Method and apparatus for determining position in a pipe

摘要

A method and apparatus for determining position in a pipe provides for the precise determination of location and associated characteristics of each pipe joint of a well, cross country pipeline or other fluid transmission line. The system includes a passive or active radio identification device at each joint in the pipe or casing string. The devices are preferably sealed within the resilient seal positioned between each pipe or casing joint. A pipeline tool includes a radio transmitter and receiver, with the transmitter transmitting on a frequency selected for resonating the identification devices. The resonant response of each device is detected by a receiver in the pipeline tool, with the response transmitted to the surface via the wireline to which the tool is connected. Alternatively, the tool may include storage information means until the tool can be recovered from the well or pipe.

主权项

1. A fluid pipeline comprising:
a pipe having a plurality of sections with adjoining sections defining a joint including a gap therebetween; and at least one radio frequency identification device installed within said pipe and configured to receive a radio frequency signal from a transmitter in the pipe and to provide a distinct response signal, wherein each of said at least one radio frequency identification device is installed within the gap of a different one of the joints defined between adjoining sections of the pipe.