Apparatus and method for real time monitoring of tube systems
US9134277B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 17, 2010 |
| Grant date | Sep 15, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 14, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N2291/2634
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The internal state of a tube system is detected and monitored by coupling multiple inspection modules to the tube system. Each inspection module injects a signal into the tube system and detects reflections of the signals. The distance between the module and the fault causing a reflection is determined by analyzing the timing between the transmitted signal and detected reflection, along with a known propagation speed of the signals. The location of faults is determined by comparing the distance calculations from two or more inspection modules. Monitoring can be performed over time to identify the development or changes of faults. Monitoring can be done while tube system is active without disrupting the flow of material through the active tube system.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.