Abstract: An antenna assembly for transmitting electromagnetic signals to and receiving electromagnetic signals from a conductive member. The antenna assembly comprises a reflector member, a focus rod, a focus element, and an insulating member. The reflector member defines a reflecting surface having a substantially parabolic cross-section. The focus element has a first surface and is mounted on the focus rod. The insulating member mounts the focus rod on the reflector member such that the focus element is arranged substantially at the focal point of the reflecting surface with the first surface facing the reflecting surface. When the reflector member is arranged with the reflecting surface facing the conductive member, the antenna assembly operates in a transmit mode or a receive mode. In the transmit mode, electromagnetic signals travel along the focus rod, radiate from the focus element, and reflect off of the reflecting surface and are transmitted to the conductive member.

Abstract: This patent application is to use dynamic electromagnetic wave reflection and refraction methods for prospecting for oil directly. The available geophysical methods including the most used seismic reflection method are all prospecting for oil indirectly, viz., aiming at finding the geological structures and stratigraphic traps, etc. The high contrasts of electric permittivity between oil cord the surrounding geological formations of rocks including gas, water (fresh and salt), on the other hand, make it possible to use the dynamic electromagnetic wave reflection and refraction methods for prospecting for deep seated oil directly.

Abstract: A system and method for detecting anomalies such as corrosion or other defects in or on conductive containers such as pipes, pipelines, separator containers, and storage tanks. An electromagnetic pulse is introduced onto the surface of the container itself, if not insulated or shielded, or the surface of the very outer layer of the shield or insulation, if the container is insulated and shielded, of the conductive container at a first test location such that a plurality of electromagnetic signals propagate from the first test location to a second test location. The electromagnetic signals are detected at the second location and analyzed for differences in electromagnetic characteristics that indicate the presence or absence of electromagnetic anomalies related to corrosion and/or defects. Each electromagnetic signal propagates along a unique path, and the corrosion is likely to lie on some but not all of these paths.

Abstract: A method and system for detecting corrosion on a pipe or a pipeline. An electrical or electromagnetic pulse is transmitted into a pipe or pipeline to travel as a propagating electromagnetic wave along the pipeline to a receiving location. Both the distance traveled from the transmitting and receiving location, and also the time interval for such travel are measured. Velocity of the wave is detected as a means of ascertaining whether corrosion is present. Various embodiments, using both multi-channel and single cables, are used to transmit the detected waves, and the waves are received at a plurality of spaced locations along the length of the pipe or pipeline. For an insulated pipeline, the signals can be received by a directional antenna, and the pulses can be transmitted into the pipeline by means of either an antenna placed directly adjacent to the pipeline or a magnet electrical contact member in direct contact with the pipeline.

Abstract: A vibrator is held in contact with a structure undergoing testing, such as n airplane wing. Vibrations are distributed through the structure and structural defects such as fissures will respond by emitting an acoustic signal. The acoustic signal may occur over a wide frequency range. A pick-up having a crystal transducer also makes contact with the surface of the structure to detect acoustic emissions. The crystal has a wide band response capable of detecting structural defect acoustic emissions. The pick-up has electrical leads connected thereto so that the acoustic emissions are converted to electrical signals which may be recorded or viewed on an oscilloscope. Movement of the pick-up across the surface of the structure will help determine the location of the structural defect.