U.S. patent application number 11/442508 was filed with the patent office on 2007-04-26 for system of subterranean anomaly detection and repair using infrared thermography and ground penetrating radar.
This patent application is currently assigned to En Tech Engineering, Inc.. Invention is credited to Gary J. Weil.
Application Number | 20070090989 11/442508 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37452948 |
Filed Date | 2007-04-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070090989 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Weil; Gary J. |
April 26, 2007 |
SYSTEM OF SUBTERRANEAN ANOMALY DETECTION AND REPAIR USING INFRARED
THERMOGRAPHY AND GROUND PENETRATING RADAR
Abstract
Method and system to identify, verify and remediate subterranean
anomalies. Infrared (IR) thermographic scanning [10] of a selected
surface area obtains image area data [12, 14] inferring such an
anomaly. Ground penetrating radar (GPR) is used [22] at
predetermined surface locations penetrates subterraneously to a
depth including the anomaly, creating vertical dimension radar data
[120] showing anomaly depth. Surface image IR data is correlated
with GPR data to verify the anomaly and its vertical dimension and
finds [124] a central location in the anomaly. Anomaly volume is
predetermined from the area data and vertical-dimension data. Grout
injected [26, 124] into the central location at first pressure
secures the anomaly by surrounding the central location. After
verifying centrally securement, more grout is injected [32, 126]
into the anomaly region at second pressure at least as great as the
first pressure until the total grout injected approximates the
predetermined anomaly volume.
Inventors: |
Weil; Gary J.; (St. Louis,
MO) |
Correspondence
Address: |
GREENSFELDER HEMKER & GALE PC
SUITE 2000
10 SOUTH BROADWAY
ST LOUIS
MO
63102
US
|
Assignee: |
En Tech Engineering, Inc.
St. Louis
MO
|
Family ID: |
37452948 |
Appl. No.: |
11/442508 |
Filed: |
May 26, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60685338 |
May 27, 2005 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
342/22 ;
250/341.1; 342/179; 342/189; 342/53; 342/55 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G01S 13/885 20130101;
G01S 13/867 20130101; G01S 13/89 20130101; G01V 8/02 20130101; G01V
11/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
342/022 ;
342/189; 250/341.1; 342/053; 342/055; 342/179 |
International
Class: |
G01S 13/86 20060101
G01S013/86; G01S 13/89 20060101 G01S013/89 |
Claims
1. A method of identification, verification and remediation of
subterranean anomalies comprising: obtaining surface thermography
data of the surface above an anomaly to obtain area image data
inferring the existence of the anomaly; penetrating subterranean
media beneath the surface by microwave radiotransmission to obtain
subterranean data confirming the existence of the anomaly and to
determine its depth; correlating the surface data with the
subterranean data to determine the centroid of the anomaly and to
determine the volume of the anomaly; injecting a grout into the
centroid of the anomaly at the centroid of the anomaly for initial
sealing of the anomaly; and injecting additional grout into the
anomaly until the total amount of injected grout approximates the
volume of the anomaly.
2. A method of identification, verification and remediation of
subterranean anomalies, comprising: (a) scanning a selected area by
imaging from at least one location above the surface of said area
to obtain two-dimension thermographic surface area image data
inferring the likely existence of such an anomaly signaled by the
image data; (b) establishing points on the surface of the selected
area for use of ground penetrating radar, the points encompassing
such portions of said selected area as will include such an
anomaly; (c) using ground penetrating radar at said points to
penetrate a subterranean extent with radar signals to a depth as
will include such an anomaly so as to create from subterranean
radar returns a set of radar data of the area; (d) correlating the
surface image with the radar data to verify the existence of such
anomaly and its vertical dimension and to determine a central
location within the anomaly; (e) determining a volume of the
anomaly on the basis of the two-dimension thermographic area data
and the vertical-dimension radar data; (f) injecting into the
central location of the anomaly a grout which combines to any
substance leaking into the anomaly, wherein the grout is injected
at a first pressure for securing the anomaly by surrounding its
central location; (g) repeating step (a), if necessary, to verify
that the anomaly is centrally secured; and (h) when the anomaly is
centrally secured, further injecting into the region of the anomaly
grout at a second pressure at least as great as the first pressure
until the total amount of injected approximates the predetermined
volume of the anomaly.
3. A method of identification, verification and remediation of
leaks, voids and other subterranean anomalies, comprising: (a)
scanning a selected area by infrared thermography from one or more
locations above the surface of said area to identify from
two-dimension thermographic area data of the surface of said area
the likely existence of such an anomaly signaled by the
thermographic data; (b) establishing a grid on surface of the
selected area for use of ground penetrating radar, the grid
encompassing such portions of said selected area as will include
such an anomaly signaled by the thermographic data; (c) using such
ground penetrating radar to penetrate a subterranean extent with
microwaves to a depth as will include such an anomaly to create
from subterranean microwave a set of vertical dimension radar data
of the area; (d) then correlating the thermographic data with the
radar data to verify the existence of such anomaly and its vertical
dimension and to locate a central location within the anomaly; (e)
determining a volume of the anomaly on the basis of the
two-dimension thermographic area data and the vertical-dimension
radar data; (f) then injecting into the central location of the
anomaly a grout which while inert to contaminants leaking from the
anomaly will react with the moisture in any substance leaking into
or causing the anomaly, wherein the grout is injected at a first
pressure for securing the source of the anomaly; (g) repeating step
(a), if necessary, to verify for quality control or assurance that
the anomaly is centrally secured; and (h) when the anomaly is
centrally secured, injecting into the region of the anomaly grout
at a second pressure, at either a similar pressure or higher than
the first pressure so that the amount of grout within the anomaly
approximates the predetermined volume of the anomaly.
4. A method as set forth in claim 3 further comprising, after step
(a) and before step (f), carrying out invasive and destructive
boring and sampling techniques within the selected area, as in the
case of possible plural anomalous areas, to further analyze and
confirm the general nature of leakage and other anomalous
conditions.
5. A system for providing identification, verification and
remediation of leaks, voids and other subterranean anomalies,
comprising: visual scanner means for visually scanning to obtain
thermographic data of a selected geographic area having suspected
subterranean anomalies from which one or more contaminants may be
leaking, from one or more locations above the surface of said area
to identify from two-dimension surface area data the likely
existence of such an anomaly signaled by said data; means for
predetermining locations on a surface of the selected area for use
of ground penetrating radar, such locations being in such portions
of said selected area as will include such an anomaly signaled by
the thermographic data; ground penetrating radar for transmitting
radio frequency signals from said locations to penetrate a
subterranean extent of such area with the transmitted radio
frequency signals to a depth as will include such an anomaly to
create from subterranean microwave a set of vertical dimension
radar data of the area; provision for correlating the thermographic
data with the radar data to verify the existence of such anomaly
and its vertical dimension and to locate a central location within
the anomaly; and for determining a volume of the anomaly on the
basis of the two-dimension thermographic surface area data and the
vertical-dimension radar data; a grouting substance inert to
contaminants leaking from the anomaly but that will react with the
moisture in a substance leaking into or causing the anomaly,
wherein the grout is injected at a first pressure for securing the
source of the anomaly; grout injection provision for injecting the
grout into the central location of the anomaly at a predetermined
pressure; pressure monitoring and controlling means for monitoring
and controlling the pressure as the grout is injected; and quality
control procedures at least after grout injection for assurance
that the anomaly is secured.
6. A system as set forth in claim 5 wherein the visual scanner
means comprises infrared thermography means for obtain the
thermographic surface data of the selected area, wherein the
thermographic surface data infers the existence of such
anomaly.
7. A system as set forth in claim 5 wherein the visual scanner is a
digital camera or photo camera.
8. A system as set forth in claim 5 further comprising a video
camera for capturing video images of such geological area
coincident with infrared thermography data of such geological
area.
9. A system as set forth in claim 8 further comprising a mobile
carrying means on which said infrared scanner and said video camera
are fixable for movement relative to such geological area when
scanning thereof is carried out.
10. A system as set forth in claim 9 further comprising recordation
equipment for providing recordation of infrared thermographic data
and video data the area surface on which infrared thermography is
carried out.
11. A system as set forth in claim 5 further comprising location
means to provide precision location data of said geological area
when scanning.
12. A system as set forth in claim 5 further comprising laser
locators or pointers for marking locations on the geological
surface area on which infrared thermography is carried out.
13. A system as set forth in claim 5 further comprising data
processing and preservation means for simultaneously selectively
storing geologic surface area, infrared and video images data,
location data and GPR data for verification, processing and for
further use.
14. A system for identification, verification and remediation of
subterranean anomalies of the type represented by leaks and voids,
the system comprising: provision for obtaining visual imagery data
indicative of ground surface conditions in a selected area in which
such an anomaly may exist, the area image data inferring the
existence of an anomaly by surface thermal patterns indicative of
such an anomaly; a protocol to locate and field mark surface
temperature patterns indicative of subsurface fluid leaks or
erosion voids of such an anomaly; a protocol to provide a pattern
of predetermined points on said ground surface for the taking of
ground penetrating radar data for subterranean location of such an
anomaly; ground penetrating radar for obtaining such radar data by
positioning a radar unit or units at the predetermined points on
the surface to penetrate a subterranean extent of the area with
radar signals to a depth to include such an anomaly in question by
radar signals which locate subsurface dielectric conditions
indicative at least of erosion voids and saturated subsurface
materials so as to create from radar returns a set of vertical
dimension in the form of three-dimensional data showing anomaly
depth and shape; provision for display to a system user of the
surface image data and ground penetrating radar data by making it
available for individual or simultaneous display on a computer or
video display monitor together with display of location and other
data indicative at least of when the data is obtained and a site
from which it is obtained; data storage provision for storing of
the visual data, radar data and other data in analog or digital
format for use; an analysis and correlation protocol, either
manually implemented or automatically-implemented, or both, for
analyzing the stored visual data, radar data and other data, and
for correlating the visual data with the radar data to verify the
existence of such anomaly and its vertical dimension and to
determine a centroid of the anomaly, and to predetermine the volume
of the anomaly, such as a void or defect, or fluid-infiltrated
region, on the basis of visual data and the radar data and so as to
visualize subsurface solid areas, voids, and saturated materials
associated with such anomaly; a protocol for field marking for said
surface of void centroids associated with such anomaly; grout
injection provision for injection of grout at a monitored and
controlled first preselected low pressure into a void centroid to
form a healing bandage over and around any leak associated with
such an anomaly so as to seal such leak; quality control protocol
for rechecking of any such leak, including repeat of visual data
collection of the area in order to determine that any such leak is
sealed, whereby to verify that such anomaly is centrally secured;
and grout injection provision for grout injection by which grout is
further injected into the region of the anomaly grout at a
monitored and controlled second preselected pressure, wherein the
second pressure selection is a pressure at least as great as the
first pressure, until the total amount of injected approximates the
predetermined volume of such anomaly.
15. A system as set forth in claim 14 wherein said provision for
obtaining visual imagery data comprises means for carrying out
infrared thermography of ground surface conditions in said selected
area to obtain thermographic image data inferring the existence of
such anomaly by variation in surface thermal patterns indicative of
such an anomaly.
16. A system as set forth in claim. 15 wherein by said analysis and
correlation protocol the radar data and thermographic image data
are analyzed, and wherein the thermographic image data and radar
data are correlated such that each subsurface void is visualized
and determined to have a centroid having a measured distance below
a centroid grade marker.
17. A system as set forth in claim 16 wherein the grout injection
provision includes means for measuring pressure at which grout is
injection, and wherein as grout is injected at the second pressure,
grout injection is continued until a pressure rise is observed
during injection, and whereby such rise in pressure is indicative
of a sufficient total amount of volume of grout having been
injected so as to permit injection of grout to be terminated.
18. A system as set forth in claim 14 further comprising location
means to provide precision location data of said geological area
when scanning.
19. A system as set for the in claim 14 further comprising
locators, markers or pointers for marking locations on the
geological surface area on which infrared thermography is carried
out.
20. A system as set forth in claim 14 wherein the data storage
means comprises data processing and preservation means and for
simultaneously selectively storing on electronic, magnetic or
optical media geologic surface area, the infrared and video images
data, location data and the ground penetrating radar data for
subsequent verification, correlation, processing, display or other
use.
21. A system as set forth in claim 14 wherein the grout is selected
from the group comprising acrylimide, acrylate and urethane grouts.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE AND CLAIM FOR PRIORITY
[0001] This application claims the priority of U.S. Provisional
Application Ser. No. 60/685,338, filed May 27, 2005, of the present
inventor, and entitled System of Subterranean Anomaly Detection and
Repair Using Infrared Thermography and Ground Penetrating
Radar.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The invention relates to methods and systems for detection
of subterranean anomalies such as voids and leaks by the use of
infrared thermography and, more particularly, to methods and system
for using infrared thermography together with ground penetrating
radar to map subterranean leakage voids and to repair such voids
and terminate such leakage in a very highly accurate, reliable,
rapid and cost-effective manner.
[0004] 2. Related Art
[0005] The present inventor is the patentee of Weil U.S. Pat. No.
4,910,593 issued Mar. 20, 1990, entitled System for Geological
Defect Detection Utilizing Composite Video-Infrared Thermography,
hereinafter referred to as the "Entech INSITE I System" or, more
simply herein, the "Entech System." This patent, which is herein
incorporated by reference, discloses a selectively mobile system
with an infrared ("IR") scanner and video camera having a common
area of focus and apparatus for detecting location permits
detection of subterranean geological anomalies.
[0006] Infrared and visual images are simultaneously successively
recorded on videotape together with related location data and other
relevant information. Video recorded infrared, video and location
data are selectively captured on successive frames. Such frames are
recorded for further analysis such as for determining the location
and extent of subsurface anomalies such as leaks. That system,
which is especially useful for mapping such anomalies along a route
of travel, as across bridges, highways and other traffic surfaces
such as paved surfaces or for examining surfaces that extend over
elongated passages such as buried sewer and water lines, does not
involve the additional use of ground penetrating radar, nor does it
disclose methods for repair of anomalies detected by the use of the
patented system. That system has advantageously led to the
development of a pipeline leak and erosion void sensing and
non-destructive testing.
Background Information
[0007] Most underground conduits or pipelines, whether they contain
oil, chemicals, water, steam, gas or sewage, have a design life of
25 to 50 years, and when they begin to fail, they do so slowly at
first through defective construction joints, corrosion and small
cracks, and gradually progress to a catastrophic ending. This
disastrous failure can be expensive in terms of both dollars and
lives. But this scenario can be avoided. Planned maintenance can
extend the life of all types of pipelines almost indefinitely, and
regular testing of pipelines form the basis of economically viable
restoration. In order for any testing technique to have widespread
advantage, it needs to have the following qualities:
[0008] It must be accurate.
[0009] It must be non-invasive and non-destructive.
[0010] It must be able to inspect large areas and localized
areas.
[0011] It must be efficient in terms of both labor and
equipment.
[0012] It must be economical.
[0013] It should not be obtrusive to the surrounding
environment.
[0014] It should not inconvenience the pipeline's users.
[0015] Chemical refineries, in particular, contain hundreds of
miles of buried pipelines. In addition to a typical proliferation
of oil and gas pipelines, such refineries have dozens of other
types of pipelines such as sewer, water, steam, condensate,
firewater and chemical pipelines that are often part of refinery
support systems. Their integrity is crucial to the economic
well-being and safety of these facilities.
[0016] Heretofore, project, typical buried sewer pipelines have
been inspected by using closed circuit television, ultrasonic
and/or sonic listening devices, or traveling inspection devices
("pigs"). None of these work satisfactorily on a refinery pipelines
or sewers because: 1) Such lines may range in size from 1'' to 72''
diameter, for example; 2) They may be either gravity and
pressurized systems; 3) They typically are buried beneath major
pieces of refining equipment and mixed in with hundreds of other
types of pipelines; and 4) Nearby pipelines and equipment produce
prodigious amounts of auditory noise which interferes with testing.
The lack of any accurate method or system of investigating the
buried conduits, pipelines or sewer lines, for example, can lead to
many unknowns that can significantly increase the rehabilitation
costs of the traditional excavation and concrete encasement methods
of repair.
[0017] Since 1998, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has
focused on refinery sewers as major ground and water pollution
sources. In the wake of enforcement legal proceedings, refineries
have increased inducement to inspect these sewer lines and other
pipelines for leaks and to repair contamination sources
therefrom.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0018] The present patent application deals with a unique pipeline
and subsurface testing program and can be herein termed the
"Improved EnTech INSITE II System" to distinguish it from the
EnTech INSITE I System and the new system and methodology may for
brevity be called the "Improved System." It employs a fusion of
multiple remote sensor data, coupled with innovative pipeline and
subsurface repair/remediation methods to provide the qualities
listed hereinabove.
[0019] Briefly, the described method and system are aimed at
identification, verification and remediation of subterranean
anomalies. Here described are procedures (one or more protocols)
designed to locate and field mark surface temperature patterns
indicative of subsurface fluid leaks including water, sewage,
natural gas, other gases, hydrocarbons, and chemicals along with
their erosion voids. Detection, mapping, characterizing, and field
marking of anomalous areas is described. Procedures/protocols are
described for leak sealing, erosion void filling, and saturated
soil stabilization. Multiple forms of data input sensors are used.
Visual imagery data is taken to ensure ground surface conditions in
a selected area, which may be an area which is regular or irregular
in nature, and which may be confined or elongate or have multiple
parts, whether contiguous or not. The inventive system involves
scanning a selected area, as by infrared thermography, above its
surface to obtain area image data inferring the existence of an
anomaly. Infrared imagery data is especially preferred for its
ability to locate surface thermal patterns indicative of subsurface
pipeline leaks, erosion voids and wet materials. Field anomaly
marking is then carried out and may preferably include field
marking of a grid to establish predetermined points for taking of
radar data. This may include the surface application of paint marks
denoting points of a grid.
[0020] Radar data is then taken by ground penetrating radar, which
is used by positioning a radar unit or units at the predetermined
grid points on the surface to penetrate a subterranean extent with
radar to a depth to include an anomaly in question, thus creating a
set of vertical dimension radar data, preferably three-dimensional
data showing anomaly depth and shape. The ground penetrating
microwave radar data locates from radar returns the subsurface
dielectric conditions indicative, at least, of erosion voids and
saturated subsurface materials.
[0021] The surface image data and ground penetrating radar are
displayed, as by use of multiplexer to synchronize the different
types of data and make it available for Individual or simultaneous
display on a computer or video display monitor using quad type
software together with display of location, site description, GPS,
distance and position data, date, time and other descriptive data.
The various data are stored for use, in analog or digital format,
as on magnetic videotape, magnetic disk, computer hard drive or
disk, video cassette recorder, optical disk, or data modules and
devices of portable or convenient nature. The data is transmitted
by wired or wireless means to the storage media.
[0022] The data is then analyzed. In any event, the visual data is
correlated with the radar data to verify the existence of such
anomaly and its vertical dimension and to determine a central
location within the anomaly. Data analysis to provide such
correlation make be carried out manually or by automated (e.g.,
software and/or hardware and/or firmware implemented) procedure
using written code software and/or neural network hardware and/or
software. The correlation determines the volume of the anomaly,
such as a void or defect, or fluid-infiltrated region, on the basis
of the two-dimension thermographic area data and the
vertical-dimension radar data. Data analysis, as by the use of
software, visualizes data illustrating subsurface solid areas,
voids, and saturated materials. Field marking of erosion void
centroids is then carried out. This may include the surface
application of paint marks denoting the erosion void centroids at
grade level. Subsurface voids may be visualized by use of the radar
data and data analysis software as having a centroid having a
measured distance below a centroid grade marker.
[0023] In the case of a pipeline leak characterized by a pipeline
leak hope, the procedure then most preferably carried out at this
point is injection of grout at low pressure to form a "healing
bandage" over the pipeline leak hole. This is followed by
rechecking of the leak with the IR thermography system sensors for
quality control. Such quality control procedures for rechecking of
the leak may most preferably include field repeat of visual data
collection visual and repeat of infrared data collection, with
collection also of text and related information appropriate to the
data collection, as described above, including date, time and
location data. Such quality control thus entails a retaking of
visual imagery data to ensure ground surface conditions in the
selected area.
[0024] Grout can then be injected. More specifically, grout is
injected into the central location of the anomaly, i.e., erosion
void centroids, at a preselected first pressure for securing the
anomaly by surrounding its central location. After verifying that
the anomaly is centrally secured, being in effect bandaging in the
case of a pipeline leak, grout is further injected into the region
of the anomaly grout at a preselected pressure, wherein the second
pressure selection is a pressure at least as great as the first
pressure, until the total amount of injected approximates the
predetermined volume of the anomaly. Injection of high pressure
grout has the benefit that it stabilizes wet subsurface materials.
This second injection procedure is followed by rechecking of leak
with IR system sensors for quality control.
[0025] Thus, among the several objects, advantages and features of
the invention may be noted the provision of a relatively fast,
economical, safe, efficient, accurate, and reliable system and
method for detection and repair of subterranean anomalies,
including leaks and voids; which system involves the fusion of
sensing and mapping technology including infrared thermography and
GPR, which is non-invasive, non-destructive and can be used even in
the most congested subterranean conditions, as where there are
sewer, water, steam, condensate, firewater and chemical pipelines
overlaid at various levels, as may be characteristic of refineries
and other chemical manufacturing and processing facilities, and
which employs a methodology for securing the anomalies such as
leaks and voids for assured remediation of them.
[0026] Among the further objects, advantages and features of the
invention may be noted the provision of such systems and methods
which can be used on various areas, and on various terrains, in
either daytime or nighttime conditions, under a variety of weather
and surface conditions; and which cause minimal inconvenience to
personnel and to operations within or proximate the area in which
subterranean anomalies are to be mapped and secured.
[0027] The Improved System provides state-of-the-art non-invasive
technology that can serve as the basis for an overall sewer testing
and repair system capable of locating sewer and other pipeline
leaks and erosion voids in active and retired refinery systems;
characterizing these anomalous areas as to composition, size,
depth, and plume spread. The system methodology provides for repair
and remediation of these subsurface areas with no inconvenience to
the facility, its processes, or its personnel. As pipeline
remediation, the new system is capable typical overall saving
greater than 70% compared with traditional testing, excavation and
repair techniques.
[0028] For use in carrying out nondestructive and noninvasive
testing in such an inhospitable environment, the EnTech INSITE I
System can be used to carry out infrared thermography-based
pipeline leak and erosion void detection. Such system is capable of
performing a multiphase testing process that fuses data from
several sensors, including, for example: 0.3-0.7 .mu.m visual
image; 3-5 .mu.m IR; 8-12 .mu.m IR; microwave as a species of
ground penetrating radar, at various possible frequencies.;
odometer and/or Global Positioning System (GPS) sensors.
[0029] The Improved System captures infrared and/or visual images,
such by use of IR scanners, imagers, cameras or radiometers,
including video or other digital or photo cameras and video camera
images of surface areas below which there are suspected anomalies,
such as a pipeline or sewer leak. Such surface image data is
two-dimensional, and is preferably simultaneously successively
recorded on videotape together with related location data (such as
odometer or GPS data) and other relevant descriptive data, and time
of day. A combination of infrared, video and location data and
other relevant data, is selectively captured on successive frames.
Said Weil U.S. Pat. No. 4,910,593 is illustrative of the recording
of multiple forms of such data.
[0030] Ground penetrating radar (herein called GPR), as here
employed, is a geophysical technology useful for high-resolution,
subsurface investigations to relatively shallow depths, e.g., to
depths to more than 30 meters, dependent upon geologic media, and
employing high frequency pulsed electromagnetic waves (at
frequencies generally from 10 MHz to more than 1000 MHz) to acquire
subsurface information. Energy is propagated from grade level into
subterranean geologic media. The electromagnetic radiation (e.g.,
as microwaves) is reflected to transmitting and receiving elements
of the GPR sensors by subsurface boundaries or regions having
contrasting electrical properties.
[0031] By using a combination of visual, infrared thermographic and
referencing sensors, the Improved System is capable of detecting
one or more anomalous surface (e.g., as at grade level) temperature
area patterns indicative of or signaling subsurface pipeline leaks
and their probable erosion voids. Field data collection is
performed such as during nighttime or other off-peak work hours so
as not to inconvenience either refinery personnel or interfere with
process equipment. Subsequently using invasive and destructive
boring and sampling techniques, if necessary, the possible plural
anomalous areas are further analyzed to confirm the general nature
of the leak. For example, some anomalous areas may be caused by
sewer pipeline leaks, while others may be caused by other fluids,
such as firewater pipeline leaks. The Improved System can
distinguish, for example, between sewer and water system leaks,
permitting remediation of only leaks that are of important
concern.
[0032] The combination of two-dimensional surface image data and
vertical dimension GPR data allow confirmation of voids and
determination of void volume.
[0033] Upon the nondestructive determination and location of one or
more leaks that are of important concern, the Improved System then
carried forward to remediation steps involving most preferably
grouting to repair leak of importance. For example, the system
first distinguishes between a sewer pipeline leak and a water
pipeline leak of little importance, or which may safely be ignored
for a period. The grouting methodology is thus first applied to the
sewer pipeline leak.
[0034] The grouting steps of the Improved System involve injecting
a grout composed of such as expansive urethane. On a single sewer
anomaly, for example, grout is injected at predetermined low
pressure. Infrared thermography (and optionally also microwave or
ground penetrating radar data) is then used again to determine the
extent to which the leak is secured. If the leak is not secured,
additional grouting, which may be at similar or higher pressure is
carried out. Grouting is continued until the volume of the
subterranean anomaly or anomalies is filled with grout.
[0035] An advantage in the use of the Improved System is that,
within the vicinity of the anomalous area being detected and
secured, the use of ground penetrating radar, employing microwave
sensors, subsurface voids, saturation and soil conditions can be
mapped to a substantial depth, such as to a depth of 15 feet below
grade.
[0036] Systematic fusion of infrared thermographic surface image
and subterranean ground penetrating microwave radar testing
techniques, combined with subterranean void grouting at selected
pressures, according to the present disclosure, can effectively
seal a variety of subterranean anomalies, especially from those in
which fluids have been leaking, such as pipelines or various other
lines or sewers, and can effectively fill erosion voids caused by
such leakage, and so also stabilize saturated soils supporting the
pipeline or other line and above-ground traffic. Such grouting may
be performed during both daytime and nighttime hours to reduce
traffic, personnel and process interactions.
[0037] Other objects and features will be apparent or are pointed
out in the following description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0038] FIG. 1A is a first part of a flow diagram summarizing
procedures to locate and field mark surface temperature patterns
indicative of subsurface fluid leaks including water, sewage,
natural gas, other gases, hydrocarbons, and chemicals along with
their erosion voids, all being subterranean anomalies, in
accordance with the present invention.
[0039] FIG. 1B is a second part or continuation of the flow diagram
of FIG. 1A and summarizing procedures for detection, mapping,
characterizing and field marking of anomalous areas for leak
sealing, erosion void filling, and saturated soil stabilization,
and further, summarizing procedures of injection of grout to form a
"healing BAND AID" bandage over a pipeline leak hole, followed by
rechecking of the leak with infrared thermography system sensors
for quality control, as well as summarizing procedures of
inspection of high pressure grout to stabilize wet subsurface
materials, followed by recheck of the leak with infrared
thermography system sensors for quality control, all in accordance
with the present invention.
[0040] The drawings FIGS. 1A and 1B which make up parts of FIG. 1
each have three lines or tracks representing respectively a
description line, a flow chart line and a procedures description
line or track and it will be apparent that FIG. 1B continues from
FIG. 1A along the three lines or tracks.
[0041] FIG. 2 is a multiplexed simultaneous computer screen display
of infrared thermography data, ground penetrating radar data, and
site and other data, as such data displayed after its collection
and during or after storage.
[0042] FIG. 3 is a photograph showing developmental field marking
of grip of predetermined points for use of ground penetrating radar
and ground penetrating radar data collection.
[0043] FIGS. 4A through 4E are ground penetrating radar data images
realized from microwave radar reflections returned from
subterranean media, and representing three dimensional data of
subterranean media in which there are anomalies.
DESCRIPTION OF PRACTICAL EMBODIMENTS
[0044] Referring to the drawings, an Improved System of the
invention uses a hierarchy or fusion of systematic features and
methodology to identify and remediate subterranean anomalies which
lie beneath the surface of various kinds of terrain and industrial
sites such as refineries. Such anomalies may include, for example,
pipeline leaks, voids, ruptures, water system leaks, fractures of
vessels, housings, or pipelines or tubing or other lines. A
combination of visual, infrared thermographic and subterranean
referencing sensors, such as by the use of ground penetrating
radar, to detect one or more anomalous defects, voids or leaks.
[0045] The hierarchy is initiated by the use of visual reference
and application of infrared thermography or other image analysis
when a leak, erosion void, or other subterranean anomaly is
suspected, the hierarchical system is initiated by carrying out
infrared thermography of the surface overlying the suspected
anomaly. This involves scanning a selected area by infrared
thermography, most preferably, for one or more locations above the
surface of the area, including the suspected anomaly, to identify
from two-dimensional thermographic area data of the surface of said
area, the likely existence of such an anomaly signal by the
thermographic data. Such thermography can be carried out from a
number of locations, including as by scanning by helicopter or
other aircraft at altitudes of up to 12,000 feet or more, a method
which is employed to advantage in traveling along and above a
pipeline which may extend for many miles. Alternatively, over a
combined area, a tower or bucket truck or crane, or location on an
adjacent roof, or the use of a vehicle as proposed in Weil U.S.
Pat. No. 4,910,953 (identified above) wherein such vehicle or
minivan may be provided with a lift to give a suitable height such
as 15 feet, from which satisfactory thermography may be carried
out.
[0046] The infrared thermographic screening carried out as above
may be within a well-defined area, or may be carried out as a more
generalized area scan, such as for global pre-screening of an area
in which it is suspected there may be subterranean anomalies, as in
the case of a sewer line or pipeline in a chemical processing plant
or refinery which line may extend for many thousands of feet.
[0047] Under any circumstances, the infrared thermography first
procedure looks for surface indications of one or more anomalies,
that is to say, thermal anomalies on the surface which signal or
tend to indicate the existence of an anomaly in question. Such
surface thermal anomalies connote the likelihood of a subterranean
anomaly.
[0048] In methodology according to the prior art, it has been
practice to excavate along a sewer line over substantial distances,
including hundreds or thousands of feet, and digging out the line
within a corridor. Such has required weeks, months or years of
careful, painstaking excavation to uncover the line in question,
and with the result of producing horrible and disruptive damage to
terrain with the consequent interruption of activities and
interference with nearby work and structures, all at a cost running
into millions of dollars per project.
[0049] The present invention involves a much more incisive approach
beginning with visual, pre-screening and specific infrared
thermography over the suspected subterranean anomaly. If only
thermal anomalies at the surface are noted, excavation has
heretofore proceeded by drilling a hole or excavation at the site
of the thermal anomaly, as by digging and drilling, but even this
is not as desirable as use of the methodology herein proposed,
which allows a far more precise identification as remediation of an
anomaly.
[0050] In the case of refineries, as a special case, various lines,
sewers and conduits are routed in sometimes direct and sometimes
indirect and even very convoluted manner, and at various depths,
from location to another, and may be overlaid with other conduits
or lines. The term "lines" may be used to identify all such
conduits, and may be of diameters from an inch, for example, to ten
feet in diameter, for example. It has been the practice in some
locations having relatively large diameter lines to use so-called
pigs or to use ultrasonic devices or cameras which travel through
the line. These are not found in general to be satisfactory in all
situations because of the sometimes abrupt changes in geometry
resulting from location of the lines. Pigs and mechanical devices
also are not successfully used in lines that have internal
diameters which are too small or which otherwise interfere with
such devices, presenting the risk that such a pig, for example, may
become lodged in a line, requiring excavation and retrieval of the
pig by breaking open the line.
[0051] It is also an advantage in the use of infrared thermography
that various kinds of chemicals, isotopes, compounds, and chemical
substances can be detected more accurately and with advantageous
speed. In general, the use of infrared thermography as an initial
procedure in a system according to the invention provides the
lowest cost per square unit of area measurement as compared to
prior technologies while achieving a more accurate identification
than previous technologies.
[0052] The signature of thermal anomalies on the surface is often
indicative of the nature of a leak. For example, in a pipeline
leak, the infrared thermography data, when examined with care, may
depict a plume which shows a temperature associated with a
particular fluid, such as oil, water, process chemical, or many of
a wide variety of substances.
[0053] FIG. 1A is indicative of the procedures in obtaining
infrared thermography data. As visual and thermographic data are
captured, the data are stored for display and later use including
analysis and correlation with ground penetrating radar data. FIG. 2
is a multiplexed simultaneous computer screen display of infrared
thermography data, ground penetrating radar data, and site and
other data, as such data displayed after its collection and during
or after storage. FIG. 2 shows not only visual data (left image),
as captured by video camera, as well as infrared thermographic
signature (right upper image) of an area in which there is
thermographic indication of a surface temperature anomaly which
connotes the existence of a leak or other subterranean anomaly.
Additional data describing the site at which the data was taken, is
captured in FIG. 2 as the lower right image panel.
[0054] FIG. 1A has two related upper and lower tracks or levels,
the upper track being a flow chart line, and the lower track being
the corresponding procedures track. Referring to the upper track of
FIG. 1A, blocks 10, 12, 14, 16 and 18 generally indicate procedure
designed to locate and field mark surface temperature patterns
indicative of subsurface fluid leaks including water, sewage,
natural gas, other gases, hydrocarbons, and chemicals along with
their erosion voids. Block 10 shows data input sensors, block 12
indicates data display, block 14 represents data storage provision,
block 16 represents data analysis, and block 18 is indicative of
field anomaly marking. Blocks 20, 22 and 24 represent detection,
mapping, characterizing, and field marking of anomalous areas for
leak sealing, erosion void filling, and saturated soil
stabilization. Block 20 represents field mark grid provision for
ground penetrating microwave radar (as abbreviated in this
disclosure as GPR or GPMR) and associated ground penetrating radar
data collection. Block 22 shows GPMR data analysis using three
dimensional (3D) software, which may be of known type, by which the
data can be represented for computer display as a 3D figure and can
be viewed or printed as "slices" of data at the several discrete
depths at which the data is obtained, as shown in FIGS. 4A through
4E which are actual and representative ground penetrating radar
data images realized from the microwave radar reflections returned
from subterranean media, being 3D data of subterranean media in
which there are anomalies.
[0055] In FIG. 1A, the corresponding lower track shows method steps
or procedures 102 through 122, which correlate to blocks 20 through
24. Step 102 represents obtaining visual imagery data to insure,
i.e., determine definitively, ground surface conditions. In step
104, there is shown using the infrared imagery data to locate
surface thermal patterns indicative of subsurface pipeline leaks,
erosion voids and wet materials, i.e., wet substances which may be
of subsurface origin, while step 106 shows using ground penetrating
microwave radar data to locate subsurface dielectric conditions
indicative of erosion voids and saturated subsurface materials.
Step 108 shows providing input of text information (descriptive
information), location description; reference distance; GPS
information, date, time and so forth. The data or information
obtained in steps 102, 104, 106 and 108 is provided, as shown at
step 110, to a quad multiplexer which synchronizes ("syncs") all
data for individual or simultaneous display on a computer or video
display monitor using quad type software, which may be of known
type, to provide display as in FIG. 2.
[0056] Then, step 112 shows providing such data/information in
analogue or digital form for storage to magnetic videotape or
magnetic disc computer hard drive or disc, or video cassette
recorder or optical disc.
[0057] Step 114 shows that the procedures may be manual or
automated using written code software and/or neural network or
hardware and/or software.
[0058] Step 116 shows the use of paint to field mark the center and
edges of all surface temperature anomaly patterns, while step 118
shows the example of painting a 10-20 ft..times.10-20 ft. grid
pattern centered on the center of the anomaly. Step 120 shows the
use 3D GPMR data analysis software, as described above, to
visualize data illustrating subsurface solid areas, voids, and
saturated materials. Step 122 represents adding paint marks
locating void centers.
[0059] The upper and lower paths of FIG. 1A continue in FIG. 1B.
There block 26 shows the procedure of low pressure grout injection
into the detected subterranean void. A corresponding low pressure
grout injection procedure is represented at 124. Step 26 is
followed in step 28 by field repeating of the visual data, infrared
imaging, text input and data collection. A quality control loop by
which the procedure may be repeated as necessary is designated at
30. Corresponding procedure is shown at 102' involving obtaining
visual imagery data to insure, i.e., definitively be sure of,
ground surface conditions. So also 104' shows using the infrared
imagery data to locate surface thermal patterns indicative of
subsurface pipeline leaks, erosion voids and wet materials, being
the same procedure as at 104. Correspondingly, at 108' there is
again shown providing input of text information (descriptive
information), location description; reference distance; GPS
information, date, time and so forth, as procedures to be taken
with those shown in 102' and 104' following low pressure grout
injection.
[0060] Injection of grout at a pressure at least as great as that
used for low pressure grout injection, and more typically or
preferably at a higher injection pressure, is shown by block 32 and
corresponding method designation 126 referred to as high pressure
grout, as more fully discussed elsewhere in this disclosure. Step
32 is followed by step 34 by field repeating of the visual data,
infrared imaging, text input and data collection. A quality control
loop by which the procedure may be repeated as necessary is
designated 36. Corresponding procedure is shown at 102' involving
obtaining visual imagery data to insure, i.e., definitively be sure
of, ground surface conditions (being the same kind of procedure as
at 102). So also 104' (being the same kind of procedure as at 104)
shows using the infrared imagery data to locate surface thermal
patterns indicative of subsurface pipeline leaks, erosion voids and
wet materials. Correspondingly, at 108' again there is illustrated
the procedure of providing input of text information (descriptive
information), location description; reference distance; GPS
information, date, time and so forth.
[0061] A general discussion of variations and various factors will
be helpful.
[0062] In the pre-scanning or scanning of an area which is believed
to contain a subterranean anomaly, infrared thermography may be
carried out by the use of a single point scanner providing extreme
accuracy; and so also, use is contemplated of infrared images and
infrared radiometers as well as infrared cameras. Single point or
multiple point scanning may be employed to obtain the
two-dimensional thermographic data required to show the existence
of anomalous thermal variations in the surface overlying the area
of the suspected anomaly from which it may be inferred the
longitude and latitude of the anomaly or what can be considered x-y
location. Although the infrared thermography provides highest
confidence in such location, it may suffice in some circumstances
to employ video cameras to record anomalous areas, and such video
or still cameras can be used for adjunct or pre-screening or to
provide original grade level indication of anomalies. Thus, it may
be useful in some circumstances to obtain a visual image of the
area by such means including film and digital cameras or video
cameras or sensors. Precision odometer, laser surveying, and/or GPS
data may be used for precise location of leak-suspicious surface
areas.
[0063] The system captures infrared and/or visual images (such as
from IR scanners, imagers, cameras or radiometers, including video
or other digital or photo cameras and video camera images) and such
data is preferably simultaneously successively recorded on
videotape together with related location data (such as odometer or
GPS data) and other relevant information such as descriptions,
locations and other geologically-relevant information of a site,
and so also precise time of day. A combination of infrared, video
and location data and other relevant data, is selectively captured
on successive frames. Said Weil U.S. Pat. No. 4,910,593 is
illustrative of the recording of multiple forms of such data.
[0064] Ground penetrating radar (GPR/GPMR), as here employed is
herein disclosed for high-resolution, subterranean investigation to
depths sufficient for including suspected subterranean anomalies to
acquire information regarding the vertical extent of one or more
subterranean anomalies of an area in question. Microwave energy of
the GPR is propagated from grade level into subterranean geologic
media for points over subterranean anomalies that are signaled by
the visual data obtained as through infrared thermography data
previously taken. The anomalies may vary widely. They may be one or
more leaks, faults, structures, pipelines, sewer lines, conduits,
fluid-saturated areas from leaks, or any other anomaly of interest.
The transmitted microwave radiation is reflected from such
anomalies to receiving elements of the GPR sensors by subsurface
boundaries or regions having contrasting electrical properties
characteristic of the interface between normal media and strata,
and normal structures and lines, on the one hand, and
fluid-saturated leak regions, on the other hand.
[0065] Before systematically employing GPR to investigate the area
in question, an area-specific investigation matrix (i.e., a grid or
map) is prepared, such as showing points of a grid spaced evenly
apart (e.g., at 1.0 ft. increments) at which GPR data will be
taken. GPS and other precision location data may be recorded and
taken into consideration. GPR is then carried out in systemic
manner at such points using preselected frequency or frequencies
(e.g., as operating at microwave frequencies), ranges of depth,
antenna(s), degree of resolution, and power levels, all as
appropriate for the depth and accuracy to be obtained. The
establishing of a grid in that manner on the surface of the
selected area for the use of GPR need only encompass such potions
of the selected area as will be highly likely include the anomaly
which has been signaled by the thermographic data.
[0066] Then, using such GPR to penetrate subterranean media to a
sufficient depth as is expected to include the suspected anomaly or
anomalies, radar data is captured to provide from the microwave
reflections from such media a set of vertical dimension radar data
of the area.
[0067] FIG. 2 shows the establishing of such a grid within the area
of investigation.
[0068] The GPR data is preferably taken in the form of
three-dimension depth slices showing the vertical extent (depth)
and so also horizontal extent, of the subterranean anomaly. Such
three-dimensional depth slices may be taken in the form of the raw
data radar returns and thereafter converted by use of available
software into three-dimensioned depth slices to be displayed
according to the preferred mode as graphically depicted depth
slices.
[0069] FIGS. 4A-4E are illustrative of depth slices of an
investigative site.
[0070] The system procedure then involves correlating the
demographic data with the radar data to verify the existence of
each such anomaly and to specify its vertical dimension, as well as
to determine a central location within the anomaly in question.
This correlation of demographic and radar data allows then the
procedure of determining a volume of the anomaly on the basis of
the vertical dimensions and (z-axis) and the x-y thermographic area
data. That is, in simple terms, the correlated data provides both
vertical and horizontal dimensions of a void, a leak area, or an
anomalous condition which is to be remediated.
[0071] In that manner, the geological extent of the leak within the
subterranean medium is determined, including identification of
variable density areas which may represent soils which have become
saturated by liquids leaking from, for example, a pipeline or a
sewer leak. FIG. 4 is illustrative of data showing such a leak
area.
[0072] It is useful to consider the nature of a leak. Typically,
fluids from leaching into soil media from a pipeline, as a prime
example, may leak out repeatedly, only to be drawn partly back into
the line, including fines from the media which are entrapped in the
leaking fluid. In that way, a void or saturated area is created
over time through a mechanical effect as soil media is dissolved or
carried with the hydrostatic effect or movement of the leaking
fluid. Such leaks worsen over time. Such a chronic and
ever-worsening condition compels early remediation to avoid even
more damage, including the possibility of expensive collateral
damage from an enlarging area of leakage.
[0073] Heretofore, traditional excavation has been carried out at
substantial cost and risk. Such excavation not only causes
collateral damage to other structures and nearby operations, but is
imprecise in that it fails to tell the true extent of a leak before
trenching is begun. If then the excavation of a leak area in which
traditional excavation is carried out has been incorrectly
determined, further excavation typically must follow along the
length of the pipe or conduit until a leak is found. This may
require hundreds or thousands of feet or even miles of excavation
because of the tendency of leaking fluids to extend over
substantial distances.
[0074] In such conventional remediation, repairs have been
sometimes carried out by adding collars or welded structures to
pipelines. Another known technique has been to pump in concrete for
purposes of surrounding a pipeline to effect repair, but such a
technique presents many problems. For example, the concrete may
rupture a line or even fill a line with concrete and, thus, may not
only fail to repair the void but additionally cause a difficulty or
obstacle to further repair in that concrete which has entered the
line itself constitutes a blockage which must be taken care of. In
such a situation, a repair or "fix" may be worse than the problem
for which it is intended to be a solution.
[0075] According to the present system, once the volume of the
anomaly has been determined, it is preferred to employ remediation
involving the injection of a grout. Many possible grouts may be
employed, for example, acrylimide, acrylate and urethane grouts of
commercial type may be used. A urethane grout is especially
preferred.
[0076] FIG. 1B shows procedures of injecting grout into the site of
the anomalous leak and its void cavity or cavities. In injecting
grout into the anomaly, remediation according to the present
procedure is most preferably carried out by injecting the grout
into a central location of the anomaly (such as in immediate
proximity to a leaking pipeline). The grout, most preferably, may
be repellant to any substance leaking into the anomaly. For
example, urethane not being miscible with water leaking from the
pipeline, will remain in situ if injected at a first low pressure
sufficient for injecting the grout by causing it to surround the
central location of the anomaly, as in the manner of a bandage
which wraps around the leaking line. A preferred first pressure is
accordingly a low value such as 1-2 psig, which is not prone to
cause damage or collapse of the line or to enlarge holes therein.
In using the preferred grout (e.g., urethane), the grout may be
provided by a fluid which results in the formation of a foam in
situ according the approximate relationship of one part of liquid
producing four parts of foam, by volume. In the foregoing manner,
the grout under low pressure fills the area immediately adjacent to
a leaking line (such as a pipeline or sewer) and encases it with a
bandage-like effect to protect the line in question. Having
injected the grout into the central location of the anomaly, it is
then preferred to carry out scanning of the area, as by infrared
thermography, to verify that the anomaly has been centrally secured
in that no further leakage is taking place.
[0077] At this point, if the amount of grout so injected has not
caused termination of leakage, additional grout at low pressure may
continue. In any event, when the anomaly has been centrally
secured, the system now employs a further grouting procedure.
Specifically, the preferred grout is injected into the region of
the anomaly at least at the same pressure or at a second pressure
higher than the first pressure so that the total amount of grout
within the anomaly approximates the predetermined volume of the
anomaly. In this second introduction of grout, it is preferred to
employ a pressure such as at least 1-2 psig but more preferably 2
psig or more or a pressure, for example within the general range of
2-10 psig, but most preferably or exemplarily at about 5 psig, so
that the grout as further injected will fill and solidify saturated
soils within the area immediately encompassing the anomaly. In that
regard, soil media which has been thoroughly wetted by an existing
leak takes on an oatmeal-like texture which is typified as a
colloidal suspension of particulates within fluid, yet surrounded
by dry soils. Grout at the higher pressure is carefully introduced
until, as injection continues, a pressure rise is observed. Such
rise in pressure is indicative of a sufficient total amount of
volume of grout having been injected. At that point, injection of
grout must be terminated in order to prevent further grout
injection, which may result in collateral difficulties such as
collapse of a line or bulging of soil at grade level.
[0078] The secondary introduction of grout at a higher pressure
pushes out water or other fluid from the soil media surrounding the
anomaly and solidifies and stabilizes the volume in which the grout
has been introduced. In this regard, it is important to emphasize
that voids are often highly variable in size and extent, and may
have a highly fragmented character. They are not typically
well-defined, large or contiguous "holes" but rather fragmented
runners, passages and interstices. Grouting at the higher pressure
introduces grout into these various voids and passages and so, as
it hardens, strengthens and stabilizes less dense areas within the
treated region.
[0079] Following remediation in accordance with the foregoing
procedures, infrared data and/or other imaging may be carried out
within the area of the anomaly in order to obtain verification of
the remediation procedures but this is not believed to be a
necessary procedure because the temperature in the immediate
vicinity of the anomaly, although repaired, may remain elevated
because of the exothermic reaction caused by the grouting, which
may take many hours or even a few days (such as a week) to
stabilize.
[0080] In summary, is seen from the foregoing that the Improved
System is, in one aspect, a methodology and an integrated system of
identification, verification and remediation of leaks, voids and
other subterranean anomalies, any one of more (as well as
combinations) of such conditions being more simply termed herein
"anomalies."
[0081] From a method perspective, the Improved System comprises
method or process of identification, verification and remediation
of leaks, voids and other subterranean anomalies, comprising:
[0082] (a) scanning a selected area, as by infrared thermography,
from one or more locations above the surface of said area to
identify from two-dimension thermographic area data of the surface
of said area the likely existence of such an anomaly signaled by
the thermographic data;
[0083] (b) establishing predetermined locations on a surface of the
selected area for use of ground penetrating radar, such locations
being in such portions of said selected area as will include such
an anomaly signaled by the thermographic data;
[0084] (c) using the ground penetrating radar to penetrate a
subterranean extent with microwaves to a depth as will include such
an anomaly to create from subterranean microwave a set of vertical
dimension radar data of the area;
[0085] (d) correlating the thermographic data with the radar data
to verify the existence of such anomaly and its vertical dimension
and to locate a central location within the anomaly;
[0086] (e) determining a volume of the anomaly on the basis of the
two-dimension thermographic area data and the vertical-dimension
radar data;
[0087] (f) injecting into the central location of the anomaly a
grout which while inert to contaminants leaking from the anomaly
will react with the moisture in any substance leaking into or
causing the anomaly, wherein the grout is injected at a first
pressure for securing the source of the anomaly;
[0088] (g) repeating step (a), if necessary, to verify that the
anomaly is centrally secured; and
[0089] (h) when the anomaly is centrally secured, injecting into
the region of the anomaly grout at a second pressure, at either a
similar pressure or higher than the first pressure so that the
amount of grout within the anomaly approximates the predetermined
volume of the anomaly.
[0090] Optionally, after step (a) and before step (b), or else
after step (c) but in any event before step (f), invasive and
destructive boring and sampling techniques can be used, if desired,
within the selected area, as in the case of possible plural
anomalous areas, to further analyze and confirm the general nature
of leakage and other anomalous conditions.
[0091] From a system-related or apparatus perspective, the
invention is seen to provide a system identification, verification
and remediation of leaks, voids and other subterranean anomalies,
comprising:
[0092] visual scanner means for visually scanning a selected area
having suspected subterranean anomalies from which one or more
contaminants may be leaking, as by infrared thermography, from one
or more locations above the surface of said area to identify from
two-dimension surface area data the likely existence of such an
anomaly signaled by said data;
[0093] means for predetermining locations on a surface of the
selected area for use of ground penetrating radar, such locations
being in such portions of said selected area as will include such
an anomaly signaled by the thermographic data;
[0094] ground penetrating radar for transmitting radio frequency
signals from said locations to penetrate a subterranean extent of
such area with the transmitted radio frequency signals to a depth
as will include such an anomaly to create from subterranean
microwave a set of vertical dimension radar data of the area;
[0095] provision for correlating the thermographic data with the
radar data to verify the existence of such anomaly and its vertical
dimension and to locate a central location within the anomaly; and
for determining a volume of the anomaly on the basis of the
two-dimension thermographic surface area data and the
vertical-dimension radar data;
[0096] a grouting substance inert to contaminants leaking from the
anomaly will react with the moisture in any substance leaking into
or causing the anomaly, wherein the grout is injected at a first
pressure for securing the source of the anomaly;
[0097] grout injection provision for injecting the grout into the
central location of the anomaly at a predetermined pressure;
and
[0098] pressure monitoring means for monitoring the pressure as the
grout is injected.
[0099] In addition, various other features are used to advantage in
the system combination, and may include the following:
[0100] a video camera for scanning such a geological area;
[0101] mobile carrying means on which said infrared scanner and
said video camera are fixable for movement relative to such
geological area while scanning;
[0102] location indicator means such as will provide GPS data
and/or odometer, including also profilometer, for data recordation
to be recorded with the surface thermographic data, the location
indicator means comprising means for providing location data
uniquely representative of locations of the surface area within
fields of view;
[0103] laser locators or pointers for marking locations on the area
surface on which infrared thermography is carried out;
[0104] video camera and video recordation equipment for providing
video recordation of the area surface on which infrared
thermography is carried out;
[0105] when using infrared thermography, as by infrared camera,
scanner or the like, provision for aligning such video camera with
infrared data capturing devices so as to provide related coincident
or overlapping fields of view; and/or
[0106] data processing and preservation means, such as in the form
of dynamic memory and/or nonvolatile memory, as by way of digital
disk drives and/or CD-ROM or data cartridges;
[0107] and such data processing and preservation means may include
facility for continuously capturing infrared, video images,
location data and GPR data on composite video or digital storage
frames, and for simultaneously selectively monitoring the infrared
and video images, location data and GPR for verification and
processing for further use.
[0108] As various modifications could be made in the constructions
and methods herein described and illustrated without departing from
the scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter
contained in the foregoing description or shown in the accompanying
drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative rather than
limiting.
* * * * *