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

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