Method and apparatus for detecting voids in a pipe
US8132463B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 18, 2008 |
| Grant date | Mar 13, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 15, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N2291/2634
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An apparatus for detecting and measuring gas voids in a pipe with a fluid includes a first ultrasonic transducer externally disposed on the pipe. The apparatus includes a second ultrasonic transducer externally disposed on the pipe. The apparatus includes a multiplexer, transmitter, receiver, controller and processor in communication with the first transducer and the second transducer which in combination identify a void in the pipe from ultrasonic measurements of properties of the fluid in the pipe. A method for detecting and measuring gas voids in a pipe with a fluid includes the steps of measuring properties of the fluid internal to the pipe with transmissions of ultrasonic energy from transducers externally disposed on the pipe. There is the step of identifying a void in the pipe from the properties of the fluid internal to the pipe using signals processed by processor.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.