Patent ID: 9097601
Filing Date: 2015-08-04
Classification: G01B,G01M

Abstract:
1. A method for assessing the extent and localization of localized variations in pipe condition along a length of a pipe carrying a fluid, the method including: generating at a source location a pressure wave in the fluid being carried along the pipe; detecting a plurality of pressure wave interaction signals at respective measurement locations spaced apart along the pipe, and the plurality of pressure wave interaction signals resulting from an interaction of the pressure wave with localized variations in pipe condition along the length of the pipe, the pressure wave interaction signals characterizing the entire length of the pipe to be assessed; dividing the length of the pipe into a plurality of predetermined pipe sections corresponding to different locations extending along the length of the pipe; and determining from a timing structure of the pressure wave interaction signals the extent of the localized variations in pipe condition at each of the pipe sections corresponding to a location along the length of the pipe based on a characteristic of the pressure wave interaction signals.