Observer-based detection and location of partial blockages in pipelines

This paper proposes an observer-based approach for partial blockage detection in pipelines. This approach is first of all based on a finite-difference modeling of pipelines dynamics subject to partial blockages. The model is then used for a nonlinear (Extended Kalman-like) observer design, which can be used for direct estimation of blockage magnitude and position. The method is finally illustrated via simulation results.