AU2008202124B1

AU2008202124B1 - An Internal Pipe Maintenance Unit

Info

Publication number: AU2008202124B1
Application number: AU2008202124A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Richard Lesley MacKenzie
Original assignee: RICHARD MACKENZIE
Current assignee: RICHARD MACKENZIE
Priority date: 2008-05-13
Filing date: 2008-05-13
Publication date: 2008-11-27
Anticipated expiration: 2028-05-13

Description

AUSTRALIA

Patents Act 1990 COMPLETE SPECIFICATION Invention Title: Applicant: An Internal Pipe Maintenance Unit Richard Lesley MacKenzie The invention is described in the following statement: 00 2 SAN INTERNAL PIPE LINING AND PITTING RESTORATION UNIT Field of the Invention.

The present invention relates to devices used to maintain or line a pipe Cc internally and particularly to units that are adapted to lining a pipe internally and restore the internal surface of a pipe.

Background Art.

Devices adapted to internally line a pipe or other conduit are known.

One example is described in United States Published Patent Application number oO 20060151913, which also contains a concise summary of the types of devices, in the portion of that document entitled "Background Art" The problems to be solved by the present invention are similar in many respects to those described in US20060151913.

It will be clearly understood that, if a prior art publicatioi is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or in any other country.

Summary of the Invention.

The present invention is directed to an internal pipe lining and pitting restoration unit, which may at least partially overcome at least one of the abovementioned disadvantages or provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice.

With the foregoing in view, the present invention in one form, resides broadly in an internal pipe maintenance unit including a modular head portion including at least one pod for performing a specific maintenance function within the pipe and adapted to travel within the pipe over at least a portion of a pipe length with an umbilical to provide material and communication to and from the at least one pod, wherein the modular head portion is formed from at least one pod and at least one locking means to at least temporarily lock the at least one pod to the umbilical.

The unit of the present invention is adapted to be modular in order to allow a user to include one or more "special use" pods in the modular head portion in order to design the modular head portion to perform one or more specific functions within the pipe. Prior art internal pipe units are typically designed as single use units, and particularly common is an internal pipe lining unit, a form of which is discussed in the Background Art section of this document.

00 3 The unit of the present invention can also be used to internally line pipes particularly in the regions provided adjacent the end of pipes which are typically left unlined when a lined pipe is manufactured in order that the pipes can be joined Cc together. Once the pipes had been joined, the unit of the present invention can then line the previously unlined portion.

As a part of the invention, a number of pods ith different functionalities are also provided. The functionalities of different pods will typically O fall into one of a number of categories including, but not limited to, cleaning pods, 00 debris removal pods, the surface coating pods, movement pods and imaging pods.

The unit of the present invention includes an umbilical to provide material and communication to and/or from the at least one pod.

Preferably, the umbilical has the capability to deliver a variety of services and material to the head unit. The services delivered are typically based on the use of the pod or pods which make up the head unit. For example, typically all pods will require power to be provided to the pod. The form of power can vary but includes one or more of electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic or mechanical power.

In addition, data may be transferred to and/or from one or more of the pods. Normally the data being transferred to the pod will include control information to control the one or more pods comprising the head unit. There will typically also be feedback data from one or more pods in the head unit.

The data transferred to and/or from one or more of the pods will typically provide direction control and speed control as well as actuation instructions to instruct the "special use" pods as to control their function.

The data transferred from the head unit may include image data in order that the pod can provide images and details of the condition of the internal wall of the pipe. This allows the unit of the present invention to be used as an inspection tool prior to treatment and also to inspect the condition of any finished treatment.

Normally, the umbilical will contain or include the required communication channels or material conduits in order to communicate the services and/or material to and/or from the pods of the head unit. For exa mple, where information is to be transferred, appropriate cabling such as fibre-optic or electrical cabling can be used, and where material is to be transferred, appropriate materials transfer channels such as pipes, tubes or the like can be provided.

00 4 Preferably, the umbilical will normally be a cable or similar having a tubular construction with a strengthened or reinforced outer shell surrounding service channels for the different services to be provided to and/or from the pod(s) of the head unit. Separate internal or external conduits may be provided for communication channels of different functions.

It is preferred that the umbilical of the present invention (and any M internal or external conduits which are provided) is flexible.

OThe internal pipe maintenance unit of the present invention preferably 00 includes a central processing unit (CPU) in association with the umbilical.

The central processing unit is typically responsible for the control of the functionality of each of the pods associated with the head unit as well as the unit as a whole. Any data transferred to and/or from the pods will typically proceed to the central processing unit. A user typically inputs instructions into the cerntral processing unit in order to control the unit. The central processing unit may include one or more display means, particularly for use when the head unit includes imaging or audiovisual capture means. The central processing unit is typically in communication with the head unit via the umbilical and normally one or more communication channels are provided within the umbilical for this purpose.

The internal pipe maintenance unit of the present invention also includes one or more locking means to at least temporarily lock the at least one pod to the umbilical. Preferably, the locking means may also be used as a spacer in order to space the pods of the head unit from one another. By spacing the pods from one another, the head unit may achieve sufficient flexibility to be guided around deviations or corners in the pipe, if the pipe is not straight. However, pods may be attached to the umbilical without locking means or spacing means between them, as required. i The locking means of the present invention will preferably be mounted about the umbilical and be adapted to be at least temporarily secured in position relative to the umbilical. The umbilical may attach to a first locking means with the locking means having one or more conduits therein for further communication of the services and/or materials. This configuration will typically require a portion of each pod which is approximately central, to also have one or more conduits provided therein in order that services and/or materials can proceed from the umbilical attached 00 to the first locking means through the adjacent locking means and/or pods to reach the pod furthest from the umbilical.

Alternatively, the umbilical may be attached to the pod at the forward end of the head unit (the forward pod) and the pods following the forward pod in the chain may be mounted about the umbilical and receive services arld/or materials through a connection to the umbilical.

The locking means will normally be of smaller diameter or be spaced Sfurther from the internal surface of the side wall of the pipe than the pods.

00 The locking means may lock a pod relative to the umbilical by fixing the pod to the locking means and the locking means to the umbilical or alternatively, a locking means may be provided on either side of a pod to fix the position of the pod without the pod being attached to either of the locking means but instead clamping the pod between a pair of locking means.

As outlined above, the modular head unit is formed from at least one, and typically a plurality of pods (one or more pods together referred to as "a chain").

Each of the pods may have a central portion for attachment or in connection with the umbilical. Preferably, the central portion will have one of two configurations namely either an opening through which the umbilical is received or a central portion having a number of conduits provided therein for communication of the services and/or materials through the pod to any pod located more forwardly in head unit as outlined above.

Each of the pods will typically be substantially circular or annular as most pipes are circular in cross-section. Each pod will typically be sized to match the internal diameter of the pipe in which it is to be used. Normally, each pod will include a working area which is located towards an outer portion of the pod at or adjacent the circumference of the pod, normally spaced a small distance from the pipe wall. The pod may be provided with a size adjustable assembly in order to allow the working area to be spaced from the central portion by different amounts in order to facilitate use of the same pod in different sized pipes.

As outlined earlier, the head unit will typically include one or more pods, with each pod adapted to perform a specific function. Examples of pods which may be used according to the invention include one or more of the following: 1. Buffing and Ablating pod 00 6 The function of the buffing and ablating pod is to remove embedded objects or particles of a foreign nature from the interior surface of the pipe. The buffing and Sablating pod will typically have an outer portion having one or more removal Cc devices. According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the removal device is similar to a needle scaling apparatus which is known in the art. Needle scaling apparatus typically comprise a plurality of longitudinally, reciprocally movable steel needles clustered at the distal end of a housing. The needle scaling apparatus Sis normally pneumatically powered. Of course, the buffing and ablating pod of the 00 present invention is not limited to this type of removal device.

Alternatively, the removal device may be configured as a plurality of fingers similar to a brush, and preferably made of metal, mounted on a rotary head.

Typically, a number of the removal devices are provided spaced about the outer portion of the pod. The pod may rotate in order to apply the removal devices to the entire circumferential area of the interior of the pipe or, multiple pods may be provided with overlapping removal devices.

2. Vortex Induction pod The function of the vortex induction pod is to remove debris from the pipe as the pod passes. The pod will typically include a number of openings configured to induce a vortex to the inside of the pipe in order to facilitate the rapid removal of all dislodged articles from the inside of the pipe. Typically, the vortex induction pod will be provided with and powered by, compressed air. Preferably, the openings in the vortex induction pod will be provided towards, or in, the outer portion of the pod. The openings may be oriented to cause the pod to rotate upon expulsion of the compressed air.

3. Application Delivery pod The application delivery pod will typically be the most complex of the pods. At the forward end of the application delivery pod of a preferred embodiment, is typically a centering mechanism. The centering mechanism typically acts to maintain the umbilical in or about the centre of the pipe. As the application or delivery pod is typically mounted about the umbilical, the centering mechanism also centres the pod within the pipe. The centering mechanism will normally include one or more support means adapted to abut the interior wall of the pipe and to be biased thereagainst.

00 7 The centering mechanism is typically separated from the application portion of the pod by a locking means.

SThe application portion of the pod is typically configured as a number of annular members each having a plurality of application delivery openings therein.

Normally, each of the annular members is preferably substantially planar with a circumferential edge which is angled outwardly towards the rear of the pod.

Typically, the application delivery openings are located through the angled edge wall which will normally orient the openings forwardly and towards the 00 application surface.

Provided in an outer portion of the pod and forwardly of the forwardmost annular member, is one or more forward bead profiling means. The forward bead profiling means is typically located towards the interior wall of the pipe away from the centre of the pipe.

The forward bead profiling means is typically fractionally spaced from the interior of the pipe to maintain only the minimum possible spacing. The bead profiling means typically provides a surface against which material exiting the application delivery openings is directed, to spread the material and to form a bead between the forward, angled face of the annular member and the bead profiling means. The formation of a bead may be particularly important in the spreading and formation of a uniform thickness layer of the material.

The pod will typically be provided with a plurality of annular members. Typically the forwardmost annular member will be the largest in diameter with the following annular members each decreasing gradually in size. By providing'a plurality of annular members, each of which is smaller in diameter than the adjacent forward annular member, the openings from a rear annular member can then use a rear surface of the adjacent, forward annular member as a bead profiling means.

Positioned adjacent and behind the rearmost annular member is typically a locking means.

Positioned adjacent and behind the rearmost annular member is also typically a second bead profiling means. As with the forward bead profiling means, the second bead profiling means is located in a position spaced from the interior wall of the pipe. The second bead profiling means will typically spread and form any material applied by the pod behind the rearmost annular member.

00 O The pod will also typically include a curing head capable of at least partially curing the applied material. The curing head may include a heat means, as many plastic materials (of which the material is applied will typically be) are cured using heat. The curing head will typically be mounted about the umbilical. The curing head may be mounted for rotation about the umbilical or may radiate a "curing beam" in a substantially 3600 direction about the umbilical to affect the entire circumference of the internal surface of the pipe. It is envisaged that the curing head may also cure the applied material using any other suitable technique.

00 Each annular member will typically apply a different material to the interior of the pipe with the forwardmost annular member applying a layer closest to the pipe wall and subsequent annular members applying layers atop each of'the preceding layers. Typically, the layers will be of different colours in order that when the pipe is inspected, the level of degradation can be determined according to which colour layer is showing.

4. Deluge and Rinsing pod The deluge and rinsing pod preferably functions to rinse the inside of the pipe after the application delivery pod has applied the material to the interior of the pipe. It is typically configured to deliver a liquid type of washing compound as the pod travels through the pipe. The pod may be mounted for rotation in order to cover the entire circumferential area of the pipe wall or multiple pods may be provided with overlapping rinsing devices, or the pod may be fixed with multiple outlets.

Typically, the pod includes one or more rinsing devices Which are in communication with the umbilical and which provide a fluid, typically water or air, or, depending on the material to be cleaned, a fluid solution to the interior wall of the pipe.

Vacuum and Moisture removal pod The vacuum and moisture removal pod typically follows the deluge and rinsing pod through the pipe and preferably functions to remove moisture and/or residue from the interior wall of the pipe. Typically, the pod will operate by applying suction to the interior of the pipe in order to remove the moisture and/or residue and carry it back through the umbilical to the exterior of the pipe.

6. Image Reporting pod 00 9 The image reporting pod may be used at either the forward end of the head unit in order to ascertain the condition of the interior of the pipe prior to restoration or the rear end of the head unit in order to monitor the operation of the restoration unit.

Alternatively, an image reporting pod may be used to follow any of the pods to monitor their operation for quality checking purposes). The image reporting pod will typically include one or more image capture devices in order to capture and relay images and details of the condition of the pipe. The image reporting pod Smay capture and deliver still or moving images and preferably transmit the images 00 to the central processing unit.

The pod may rotate as it travels along the length of the pipe or alternatively the image capture devices may be provided and oriented to have overlapping fields of view in order to image the entire circumference of the interior wall of the pipe.

7. Line Power pod The line power pod is typically designed to be used on pipes which run in a substantially straight-line where the time taken to move a head unit through the pipe is a factor. The line power pod is typically a fast moving aid which will be used to drive a line through the pipe with the umbilical attached to the line and fed into the pipe. This preferably orient the umbilical within the pipe and the head unit can then be used in association with the umbilical to move through the pipe.

The line power pod is typically used where a bidirectional movement pod is inappropriate or cannot be used. The line power pod will typically be driven using compressed air or similar although the source of driving power is not limited to pneumatics.

8. Bi-directional Movement pod Typically, this pod will provide the head unit with a mechanical means of propulsion, the power for which is drawn from the umbilical. The bidirectional movement pod will typically be located at the forward end of the head unit, and more than one pod of this type may be provided, either spaced through the chain of the head unit (if lengthy) or more preferably, a bidirectional movement pod at the forward end and a second bidirectional movement pod at the rear and of the head unit.

00 The pod will preferably include a pair of locating means which assist with the location of head unit within the pipe. More commonly, the locating means will centre the head unit and particularly the umbilical, within the pipe.

The pod will also typically include means of propulsion. Preferably, the means of propulsion will be one or more driven engagement means adapted to the bite and engaged the interior surface of the pipe in order to move the pod within the pipe.

SThe means of propulsion will typically be operable in either direction to either O advance or reverse the pod. According to a particularly preferred embodiment, 0 means of propulsion will include a plurality of radially spaced driven wheels or rollers located and biased outwardly to engage the interior surface of the pipe.

The preferred embodiment will also include a centering mechanism to centre the pod and more particularly the umbilical, within the pipe.

The pod may be attached to the umbilical in a fixed location, moving the umbilical within the pipe as the pod moves, or alternatively, the pod may be mounted about the umbilical and simply move forwardly on rearwardly over the umbilical drawing the head unit with the pod, without moving the umbilical.

Normally, the head unit will typically have an image reporting system has the forward most pod behind the bidirectional movement pod, and then in order towards the rear of the head unit will typically include a buffing and ablating pod, and application delivery pod, a deluge and rinsing pod, a backing and moisture level pod, and a vortex induction pod. As outlined above, one or more of each of these pods may be provided and each is preferably separated by a locking means or spacing

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means.

According to an alternative embodiment, the present invention resides in a pipe end dressing unit for dressing at the end of a pipe to facilitate a connection of the pipe to an adjacent pipe, the end dressing unit including a frame and a clamping means to attach the frame relative to the end of the pipe, and attachment means for attaching a dressing head and a dressing head, at least temporarily attachable to the frame and adapted to chamfer the end of the pipe by rotation of the! dressing head relative to the frame.

According to this embodiment of the invention, the device provided is adapted to finish and shape the end edge of the pipe in preparation for joining the ends of adjacent pipes together.

00 11 The unit is formed from two separate parts which are attachable at least temporarily to one another, namely the frame with the clamping assembly and the Sdressing head.

Cc The clamping assembly may be received within one end of the pipe and secured there. According to this embodiment, the clamping assembly will have hinges or the like in order that the clamping assembly can be inserted into the pipe in a reduced size and then expanded to abut the interior wall of the pipe to which it is to be Sattached in order to fix the clamp in location. Normally the clamp will be fixed in 00 location by exerting a force outwardly on the interior surface of the pipe. Typically, the claim will be maintained in position by a frictional engagement with the pipe wall.

Alternatively, and more preferred is that the clamping assembly is placed over an outer wall of the pipe. Typically, the clamping assembly is provided in an open or enlarged format such that the pipe can be easily received within the clamping apparatus and then the clamping apparatus is reduced in size to engage the external surface of the pipe with a frictional engagement.

At least a portion of the frame will typically extend from the clamping assembly to a region adjacent, but preferably spaced from the terminal end of the pipe.

The head unit is preferably attached to this portion of the frame. Normally, the head unit is rotatable relative to the frame and friction reducing means may be provided between the head unit and the frame.

Typically, the head unit will be substantially circular or annular in cross-section with one or more cutting tools extending from the head unit and which can be positioned to cut and/or shape (preferably to cut and then shape) the terminal end edge of the pipe. Adjustment means will typically be provided in order to adjust either the location of the cutting tool or the orientation/direction of the cutting tool, or both. According to a particularly preferred embodiment, a first cutting tool may be provided to "square off' the end of the pipe and a second cutting tool in his typically provided to chamfer the end of the pipe.

Gripping means may be provided in order to force the rotation of the head unit relative to the frame to address the end of the pipe. It is also preferred that one or more guards are provided adjacent the cutting tool(s) in order to provide safety to the user of the unit.

00 12 ~In use, the clamping assembly and frame first attached 'relative to the end of the pipe and then the head unit is typically removably attached to the frame.

The cutting tools are then typically adjusted prior to the head unit being forcibly Cc rotated about the frame to dress and chamfer the end of the pipe. The pipe and dressing unit is then typically removed from the pipe prior to the pipe being joined to an adjacent pipe.

According to an alternative embodiment, the present invention resides O in a pipe end dressing unit for dressing at the end of a pipe to facilitate a connection of 00 the pipe to an adjacent pipe, the end dressing unit including a frame and a clamping means to attach the frame relative to the end of the pipe, and attachment means for attaching a boring head and a boring head at least temporarily attachable to the frame and adapted to clean and at least partially level the internal wall of the pipe prior to application of material to the internal wall of the pipe.

According to this embodiment, the clamping assembly and frame may be provided according to that described above.

The boring head typically prepares the inside wall of the pipe for internal surface protection prior to the internal wall having a coating applied thereto.

As with the dressing unit, the boring unit will be substantially circular or annular in cross-section with one or more cutting tools extending from the boring unit. In contrast to the dressing unit however, the cutting tools of tie boring unit preferably positioned to shape internal wall of the pipe rather than the terminal end edge of the pipe. The cutting tool will typically do this by scraping the surface for alternatively by removing a small portion of the thickness of the pipe from the internal wall.

Again, one or more gripping means are preferably provided on the boring head in order to forcibly rotate the boring head once it is attached to the frame.

Brief Description of the Drawings.

Various embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the following drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a sectional side schematic view of an application delivery pod according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 2 is a sectional side schematic view of a special use pod according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

00 13 Figure 3 is a sectional end schematic view of a pitting restoration unit according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 4 is a sectional end schematic view of the application of the surface preparation to the inside of a pipe.

Figure 5 is a sectional side schematic view of a special use pod according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, supported by the umbilical through the pod.

SFigure 6 is a sectional side schematic view of a special use pod 00 assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, with an external power umbilical.

Figure 7 is a sectional end schematic view of a pod assembly according to a preferred embodiment illustrating the position of the connection. i Figure 8 is a schematic view of the central processing unit of a preferred embodiment.

Figure 9 is a schematic side sectional view of an umbilical of a preferred embodiment.

Figure 10 is a schematic sectional side view of a line power unit of a preferred embodiment.

Figure 11 is a schematic sectional end view of a vortex induction pod according to a preferred embodiment.

Figure 12 is a schematic view of an image reporting system according to a preferred embodiment.

Figure 13 is a schematic sectional side view of a pipe end dressing unit according to a preferred embodiment.

Figure 14 is a schematic sectional side view of a removable boring head for a pipe end clamp used in the pipe end dressing unit illustrated in Figure 13.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiment.

According to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention, an internal pipe maintenance unit is provided. Forms and features of the preferred embodiment are illustrated in Figures 1 to 12.

The internal pipe maintenance unit 10 illustrated includes a modular head portion 11 including generally a plurality of "special use" pods 15, each for performing a specific maintenance function within the pipe 12 and adapted to travel 00 14 within the pipe 12 over at least a portion of a pipe length and an umbilical 13 to provide material and communication to and from the head portion 11 and pods The modular head portion is formed from the plurality of pods and multiple locking collars 14 to at least temporarily lock the pods 15 to the umbilical 13.

The unit illustrated in Figure 1 is configured as an application delivery J- pod (ADP) designed to apply a number of layers of material to the interior of the pipe 12. A form of this unit is illustrated in Figures 3 and the direction of application of O the material from the pod.

00 At the forward end of the application delivery pod (ADP) of a illustrated embodiment, is a centering mechanism 16. The centering mechanism 16 acts to maintain the umbilical 13 in or about the centre of the pipe 12. As the application delivery pod is mounted about the umbilical 13, the centeriig mechanism 16 also centres the pod 16 within the pipe 12. The centering mechanism 16 includes at least a pair of support rollers 17 adapted to abut the interior wall of the pipe 12 and to be biased thereagainst by a spring mounted centering arm 18.

The centering mechanism is typically separated from the application portion of the pod by a locking collar 14.

The application portion of the pod of the illustrated embodiment is configured as a number of annular members 19, each having a plurality:of application delivery openings 20 therein. Each of the annular members 19 is substantially planar with a circumferential edge which is angled towards the rear of the pod. The application delivery openings 20 are located through the angled edge wall which orients the openings forwardly, as illustrated.

Provided in an outer portion of the pod and forwardly of the forwardmost annular member 19, is a forward bead profiling wing 21. The forward bead profiling wing 21 is fractionally spaced from the interior of the pipe 12 to maintain only the minimum possible spacing. The forward bead profiling wing 21 provides a surface against which material exiting the application delivery openings is directed to spread the material and to form a bead 22 between the forward, angled face of the annular member 19 and the bead profiling wing 21. I The forwardmost annular member 19a is the largest in diameter with the following annular members 19b, 19c, 19d, each decreasing gradually in size. By providing a plurality of annular members 19, each of which is smaller in diameter than 00 13 Sthe adjacent forward annular member, the openings 20 from a rear annular member can then use a rear surface of the adjacent, forward annular member as a bead Sprofiling wing.

Cc Positioned adjacent and behind the rearmost annular member is typically a locking means.

Positioned adjacent and behind the rearmost annular member is a second bead profiling wing 23. As with the forward bead profiling wing 21, the second bead profiling wing 23 is located in a position spaced from the interior wall of oO the pipe 12.

The pod illustrated in Figure 1 also includes a curing head 24 capable of at least partially curing the applied material. The curing head 24 is mounted about the umbilical 13. The curing head may be mounted for rotation about the umbilical or may radiate a curing beam 25 (normally heat) in a substantially 360" direction about the umbilical 13 to affect the entire circumference of the internal surfalce of the pipe 12.

Each annular member 19 applies a different material to the interior of the pipe 12 with the forwardmost annular member 19a applying a layer closest to the pipe wall and subsequent annular members applying layers 26 atop each of the preceding layers. Typically, the layers are of different colours in order,that when the pipe 12 is inspected, the level of degradation can be determined according to which colour layer is showing.

The APD includes an umbilical 13 to provide material and communication to and from the pod. The umbilical 13 has the capability to deliver a variety of services and material to the head unit 11. The services delivered are typically based on the use of the pods which make up the head unit 11. 'For example, typically all of the pods will require power to be provided. The form of power can vary.

In addition, data will normally be transferred to and/or from one or more of the pods. Normally, the data being transferred to the pod includes control information to control the pods.

The umbilical 13 includes the required cabling or conduits in order to communicate the services and/or material to and/or from the pods of the head unit.

For example, where information is to be transferred, appropriate cabling such as fibre- 00 16 optic or electrical cabling can be used, and where material is to be transferred, appropriate materials transferred channels such as pipes, tubes or the like can be Sprovided.

The umbilical 13 will normally be a cable or similar having a tubular construction with a strengthened or reinforced outer shell surrounding service channels for the different services to be provided to and/or from the pod(s) of the head unit. Separate internal conduits will normally be provided for communication channels of different functions.

00 A schematic view of a sample umbilical 13 cross-section is illustrated in Figure 9.

The locking collars 14 are provided to at least temporarily lock the pods to the umbilical 13. The locking collars 14 may also be used as spacers in order to space the pods of the head unit from one another.

The locking collars 14 will normally be of smaller diameter than the pods.

As outlined above, a modular head unit 11 is formed from a plurality of pods (one or more pods together referred to as "a chain") as illustrated schematically in Figure 2.

Each of the pods 15 is normally substantially circular ,or annular as most pipes 12 are circular in cross-section. Each pod 15 is typically be sized to match the internal diameter of the pipe 12 in which it is to be used. Normally, each pod 16 will include a working area or face which is located towards an outer portion of the pod 16 at or adjacent the circumference of the pod 16.

Examples of pods which may be used according to preferred embodiments of the invention include one or more of the following: 1. Buffing and Ablating pod schematically in Figure 7.

The function of the buffing and ablating pod is to remove embedded objects or particles of foreign nature from the interior surface of the pipe. The buffing and ablating pod will typically have an outer portion having one or more removal devices. According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the removal device is similar to a needle scaling apparatus which is known in the art. Needle scaling apparatus typically comprised of a plurality of longitudinally, reciprocally 00 17 O movable steel needles clustered at the distal end of a housing. The' needle scaling apparatus is normally pneumatically powered.

Alternatively, the removal device may be configured as a plurality of fingers Cc similar to a brush, and preferably made of metal mounted on a rotary head.

Typically, a number of the removal devices are provided spaced about the outer portion of the pod. The pod will rotate in order to apply the removal devices to the entire circumferential area of the interior of the pipe or, multiple pods may be provided with overlapping removal devices.

00 2. Vortex Induction pod illustrated in Figure 11 The function of the vortex induction pod is to remove debris from the pipe as the pod passes. The pod will typically include a number of openings configured to induce a vortex to the inside of the pipe in order to facilitate the rapid removal of all this launched articles from the inside of the pipe. Typically, the vortex induction pod will be provided with and powered by compressed air. Preferably, the openings in the vortex induction pod will be provided towards or in the outer portion of the pod. The openings may be oriented to cause the pod to rotate upon expulsion of the compressed air.

3. Deluge and Rinsing pod The deluge and rinsing pod preferably functions to rinse the inside of the pipe after the application delivery pod has applied the material to the interior of the pipe. It is typically configured to deliver a liquid type of washing compound as the pod travels through the pipe. The pod may be mounted for rotation in order to cover the entire circumferential area of the pipe wall or multiple pods may be provided with overlapping rinsing devices.

Typically, the pod includes a number of rinsing devices which are in communication with the umbilical and which provide a fluid, typically water or air to the interior wall of the pipe.

4. Vacuum and Moisture removal pod The vacuum and moisture removal pod typically follows the deluge and rinsing pod through the pipe and preferably functions to remove moisture and/or residue from the interior wall of the pipe. Typically, the pod will operate 'by applying suction to the interior of the pipe in order to remove the moisture and/or residue and carry it back through the umbilical to the exterior of the pipe.

00 18 N, A head unit including a deluge and rinsing pod, locking collar, vacuum and moisture removal pod, locking collar and vortex induction pod (from front to rear) is illustrated schematically in Figure 2, which will be the normally order of usage.

5. Image Reporting pod illustrated in Figure 12 "J ~The image reporting pod may be used at either end of the head unit or between any pod unit in order to ascertain the condition of the interior of the pipe prior to restoration or the rear end of the head unit in order to monitor the operation of the 00 restoration unit. Alternatively, an image reporting pod may be useId at both ends of the head unit to accomplish both purposes.

The image reporting pod will typically include one or more image capture and/or measuring devices in order to capture and relay images and details of the condition of the pipe. The image reporting pod may capture and deliver still or moving images and preferably transmit the images and relay these to the central processing unit.

6. Line Power pod The line power pod is typically designed to be used on pipes which run in a substantially straight-line where the time taken to move a head unit through the pipe is a factor. The line power pod is typically a fast moving aid which will be used to drive a line through the pipe with the umbilical attached to the line and fed into the pipe. This preferably orient the umbilical within the pipe and the head unit can then be used in association with the umbilical to move through the pipe.

7. Bi-directional Movement pod illustrated at the forward end of the head unit illustrated in Figure 1.

Typically, this pod will provide the head unit with a mechanical means of propulsion, the power for which is drawn from the umbilical. The bidirectional

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00 19

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movement pod will typically be located at the forward end of the head unit, and more than one pod of this type may be provided, either spaced through the chain of the head unit (if lengthy) or more preferably, a bidirectional movement pod at the forward end and a second bidirectional movement pod at the rear and of the head unit.

The pod will preferably include a pair of locating means which assist with the Slocation of head unit within the pipe. More commonly, the locating means will Ocentre the head unit and particularly the umbilical, within the pipe.

OO The pod will also typically include means of propulsion. Preferably, the means of propulsion will be one or more driven engagement means adapted to the bite and engaged the interior surface of the pipe in order to move the pod within the pipe.

The means of propulsion will typically be operable in either direction to either advance or reverse the pod. According to a particularly preferred, embodiment, means of propulsion will include a plurality of radially spaced driven wheels or rollers located and biased outwardly to engage the interior surface of the pipe.

The pod may be attached to the umbilical in a fixed location, moving the umbilical within the pipe as the pod moves, as illustrated in Figure 5 or alternatively, the pod may be mounted about the umbilical and simply move forwardly on rearwardly over the umbilical drawing the head unit with the pod, without moving the umbilical, as illustrated in Figure 6.

Normally, the image reporting pod 27 will be the forward most pod (forward of or behind the bidirectional movement pod), and then in order towards the rear of the head unit will typically include a buffing and ablating pod, and application delivery pod, a deluge and rinsing pod, a backing and moisture level pod, and a vortex induction pod. As outlined above, one or more of each of these pods may be provided and each is preferably separated by a locking collar.

According to a second preferred embodiment of the present invention, an pipe end dressing unit for dressing at the end of a pipe to facilitate a connection of the pipe to an adjacent pipe is provided. Forms and features of the preferred embodiment are illustrated in Figure 14.

00 The pipe end dressing unit illustrated in Figure 14 includes a frame and a clamping assembly 31 to attach the frame 30 about the end of the'pipe 12, and a Sdressing head 32 which is at least temporarily attachable to the frame 30 and adapted Cc to chamfer the end of the pipe 12 by rotation of the dressing head 32 relative to the frame 30 and pipe 12.

The clamping assembly 31 is placed over an outer wall of the pipe 12.

The clamping assembly 31 is provided in an open or enlarged format such that the Spipe 12 can be easily received within the clamping assembly 31 and then the clamping oO assembly is reduced in size to engage the external surface of the pipe 12 with a frictional engagement.

A portion of the frame extends from the clamping assembly 31 to a region adjacent to but spaced from the terminal end of the pipe 12. The dressing head 32 is attached to this portion of the frame 30. The dressing head 32 is rotatable relative to the frame.

The dressing head 32 is annular in cross-section with one or more cutting tools extending from the dressing head 32 and which can be positioned to cut and/or shape (preferably to cut and then shape) the terminal end edge of the pipe 12.

Adjustment means 33 are provided in order to adjust either the location of the cutting tool or the orientation/direction of the cutting tool, or both. According to the illustrated embodiment, a first cutting tool 34 is provided to "square off' the end of the pipe and a second cutting tool 35 oriented at an angle, is provided to chamfer the end of the pipe 12.

One or more handles 36 are provided in order to force the rotation of the dressing head 32 relative to the frame 30 to dress the end of the pipe. It is also preferred that one or more guards 37 are provided adjacent the cutting tool(s) in order to provide safety to the user of the dressing head 32.

According to a third preferred embodiment of the present invention, an pipe end dressing unit for dressing at the end of a pipe to facilitate a connection of the pipe to an adjacent pipe is provided. Forms and features of the preferred embodiment are illustrated in Figure 13.

The pipe end dressing unit illustrated in Figure 13 includes a frame and a clamping means to attach the frame relative to the end of the pipe, and attachment means for attaching a boring head 38 (illustrated in Figure 13) and a boiing head at 00 21 O least temporarily attachable to the frame 30 and adapted to clean and at least partially level the internal wall of the pipe prior to application of material to the internal wall of Sthe pipe.

Cc, According to this embodiment, the clamping assembly 31: and frame will be normally be provided according to that described above.

The boring head 38 is adapted to prepare the inside wall of the pipe 12 for internal surface protection prior to the internal wall having a coating applied thereto.

00 As with the dressing unit, the boring unit is substantially annular in cross-section with a cutting tool extending from the boring unit. In contrast to the dressing unit however, the cutting tool 39 of the boring head 38 is positioned to shape internal wall of the pipe 12 rather than the terminal end edge of the pipe. The cutting tool 39 will typically do this by scraping the surface or alternatively by removing a small portion of the thickness of the pipe from the internal wall.

Again, one or more handles 36 are provided on the boririg head 38 in order to forcibly rotate the boring head 38 once it is attached to the In the present specification and claims (if any), the word "comprising" and its derivatives including "comprises" and "comprise" include each of the stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers.

Reference throughout this specification to "one embodirment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. An internal pipe maintenance unit including a modular head portion including Z at least one pod for performing a specific maintenance function within the pipe and adapted to travel within the pipe over at least a portion of a pipe length and an umbilical to provide surface coating material to at least one pod and communication to and from the at least one pod, wherein the modular head portion is formed from at least one pod and at least one locking means to at (least temporarily lock the at least one pod to the umbilical. 00

2. An internal pipe maintenance unit according to claim I wherein the internal pipe maintenance unit comprises a plurality of pods.

3. An internal pipe maintenance unit according to claim 2 wherein the pods perform two or more functions.

4. An internal pipe maintenance unit according to claim 2 or claim 3 wherein the functions of the pods are selected from the group consisting of cleaning pods, debris removal pods, surface coating pods, movement pods and imaging pods. An internal pipe maintenance unit according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the internal pipe maintenance unit us used to internally line pipes.

6. An internal pipe maintenance unit according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the umbilical comprises communication channels and material conduits in order to communicate services and surface coating material to and from the pods of the head portion.

7. An internal pipe maintenance unit according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the communication to and from the pods of the head portion includes power, data, images or the like or any combination thereof.

8. An internal pipe maintenance unit according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the umbilical is flexible.

9. An internal pipe maintenance unit according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the locking means is mounted about the umbilical and adapted to be at least temporarily secured in position relative to the umbilical. An internal pipe maintenance unit according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the locking means is of smaller diameter than the pods or is spaced further from the internal surface of the pipe than the pods. 00 23 S11. An internal pipe maintenance unit according to any one of the preceding Sclaims wherein each of the pods is substantially circular or annular in cross- Z section.

12. An internal pipe maintenance unit according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the pods are provided with a size adjustable assembly to allow the pods to be used in pipes of different size. S13. An internal pipe maintenance unit substantially as herein described with Sreference to the drawings. 00 (Ni