Method and apparatus for pattern match filtering for real time acoustic pipeline leak detection and location
US6389881B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 27, 1999 |
| Grant date | May 21, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 27, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01M3/243
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method and apparatus is provided for detecting and locating leaks in a pipeline. Pattern match filtering is used to reduce false alarm rate, increase sensitivity and improve leak location accuracy, while quickly detecting leaks by the acoustic signal generated from a leak event in pipelines containing gas or liquid under pressure. The pattern match filter technique detects a pressure wave generated by a leak, but discriminates against background noise and pressure disturbance generated by other non-leak sources that might otherwise be detected as a leak. The pattern match filter derives a sharp peaked output from the signal of the expansion wave which allows for a distinctive point of reference for a time stamp. This provides for improved accuracy in leak location calculations. The pattern match filter is incorporated into site processors located at multiple points along a pipeline, and at a central node processor which receives data from all site processors. The pattern match filter includes using previously recorded leak profiles. At site processes located at multiple points along a pipeline, a series of previously recorded signature leak profiles are continuously compared in r…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.