Buried PE Pipeline Location Method Based on Double-Tree Complex Wavelet Cross-Correlation Delay

Abstract

This study presents a location method for buried polyethylene (PE) pipelines based on the double-tree complex wavelet cross-correlation delay. Initially, the dual-tree complex wavelet transform (DTCWT) is applied to denoise the acquired signal, followed by extracting the delay time through the cross-correlation function to locate the buried pipeline. A simulation model is established to analyze the peak values of the time-domain signals in both asymmetric and symmetric sensor layouts using COMSOL, determining the relationship between the signal time differences and pipeline positions. Then, an experimental test system is set up, and experiments are carried out under the conditions of asymmetric and symmetrical sensors and different excitation points. The results indicate that the maximum error is 4.6% for asymmetric arrangements and less than 1% for symmetric arrangements. In practical applications, the pipeline’s position can be inferred from the delay time, with higher accuracy observed as the excitation point approaches the sensor. This method addresses the limitations of existing pipeline locating techniques and provides a foundation for the development of pipeline positioning technology.