Method and means for determining change in pipe diameter

摘要

A diameter sensing assembly is provided for determining the location of a change in diameter in a pipe from a remote location outside of the pipe. The assembly includes an imaging device operatively connected to an imaging cable and a diameter sensing device operatively connected to a sensing cable. The sensing device is positioned generally forward of the imaging device, and includes a plurality of flexible arms that are rigid enough to stay horizontal, but flexible enough to bend or depress easily. The two cables are connected to one another such that the entire assembly is able to be moved through a pipe at a constant speed. Marks are placed on one of the cables to determine the length to the change in diameter, and the length of portions of pipes having different diameters.

主权项

1. A method of determining the location of a change in diameter of a pipe, comprising:
providing a diameter sensing assembly including an imaging device and a sensing device operatively connected to the imaging device and positioned at least partially forward of the imaging device, the sensing device comprising a plurality of flexible arms extending radially outwardly; inserting the diameter sensing assembly into the pipe; moving the diameter sensing assembly through the length of the pipe; acquiring imaging data of the plurality of arms of the sensing device in relation to a wall of the pipe as the assembly moves through the pipe; and using the imaging data to determine the location of a change in diameter of the pipe.