LaSen, Inc. (short for Laser Sensors) is a small privately held research and development company with primary focus is the remote detection of volatile chemicals and airborne particles using tunable mid-infrared lasers. Working at the cutting edge of electro-optic technology, LaSen puts special emphasis on the practical aspect of the research, building systems that operate in a real-world environment. As a part of an integrated approach to system development, LaSen accumulates in-house expertise in many related areas of science and technology: from laser design to custom electro-optical components and data processing algorithms. The firm's primary focus is to a product called ALPIS - ALPIS is both a service and a system. One would not be possible without the other. After years of research and development, we have created an airborne gas detector that is rugged enough for the tough industrial environment, and yet sufficiently sensitive to detect even the smallest pipeline leaks. This unique system allows us to offer what we believe to be the best aerial leak detection service in the industry. Technically speaking, ALPIS is based on a mid-infrared Differential Absorption Lidar (DIAL) chemical sensor. The principle of DIAL relies on the selective absorption of laser light by different chemicals. The mid-infrared laser used in the ALPIS system is particularly well suited for detection of hydrocarbons such as methane, ethane, as well as volatilized liquid petroleum products. In operation, the laser beam is transmitted down from the aircraft to illuminate the area on the ground above and around the buried pipe. The light reflected from the ground is collected by the sensor's receiver, and the amount of received energy is measured. If the laser beam passes through a gas plume emanating from a pipeline leak, the received energy will be diminished due to the absorption of laser light in the plume. This absorption signature is used to locate the leak and to assess its magnitude. The ALPIS system is comprised of an airborne sensor unit and operator's console. The sensor can be mounted to any Bell Jet Ranger helicopter using a modified winch mount. Weighing in at 250 lbs, the payload is light enough to allow two passengers on-board during a typical mission. The main sensor enclosure houses the laser, computer, receiver optics and detectors. In addition, the system is equipped with a high resolution imaging camera and a GPS receiver. The combination of laser, imaging and GPS data makes it possible to precisely locate the leak. An operator, present on every flight, controls the system using a standard laptop interface and verifies the integrity of the data. We also welcome pipeline representatives to ride in the front seat of the helicopter to observe and assist in locating the pipelines.
