Method and apparatus to detect flaws in metallic pipe
US11674630B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 8, 2019 |
| Grant date | Jun 13, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 4, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16L2101/30
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Apparatus and method for detecting flaws in a wall of a metallic pipe containing a fluid are disclosed. The apparatus includes: a plurality of sensors distributed around an inner circumference of the metallic pipe, for sensing magnetic field signals from the metallic pipe; a collapsible supporting structure, including a plurality of supporting petals, at a front side of the plurality of sensors for supporting the apparatus; a sail mounted on and extended from bottom ends of the plurality of supporting petals, when the plurality of supporting petals are in an extended state, the sail is expanded to form a shape capable for containing the fluid; a processing module receiving sensed data from the plurality of sensors; and one or more battery modules for electrically powering the plurality of sensors and the processing module.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.