AU2020200544A1 - Pipe installation apparatus, system, and method - Google Patents

Abstract

Disclosed is an apparatus for installing pipe sections into a tunnel accessible through a shaft. The apparatus comprises a body and a ramming assembly connected to the body. 5 The body comprises a cradle assembly configured to accommodate a pipe section, a first opening for providing the pipe section to the cradle assembly, and a second opening for ejecting the pipe section from the cradle assembly. The ramming assembly is configured to engage the pipe section and to exert a force along a path defined by the cradle assembly for ejecting the pipe section from the second opening. Also disclosed are a system and a 10 method for installing a pipe section into a tunnel accessible through a shaft. 1/19 FIGURE 1 108 142 120 2106 118 166 134 104 1266 120 110

Description

1/19

FIGURE 1

108 142

120

2106

118 166

134

104 1266 120 110

PIPE INSTALLATION APPARATUS, SYSTEM, AND METHOD

Technical Field

[001] The present invention generally relates to the installation of pipes into tunnels. In further specific examples, the present invention relates to apparatus, systems, and methods for installing pipe sections into an existing pipe or tunnel.

Background

[002] Many cities around the world have plumbing and sewerage infrastructure that was created decades or centuries ago. Such piping networks are often in need of rehabilitation. This provides many challenges to overcome, as the pipes are often underneath major roads and thoroughfares.

[003] The conventional method of replacing pipe networks, consisting of digging up and replacing the pipes, is often unfeasible due to the large cost and disruption to the local community. To this end, trenchless methods including various types of pipe relining and tunnelling systems such as pipe jacking and microtunneling have become popular solutions to this problem.

[004] Various trenchless methods exist for relining existing pipe systems, such as the cured-in-place-pipe (CIPP) method using resin-impregnated liners and spiral lining involving winding in a plastic profile to form an in situ pipe in the old network. The choice of method depends on various factors, including the condition and depth of the existing pipe and the groundwater table.

[005] Installation of these systems requires personnel descending into a shaft, which can be a very confined space, raising health and safety concerns. It is desirable to minimise the time that human operators have to spend inside the shaft.

[006] In addition, when replacing live pipes, the need arises to either plug or bypass the current flow of sewerage through the pipe being rehabilitated in order to set up the jacks and to install a thrust plate or similar brace such as piles or ground anchors which absorbs the backwards thrust from the hydraulics, allowing the jacking system to push the new pipe sections through the existing network.

[007] There is a need for new or improved apparatus, systems, and/or methods or processes for installing pipes.

[008] The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from the prior publication), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgment or admission or any form of suggestion that the prior publication (or information derived from the prior publication) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates.

Summary

[009] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[010] According to an example aspect, there is provided a pipe installation apparatus comprising: a body comprising a cradle assembly configured to accommodate a pipe section, a first opening for providing the pipe section to the cradle assembly, and a second opening for ejecting the pipe section from the cradle assembly; and a ramming assembly connected to the body, wherein the ramming assembly is configured to engage the pipe section and to exert a force along a path defined by the cradle assembly for ejecting the pipe section from the second opening.

[011] In certain embodiments, the first opening faces a direction that is transverse to a direction faced by the second opening. In certain embodiments, the first opening is configured to communicate with a vertical passageway and the second opening is configured to communicate with a horizontal passageway.

[012] In certain embodiments, the body further comprises one or more voids for allowing the flow of flowable material between the second opening and the one or more voids. In certain embodiments, the second opening is located at one end of the path defined by the cradle assembly, and the body comprises one or more voids located at another end of the path defined by the cradle assembly. In certain embodiments, the one or more voids are located opposite to the second opening.

[013] In certain embodiments, the cradle assembly comprises a concave surface configured to accommodate the pipe section. In certain embodiments, the concave surface is curved along a first dimension and straight along a second dimension perpendicular to the first dimension.

[014] In certain embodiments, the pipe installation apparatus further comprises a stop piece configured to block a pipe section from entering the cradle assembly from the second opening. In certain embodiments, the stop piece comprises a member that is resiliently coupled to the cradle assembly such that, when no pipe section is in the cradle assembly, the member protrudes into the path defined by the cradle assembly and, when a pipe section is provided to the cradle assembly from the first opening, the member retracts away from the path defined by the cradle assembly.

[015] In certain embodiments, the body further comprises a frame configured to secure the pipe installation apparatus to an external structure, wherein the cradle assembly and the ramming assembly are connected to the frame. In certain embodiments, the external structure is a wall of a passageway in communication with the first opening.

[016] In certain embodiments, the ramming assembly comprises a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder. In certain embodiments, when exerting the force along the path defined by the cradle assembly, the cylinder is located outside the body and a longitudinal axis of the cylinder is aligned with a direction of the path defined by the cradle assembly.

[017] According to another example aspect, there is provided a system for installing a pipe section into a tunnel accessible through a shaft, the system comprising: a hoisting apparatus adapted to be disposed above an opening of the shaft and to lower the pipe section into the shaft; and a pipe installation apparatus as described above, wherein the pipe installation apparatus is located at a junction between the shaft and the tunnel.

[018] According to another example aspect, there is provided a system for installing a pipe section into a tunnel accessible through a shaft, the system comprising: a hoisting apparatus adapted to be disposed above an opening of the shaft and to lower the pipe section into the shaft; and a pipe installation apparatus adapted to be disposed at a junction between the shaft and the tunnel, the pipe installation apparatus comprising: a body comprising a first opening for receiving the pipe section from the hoisting apparatus, and a second opening for ejecting the pipe section into the tunnel; and a ramming tool connected to the body and adapted to exert a pushing force onto the pipe section for ejecting the pipe section into the tunnel.

[019] In certain embodiments, the body further comprises a third opening opposite to the second opening, allowing a flow of flowable material from the tunnel between the second opening and third opening.

[020] In certain embodiments, the pipe section comprises a tubular body having open ends with cooperating formations on each end for engaging corresponding cooperating formations on another pipe section. In certain embodiments, the pipe section has a male end and a female end. In certain embodiments, the ramming tool is adapted to engage one end of the pipe section, and wherein the direction of the pushing force is along a longitudinal length of the pipe section.

[021] In certain embodiments, the body is adapted to be fixed to a sidewall of the shaft. In certain embodiments, the pipe installation apparatus further comprises a collar for anchoring the body to the sidewall of the shaft. In certain embodiments, the second opening is adapted to connect to a liner of the tunnel.

[022] According to another example aspect, there is provided a method for installing a pipe section into a tunnel accessible through a shaft, the method comprising: transporting the pipe section through the shaft; receiving, by a pipe installation apparatus disposed at a junction between the shaft and the tunnel, the pipe section; aligning the pipe section with an opening of the tunnel; and applying, by the pipe installation apparatus, a pushing force onto the pipe section to drive the pipe section through the opening of the tunnel.

[023] In certain embodiments, the method further comprises positioning the pipe installation apparatus at the junction by transporting the pipe installation apparatus through the shaft. In certain embodiments, the method further comprises installing a sleeve lining the opening of the tunnel. In certain embodiments, the pipe section comprises a tubular body having open ends, and the step of aligning the pipe section comprises aligning the pipe section such that one of the open ends faces the opening of the tunnel. In certain embodiments, the pipe installation apparatus is a pipe installation apparatus as described above.

[024] Other aspects, features, and advantages will become apparent from the following Detailed Description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are a part of this disclosure and which illustrate, by way of example, principles of the various embodiments.

Brief Description of Figures

[025] Example embodiments are apparent from the following description, which is given by way of example only, of at least one preferred but non-limiting embodiment, described in connection with the accompanying figures.

[026] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of an example system for installing a pipe section into a tunnel accessible through a shaft, including a cross-sectional view of the shaft.

[027] Figure 2 illustrates an exploded view of the system of Figure 1.

[028] Figure 3 illustrates a front perspective view of an example brace section of the system of Figure 1.

[029] Figure 4 illustrates a rear perspective view of the example brace section of the system of Figure 1.

[030] Figure 5 illustrates a front perspective view of an example duct section of the system of Figure 1.

[031] Figure 6 illustrates a rear perspective view of the example duct section of the system of Figure 1.

[032] Figure 7 illustrates a perspective view of an example lock stop of the system of Figure 1.

[033] Figure 8 illustrates a perspective view of an example sleeve of the system of Figure 1.

[034] Figure 9 illustrates a front view of an example ramming tool of the system of Figure 1.

[035] Figure 10 illustrates a side view of the example ramming tool of the system of Figure 1.

[036] Figure 11 illustrates a side view of the example ramming tool of the system of Figure 1, illustrating a pneumatic cylinder in a stowed configuration, a semi-extended configuration, and an extended configuration.

[037] Figure 12 illustrates a perspective view of an example pusher plate of the system of Figure 1.

[038] Figure 13 illustrates a left-side perspective view of an example pipe installation apparatus.

[039] Figure 14 illustrates a right-side perspective view of the pipe installation apparatus of Figure 13.

[040] Figure 15 illustrates a front view of the pipe installation apparatus of Figure 13.

[041] Figure 16 illustrates a side view of the pipe installation apparatus of Figure 13.

[042] Figure 17 illustrates an cross-sectional view of an example pipe installation apparatus located at a junction between two tunnels.

[043] Figure 18 illustrates another cross-sectional view of an example pipe installation apparatus located at a junction between two tunnels.

[044] Figure 19 illustrates another cross-sectional view of an example pipe installation apparatus located at a junction between two tunnels.

[045] Figure 20 illustrates another cross-sectional view of an example pipe installation apparatus located at a junction between two tunnels.

[046] Figure 21 illustrates an example method for installing a pipe section into a tunnel accessible through a shaft.

Detailed Description

[047] The following modes, given by way of example only, are described in order to provide a more precise understanding of the subject matter of an embodiment or embodiments. In the figures, incorporated to illustrate features of an example embodiment, like reference numerals are used to identify like parts throughout the figures.

[048] To the extent that a method or individual steps of a method is/are described in this description, the method or individual steps of the method can be executed by an appropriately configured system and/or an individual device of the system. Analogous remarks apply to the elucidation of the operation mode of a system and/or individual devices of the system that execute(s) method steps. To this extent, apparatus features and method features of this description are equivalent.

[049] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, there is illustrated an example system 100 for installing a pipe section 102 into a tunnel or covered passageway 104 accessible through a shaft 106. System 100 comprises a hoisting or conveyance apparatus 108 and a pipe installation apparatus 110.

[050] Tunnel 104 is a horizontal, or substantially horizontal, tunnel. In some examples, tunnel 104 may have a maximum inclination of 5 degrees relative to a horizontal axis. Tunnel 104 may be an underground passage, and it may include one or more bends. In some examples, tunnel 104 has a maximum deviation from straight of 1 in 100 length units, along either one of a horizontal or a vertical direction. Shaft 106 is a vertical, or substantially vertical, shaft. In some examples, shaft 106 is a straight shaft, without bends.

[051] Shaft 106 may be a passage between a ground, or surface, level and an underground level where tunnel 104 may be located. Therefore, shaft 106 comprises a first opening, which may be a ground or surface opening, and a second opening, which may be an underground opening adjacent to tunnel 104, providing access to tunnel 104.

[052] Hoisting apparatus 108 is disposed above the surface opening of shaft 106 and is adapted to lower pipe section 102 into shaft 106. Hoisting apparatus 108 rests atop base 112 and straddles manhole or maintenance hole 114 within base 112. Manhole 114 is aligned with the opening of shaft 106 and may conform in shape and dimensions with the opening of shaft 106. In some examples, manhole 114 and shaft 106 have a diameter of approximately 1.2 metres.

[053] Hoisting apparatus 108 comprises a winch 142, a cable reel 144, and a carriage 146 suspended from a cable. Winch 142 rotates to feed or retract the cable, allowing for downwards or upwards vertical movement of carriage 146. Hoisting apparatus 108 may further comprise a motor (not shown) for rotating winch 142. Hoisting apparatus 108 may further comprise a cable guide for restricting lateral movement of the cable and for directing pipe section carriage 146 and pipe section 102 through shaft 106.

[054] Carriage 146 is adapted to selectively hold and release pipe section 102. Carriage 146 comprises pincers 148 adapted to grab and hold pipe section 102. Carriage 146 is adapted to carry pipe section 102 downwards through shaft 106, and to release pipe section 102 to pipe installation apparatus 110. After releasing pipe section 102, carriage 146 travels upwards to its home position, where it may receive another pipe section. Carriage 146 may travel along a pair of rails 150 that guide carriage 146 along shaft 106.

[055] In other examples, carriage 146 may include mechanisms other than pincers for selectively holding and releasing a pipe section. For examples, carriage 146 may include mechanical clip arrangements, suction cup systems, or magnetic or electromagnetic elements for selectively holding or releasing the pipe section. The type of mechanism may depend on the material and on the physical configuration of the pipe section being carried by carriage 146.

[056] Pipe installation apparatus 110 may be disposed at or near a junction, or intersection, between tunnel 104 and shaft 106. Pipe installation apparatus 110 comprises a body 116 comprising a brace section 118 and a duct section, or cradle assembly, 120. Brace section 118 is adapted to be mounted onto duct section 120 such that, when pipe installation apparatus 110 is disposed at or near the junction between tunnel 104 and shaft 106, a portion of brace section 118 is located in an area defined by shaft 106. This portion of brace section 118 is therefore confined, or restrained, by a sidewall of shaft 106, and may act to brace, or to stabilise, pipe installation apparatus 110 during use. Body 116 is adapted to be fixed to a sidewall of shaft 106. In some examples, system 100 further comprises an anchor for fixing brace section 118 to the sidewall of shaft 106. An example of such an anchor could be a collar mounted to brace section 118.

[057] Brace section 118, further illustrated in Figures 3 and 4, defines a first opening 122 for receiving pipe section 102 from hoisting apparatus 108. Brace section 118 comprises a hollow body, allowing first opening 122 to be in communication with duct section 120 so that, when pipe section 102 is received by first opening 122, it is transferred to duct section

120 (e.g. due to gravity). Duct section 120, further illustrated in Figures 5 and 6, defines a second opening 124 for ejecting pipe section 102 into tunnel 104. In some examples, second opening 124 conforms to a shape and size of the opening of tunnel 104. Second opening 124 connects to a sleeve 126 lining a portion of tunnel 104 near its opening.

[058] Pipe installation apparatus 110 further comprises a lock stop 168 mounted to brace section 118 in proximity to second opening 124. Lock stop 168, further illustrated in Figure 7, is adapted to block pipe sections located in tunnel 104 from moving into pipe installation apparatus 110 and obstructing new pipe sections being fed to pipe installation apparatus 110 through first opening 122.

[059] Sleeve 126, further illustrated in Figure 8, is also known as a sacrificial liner and it provides protection to pipe section 102 as it is inserted into tunnel 104. Sleeve 126 is installed prior to the positioning of pipe installation apparatus 110, and it is inserted into tunnel 104 so as to be immediately adjacent to shaft 106. Sleeve 126 may have a cross sectional profile that conforms to a profile of tunnel 104, so as to sit flush against an internal surface of tunnel 104.

[060] Pipe installation apparatus 110 further comprises a ramming tool 128 connected to body 116 and adapted to exert a pushing force onto pipe section 102 for ejecting pipe section 102 into tunnel 104. Ramming tool 128 comprises a frame 130 and a pneumatic cylinder 136, or a hydraulic cylinder, contained within frame 130, which attaches to body 116 through one or both of brace section 118 and duct section 120. Ramming tool 128 is further illustrated in Figures 9 to 11. Pneumatic cylinder 136 is a pneumatic arm comprising a piston rod 154 and a piston 156 slidably mounted to piston rod 154.

[061] Referring to Figure 11, ramming tool 128 is adapted to move between a first configuration 158, wherein pneumatic cylinder 136 is folded within frame 130 and piston 156 encloses piston rod 154, and a second configuration 160, wherein pneumatic cylinder 136 extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to frame 130 and piston 156 slides outwardly along a length of piston rod 154. A microcontroller may be provided to control actuation of ramming tool 128 between first configuration 158 and second configuration 160.

[062] Frame 130 comprises an elongated body and a rest 164 coupled to an end of elongated body. Rest 164 and elongated body may be coupled by means of a resilient member or spring. Frame 130 attaches to a side of brace section 118 opposite to second opening 124 such that rest 164 is exposed. Body 116 is at least partly supported by rest 164, which contacts a ground surface at the bottom of shaft 106. The length of rest 164 may be varied to adjust a vertical elevation of body 116 such that second opening 124 is aligned with the opening of tunnel 104.

[063] Through its attachment to brace section 118, frame 130 provides a reaction force to the pushing force exerted by ramming tool 128. Brace section 118, which is itself anchored to a sidewall of the shaft 106, absorbs or resists the backwards thrust due to the pushing force of the ramming tool 128.

[064] In other examples, the ramming tool comprises a single pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder positioned within tunnel 104, in a section of the tunnel opposite to where pipe section 102 is to be inserted. The ramming tool may be fixed to a surface of tunnel 104 and may be aligned horizontally to exert a pushing force on pipe section 102 in the direction of tunnel 104.

[065] Ramming tool 128 may engage pusher plate 132 contained within body 116. Pusher plate 132, further illustrated in Figure 12, is adapted to move, or slide, along duct section 120 and to engage a pipe section located within body 116. A force exerted by ramming tool 128 is transferred to pipe section 102 through pusher plate 132.

[066] Pusher plate 132 comprises a flat pipe-engagement portion and a curved flap extending longitudinally from opposite lateral sides of pipe-engagement portion. Pusher plate 132 may be able to engage pipe sections having different cross-sectional configurations, such as ovoid, oval, or round pipe sections.

[067] Pipe section 102 comprises a tubular body having open ends. In some examples, pipe section 102 has a longitudinal length of approximately 0.8 metres. Pusher plate 132 is adapted to engage one end of pipe section 102. The direction of the pushing force is along a longitudinal length of pipe section 102. Carriage 146 may further be adapted to rotate or pivot to adjust the orientation of pipe section 102, such that pipe section 102 is properly aligned with pusher plate 132 when pipe section 102 enters pipe installation apparatus 100.

[068] Referring to Figure 2, pipe section 102 comprises cooperating formations on each end for engaging corresponding cooperating formations on other pipe sections. In the illustrated example, pipe section 102 comprises a male end 138 comprising a stepped rim projecting longitudinally from the body of pipe section 102. Pipe section 102 further comprises a female end 140 opposite male end 138, comprising a notched rim, or socket, for receiving a male end of another pipe section. Two or more pipe sections may be stacked longitudinally by connecting or joining the male end of one pipe section to the female end of an adjacent pipe section.

[069] Referring to Figure 1, a third opening 134 is further defined by one or both of brace section 118 and duct section 120, and is located opposite to second opening 124. Third opening 134 may be aligned with a second tunnel 166, thus permitting the flow of flowable material (e.g. sewage, fluids) between tunnel 104 and tunnel 166 through second opening 124 and third opening 134 of pipe installation apparatus 110. Therefore, pipe installation apparatus 110 may define a duct or channel to allow the flow of fluids or other flowable material through tunnel 104 during installation of new pipe sections. In some examples, tunnel 104 is a live tunnel, this being a tunnel through which flowable material flows.

[070] During initial deployment, pipe installation apparatus 110 is lowered through shaft 106, and positioned near either an upstream or a downstream opening of tunnel 104. Duct section 120 is aligned with tunnel 104 such that a flow of flowable material through tunnel 104 is maintained by means of second opening 124 and third opening 134. Brace section 118 receives pipe section 102, which is lowered into duct section 120 where it is engaged by pusher plate 132 and rammed into tunnel 104 by ramming tool 128.

[071] An operator in control room 152 is able to guide pipe section 102 into tunnel 104 by remotely operating ramming tool 128. The operator may be aided in this task by one or more camera units, such as closed-circuit television (CCTV), provided on brace section 118. The operator activates ramming tool 128, which pushes male end 138 of pipe section 102 into a female end of a previously-installed pipe section. Using the one or more camera units, the operator is able to see when the two pipe sections are correctly connected, at which point ramming tool 128 is retracted. Carriage 146 is raised to the surface so that another pipe section can be grabbed and lowered into shaft 106. An infeed conveyor may be provided on the surface to supply pipe sections to hoisting apparatus 108.

[072] System 100 is designed so that is has the capacity to push hundreds of interconnected pipes, until the interconnected pipes span a desired length of tunnel 104. In some examples, the interconnected pipes span a distance of several hundreds of metres, such as 500 metres. In some examples, when the interconnected pipes span a distance between shaft 106 and another vertical shaft providing access to tunnel 104, system 100 may be disassembled from shaft 106 and reassembled at the other vertical shaft, in order to continue pipe installation along a different section of tunnel 104.

[073] System 100 enables the installation or relining of large sections of new pipework into an existing tunnel. In some examples, system 100 enables rehabilitation of pipes by installing new pipe section into an existing tunnel. System 100 allows this work to be undertaken within a small operating footprint and without the need to disturb existing infrastructure such as roads and footpaths. Moreover, there is minimal environmental impact to land, flora, fauna, or heritage assets. Because the installation of pipe sections is carried out by a self-contained, underground apparatus (i.e. pipe installation apparatus 110), system 100 is very quiet, reducing noise disturbances.

[074] Additional advantages may include the fact that system 100 is able to operate in live tunnel, or live sewer, conditions, avoiding the costs and efforts associated with interrupting, bypassing, or redirecting tunnel flow during installation of new pipe sections. System 100 is also capable of installing pipe sections along or against a flow of flowable material in the tunnel. System 100 is also able to operate with different types of pipe sections having different cross-sectional configurations, such as round or ovoid pipe sections.

[075] Referring to Figures 13 to 16, there is illustrated another example pipe installation apparatus 200. Apparatus 200 is suitable for use in a pipe installation system, such as system 100. Apparatus 200 may be configured to allow for pipe application into a tunnel for pipe that is continuous across the tunnel.

[076] Apparatus 200 comprises a body 210 comprising a cradle assembly, or duct section, 220 configured to accommodate a pipe section 230, a first opening 212 for providing or supplying pipe section 230 to cradle assembly 220, and a second opening 214 for ejecting pipe section 230 from cradle assembly 220.

[077] Apparatus 200 further comprises a ramming assembly 240 connected to body 210. Ramming assembly 240 may be configured to engage pipe section 230 and to exert a force along a path defined by cradle assembly 220 for ejecting pipe section 230 from second opening 214.

[078] In some examples, cradle assembly 220 comprises a concave surface 222 configured to accommodate pipe section 230. Concave surface 222 may be curved along a first dimension (as illustrated in Figure 15) and straight along a second dimension (as illustrated in Figure 16), where the first and second dimensions are perpendicular to each other.

[079] Cradle assembly 220 may comprise a half-pipe structure defining a volume for receiving pipe section 230. Moreover, cradle assembly 220 is shaped so as to define a path for movement of pipe section 230, which is configured to slide (or translate horizontally) along the longitudinal extent of cradle assembly 220 under the influence of the force exerted by ramming assembly 240.

[080] In some examples, first opening 212 faces a direction that is transverse or perpendicular to a direction faced by second opening 214. For example, first opening 212 may be configured to communicate with a vertical passageway (e.g. a shaft) while second opening 214 may be configured to communicate with a horizontal passageway (e.g. a tunnel). Therefore, first opening 212 may be configured to allow for vertical translation of pipe section 230 into body 210, while second opening 214 may be configured to allow for horizontal translation of pipe section 230 out of body 210.

[081] In some examples, body 210 further comprises a third opening 216, or one or more voids, for allowing the flow of flowable material between second opening 214 and the one or more voids 216. Third opening 216 may be located opposite second opening 214. In some examples, second opening 214 is located at one end of the path defined by cradle assembly 220, while third opening 216 is located at another end of the path defined by cradle assembly 220. Third opening 216 (or the one or more voids) may provide a passage between an interior of body 210 and an exterior of body 210.

[082] Apparatus 200 further comprising one or more stop pieces 250 configured to block a pipe section from entering cradle assembly 220 through second opening 214 (thus preventing a pipe section that has been ejected from second opening 214 from re-entering body210).

[083] In some examples, stop pieces 250 are pop-out mechanical stops or stopping plugs mechanisms. Each stop piece 250 may comprise a member that is resiliently coupled to cradle assembly 220 such that, when no pipe section is in cradle assembly 220, the member protrudes inwardly from surface 222, blocking the path defined by cradle assembly 220. When, however, a pipe section is provided to cradle assembly 220 from first opening 212 (or when the pipe section moves under the influence of ramming assembly 240), the member retracts into surface 222, clearing the path for movement of the pipe section.

[084] In some examples, body 210 further comprises a frame 260 configured to secure pipe installation apparatus 200 to an external structure, such as the wall or sidewall of a passageway in communication with first opening 212. Cradle assembly 220 and ramming assembly 240 are connected to frame 260.

[085] As shown in Figure 14, frame 260 may comprise a halo 262 which secures to a passageway (e.g. a shaft) for holding assembly 200 into position and for transferring the force exerted by ramming assembly 240 to an existing maintenance structure (e.g. the wall of the shaft). Block guides 264 may be coupled to frame 262 for securing the frame to an external structure (e.g. through adjustment screws). Jacking (or levelling) feet 266 may be provided to further secure and stabilise frame 260 to the external surface. Spirit levels 268 may be provided on frame 260 for determining or monitoring the positioning and orientation of apparatus 200. Therefore, frame 260 (and its various components, including halo 262) are configured to secure assembly 200 to an external support structure for setting and maintaining assembly 200 into position and for transferring a reaction force of the pushing force exerted by ramming assembly 240 to the external support structure.

[086] Ramming assembly 240 comprises a cylinder 242, which may be pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder. Cylinder 242 engages a pusher plate 244, or liner pusher, located within cradle assembly 220. Pusher plate 244 in turn engages pipe section 230, distributing along pipe section 230 a force exerted by cylinder 242. A hydraulic or pneumatic coupling 246 is provided on frame 260 for supplying fluid or gas to ramming assembly 240 to operate cylinder 242.

[087] When operational, cylinder 242 protrudes outwardly from body 210 and cradle assembly 220, extending in a direction opposite to that of the pushing force supplied by cylinder 242. Therefore, during operation, cylinder 242 may extend within a tunnel opposite to where pipe section 230 is to be inserted, so that cylinder 242 can be installed utilising the upstream tunnel space. Having the main ram (i.e. cylinder 242) extend outwardly, rather than inwardly, from body 210 may increase the space within body 210 so that assembly 200 can be used to install larger pipe sections.

[088] Referring to Figures 17 to 21, there are illustrated different example arrangements for positioning an example pipe installation apparatus 300 (such as pipe installation apparatus 200) at a junction between a shaft and a tunnel. Arrow 302 indicates the direction in which pipe installation apparatus 300 ejects pipe sections.

[089] In Figure 17, a downstream tunnel 310 (i.e. the tunnel into which pipe sections are being installed) is raised relative to an upstream tunnel 320 (i.e. the tunnel opposite the upstream tunnel). In Figure 18, a downstream tunnel 310 is lowered relative to an upstream tunnel 320. In Figures 19 and 20, the downstream tunnel 310 and the upstream tunnel 320 are at a same level, but pipe installation apparatus 300 is operating in opposite directions. These figures show that different parts of a frame of pipe installation apparatus 300 will be secured to a sidewall of shaft 330 depending on the level discrepancy between the upstream and downstream tunnels. A jacking position may be adjustable as required as the load is transferred through the shaft structure.

[090] Referring to Figure 21, there is illustrated an example method 400 for installing a pipe section into a tunnel accessible through a shaft. Method 400 comprises step 410 of conveying or transporting the pipe section through the shaft, and step 420 of receiving, by a pipe installation apparatus disposed at a junction between the shaft and the tunnel, the pipe section. Method 400 further comprises step 430 of aligning the pipe section with an opening of the tunnel, and step 440 of applying, by the pipe installation apparatus, a pushing force onto the pipe section to drive the pipe section through the opening of the tunnel.

[091] In some examples, method 400 further comprises a step of positioning the pipe installation apparatus at the junction by transporting the pipe installation apparatus through the shaft. In some examples, method 400 further comprises a step of installing a sleeve lining the opening of the tunnel. The pipe section may comprise a tubular body having open ends. In some examples, method 400 further comprises a step of aligning the pipe section such that one of the open ends faces the opening of the tunnel.

[092] In some examples, method 400 further comprises a step of testing the width of the shaft prior to lowering the pipe installation apparatus into the shaft, to ensure that pipe installation apparatus can fit in the existing shaft. The step of testing may comprise lowering a jig or a frame having a width corresponding substantially to the width of the pipe installation apparatus, and removing the jig or frame prior to lowering the pipe installation apparatus. In some examples, the jig or frame has a tapered profile with a narrow end and a broad end.

[093] Optional embodiments may also be said to broadly include the parts, elements, steps and/or features referred to or indicated herein, individually or in any combination of two or more of the parts, elements, steps and/or features, and wherein specific integers are mentioned which have known equivalents in the art to which the invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

[094] Although a preferred embodiment has been described in detail, it should be understood that many modifications, changes, substitutions or alterations will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[095] Throughout this specification and the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise", and variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.

Claims (28)

The claims:

1. A pipe installation apparatus comprising: a body comprising a cradle assembly configured to accommodate a pipe section, a first opening for providing the pipe section to the cradle assembly, and a second opening for ejecting the pipe section from the cradle assembly; and a ramming assembly connected to the body, wherein the ramming assembly is configured to engage the pipe section and to exert a force along a path defined by the cradle assembly for ejecting the pipe section from the second opening.

2. The pipe installation apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first opening faces a direction that is transverse to a direction faced by the second opening.

3. The pipe installation apparatus of claim 2, wherein the first opening is configured to communicate with a vertical passageway and the second opening is configured to communicate with a horizontal passageway.

4. The pipe installation apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the body further comprises one or more voids for allowing the flow of flowable material between the second opening and the one or more voids.

5. The pipe installation apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the second opening is located at one end of the path defined by the cradle assembly, and wherein the body comprises one or more voids located at another end of the path defined by the cradle assembly.

6. The pipe installation apparatus of claim 4 or 5, wherein the one or more voids are located opposite to the second opening.

7. The pipe installation apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the cradle assembly comprises a concave surface configured to accommodate the pipe section.

8. The pipe installation apparatus of claim 7, wherein the concave surface is curved along a first dimension and straight along a second dimension perpendicular to the first dimension.

9. The pipe installation apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a stop piece configured to block a pipe section from entering the cradle assembly from the second opening.

10. The pipe installation apparatus of claim 9, wherein the stop piece comprises a member that is resiliently coupled to the cradle assembly such that, when no pipe section is in the cradle assembly, the member protrudes into the path defined by the cradle assembly and, when a pipe section is provided to the cradle assembly from the first opening, the member retracts away from the path defined by the cradle assembly.

11. The pipe installation apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the body further comprises a frame configured to secure the pipe installation apparatus to an external structure, wherein the cradle assembly and the ramming assembly are connected to the frame.

12. The pipe installation apparatus of claim 11, wherein the external structure is a wall of a passageway in communication with the first opening.

13. The pipe installation apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the ramming assembly comprises a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder.

14. The pipe installation apparatus of claim 13, wherein, when exerting the force along the path defined by the cradle assembly, the cylinder is located outside the body and a longitudinal axis of the cylinder is aligned with a direction of the path defined by the cradle assembly.

15. A system for installing a pipe section into a tunnel accessible through a shaft, the system comprising: a hoisting apparatus adapted to be disposed above an opening of the shaft and to lower the pipe section into the shaft; and a pipe installation apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the pipe installation apparatus is located at a junction between the shaft and the tunnel.

16. A system for installing a pipe section into a tunnel accessible through a shaft, the system comprising: a hoisting apparatus adapted to be disposed above an opening of the shaft and to lower the pipe section into the shaft; and a pipe installation apparatus adapted to be disposed at a junction between the shaft and the tunnel, the pipe installation apparatus comprising: a body comprising a first opening for receiving the pipe section from the hoisting apparatus, and a second opening for ejecting the pipe section into the tunnel; and a ramming tool connected to the body and adapted to exert a pushing force onto the pipe section for ejecting the pipe section into the tunnel.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the body further comprises a third opening opposite to the second opening, allowing a flow of flowable material from the tunnel between the second opening and third opening.

18. The system of claim 16 or 17, wherein the pipe section comprises a tubular body having open ends with cooperating formations on each end for engaging corresponding cooperating formations on another pipe section.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein the pipe section has a male end and a female end.

20. The system of claim 18 or 19, wherein the ramming tool is adapted to engage one end of the pipe section, and wherein the direction of the pushing force is along a longitudinal length of the pipe section.

21. The system of any one of claims 16 to 20, wherein the body is adapted to be fixed to a sidewall of the shaft.

22. The system of claim 21, the pipe installation apparatus further comprising a collar for anchoring the body to the sidewall of the shaft.

23. The system of any one of claims 16 to 22, wherein the second opening is adapted to connect to a liner of the tunnel.

24. A method for installing a pipe section into a tunnel accessible through a shaft, the method comprising: transporting the pipe section through the shaft; receiving, by a pipe installation apparatus disposed at a junction between the shaft and the tunnel, the pipe section; aligning the pipe section with an opening of the tunnel; and applying, by the pipe installation apparatus, a pushing force onto the pipe section to drive the pipe section through the opening of the tunnel.

25. The method of claim 24, further comprising positioning the pipe installation apparatus at the junction by transporting the pipe installation apparatus through the shaft.

26. The method of claim 24 or 25, further comprising installing a sleeve lining the opening of the tunnel.

27. The method of any one of claims 24 to 26, wherein the pipe section comprises a tubular body having open ends, and wherein the step of aligning the pipe section comprises aligning the pipe section such that one of the open ends faces the opening of the tunnel.

28. The method of any one of claims 24 to 27, wherein the pipe installation apparatus is a pipe installation apparatus according to any one of claims I to 14.