Abstract: A method can include receiving a B-Scan image for a scanned region generated using a non-destructive testing (NDT) scanner, determining a sub-image window based upon a physical distance scale associated with the scanned region, determining a stride distance based upon a dimension of interest of the scanned region, overlapping the sub-image window with a first portion of the B-Scan image to define a first B-Scan sub-image, sliding the sub-image window from the first portion of the B-Scan image to a second portion of the B-Scan image based upon the stride distance to define a second B-Scan sub-image and providing at least one of the first B-Scan sub-image and the second B-Scan sub-image.

Abstract: A method can include receiving, from a non-destructive testing (NDT) scanner, a plurality of A-Scans of a length of a scanned region, generating a raw B-Scan of the scanned region using the plurality of A-Scans, receiving, from a position sensor coupled to the NDT scanner, a plurality of distance measurements of the NDT scanner along the length of the scanned region, matching each of the plurality of A-Scans with a distance measurement of the plurality of distance measurements to form a plurality of distance-assigned A-Scans, and normalizing the raw B-Scan, using the plurality of distance-assigned A-Scans, to form a normalized B-Scan, wherein each column of the normalized B-Scan represents the same distance along the length of the scanned region.

Abstract: Methods of making a partially synthetic data set for training an AI to correct for noise in GPR B-scan data. The methods mimic noise observed in real B-scans. Original B-scans are augmented with a plurality of permutations of synthetic noise. Methods include processes for (i) mimicking observed blurring in B-scan images resulting from variations in translational speed of the detector, (ii) mimicking observed RF interference in B-scan images, and/or (iii) mimicking observed vertical shifts resulting from movement of the GPR unit due to uneven ground. Methods can further include processes for low-pass filtering B-scan images to remove inductive emission interference and artifacts resulting from dynamic range limitations.

Abstract: A method for estimating a depth of one or more buried objects can include receiving, from a non-destructive testing (NDT) scanner, a B-Scan image of a scanned region. Using a machine learning model, a hyperbola in the B-Scan image can be identified. At least one geometric feature of the hyperbola can be determined. Based upon the at least one geometric feature of the hyperbola, a dielectric constant in at least a portion of the scanned region can be determined. A depth of the one or more objects beneath a surface of the scanned region can be determined based upon the determined dielectric constant.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for control of feast and famine conditions in continuous-flow biological nutrient removal processes to drive intensification of the activated sludge wastewater treatment process. For control of feast conditions, an upfront anaerobic zone is equipped with a biosensor to monitor real-time soluble biodegradable carbon uptake rate. Readings from the biosensor are received in a controller, which makes adjustments to operation of the anaerobic zone when readings deviate beyond said threshold limits. In one aspect return activated sludge to the anaerobic zone is modulated via an automated flow control device. Famine conditions in downstream process zones are also monitored and controlled.

Abstract: This specification discloses a method of producing hydrocarbons from an unconsolidated hydrocarbon-bearing formation that is penetrated by a well that has an irregular wall adjacent the formation. Granular particles that are water-wet are injected down the well to fill the irregularities in the wall and a packer that has lateral passageways therethrough is set against the well wall. Pressure is applied via the packer to the formation in an amount no greater than the overburden pressure on the formation and hydrocarbons are produced from the formation via the lateral passageways of the packer into the well.