WO2018065762A2 - Method and apparatus for measuring distance - Google Patents

Method and apparatus for measuring distance Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2018065762A2
WO2018065762A2 PCT/GB2017/052958 GB2017052958W WO2018065762A2 WO 2018065762 A2 WO2018065762 A2 WO 2018065762A2 GB 2017052958 W GB2017052958 W GB 2017052958W WO 2018065762 A2 WO2018065762 A2 WO 2018065762A2
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
assembly
distance
distance measuring
measuring device
separation
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/GB2017/052958
Other languages
French (fr)
Other versions
WO2018065762A3 (en
Inventor
Simon Andrew FRASER
Guy Charles BROMBY
Christopher James WILKES
Original Assignee
Thinjack Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Thinjack Ltd filed Critical Thinjack Ltd
Priority to GB1904707.5A priority Critical patent/GB2571643A/en
Publication of WO2018065762A2 publication Critical patent/WO2018065762A2/en
Publication of WO2018065762A3 publication Critical patent/WO2018065762A3/en

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
    • G01S15/00—Systems using the reflection or reradiation of acoustic waves, e.g. sonar systems
    • G01S15/88—Sonar systems specially adapted for specific applications
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16L23/00—Flanged joints
    • F16L23/003—Auxiliary devices
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01B—MEASURING LENGTH, THICKNESS OR SIMILAR LINEAR DIMENSIONS; MEASURING ANGLES; MEASURING AREAS; MEASURING IRREGULARITIES OF SURFACES OR CONTOURS
    • G01B11/00—Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques
    • G01B11/14—Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring distance or clearance between spaced objects or spaced apertures
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01B—MEASURING LENGTH, THICKNESS OR SIMILAR LINEAR DIMENSIONS; MEASURING ANGLES; MEASURING AREAS; MEASURING IRREGULARITIES OF SURFACES OR CONTOURS
    • G01B11/00—Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques
    • G01B11/26—Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring angles or tapers; for testing the alignment of axes
    • G01B11/27—Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring angles or tapers; for testing the alignment of axes for testing the alignment of axes
    • G01B11/272—Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring angles or tapers; for testing the alignment of axes for testing the alignment of axes using photoelectric detection means
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01B—MEASURING LENGTH, THICKNESS OR SIMILAR LINEAR DIMENSIONS; MEASURING ANGLES; MEASURING AREAS; MEASURING IRREGULARITIES OF SURFACES OR CONTOURS
    • G01B17/00—Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of infrasonic, sonic or ultrasonic vibrations
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01B—MEASURING LENGTH, THICKNESS OR SIMILAR LINEAR DIMENSIONS; MEASURING ANGLES; MEASURING AREAS; MEASURING IRREGULARITIES OF SURFACES OR CONTOURS
    • G01B21/00—Measuring arrangements or details thereof, where the measuring technique is not covered by the other groups of this subclass, unspecified or not relevant
    • G01B21/22—Measuring arrangements or details thereof, where the measuring technique is not covered by the other groups of this subclass, unspecified or not relevant for measuring angles or tapers; for testing the alignment of axes
    • G01B21/24—Measuring arrangements or details thereof, where the measuring technique is not covered by the other groups of this subclass, unspecified or not relevant for measuring angles or tapers; for testing the alignment of axes for testing alignment of axes
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01B—MEASURING LENGTH, THICKNESS OR SIMILAR LINEAR DIMENSIONS; MEASURING ANGLES; MEASURING AREAS; MEASURING IRREGULARITIES OF SURFACES OR CONTOURS
    • G01B5/00—Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of mechanical techniques
    • G01B5/0002—Arrangements for supporting, fixing or guiding the measuring instrument or the object to be measured
    • G01B5/0004—Supports
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01B—MEASURING LENGTH, THICKNESS OR SIMILAR LINEAR DIMENSIONS; MEASURING ANGLES; MEASURING AREAS; MEASURING IRREGULARITIES OF SURFACES OR CONTOURS
    • G01B11/00—Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques
    • G01B11/02—Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring length, width or thickness
    • G01B11/026—Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring length, width or thickness by measuring distance between sensor and object

Definitions

  • This invention relates to a method and apparatus for measuring separation and/or orientation between two relatively movable members.
  • the invention is particularly, but not exclusively, applicable to measuring the relative positions and orientation of two flanges being separated.
  • the invention also relates to a method of separation.
  • Separating flanges can present problems.
  • connecting pipes, valves, Christmas tree parts and the like can be substantial in size, have multiple threaded connectors, studs or bolts, hubs or hub clamps, and may be in position in a corrosive environment for periods of years, resulting in large binding forces due to corrosion and galling.
  • they may be in locations which are difficult to access with heavy equipment and where the use of cutting and grinding equipment is dangerous.
  • ThinJack® system which uses a number (typically three) of sealed steel pads which can be inserted between the flanges and inflated with pressurised hydraulic fluid to exert separating forces on the flanges.
  • the pads currently in use have an initial thickness of up to 3mm and typically can be expanded up to 15mm using pressure of up to about 2000 bar, and a typical separating force of up to 500 tons.
  • the ThinJack® system provides a significant advance, problems can be encountered where the degree of resistance to separation varies around the circumference of the joint, generally caused by varying degrees of corrosion binding bolt shanks in bolt holes of flanges. This can lead to a degree of angular misalignment, and if this is not countered further application of pressure can cause the joint to become harder to separate.
  • an apparatus for measuring at least one of separation and orientation between a first member and a second member, the first member and the second member being movable relative to each other comprising at least one distance measuring device, the at least one distance measuring device comprising a first assembly removably attachable to the first member and a second assembly removably attachable to the second member, wherein the first assembly and the second assembly are configured to provide the distance between the first member and the second member.
  • Measuring by the distance measuring device may be non-invasive and/or indirect.
  • the measuring by the distance measuring device may be of a gap between the first member and the second member.
  • the measuring of the gap by the distance measuring device may be non-invasive and/or indirect.
  • the first assembly and the second assembly may be configured to be attached to the first member and the second member respectively outside of the gap.
  • the first member and the second member are to be separated.
  • the apparatus may comprise two or more distance measuring devices.
  • the apparatus may comprise three or more distance measuring devices.
  • the distance measuring device(s) may be ultrasonic distance measuring devices.
  • the first assembly may comprise an ultrasound transmitting/receiving transducer.
  • the second assembly may comprise an ultrasound reflector.
  • the distance measuring device(s) may be laser distance measuring devices.
  • the first assembly may comprise a laser transmitting/receiving device.
  • the second assembly may comprise a laser reflector.
  • the apparatus may comprise a further distance measuring device or devices configured to provide reference to a datum point.
  • the first member and the second member may be in the form of tubular members.
  • One or more of the first assembly and the second assembly may comprise a magnet configured to provide said removable attachment.
  • the magnet may be a permanent magnet.
  • the apparatus may further comprise a reporting device configured to interpret and/or display data from the distance measuring device(s).
  • the reporting device may be configured to interpret and/or display data relating to one or more of distance, separation, movement and orientation between the first member and the second member.
  • the reporting device may be configured to interpret and/or display data relating to a change in one or more of distance, separation, movement and orientation between the first member and the second member.
  • the reporting device may be programmable to account for the initial distance and/or the initial orientation between the first member and the second member.
  • the reporting device may be programmable to calibrate the data from the distance measuring device(s) for an initial distance and/or an initial orientation between the first assembly and the second assembly.
  • the first member and the second member may be located in close proximity to each other.
  • an apparatus for measuring separation between a first member and a second member the apparatus being as described in the first aspect.
  • an apparatus for measuring orientation between a first member and a second member the apparatus being as described in the first aspect.
  • an apparatus for separating a first member and a second member the apparatus being as described in the first aspect.
  • kits for use in the measurement of at least one of distance and orientation between a first member and a second member to be separated comprising the apparatus of the first aspect.
  • a sixth aspect of the invention there is provided the use of the apparatus of the first aspect or the kit of the fifth aspect in the measurement of at least one of distance, separation, movement and orientation between a first member and a second member.
  • a seventh aspect of the invention there is provided a method for measuring separation and/or orientation between a first member and a second member, the first member and the second member being movable relative to each other, the method comprising the steps of:
  • At least one distance measuring device comprising a first assembly removably attachable to the first member and a second assembly removably attachable to the second member;
  • first assembly and the second assembly are configured to provide a distance between the first member and the second member.
  • the distance between the first member and the second member may be equivalent to a gap located between the first member and the second member.
  • the measuring by the distance measuring device may be non-invasive and/or indirect with respect to the gap.
  • the method may further comprise the step of calibrating the distance measuring device.
  • the step of calibrating the distance measuring device may comprise the initial measuring of the gap between the first member and the second member.
  • the initial measuring of the gap may be by way of a direct measurement of the gap.
  • the first assembly and the second assembly may be attached to the first member and the second member respectively outside of the gap.
  • the first member and the second member are to be separated.
  • the measuring by the distance measuring device is in the direction of separation and/or at a location around the plane of separation.
  • the measuring by the distance measuring device may be at two or more locations around the plane of separation.
  • the measuring by the distance measuring device may be at three or more locations around the plane of separation.
  • Two or more distance measuring devices may be provided.
  • Three or more distance measuring devices may be provided.
  • the distance measuring device(s) may be ultrasonic distance measuring devices.
  • the first assembly may comprise an ultrasound transmitting/receiving transducer.
  • the second assembly may comprise an ultrasound reflector.
  • the distance measuring device(s) may be laser distance measuring devices.
  • the first assembly may comprise a laser transmitting/receiving device.
  • the second assembly may comprise a laser reflector.
  • the apparatus may comprise a further distance measuring device or devices configured to provide reference to a datum point.
  • the first member and the second member may be in the form of tubular members.
  • the method may comprise the further step of temporarily attaching the distance measuring device(s) to the first member and the second member.
  • the method may comprise the further step of applying a separating force to the first member and the second member to cause the first member and the second member to move apart.
  • the method may further comprise the step of monitoring the distances measured by the distance measuring device(s) as the first member and the second member move apart.
  • the method may further comprise the step of varying the separating force at one or more locations between the first member and the second member in response to the monitoring of the distances measured by the distance measuring device(s).
  • One or more of the first assembly and the second assembly may comprise a magnet configured to provide said removable attachment.
  • the magnet may be a permanent magnet.
  • the method may comprise the further step of interpreting and/or displaying data from the distance measuring device(s), optionally by providing a suitably configured reporting device.
  • the data may be interpreted and/or displayed to provide an indication of one or more of distance, separation, movement and orientation between the first member and the second member.
  • the data may be interpreted and/or displayed to provide an indication of a change in one or more of distance, separation, movement and orientation between the first member and the second member.
  • the method may comprise the further step of calibrating the data from the distance measuring device(s) for an initial distance and/or an initial orientation between the first member and the second member.
  • the first member and the second member may be located in close proximity to each other.
  • At least one distance measuring device comprising a first assembly removably attachable to the first member and a second assembly removably attachable to the second member;
  • first assembly and the second assembly are configured to provide a distance between the first member and the second member.
  • the method may further comprise the step of monitoring the distances measured by the distance measuring device(s) as the first member and the second member move apart.
  • the monitoring may be continuous and/or real time.
  • the method may further comprise the step of varying the separating force at one or more locations between the first member and the second member in response to the monitoring of the distances measured by the distance measuring device(s).
  • each and every feature of the method of the seventh aspect may apply to the method of the eighth aspect mutatis mutandis.
  • the order that the steps are recited and any numbering given to those steps is only exemplary, and that the steps may be carried out in any order except where it is clear that a specific order is meant and/or a specific order is required or essential for the proper functioning of the method(s).
  • Fig. 1 is a perspective view of one form of apparatus embodying the invention
  • Fig. 2 is a side view corresponding to Fig. 1 ;
  • Fig. 3 is a plan view of the same embodiment
  • Fig. 4 is a partial plane view, to an enlarged scale, illustrating part of Fig. 3 in greater detail;
  • Figs. 5 and 6 show brackets used in this embodiment, before being bent to final shape. Description of Specific Embodiments
  • pipes 10 and 12 are joined at a flanged joint having an upper flange 14 and a lower flange 16 held together by fasteners 18, e.g. nuts and bolts, flange hubs, and hub clamps.
  • the joint is to be separated using any suitable means, preferably ThinJacks® but including other means such as hydraulic spreaders, cylinder jacks, cranes or drill strings.
  • the apparatus allows the separation to be monitored and any angular misalignment detected.
  • the apparatus comprises three distance measuring devices 20.
  • Figs. 1 and 2 show only one device 20, but as seen in Fig. 3 the preferred arrangement is to have three devices 20 equally spaced around the circumference of the joint. However, it will be appreciated that more than three devices can be used.
  • Each of the measuring devices 20 comprises an ultrasonic sensor 22 which cooperates with a reflector plate 24.
  • the sensor 22 has an ultrasonic transducer acting as transmitter and receiver, the distance between the sensor 22 and reflector plate 24 being measured by detecting the time of flight of ultrasonic pulses.
  • a suitable form of sensor gives an analogue dc voltage output proportional to distance.
  • Other measuring devices can be used such as, for example, laser measuring devices, which comprise a laser transmitter/receiver and a laser reflector.
  • the sensors 22 and plates 24 are mounted in place by brackets 26 and 28.
  • the bracket 26 and 28 are cut to shape from stainless steel sheet; the shapes of the blanks are shown in Figs. 5 and 6.
  • a suitable form of magnet is a neodymium magnet 40 x 20 x 10 mm, which may be fixed in place with epoxy resin or can be mechanically attached by nuts and bolts or the like.
  • the channel section 32 also provides edge points of contact 36 to locate the assembly on the flange or tubular.
  • the sensors 22 are connected by cables 38 to a control box 40. This may simply provide a power supply and a display, for example in the form of three numerical readouts, one for each sensor. More sophisticated information can be envisaged, for example by using the three measurements to derive an angle of misalignment, or to provide a graphical display indicating the flange gap around the circumference.
  • control box may include or act as a reporting device and can also be configured to interpret and/or display data from the distance measuring devices.
  • the control box may be configured to interpret and/or display data relating to one or more of distance, separation, movement and orientation between the pipes or flanges, or may interpret and/or display a change in one or more of these parameters.
  • the reporting device may be programmable to account for the initial distance and/or the initial orientation between the pipes or flanges and/or may be programmable to calibrate the data from the distance measuring devices for an initial distance and/or an initial orientation between the pipes or flanges.
  • the flange gap In use, it may be convenient to initially measure the flange gap, for example with a Vernier calliper gauge, and adjust the sensor readings to show this. In this way, the displayed distance will show the flange separation at the three locations in real time.
  • ThinJacks® are inserted into a gap between the two sections of pipe, and in particular between two flanges.
  • Three distance measuring devices are arranged approximately equidistantly (i.e., approximately 120° apart) by placing the ultrasonic sensors on one pipe and on one side of the gap and the cooperating reflector plates one the other pipe and on the other side of the gap. The distance measuring devices are thus located around a plane of separation and at three separate locations.
  • the sensors and reflector plates are attached to the pipes using brackets and a temporary fixing mechanism such as a permanent magnet. The distance measuring devices are thus removably attached to the pipes.
  • the initial gap between the flanges is measured manually using callipers or a Vernier gauge or the like. This initial gap measurement is used to calibrate the data received from the distance measuring devices by, for example, factoring this into the initial distance measurement readings taken by the distance measuring devices.
  • a separating force is applied to the flanges by the ThinJacks® in order to cause the pipes to move apart.
  • the distance between the flanges is monitored continuously or in real time in at all three locations at which distance measuring devices are located.
  • the distances measured and the changes in the distances as the force is applied are illustrated to the user by way of the control box, which may have a form of display or graphical user interface.
  • the separating force being applied can then be varied by the user in response to the distances measured and the changes in those distances.
  • the distance measuring device measures and monitors the gap and the change in the gap size indirectly or non- invasively by actually detecting the change in distance between the ultrasound sensor and the ultrasound reflector, rather than directly measuring the gap itself.
  • the initial gap measurement that is carried out manually is a direct measurement of the gap using callipers or a Vernier gauge or the like.
  • kit of parts which contains the apparatus as described above.
  • the kit of parts may contain other items to facilitate the use of or to be used with the apparatus.
  • the arrangement described has the advantage that the sensors and reflectors can be positioned even where access is limited, and the control box and the operator can be located at a safe distance from the joint.
  • any tendency towards angular misalignment can be detected at an early stage. This can be counteracted by inserting shims at selected locations, or by applying differential forces at different circumferential locations, e.g. by applying differing pressures to the jacks being used.
  • the invention can be applied to separating other flanged joints, for example when removing valve bonnets or parts of Christmas tree assemblies.
  • the invention can also be applied to other situations where a variable gap is to be measured, such as in lifting operations.
  • the apparatus can be employed to monitor gaps during a gap holding exercise, or during a weighing operation that uses a gap holding and weighing system. Another use is in decommissioning.
  • references herein to first and second members movable relative to each other includes the situation where the members are integrally joined and where degree of movement is limited.
  • a further distance measuring device or devices that reference a datum point and thus can be used to measure, for example, the total distance that a member has moved relative to a certain object.
  • the use of three measuring devices is of benefit as this will give sufficient information to monitor an annular gap.
  • more than three measuring devices could be used, especially on large tubular items.
  • Other applications may require more than three measuring devices to be used.
  • the apparatus can be used with different shaped objects having four, five, six or more sides. In such scenarios, it may be of use to have four, five, six or more measuring devices.
  • the measuring devices may be secured in place by means other than magnets, for example by adhesive or by straps. While this invention has been described with reference to the sample embodiments thereof, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that modifications can be made to the structure and elements of the invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as a whole.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Radar, Positioning & Navigation (AREA)
  • Remote Sensing (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Acoustics & Sound (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
  • A Measuring Device Byusing Mechanical Method (AREA)
  • Measurement Of Optical Distance (AREA)
  • Length Measuring Devices By Optical Means (AREA)
  • Length Measuring Devices With Unspecified Measuring Means (AREA)

Abstract

The disclosure relates to a method and apparatus for measuring separation and/or orientation between two relatively movable members (e.g., two flanges). The apparatus measures at least one of separation and orientation between a first member and a second member that are movable relative to each other. The apparatus comprising at least one distance measuring device, which comprises a first assembly removably attachable to the first member and a second assembly removably attachable to the second member. The first assembly and the second assembly are configured to provide the distance between the first member and the second member. A method for measuring separation and/or orientation between a first member and a second member is also provided, comprising the steps of: providing a distance measuring device comprising a first assembly removably attachable to the first member and a second assembly removably attachable to the second member; attaching the first assembly to the first member and attaching the second assembly to the second member; measuring the distance between the first assembly and the second assembly; and determining the distance between the first member and the second member, wherein the first assembly and the second assembly are configured to provide a distance between the first member and the second member.

Description

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MEASURING DISTANCE
Field of the Invention This invention relates to a method and apparatus for measuring separation and/or orientation between two relatively movable members. The invention is particularly, but not exclusively, applicable to measuring the relative positions and orientation of two flanges being separated. The invention also relates to a method of separation.
Background to the Invention
Separating flanges can present problems. For example, in the offshore oil and gas industry flanges connecting pipes, valves, Christmas tree parts and the like can be substantial in size, have multiple threaded connectors, studs or bolts, hubs or hub clamps, and may be in position in a corrosive environment for periods of years, resulting in large binding forces due to corrosion and galling. Moreover, they may be in locations which are difficult to access with heavy equipment and where the use of cutting and grinding equipment is dangerous.
ThinkJack Ltd has previously contributed to dealing with these problems with their ThinJack® system which uses a number (typically three) of sealed steel pads which can be inserted between the flanges and inflated with pressurised hydraulic fluid to exert separating forces on the flanges. The pads currently in use have an initial thickness of up to 3mm and typically can be expanded up to 15mm using pressure of up to about 2000 bar, and a typical separating force of up to 500 tons. Although the ThinJack® system provides a significant advance, problems can be encountered where the degree of resistance to separation varies around the circumference of the joint, generally caused by varying degrees of corrosion binding bolt shanks in bolt holes of flanges. This can lead to a degree of angular misalignment, and if this is not countered further application of pressure can cause the joint to become harder to separate.
It is possible to measure the gap between the members at various circumferential locations with a Vernier calliper or the like. However, this is a slow and cumbersome procedure, the gap is often not readily
accessible, and working in this area when the joint is under separation pressure poses some risk to personnel.
It would therefore be desirable to be able to measure the separation movement and alignment in real time, which information can be used to apply differential pressure to the several pads to restore axial alignment. It would also be desirable to do this in a manner which allows the operator to be at a distance from the joint. Summary of the Invention
According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus for measuring at least one of separation and orientation between a first member and a second member, the first member and the second member being movable relative to each other, the apparatus comprising at least one distance measuring device, the at least one distance measuring device comprising a first assembly removably attachable to the first member and a second assembly removably attachable to the second member, wherein the first assembly and the second assembly are configured to provide the distance between the first member and the second member.
Measuring by the distance measuring device may be non-invasive and/or indirect.
The measuring by the distance measuring device may be of a gap between the first member and the second member. The measuring of the gap by the distance measuring device may be non-invasive and/or indirect.
The first assembly and the second assembly may be configured to be attached to the first member and the second member respectively outside of the gap.
Optionally, the first member and the second member are to be separated.
The apparatus may comprise two or more distance measuring devices. The apparatus may comprise three or more distance measuring devices.
The distance measuring device(s) may be ultrasonic distance measuring devices. The first assembly may comprise an ultrasound transmitting/receiving transducer.
The second assembly may comprise an ultrasound reflector. The distance measuring device(s) may be laser distance measuring devices.
The first assembly may comprise a laser transmitting/receiving device.
The second assembly may comprise a laser reflector.
The apparatus may comprise a further distance measuring device or devices configured to provide reference to a datum point.
The first member and the second member may be in the form of tubular members.
One or more of the first assembly and the second assembly may comprise a magnet configured to provide said removable attachment.
The magnet may be a permanent magnet.
The apparatus may further comprise a reporting device configured to interpret and/or display data from the distance measuring device(s).
The reporting device may be configured to interpret and/or display data relating to one or more of distance, separation, movement and orientation between the first member and the second member.
The reporting device may be configured to interpret and/or display data relating to a change in one or more of distance, separation, movement and orientation between the first member and the second member. The reporting device may be programmable to account for the initial distance and/or the initial orientation between the first member and the second member. The reporting device may be programmable to calibrate the data from the distance measuring device(s) for an initial distance and/or an initial orientation between the first assembly and the second assembly.
The first member and the second member may be located in close proximity to each other.
According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus for measuring separation between a first member and a second member, the apparatus being as described in the first aspect.
According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided an apparatus for measuring orientation between a first member and a second member, the apparatus being as described in the first aspect. According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided an apparatus for separating a first member and a second member, the apparatus being as described in the first aspect.
According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided a kit for use in the measurement of at least one of distance and orientation between a first member and a second member to be separated, the kit comprising the apparatus of the first aspect.
According to a sixth aspect of the invention, there is provided the use of the apparatus of the first aspect or the kit of the fifth aspect in the measurement of at least one of distance, separation, movement and orientation between a first member and a second member.
According to a seventh aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for measuring separation and/or orientation between a first member and a second member, the first member and the second member being movable relative to each other, the method comprising the steps of:
i. providing at least one distance measuring device comprising a first assembly removably attachable to the first member and a second assembly removably attachable to the second member;
ii. attaching the first assembly to the first member and attaching the second assembly to the second member;
iii. measuring the distance between the first assembly and the second assembly; and
iv. determining the distance between the first member and the second member;
wherein the first assembly and the second assembly are configured to provide a distance between the first member and the second member.
The distance between the first member and the second member may be equivalent to a gap located between the first member and the second member.
The measuring by the distance measuring device may be non-invasive and/or indirect with respect to the gap.
The method may further comprise the step of calibrating the distance measuring device. The step of calibrating the distance measuring device may comprise the initial measuring of the gap between the first member and the second member. The initial measuring of the gap may be by way of a direct measurement of the gap.
The first assembly and the second assembly may be attached to the first member and the second member respectively outside of the gap.
Optionally, the first member and the second member are to be separated.
Optionally, the measuring by the distance measuring device is in the direction of separation and/or at a location around the plane of separation.
The measuring by the distance measuring device may be at two or more locations around the plane of separation.
The measuring by the distance measuring device may be at three or more locations around the plane of separation.
Two or more distance measuring devices may be provided.
Three or more distance measuring devices may be provided.
The distance measuring device(s) may be ultrasonic distance measuring devices.
The first assembly may comprise an ultrasound transmitting/receiving transducer. The second assembly may comprise an ultrasound reflector.
The distance measuring device(s) may be laser distance measuring devices.
The first assembly may comprise a laser transmitting/receiving device. The second assembly may comprise a laser reflector.
The apparatus may comprise a further distance measuring device or devices configured to provide reference to a datum point.
The first member and the second member may be in the form of tubular members.
The method may comprise the further step of temporarily attaching the distance measuring device(s) to the first member and the second member. The method may comprise the further step of applying a separating force to the first member and the second member to cause the first member and the second member to move apart.
The method may further comprise the step of monitoring the distances measured by the distance measuring device(s) as the first member and the second member move apart.
The method may further comprise the step of varying the separating force at one or more locations between the first member and the second member in response to the monitoring of the distances measured by the distance measuring device(s).
One or more of the first assembly and the second assembly may comprise a magnet configured to provide said removable attachment.
The magnet may be a permanent magnet.
The method may comprise the further step of interpreting and/or displaying data from the distance measuring device(s), optionally by providing a suitably configured reporting device.
The data may be interpreted and/or displayed to provide an indication of one or more of distance, separation, movement and orientation between the first member and the second member.
The data may be interpreted and/or displayed to provide an indication of a change in one or more of distance, separation, movement and orientation between the first member and the second member.
The method may comprise the further step of calibrating the data from the distance measuring device(s) for an initial distance and/or an initial orientation between the first member and the second member. The first member and the second member may be located in close proximity to each other.
According to an eight aspect of the invention there is provided a method for separating a first member and a second member, the first member and the second member being movable relative to each other, the method comprising the steps of:
i. providing at least one distance measuring device comprising a first assembly removably attachable to the first member and a second assembly removably attachable to the second member;
ii. attaching the first assembly to the first member and attaching the second assembly to the second member;
iii. measuring the distance between the first assembly and the second assembly;
iv. determining the distance between the first member and the second member; and
v. applying a separating force to the first member and the second member to cause the first member and the second member to move apart;
wherein the first assembly and the second assembly are configured to provide a distance between the first member and the second member.
The method may further comprise the step of monitoring the distances measured by the distance measuring device(s) as the first member and the second member move apart.
The monitoring may be continuous and/or real time.
The method may further comprise the step of varying the separating force at one or more locations between the first member and the second member in response to the monitoring of the distances measured by the distance measuring device(s).
The alternative features and different embodiments as described apply to each and every aspect and each and every embodiment thereof mutatis mutandis. For example, each and every feature of the method of the seventh aspect may apply to the method of the eighth aspect mutatis mutandis. It will be appreciated that the order that the steps are recited and any numbering given to those steps is only exemplary, and that the steps may be carried out in any order except where it is clear that a specific order is meant and/or a specific order is required or essential for the proper functioning of the method(s).
Brief Description of the Drawings
Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the drawings, in which:
Fig. 1 is a perspective view of one form of apparatus embodying the invention;
Fig. 2 is a side view corresponding to Fig. 1 ;
Fig. 3 is a plan view of the same embodiment;
Fig. 4 is a partial plane view, to an enlarged scale, illustrating part of Fig. 3 in greater detail; and
Figs. 5 and 6 show brackets used in this embodiment, before being bent to final shape. Description of Specific Embodiments
Referring to Figs. 1 and 2, pipes 10 and 12 are joined at a flanged joint having an upper flange 14 and a lower flange 16 held together by fasteners 18, e.g. nuts and bolts, flange hubs, and hub clamps. The joint is to be separated using any suitable means, preferably ThinJacks® but including other means such as hydraulic spreaders, cylinder jacks, cranes or drill strings.
The invention allows the separation to be monitored and any angular misalignment detected. In this embodiment, the apparatus comprises three distance measuring devices 20. For clarity, Figs. 1 and 2 show only one device 20, but as seen in Fig. 3 the preferred arrangement is to have three devices 20 equally spaced around the circumference of the joint. However, it will be appreciated that more than three devices can be used.
Each of the measuring devices 20 comprises an ultrasonic sensor 22 which cooperates with a reflector plate 24. The sensor 22 has an ultrasonic transducer acting as transmitter and receiver, the distance between the sensor 22 and reflector plate 24 being measured by detecting the time of flight of ultrasonic pulses. A suitable form of sensor gives an analogue dc voltage output proportional to distance. Other measuring devices can be used such as, for example, laser measuring devices, which comprise a laser transmitter/receiver and a laser reflector. The sensors 22 and plates 24 are mounted in place by brackets 26 and 28. The bracket 26 and 28 are cut to shape from stainless steel sheet; the shapes of the blanks are shown in Figs. 5 and 6. These are bent into shape to provide an apertured mount 30 for the sensor 22 and to provide the reflector plate 24, and also to form a channel section 32 in which a magnet 34 is secured. A suitable form of magnet is a neodymium magnet 40 x 20 x 10 mm, which may be fixed in place with epoxy resin or can be mechanically attached by nuts and bolts or the like. The channel section 32 also provides edge points of contact 36 to locate the assembly on the flange or tubular. As seen in Fig. 4, the sensors 22 are connected by cables 38 to a control box 40. This may simply provide a power supply and a display, for example in the form of three numerical readouts, one for each sensor. More sophisticated information can be envisaged, for example by using the three measurements to derive an angle of misalignment, or to provide a graphical display indicating the flange gap around the circumference.
In particular the control box may include or act as a reporting device and can also be configured to interpret and/or display data from the distance measuring devices. For example, the control box may be configured to interpret and/or display data relating to one or more of distance, separation, movement and orientation between the pipes or flanges, or may interpret and/or display a change in one or more of these parameters. Furthermore, the reporting device may be programmable to account for the initial distance and/or the initial orientation between the pipes or flanges and/or may be programmable to calibrate the data from the distance measuring devices for an initial distance and/or an initial orientation between the pipes or flanges.
In use, it may be convenient to initially measure the flange gap, for example with a Vernier calliper gauge, and adjust the sensor readings to show this. In this way, the displayed distance will show the flange separation at the three locations in real time.
The following is an example of the apparatus in use in the separation of two sections of pipe 10 and 12 as referred to above.
ThinJacks® are inserted into a gap between the two sections of pipe, and in particular between two flanges. Three distance measuring devices are arranged approximately equidistantly (i.e., approximately 120° apart) by placing the ultrasonic sensors on one pipe and on one side of the gap and the cooperating reflector plates one the other pipe and on the other side of the gap. The distance measuring devices are thus located around a plane of separation and at three separate locations. The sensors and reflector plates are attached to the pipes using brackets and a temporary fixing mechanism such as a permanent magnet. The distance measuring devices are thus removably attached to the pipes. Before or just after attachment of the distance measuring devices to the pipes, the initial gap between the flanges is measured manually using callipers or a Vernier gauge or the like. This initial gap measurement is used to calibrate the data received from the distance measuring devices by, for example, factoring this into the initial distance measurement readings taken by the distance measuring devices.
Once the initial gap has been determined and once the distance measuring devices are in place and calibrated, a separating force is applied to the flanges by the ThinJacks® in order to cause the pipes to move apart. The distance between the flanges is monitored continuously or in real time in at all three locations at which distance measuring devices are located. The distances measured and the changes in the distances as the force is applied are illustrated to the user by way of the control box, which may have a form of display or graphical user interface. The separating force being applied can then be varied by the user in response to the distances measured and the changes in those distances.
In the in use example above, the distance measuring device measures and monitors the gap and the change in the gap size indirectly or non- invasively by actually detecting the change in distance between the ultrasound sensor and the ultrasound reflector, rather than directly measuring the gap itself. In contrast, the initial gap measurement that is carried out manually is a direct measurement of the gap using callipers or a Vernier gauge or the like.
In another example, a kit of parts is provided which contains the apparatus as described above. The kit of parts may contain other items to facilitate the use of or to be used with the apparatus. The arrangement described has the advantage that the sensors and reflectors can be positioned even where access is limited, and the control box and the operator can be located at a safe distance from the joint.
By monitoring the size of the gap around the joint, any tendency towards angular misalignment can be detected at an early stage. This can be counteracted by inserting shims at selected locations, or by applying differential forces at different circumferential locations, e.g. by applying differing pressures to the jacks being used. Although described above with reference to pipe flanges, the invention can be applied to separating other flanged joints, for example when removing valve bonnets or parts of Christmas tree assemblies. The invention can also be applied to other situations where a variable gap is to be measured, such as in lifting operations. For example, the apparatus can be employed to monitor gaps during a gap holding exercise, or during a weighing operation that uses a gap holding and weighing system. Another use is in decommissioning. For example, if part of an installation is cut apart with a saw, the saw cut will tend to close and bind the saw; the present invention can be used to monitor the gap and allow a jack to be controlled to maintain the gap. Other uses include, for example, the detection or monitoring of subsidence. It should therefore be understood that references herein to first and second members movable relative to each other includes the situation where the members are integrally joined and where degree of movement is limited. In a further alternative use of the apparatus and method as described herein, there is provided a further distance measuring device or devices that reference a datum point and thus can be used to measure, for example, the total distance that a member has moved relative to a certain object. Modifications and improvements may be made to the foregoing
embodiment within the scope of the invention. For example, instead of using a combined transmitter/receiver in conjunction with a reflector, separate transmitters and receivers could be used on either side of the gap.
It is thought that the use of three measuring devices is of benefit as this will give sufficient information to monitor an annular gap. However, more than three measuring devices could be used, especially on large tubular items. Also, in some applications it may be possible to use only two measuring devices, for example in the case of lifting an item with a flat base from a flat support. It may also be possible to use one measuring device for particular applications. Other applications may require more than three measuring devices to be used. For example, the apparatus can be used with different shaped objects having four, five, six or more sides. In such scenarios, it may be of use to have four, five, six or more measuring devices.
The measuring devices may be secured in place by means other than magnets, for example by adhesive or by straps. While this invention has been described with reference to the sample embodiments thereof, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that modifications can be made to the structure and elements of the invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as a whole.

Claims

Claims
An apparatus for measuring at least one of separation and orientation between a first member and a second member, the first member and the second member being movable relative to each other, the apparatus comprising at least one distance measuring device, the at least one distance measuring device comprising a first assembly removably attachable to the first member and a second assembly removably attachable to the second member, wherein the first assembly and the second assembly are configured to provide the distance between the first member and the second member.
The apparatus as described in claim 1 , wherein the measuring by the distance measuring device is non-invasive and/or indirect.
The apparatus as described in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the measuring by the distance measuring device is of a gap between the first member and the second member.
The apparatus as described in claim 3, wherein the first assembly and the second assembly are configured to be attached to the first member and the second member respectively outside of the gap.
The apparatus as described in any preceding claim, wherein the first member and the second member are to be separated.
The apparatus as described in any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus comprises two or more distance measuring devices.
The apparatus as described in any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus comprises three or more distance measuring devices.
The apparatus as described in any preceding claim, wherein the distance measuring device(s) are ultrasonic distance measuring devices.
The apparatus as described in claim 8, wherein the first assembly comprises an ultrasound transmitting/receiving transducer.
The apparatus as described in claim 9, wherein the second assembly comprises an ultrasound reflector.
1 1 The apparatus as described in any preceding claim, wherein the first member and the second member are in the form of tubular members.
12. The apparatus as described in any preceding claim, wherein one or more of the first assembly and the second assembly comprises a magnet configured to provide said removable attachment.
13. The apparatus as described in claim 12, wherein the magnet is a permanent magnet.
14. The apparatus as described in any preceding claim, the apparatus further comprising a reporting device configured to interpret and/or display data from the distance measuring device(s).
15. The apparatus as described in claim 14, wherein the reporting
device is configured to interpret and/or display data relating to one or more of distance, separation, movement and orientation between the first member and the second member.
16. The apparatus as described in claim 15, wherein the reporting
device is configured to interpret and/or display data relating to a change in one or more of distance, separation, movement and orientation between the first member and the second member.
17. The apparatus as described in claim 15 or claim 16, wherein the reporting device is programmable to account for the initial distance and/or the initial orientation between the first member and the second member.
18. The apparatus as described in any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the reporting device is programmable to calibrate the data from the distance measuring device(s) for an initial distance and/or an initial orientation between the first assembly and the second assembly.
19. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the first member and the second member are located in close proximity to each other.
20. An apparatus for measuring separation between a first member and a second member, the apparatus being as described in any one of claims 1 to 19.
21 . An apparatus for measuring orientation between a first member and a second member, the apparatus being as described in any one of claims 1 to 20.
An apparatus for separating a first member and a second member, the apparatus being as described in any one of claims 1 to 21.
A kit for use in the measurement of at least one of distance and orientation between a first member and a second member to be separated, the kit comprising the apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 22.
A method for measuring separation and/or orientation between a first member and a second member, the first member and the second member being movable relative to each other, the method comprising the steps of:
i. providing at least one distance measuring device comprising a first assembly removably attachable to the first member and a second assembly removably attachable to the second member;
ii. attaching the first assembly to the first member and attaching the second assembly to the second member;
iii. measuring the distance between the first assembly and the second assembly; and
iv. determining the distance between the first member and the second member;
wherein the first assembly and the second assembly are configured to provide a distance between the first member and the second member.
The method as described in claim 24, wherein the distance between the first member and the second member is equivalent to a gap located between the first member and the second member.
26. The method as described in claim 25, wherein the measuring by the distance measuring device is non-invasive and/or indirect with respect to the gap.
27. The method as described in claim 25 or claim 26, wherein the
method further comprises the step of calibrating the distance measuring device.
28. The method as described in claim 27, wherein the step of
calibrating the distance measuring device comprises the initial measuring of the gap between the first member and the second member.
29. The method as described in claim 28, wherein the initial measuring of the gap is by way of a direct measurement of the gap.
30. The method as described in any one of claims 25 to 29, wherein the first assembly and the second assembly are attached to the first member and the second member respectively outside of the gap.
31 . The method as described in any one of claims 24 to 30, wherein the first member and the second member are to be separated.
32. The method as described in claim 31 , wherein the measuring by the distance measuring device is in the direction of separation and at a location around the plane of separation.
33. The method as described in claim 32, wherein the measuring by the distance measuring device is at two or more locations around the plane of separation.
34. The method as described in claim 32 or claim 33, wherein the measuring by the distance measuring device is at three or more locations around the plane of separation.
35. The method as described in any one of claims 24 to 34, wherein two or more distance measuring devices are provided.
36. The method as described in any one of claims 24 to 35, wherein three or more distance measuring devices are provided.
37. The method as described in any one of claims 24 to 36, wherein the distance measuring device(s) are ultrasonic distance measuring devices.
38. The method as described in claim 37, wherein the first assembly comprises an ultrasound transmitting/receiving transducer.
39. The method as described in claim 38, wherein the second
assembly comprises an ultrasound reflector.
40. The method as described in any one of claims 24 to 39, wherein the first member and the second member are in the form of tubular members.
41 . The method as described in one of claims 24 to 40, wherein the method comprises the further step of temporarily attaching the distance measuring device(s) to the first member and the second member.
42. The method as described in one of claims 24 to 41 , wherein the method comprises the further step of applying a separating force to the first member and the second member to cause the first member and the second member to move apart.
43. The method as described in claim 42, wherein the method further comprises the step of monitoring the distances measured by the distance measuring device(s) as the first member and the second member move apart.
44. The method as described in claim 42 or claim 43, wherein the
method further comprises the step of varying the separating force at one or more locations between the first member and the second member in response to the monitoring of the distances measured by the distance measuring device(s).
45. The method as described in any one of claims 24 to 44, wherein one or more of the first assembly and the second assembly comprises a magnet configured to provide said removable attachment.
46. The method as described in claim 45, wherein the magnet is a
permanent magnet.
47. The method as described in any one of claims 24 to 46, wherein the method comprises the further step of interpreting and/or displaying data from the distance measuring device(s), optionally by providing a suitably configured reporting device.
48. The method as described in claim 47, wherein the data is interpreted and/or displayed to provide an indication of one or more of distance, separation, movement and orientation between the first member and the second member.
The method as described in claim 48, wherein the data is interpreted and/or displayed to provide an indication of a change in one or more of distance, separation, movement and orientation between the first member and the second member.
The method as described in any one of claims 47 to 49, wherein the method comprises the further step of calibrating the data from the distance measuring device(s) for an initial distance and/or an initial orientation between the first member and the second member.
The method as described in any one of claims 24 to 50, wherein the first member and the second member are located in close proximity to each other.
A method for separating a first member and a second member, the first member and the second member being movable relative to each other, the method comprising the steps of:
i. providing at least one distance measuring device comprising a first assembly removably attachable to the first member and a second assembly removably attachable to the second member;
ii. attaching the first assembly to the first member and attaching the second assembly to the second member;
iii. measuring the distance between the first assembly and the second assembly; iv. determining the distance between the first member and the second member; and
v. applying a separating force to the first member and the
second member to cause the first member and the second member to move apart; wherein the first assembly and the second assembly are configured to provide a distance between the first member and the second member.
The method as described in claim 52, wherein the method further comprises the step of monitoring the distances measured by the distance measuring device(s) as the first member and the second member move apart.
The method as described in claim 53, wherein the monitoring is continuous
The method as described in any one of claims 52 to 54, wherein the method further comprises the step of varying the separating force at one or more locations between the first member and the second member in response to the monitoring of the distances measured by the distance measuring device(s).
Use of the apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 22 or the kit of claim 23 in the measurement of at least one of distance, separation, movement and orientation between a first member and a second member.
PCT/GB2017/052958 2016-10-04 2017-10-03 Method and apparatus for measuring distance WO2018065762A2 (en)

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