Real-time plug tracking with fiber optics
US10823931B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 28, 2016 |
| Grant date | Nov 3, 2020 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 28, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF17D5/00
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A plug may be deployed within a pipeline along with a fluid. The plug is coupled to a fiber optic line dispensed from fiber optic dispenser located outside or within the pipeline. The plug may transmit a signal via the fiber optic line that is indicative of the location of the plug within the pipeline. The signal may comprise light pulses associated with the traversal of a pipeline joint by the plug. The location may allow the plug to be reclaimed efficiently and economically should the plug become lodged within the pipeline. The plug may communicate other measurement information via the fiber optic line and this information may be used to adjust operational parameters associated with the pipeline.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.