabling effective underwater detection
3Power
If a long conductive cable is used to induce current in the pipeline, then signal power transfer is improved, but the system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The long conductive cable serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the signal transmission medium, provides structural support to maintain positioning, and enables both power delivery and sensing capabilities. This self-service approach reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in system complexity despite the improved power transfer
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
The large loop induction system provides more signal power transfer and continuous signal propagation over long distances, maintaining orientation with the target conductor, and is less prone to misalignment, significantly improving the detection and mapping of buried pipelines in challenging underwater environments.
Implementation Method 1
When the cable is positioned proximate to the target conductive object, its signal may induce a current and a detectible secondary magnetic field in the conductive object
Implementation Method 2
A sensor may detect the secondary magnetic field and thereby infer the location of the conductive object
Data Source
AI summary
It may be difficult to determine the location of objects underwater, especially when they are buried below a seabed. A system for detecting conductive objects underwater may include a long conductive cable in electric communication with a signal generator. When the cable is positioned proximate to the conductive object, its signal may induce a current and a detectible secondary magnetic field in the conductive object. A sensor, preferably positioned distally from any portion of the conductive cable, may detect the secondary magnetic field and thereby determine the location of the conductive object. A method of detecting and mapping the location of a buried underwater pipeline comprising a conductive material may include: sending a predetermined current through a conductive cable attached to a first water vehicle; inducing an induced current in the pipeline; and detecting the location of at least a portion of the pipeline by a sensor attached to a second water vehicle.