CA2074764C - Continuous tubular structure forming and placing apparatus and method - Google Patents
Continuous tubular structure forming and placing apparatus and method Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2074764C CA2074764C CA 2074764 CA2074764A CA2074764C CA 2074764 C CA2074764 C CA 2074764C CA 2074764 CA2074764 CA 2074764 CA 2074764 A CA2074764 A CA 2074764A CA 2074764 C CA2074764 C CA 2074764C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- blanket
- tubular structure
- structure forming
- blankets
- matrix
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Lifetime
Links
Landscapes
- Laminated Bodies (AREA)
- Shaping Of Tube Ends By Bending Or Straightening (AREA)
Abstract
Mobile continuous tubular structure forming and placing apparatus includes a support portion, a raw material sup-plying portion, a matrix forming portion, a tubular struc-ture forming portion and a control portion. The raw material supplying portion includes a plurality of reser-voirs connected independently with the matrix forming portion through conduits. The tubular structure forming portion includes a frame section and an arcuate blanket support associated with the frame section. A blanket transport is disposed adjacent the arcuate blanket support and aligned therewith, the blanket transport being movable from one end of the arcuate blanket support to an opposite end thereof. A plurality of spaced movable finger members are disposed along each longitudinal edge of the arcuate blanket support with interconnectors joining adjacent finger members. The control portion includes blanket advancing mechanism, finger moving mechanism and a coordi-nator for the blanket advance, mixture delivery and finger movement in a preselected sequence to form a continuous tubular structure. Also, a method of forming and placing a continuous tubular structure and the resulting tubular structure.
Description
CONTINUOUS TUBUhAR STRUCTURE FORMING
AND PLACING APPAkATUS AND METHOD
This invention relates to a novel mobile tubular structure forming and placing apparatus and method and to a new continuous tubular structure produced thereby.
In recent years, the management of natural resour-ces has become important in many countries throughout the world. Efforts have been directed both toward the conservation of our resources and toward the elim-ination of pollution from our environment. Particular emphasis has been placed on waste leakage and water loss.
For example, losses in the transfer of water using unlined ditches are estimated at a minimum to be 25i~
and in some situations to be more than 509 depending upon the porosity of the ditch surface and the distance the water is being moved. In most rural areas, ditches are formed by excavating the soil to the desired depth and width. The water moves through the ditch in contact ~0'~~~~~~
with the exposed natural surface. This can be sand, clay, rocks, etc. and more commonly mixtures thereof.
The porosity will depend upon the proportions of the different components.
While such ditches have been used in the past, the results were considered acceptable only because the supply of water exceeded 'the needs. However, as civilization developed and world population increased, more water was required both for greater food produc-tion and for the marked increase in non-agricultural uses. In addition to greater domestic uses in sani-tation, industry now employs large quantities of water in manufacturing and processing procedures.
This high level of consumption plus the very high cost of developing new water supplies has shifted at-tention to water conservation. Domestic applicances that use less water have been developed. :Also, Indus try has installed recycling purificat ion systems to reduce water consumption.
Although conservation efforts have reduced wet er consumption to a degree, water still is in relatively short supply, particularly in recent years with the severe droughts in the United States and other countries.
Since the most cost effective conservation opportunities and most readily accessible water supplies already have been developed, greater attention must be directed to improving the efficiency of water distribution systems.
AND PLACING APPAkATUS AND METHOD
This invention relates to a novel mobile tubular structure forming and placing apparatus and method and to a new continuous tubular structure produced thereby.
In recent years, the management of natural resour-ces has become important in many countries throughout the world. Efforts have been directed both toward the conservation of our resources and toward the elim-ination of pollution from our environment. Particular emphasis has been placed on waste leakage and water loss.
For example, losses in the transfer of water using unlined ditches are estimated at a minimum to be 25i~
and in some situations to be more than 509 depending upon the porosity of the ditch surface and the distance the water is being moved. In most rural areas, ditches are formed by excavating the soil to the desired depth and width. The water moves through the ditch in contact ~0'~~~~~~
with the exposed natural surface. This can be sand, clay, rocks, etc. and more commonly mixtures thereof.
The porosity will depend upon the proportions of the different components.
While such ditches have been used in the past, the results were considered acceptable only because the supply of water exceeded 'the needs. However, as civilization developed and world population increased, more water was required both for greater food produc-tion and for the marked increase in non-agricultural uses. In addition to greater domestic uses in sani-tation, industry now employs large quantities of water in manufacturing and processing procedures.
This high level of consumption plus the very high cost of developing new water supplies has shifted at-tention to water conservation. Domestic applicances that use less water have been developed. :Also, Indus try has installed recycling purificat ion systems to reduce water consumption.
Although conservation efforts have reduced wet er consumption to a degree, water still is in relatively short supply, particularly in recent years with the severe droughts in the United States and other countries.
Since the most cost effective conservation opportunities and most readily accessible water supplies already have been developed, greater attention must be directed to improving the efficiency of water distribution systems.
Some improvements in water distribution already have been made. A limited number of ditches, canals and similar structures have been formed with placed concrete and/or preformed concrete units such as pipe.
Concrete is durable and has a long life when properly used. However, concrete is expensive to place and finish and is damaged by depressed temperatures during curing. Also, concrete is subject to frost damage, cracking and heaving which results in leaks:
PVC (polyvinylchloride) liner and pipe also have been used to some extent in water distribution systems.
PVC is less costly than concrete. The limited dura-bility of PYC can be improved to a degree by burying it under several feet of soil. The soil holds the structure in place and cushions it against damage..
However, both with concrete and PVC, considerable site preparation is required and after placement extra grad-ing and filling frequently are needed to finish the job.
From the above discussion, it is clear that neither concrete nor PYC provides the desired characteristics for successful liquid distribution and storage, that is, durability, low cost and easy placement. Thus, there is a need for a new structure and particularly a tuba-lar structure that provides these requirements.
Concrete is durable and has a long life when properly used. However, concrete is expensive to place and finish and is damaged by depressed temperatures during curing. Also, concrete is subject to frost damage, cracking and heaving which results in leaks:
PVC (polyvinylchloride) liner and pipe also have been used to some extent in water distribution systems.
PVC is less costly than concrete. The limited dura-bility of PYC can be improved to a degree by burying it under several feet of soil. The soil holds the structure in place and cushions it against damage..
However, both with concrete and PVC, considerable site preparation is required and after placement extra grad-ing and filling frequently are needed to finish the job.
From the above discussion, it is clear that neither concrete nor PYC provides the desired characteristics for successful liquid distribution and storage, that is, durability, low cost and easy placement. Thus, there is a need for a new structure and particularly a tuba-lar structure that provides these requirements.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a novel mobile tubular structure forming and placing apparatus and method, and to a new continuous tubular structure produced thereby.
According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a mobile continuous tubular structure forming and placing apparatus including a support portion, a raw material supplying portion, a matrix forming portion, a tubular structure forming portion and a control portion.
The support portion includes a base section with a wheeled carriage means depending therefrom. The raw material supplying portion includes a plurality of reservoirs connected independently with the matrix forming portion through conduit means. The matrix forming portion includes mixing and applying means. The tubular structure forming portion includes a frame section, and an arcuate blanket support means associated with the frame section. A blanket transporting means is aligned with the arcuate blanket support means, with the blanket transporting means being movable from one end of said arcuate blanket support means to an opposite end thereof.
A plurality of spaced movable finger members are disposed along each longitudinal edge of the arcuate blanket support means, with interconnecting means joining adjacent finger members. The control portion includes a blanket advancing means, a finger moving means and a coordinating means. The coordinating means is for coordinating the blanket advance, mixture delivery and finger movement in a preselected sequence to form a continuous tubular structure.
According to an embodiment of the present invention, the arcuate blanket support means includes an elongated arcuate section.
-3 a-According to another embodiment of the present invention, the blanket transporting means includes end engaging means. In yet another embodiment, the blanket transporting means includes at least two spaced end engaging means mounted on a transverse carrier means. In a further embodiment, the transverse carrier means is supported between spaced parallel longitudinal track members of said frame section.
According to another embodiment of the present invention, the movable finger members are pivotally connected to the arcuate blanket support means. In still another embodiment, the movable finger members include sections pivotally connected along the length of each finger member. In a further embodiment, the finger members along one edge of the arcuate blanket support means are interconnected to provide simultaneous movement of corresponding finger sections of adjacent finger members.
In yet another embodiment, the finger members are interconnected to provide simultaneous movement of all finger members that are disposed along one edge of the arcuate blanket support means.
According to another embodiment of the present invention, the matrix forming portion is orientable with respect to the base section. According to yet another embodiment, the matrix forming portion includes a table section disposed in a generally horizontal orientation during application of a solidifiable liquid mixture to a blanket moving over the table section. In a further embodiment, the table section includes major surfaces disposed at a slight angle to one another forming at least one shallow depression transverse to movement of a blanket thereover.
According to another embodiment of the present invention, tubular structure forming portion is orientable with -3 b-respect to the base section, In a further embodiment, the tubular structure forming portion is orientable to a position substantially parallel to the base section. In yet another embodiment, the tubular structure forming portion is orientable with respect to the matrix forming portion. In still another embodiment, the tubular structure forming portion includes envelope inflating means. Any envelope, including, but not limited to, a bladder, may be used in the context of the present invention.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of continuously forming and placing an extended length of a tubular structure at a job site including the steps of providing a supply of a porous flexible blanket, providing a plurality of thermosetting resin forming raw material reservoirs, advancing each raw material independently to mixing means disposed closedly adjacent to mixture applying means, mixing the raw materials in preselected proportions, immediately continuously flowing uniformly a preselected quantity of a high viscosisty flowable thermosetting resin forming mixture simultaneously into an entire continuously moving width of the porous flexible blanket, applying pressure against the treated blanket to form a uniform matrix therein, monitoring the rate of advance of the blanket, coordinating the rate of advance with the flow rate of the mixture into the blanket and with the pressure applied thereto, transferring a continuous blanket to an adjacent temporary surface, positioning at least one length of treated blanket over the supported continuous blanket, positioning a substantially flat non-porous flexible envelope along the stacked blankets, introducing a pressurized gas into the envelope, inflating the envelope while in contact with the stacked blankets, wrapping the stacked blankets around the inflated envelope, disposing opposite longitudinal free -3 c-edges of the blankets in an overlapping relationship, continuously positioning the inflated envelope/wrapped blanket combination along a preselected path while the combination is deformable and the matrix is adhesive, maintaining the non-porous envelope in an inflated state until the wrapped blankets are set in a final tubular configuration and bonded to a final supporting surface.
Any envelope, including, but not limited to, a bladder, may be used in the context of the present invention.
According to an embodiment of the present invention, the supported continuous blanket is treated to form a matrix therein. In still another embodiment, a plurality of blanket lengths are positioned sequentially over the supported continuous blanket. In a further embodiment, transverse edges of the stacked blankets are staggered in a predetermined arrangement and after being wrapped around the inflated envelope are in contact with corresponding transverse edges of preceding and succeeding wrapped blankets disposed along the supported continuous blanket. In yet another embodiment, the present method, includes simultaneously wrapping an entire longitudinal free edge of blanket lengths in an overlapping relationship.
According to another embodiment of the present invention, a top length of the stacked blankets includes a matrix with a composition different from that of underlying blankets. In yet another embodiment, the matrix of the top length of the stacked blankets is flexible after the wrapped blankets are set in a final configuration. In still another embodiment, the matrix of the top blanket length has a significantly greater elongation than the matrix of underlying blankets.
According to another embodiment of the present invention, at least one length of an untreated blanket is positioned -3 d-in contact with at least one treated blanket in forming the stack of blankets. In yet another embodiment, alternating treated and untreated blankets form the stack of blankets.
According to another embodiment of the present invention, a foam forming material is introduced into the envelope.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a tubular structure of extended length formed according to a method of the present invention.
This summary does not necessarily describe all necessary features of the invention but that the invention may also reside in a sub-combination of the described features.
The present invention provides a novel .mobile continuous tubular.str~uc.ture forming and placing ap-paratus and method which overcome the deficiencies -3 e-of previous expedients. The invention not only over-comes those shortcomings, but also provides features and advantages not found in previous technology. The apparatus and method of the invention produce a uniform quality tubular structure continuously and quickly.
The tubular structure of the invention is formed and placed with little hand labor. With the apparatus and method of the invention, the configuration and composition of the tubular structure can be modified along its length as desired automatically to provide special configurations for spillways, headgates, changes in direction and the like.
Mobile apparatus for forming and placing the novel tubular structure according to the method of the present;
invention is simple in design and can be produced rela-tively inexpensively. Commercially available materials and components can be utilized with conventional fab-ricating procedures in the manufacture of the apparatus.
Semiskilled vaorkmen can operate the apparatus efficien-tly after a minimum of instruction. The apparatus is durable in construction and has a long useful life with little maintenance.
The apparatus and method of the invention can bo modified to form a variety of different tubular struc-tures. Variations in physical dimensions, composition and surface appearance, etc. can be achieved quickly.
Even with such variations, uniform quality i.s maintained without difficulty.
E-These and other benefits and advantages of the novel apparatus, method and tubular structure of 'the present invention will be apparent from the following description and the accompanying drawings in which:
Figure 1 is a view in perspective of one form of continuous tubular structure forming and placing appa-ratus of the invention;
Figure 2 is a side view partially in section of the structure forming portion of the apparatus shown in Figure 1~ during the formation of a continuous tubu-lar structure of the invention;
Figure ~ is a sectional end view o:F the structure forming portion shown in Figure 2 taken along line 3 - 3 thereof ;
Figure 4 is a fragmentary schematic illustration of the structure forming portion shown in Figure 3~
during the formation of a continuous tubular structure of the invention;
Figure 5 is a fragmentary schematic illustration of the structure forming portion shown in Figure 4 during a succeeding step in the formation of a continuous tubular structure of the invention;
Figure 6 is a fragmentary schematic illustration in perspective of a continuous tubular .st~uGt,ure of the invention during the formation thereof;
Figure '7 is a fragmentary schematic illustration in perspective of the tubular structure shown in Figure 6 during a further step in the .formation thereof;
Figure 8 is a fragmentary schematic illustration in perspective of 'the tubular structure shown in Figure 7 during a subsequent step ~n the formation thereof;
Figure g is a fragmentary schematic illustration in perspective of an end of a stack of blankets during the formation of a continuous structure of the invention;
Figure 10 is a sectional view of an overlap area between adjoining sections of a continuous tubular structure of the invention;
Figure 11 is a schematic illustration from above of the apparatus shown in Figure 1 in a~,voperating "~
position; and Figure 12 is a schematic illustration from, above of the apparatus shown in Figure 1 in a stored'posi-tion As shown in the drawings, one form of mobile con-tinuous tubular structure forming and placing apparatus 11 of the present invention includes a support portion 13, a raw material supplying portion 14, a matrix form-ing portion 159 a tubular structure forming portion 16 and a control portion 1'7...
~~'~'~~~
The support portion 13 of the tubular structure forming and placing apparatus 11 of -the invention in-cludes a base section 21. The base section includes carriage means 22 depending therefrom. The carriage means as shown includes an axle assembly 23 with wheels 24 mounted on free ends of axle 25. Advantageously, the support portion l3 includes more than one base sec-tion shown as base sections 20 and 21 which preferably are selectively connectable.
The support portion also advantageously includes blanket support means 27 which preferably extends from base section 21. The blanket support means advanta-geously accommodates a significant length of one or more continuous porous blankets on rolls 28 in a dis-pensing orientation.
The raw material supplying portion 14 includes a plurality of reservoirs 30 , 31, 32 and 33 as required.
The reservoirs may include resin forming components, catalysts, fillers, particulate reinforcements, other additives and the like. The reservoirs are connected independently with mixing means 34 of matrix forming portion 15 through conduit means 36, 37, 38 and 39.
An independent bypass return conduit 40 preferably ex-tends -from an end of each conduit 36 - 39 adjacent mixing means 34 back to the respective reservoir.
In addition to the raw material mixing means 34, the matrix forming portion 15 of the apparatus 11 includes mixture applying means ~~1. The mixing means 34 advan-tageously is o.f the flow through type including an elongated chamber 43 with agitating means such as fixed or movable deflector surfaces (not shown).
The mixture applying means 41 of the matrix form-ing portion 15 preferably is disposed adjacent mixing means 34. The mixture applying means advantageously includes a table section 45 disposed in a generally horizontal orientation below a transversely recipro-cating nozzle 46. The table section preferably includes major surfaces shown as surfaces 47 and 4.~° at a slight angle to one another forming at least one shallow de-pression 48 which most preferably is disposed trans-versely to the movement of a blanket thereover. Ad-vantageously, one or more wiper blades 49 are adjust-ably disposed transversely adjacent the exit end of the table section 45. Tn addition, a hold down roller 50 may be positioned adjacent the entry end of the table.
The tubular structure forming portion 16 of the apparatus 11 includes a frame section 51 with arcuate blanket support means 52 associated therewith. Blanket transporting means 53 is disposed adjacent the blanket support means 52 and is aligned therewith. The blanket transporting means is movable from one end 54 of the arcuate blanket support to an opposite end 55 thereof.
A plurality of spaced finger rnembers 56 and 5~
are disposed along each longitudinal edge 58 and 59 _g-of the arcuate blanket support 52. Tnterconnecting means 60 jams adjacent finger members.
The blanket transporting means 53 advantageously includes blanket end engaging means 62 and preferably includes at least two spaced end engaging means mounted on transverse carrier means 63. The transverse carrier advantageously is supported between spaced parallel longitudinal track members F~4 and 65 of the frame sec-tion 51.
The movable finger members 56 and 57 of structure forming portion 16 preferably are pivotally connected to the arcuate blanket support 52. Advantageously, the movable finger members include sections 66 and 67 that are pivotally connected along the length of each finger member.
The ffinger members preferably are interconnected to provide simultaneous movement of all finger members 56 or 57 that are disposed along one edge 58 or 59 respectively of the arcuate blanket support 52. In addition, the finger members along one edge advanta-geously are interconnected to provide simultaneous move=
went of the corresponding finger sections 66 or 67 of adjacent finger members. Preferably, a continuous expanded metal section 68 or the like may be utilized to interconnect corresponding sections along one edge.
The structure forming portion 16 advantageously also includes support assemblies 71 and 72 disposed -adjacent each end of -the blanket support 52. The support assemblies preferably include cooperating arcuate sec-tions 73 and 74 which are movably suspended from side members 76 and 77 of the frame section 51. The lower ends 78 and 79 of the cooperating arcuat a sections 73 and 74 normally overlap but separate periodically as required in the advance of the continuous tubular strut--ture through the structure forming portion 16 as will be described hereinafter.
To facilitate the formation of different sizes of tubular structures, frame section 51 of structure forming portion 16 may include cross members 81 and a carrier 63 which telescope so they may be shortened or lengthened as required~~to::accommodate'different size arcuate blanket supports 52. Alternatively, the arcuate support 52 may be constructed with adjustable sections (not shown).
The tubular structure forming portion 16 advanta-geously is orientable with respect to the support por-tion 13 and most preferably is orientable to a position substantially parallel to a base section. Also, the matrix forming portion 15 preferably is orientable with respect to base section 21 and with respect to the structure.forming portion 16.
Advantageously, as shown in the drawings, the tubu-lar structure forming portion 16 of the apparatus 11 of the invention is disposed on a separate base section 2~'~~~~~~~
20 which preferably includes wheeled carriage means 22.
The structure forming port ion 16 advantageously is pivotally connected t o base section 20 through upstand-ing supports 82 and pistons 83 so the structure forming portion can be swung from an operating position as shown in Figure 11 to a stored or traveling position in Figure 12.
Tn the same way, the matrix forming portion 15 carried on base section 21 can be pivoted on upstand-ing support 84 from an operating position in Figure 11 that is aligned with the structure forming portion t o, a stored position as shown in Figure 12. The matrix forming portion 15 advantageously may be carried on base section 21 with 'the raw material supplying portion 14 and the control portion 17.
The control portion 17 of the mobile continuous tubular structure forming and placing apparatus 11 of the invention includes blanket advancing means 85, fin-ger moving means 86 and coordinating means 8~. The means 8'7 coordinates the blanket advance, mixture de-livery and the finger movement in a preselected sequence to form a continuous tubular structure.
The control portion advantageously includes a plurality of pumps, valves, monitors, drives and the like (not shown). Preferably, a pump, a valve, and a flow monitor are located along the length of each conduit 36 - 3g that extends between the raw material reservoirs 30 - 33 and the mixing chamber 43. Drives activate the blanket advancing means 85 and the finger moving means 86.
Preferably, the control portion 17 includes pro-grammable memory means 88 which enables the coordina-ting means 8'7 to automatically control the operation of the apparatus 11. The coordinating means advanta-geously includes a process controller that initiates changes in the flows of materials and speeds of drives t o bring variations therein back to the rates speci-fied in 'the programs present in the memory 88.
This coordination commonly is achieved through the transmission of information such as digital pulses from the monitors and/or sensors at the control com-ponents to 'the process controller. The operating in-formation is compared with the preselected programming parameters stored in the memory 88. If differences are detected, instructions from the controller change 'the operation of the components t o restore the various operations to the preselected processing specifications.
The apparatus 11 of the present invention described above and shown in the drawings is used to form a novel continuous tubular structure employing the forming and placing method of the invention.
The specifications of the continuous 'tubular struc-ture first are established. Thereafter, the control portion 1~ including memory 88 which may be a computer, is programmed with the necessary processing parameters to form the desired tubular structure and to achieve the proper placement thereof. Also, the particular blanket materials and the raw materials required t o produce the desired matrix therein are selected.
Suitable porous blankets include woven, knit, non-woven structures, etc. The blankets e.g. fabrics, mats, etc. may be formed of continuous or discontinuous fibers, yarns, slit ribbons and similar natural and synthetic fibrous materials. Reinforcing members such as rapes, cables and the like 'that extend~longitudinally and/or transversely of the blanket centerline may be included if desired. -The solidifiable liquid mixture applied to the blanket in the method of the invention advantageously includes a resin forming mixture and preferably is a thermosetting resin forming mixture such as a polyester or polyurethane forming mixture. The mixture also may include catalysts, fillers, particulate reinforcements and the like.
The apparatus 11 is moved to a location at which the continuous tubular structure is to be foamed and placed. The apparatus is generally aligned alongside a previously excavated trench 8g unto which the struc-ture is to be placed. Buttons and/or switches (not shown) are depressed to activate the memory 88 and I
the other components of the control portion 17. The coordinating means 87 energizes pistons 83 to swing the matrix forming portion 15 and the structure form-ing port ion 16 into an operating position in which the portions are aligned over the trench.
Thereafter, pumps, valves and flow monitors (not shown) are energized by the coordinating means 87 in preselected sequences of the program stored in the memory 88. This causes the raw materials in reservoirs 30 - 33 to advance along the conduits 36 - 39 tourard the mixing chamber 43. For example, to provide a poly-urethane resin matrix, reservoir 30 may contain an isocyanate, reservoir 31 a polyol, 32 a filler, and 33 colors or catalysts, etc. as required.
For the production of a high quality 'tubular struc-ture of the invention, it is important that the raw materials delivered to the mixing chamber 43 be uniform in volume and composition. This can be facilitated by providing a continuous flow of raw materials to the mixing chamber and the immediate transfer of the mixture therefrom to the mixture applying means 41.
Advantageously, separate bypass return conduit 40 is utilized from the end of each conduit 36 - 3g at a point adjacent the mixing chamber 43 back to respec-tive reservoir 30 - 33. This construction provides a freshly formed uniform mixture to the mixture appli-cator even though the distance is considerable between the reservoirs and the mixing chamber which is located closely adjacent to the applicator.
As shown in higure 2 of the drawings, the freshly formed mixture delivered to the mixture applicator passes through transversely reciprocating nozzle 46 which is positioned above table section 45 over'which a porous flexible blanket 91 is advancing. A preselected quan-tity of the mixture flows uniformly, continuously and simultaneously into an entire continuously moving width of the blanket. The quantity of the mixture applied to the blanket is controlled by an adjustable wiper blade 49 that contacts the blanket.
The treated blanket passes between a pair of op-posed rollers 92 which apply pressure to the treated blanket to form a uniform matrix 'therein. The rate of advance of the blanket is monitored and coordinated with the flow rate of the mixture into the blanket and the pressure applied thereto.
Simultaneously with the treatment of blanket 91, a continuous second blanket 93 is transferred to an adjacent temporary supporting surface shown in the drawings as arcuate blanket support 52 and positioned along the length thereof.
Thereafter9 the fre~ end of treated 'blanket 91 is grasped by end engaging means 62 mount ed on trans-verse carrier 63. The carrier_ then is advanced along _15_ longitudinal track members 6LE and 65 of the frame sec-tion 51 to the opposite end 55 -thereof. During 'this advance, the blanket passes through support assembly ~2 and under collapsed bladder material 94~ The blanket 91 now in contact with continuous blanket 93 is cut at a point adjacent the entry end 5~E of the arcuate sup-port 52 with suitable cutting means (not shown). Since the matrix in the treated blanket is still in viscous liquid form, part of the matrix migrates downwardly into the continuous blanket.
At the same time, the end engaging means 62 mounted on transverse carrier 63 is returned to grasp the cut end of the treated blanket 91 and the carrier advanced along the frame section dra~nring the blanket over the previously deposited length of blanket. The deposit of additional lengths of blanket is continued until the preselected programmed specifications are achieved.
The length of bladder material 94 which has been positioned along the axis of the arcuat a blanket sup-port 52 is sealed at end 54 of the blanket support with a clamp 95. An air supply tube g6 is attached to free end 9'7 of the bladder and -the bladder is ~:n-flated into contact with the stack of blankets.
The longitudinal edges of the blankets are wrapped around the bladder and overlapped. This is accomplished by pivoting of the spaced finger members 56 which are in contact with the blanket stack toward 'the inflated bladder.
As shown in Figures ~E and 5 of the drawings, each finger member 56 first is pivoted at its base toward the bladder. This movement causes the part of the blanket stack in contact therewith to move against the bladder. Since the finger members are intercon-nected, all of the finger members 56 spaced along the length of the one edge 58 of the arcuate blanket sup-port 52 will simultaneously press the corresponding area along the full length of the stack against the bladder.
Thereafter, the section of each finger member 56 spaced from the arcuate support edge 58 moves the entire longitudinal edge of the blanket stack against the bladder. Since the blankets are flexible and adhesive, they remain against the bladder while the finger members 57 on opposite edge 5g of the arcuate support 52 are activated and pivoted in two steps in the same manner as with the opposing finger members 56 described above.
This action brings the second edge of the blanket stack into contact with and overlapping the first edge of the blanket stack as shown. The formation of the tubu-lar structure now is completed.
The apparatus 11 is moved forward along the trench causing the completed tubular structure 98 to be separ-ated from the arcuate blanket support 5~ and the free end of the structure to drop into the tronch 89 while still attached to the air supply. The attached end of structure 98 remains in contact with the discharge end 55 of the arcuate blanket support.
-1?-~ ~'~ ~'~ c~ ~.~
The apparatus is stopped and the next section of -tubular structure is fabricated repeating the steps performed in the fabrication of the first tubular section as described above with one addition. The end g9 of the completed structure in contact with the elongated arcuate support 52 is spaced above the end of the arc--uate support with support assembly '71 to facilitate overlapping of the blanket stacks from one section to the next on the continuous blanket 93.
Figure 6 illustrates schematically in perspective the overlap of a forward edge of a blanket stack with the trailing end 99 of a tubular structure 98 that has exited arcuate support 52. ~Cn Figure '7, one longitudi-nal edge 101 of the blanket stack has been wrapped around the inflated bladder (not shown). Figure 8 illustrates the second edge 102 of the blanket stack wrapped around the bladder and overlapping the first edge 1;01.
Figure g illustrates schematically in greater detail the staggered arrangement of blankets in a stack. The blankets 103, 104 and 105 are offset both from side to side and forward and rearward of one another. The stag-gering and overlap of the blanket edges provides a tapered interconnection of the tubular sections as shown in Figure 10. In this way, a novel continuous integral tubular structure with uniform high strength along its length'is achieved according to the method of the present invention.
_l8_ 2~~~ ~ ~~~
The specific strength of a tubular structure is dependent upon the type of fabric employed in the blan-kets, the particular treating material arid the wall thickness. The wall thickness depends upon the number of fabric layers and the material with which they are treated. The diameter of the 'tubular structure is dependent upon the air bladder size, the size of the arcuate blanket support ~2 and the distance between the opposed finger members ~6 and 5'7.
The blankets in a stack may differ in type and construction as discussed above. Sn addition, the blankets in a stack may all be treated with a solidi--fiable liquid mixture or alternatively the stack may include one or more untreated blankets. If desired, a stack may include alternating treated and untreated blankets. Since the matrix within a treated blanket normally is in a viscous liquid state when the blankets are stacked, a part of the matrix in a treated blanket may migrate into an adjoining untreated blanket prior to the solidification thereof.
Also, the liquid mixture applied to the blankets can be a different formulation from that applied to the other blankets. Advantageously, the innermost or top blanket includes a matrix different from that of underlying blankets. The matrix of the inner blanket preferably is flexible after the wrapped blankets are set in a final configuration and secured to a final surface. Most preferably, the:inner blanket vatrix has _19_ l a significantly greater elongation than 'the matrix of underlying blankets.
The above description and the accompanying drawings show that the present invention provides a novel appa-ratus, method and product with features and advantages not known previously. The continuous tubular structure is formed, placed and set easily and efficiently with a minimum of supervision and labor and without special equipment or procedures. The resulting structure is high in strength and low in cost.
The configuration and composition of the tubular structure can be modified along its length automatically to meet the requirements for spillways, headgates, changes in direction and the like. The structure has a long useful life without maintenance or repair. The structure is durable and resistant to damage From impact, fxost, settling of the base and the like.
The base surface requires little, if any, prepara-tion before the tubular structure is placed" The tubular structure can be placed at depressed temperatures not suitable for concrete placement.
The method of the invention permits a wide variety of different tubular structures to be produced. Changes from one design to another can be raade easily and quickly.
2~~~~~a~
It will be apparent 'that various modifications can be made in the particular apparatus, method and product described in detail above and shown in the draw-ings within the scope of the present invention. The arrangement of components, method steps and types of materials can be changed to meet specific requirements.
Also, the tubular structure can, be filled with a foam forming material, if desired. These and other changes can be made in the apparatus, method and product pro-vided the functioning and operation thereof are not adversely affected. Therefore, the scope of the present invention is to be limited only by the following claa.ms.
The present invention relates to a novel mobile tubular structure forming and placing apparatus and method, and to a new continuous tubular structure produced thereby.
According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a mobile continuous tubular structure forming and placing apparatus including a support portion, a raw material supplying portion, a matrix forming portion, a tubular structure forming portion and a control portion.
The support portion includes a base section with a wheeled carriage means depending therefrom. The raw material supplying portion includes a plurality of reservoirs connected independently with the matrix forming portion through conduit means. The matrix forming portion includes mixing and applying means. The tubular structure forming portion includes a frame section, and an arcuate blanket support means associated with the frame section. A blanket transporting means is aligned with the arcuate blanket support means, with the blanket transporting means being movable from one end of said arcuate blanket support means to an opposite end thereof.
A plurality of spaced movable finger members are disposed along each longitudinal edge of the arcuate blanket support means, with interconnecting means joining adjacent finger members. The control portion includes a blanket advancing means, a finger moving means and a coordinating means. The coordinating means is for coordinating the blanket advance, mixture delivery and finger movement in a preselected sequence to form a continuous tubular structure.
According to an embodiment of the present invention, the arcuate blanket support means includes an elongated arcuate section.
-3 a-According to another embodiment of the present invention, the blanket transporting means includes end engaging means. In yet another embodiment, the blanket transporting means includes at least two spaced end engaging means mounted on a transverse carrier means. In a further embodiment, the transverse carrier means is supported between spaced parallel longitudinal track members of said frame section.
According to another embodiment of the present invention, the movable finger members are pivotally connected to the arcuate blanket support means. In still another embodiment, the movable finger members include sections pivotally connected along the length of each finger member. In a further embodiment, the finger members along one edge of the arcuate blanket support means are interconnected to provide simultaneous movement of corresponding finger sections of adjacent finger members.
In yet another embodiment, the finger members are interconnected to provide simultaneous movement of all finger members that are disposed along one edge of the arcuate blanket support means.
According to another embodiment of the present invention, the matrix forming portion is orientable with respect to the base section. According to yet another embodiment, the matrix forming portion includes a table section disposed in a generally horizontal orientation during application of a solidifiable liquid mixture to a blanket moving over the table section. In a further embodiment, the table section includes major surfaces disposed at a slight angle to one another forming at least one shallow depression transverse to movement of a blanket thereover.
According to another embodiment of the present invention, tubular structure forming portion is orientable with -3 b-respect to the base section, In a further embodiment, the tubular structure forming portion is orientable to a position substantially parallel to the base section. In yet another embodiment, the tubular structure forming portion is orientable with respect to the matrix forming portion. In still another embodiment, the tubular structure forming portion includes envelope inflating means. Any envelope, including, but not limited to, a bladder, may be used in the context of the present invention.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of continuously forming and placing an extended length of a tubular structure at a job site including the steps of providing a supply of a porous flexible blanket, providing a plurality of thermosetting resin forming raw material reservoirs, advancing each raw material independently to mixing means disposed closedly adjacent to mixture applying means, mixing the raw materials in preselected proportions, immediately continuously flowing uniformly a preselected quantity of a high viscosisty flowable thermosetting resin forming mixture simultaneously into an entire continuously moving width of the porous flexible blanket, applying pressure against the treated blanket to form a uniform matrix therein, monitoring the rate of advance of the blanket, coordinating the rate of advance with the flow rate of the mixture into the blanket and with the pressure applied thereto, transferring a continuous blanket to an adjacent temporary surface, positioning at least one length of treated blanket over the supported continuous blanket, positioning a substantially flat non-porous flexible envelope along the stacked blankets, introducing a pressurized gas into the envelope, inflating the envelope while in contact with the stacked blankets, wrapping the stacked blankets around the inflated envelope, disposing opposite longitudinal free -3 c-edges of the blankets in an overlapping relationship, continuously positioning the inflated envelope/wrapped blanket combination along a preselected path while the combination is deformable and the matrix is adhesive, maintaining the non-porous envelope in an inflated state until the wrapped blankets are set in a final tubular configuration and bonded to a final supporting surface.
Any envelope, including, but not limited to, a bladder, may be used in the context of the present invention.
According to an embodiment of the present invention, the supported continuous blanket is treated to form a matrix therein. In still another embodiment, a plurality of blanket lengths are positioned sequentially over the supported continuous blanket. In a further embodiment, transverse edges of the stacked blankets are staggered in a predetermined arrangement and after being wrapped around the inflated envelope are in contact with corresponding transverse edges of preceding and succeeding wrapped blankets disposed along the supported continuous blanket. In yet another embodiment, the present method, includes simultaneously wrapping an entire longitudinal free edge of blanket lengths in an overlapping relationship.
According to another embodiment of the present invention, a top length of the stacked blankets includes a matrix with a composition different from that of underlying blankets. In yet another embodiment, the matrix of the top length of the stacked blankets is flexible after the wrapped blankets are set in a final configuration. In still another embodiment, the matrix of the top blanket length has a significantly greater elongation than the matrix of underlying blankets.
According to another embodiment of the present invention, at least one length of an untreated blanket is positioned -3 d-in contact with at least one treated blanket in forming the stack of blankets. In yet another embodiment, alternating treated and untreated blankets form the stack of blankets.
According to another embodiment of the present invention, a foam forming material is introduced into the envelope.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a tubular structure of extended length formed according to a method of the present invention.
This summary does not necessarily describe all necessary features of the invention but that the invention may also reside in a sub-combination of the described features.
The present invention provides a novel .mobile continuous tubular.str~uc.ture forming and placing ap-paratus and method which overcome the deficiencies -3 e-of previous expedients. The invention not only over-comes those shortcomings, but also provides features and advantages not found in previous technology. The apparatus and method of the invention produce a uniform quality tubular structure continuously and quickly.
The tubular structure of the invention is formed and placed with little hand labor. With the apparatus and method of the invention, the configuration and composition of the tubular structure can be modified along its length as desired automatically to provide special configurations for spillways, headgates, changes in direction and the like.
Mobile apparatus for forming and placing the novel tubular structure according to the method of the present;
invention is simple in design and can be produced rela-tively inexpensively. Commercially available materials and components can be utilized with conventional fab-ricating procedures in the manufacture of the apparatus.
Semiskilled vaorkmen can operate the apparatus efficien-tly after a minimum of instruction. The apparatus is durable in construction and has a long useful life with little maintenance.
The apparatus and method of the invention can bo modified to form a variety of different tubular struc-tures. Variations in physical dimensions, composition and surface appearance, etc. can be achieved quickly.
Even with such variations, uniform quality i.s maintained without difficulty.
E-These and other benefits and advantages of the novel apparatus, method and tubular structure of 'the present invention will be apparent from the following description and the accompanying drawings in which:
Figure 1 is a view in perspective of one form of continuous tubular structure forming and placing appa-ratus of the invention;
Figure 2 is a side view partially in section of the structure forming portion of the apparatus shown in Figure 1~ during the formation of a continuous tubu-lar structure of the invention;
Figure ~ is a sectional end view o:F the structure forming portion shown in Figure 2 taken along line 3 - 3 thereof ;
Figure 4 is a fragmentary schematic illustration of the structure forming portion shown in Figure 3~
during the formation of a continuous tubular structure of the invention;
Figure 5 is a fragmentary schematic illustration of the structure forming portion shown in Figure 4 during a succeeding step in the formation of a continuous tubular structure of the invention;
Figure 6 is a fragmentary schematic illustration in perspective of a continuous tubular .st~uGt,ure of the invention during the formation thereof;
Figure '7 is a fragmentary schematic illustration in perspective of the tubular structure shown in Figure 6 during a further step in the .formation thereof;
Figure 8 is a fragmentary schematic illustration in perspective of 'the tubular structure shown in Figure 7 during a subsequent step ~n the formation thereof;
Figure g is a fragmentary schematic illustration in perspective of an end of a stack of blankets during the formation of a continuous structure of the invention;
Figure 10 is a sectional view of an overlap area between adjoining sections of a continuous tubular structure of the invention;
Figure 11 is a schematic illustration from above of the apparatus shown in Figure 1 in a~,voperating "~
position; and Figure 12 is a schematic illustration from, above of the apparatus shown in Figure 1 in a stored'posi-tion As shown in the drawings, one form of mobile con-tinuous tubular structure forming and placing apparatus 11 of the present invention includes a support portion 13, a raw material supplying portion 14, a matrix form-ing portion 159 a tubular structure forming portion 16 and a control portion 1'7...
~~'~'~~~
The support portion 13 of the tubular structure forming and placing apparatus 11 of -the invention in-cludes a base section 21. The base section includes carriage means 22 depending therefrom. The carriage means as shown includes an axle assembly 23 with wheels 24 mounted on free ends of axle 25. Advantageously, the support portion l3 includes more than one base sec-tion shown as base sections 20 and 21 which preferably are selectively connectable.
The support portion also advantageously includes blanket support means 27 which preferably extends from base section 21. The blanket support means advanta-geously accommodates a significant length of one or more continuous porous blankets on rolls 28 in a dis-pensing orientation.
The raw material supplying portion 14 includes a plurality of reservoirs 30 , 31, 32 and 33 as required.
The reservoirs may include resin forming components, catalysts, fillers, particulate reinforcements, other additives and the like. The reservoirs are connected independently with mixing means 34 of matrix forming portion 15 through conduit means 36, 37, 38 and 39.
An independent bypass return conduit 40 preferably ex-tends -from an end of each conduit 36 - 39 adjacent mixing means 34 back to the respective reservoir.
In addition to the raw material mixing means 34, the matrix forming portion 15 of the apparatus 11 includes mixture applying means ~~1. The mixing means 34 advan-tageously is o.f the flow through type including an elongated chamber 43 with agitating means such as fixed or movable deflector surfaces (not shown).
The mixture applying means 41 of the matrix form-ing portion 15 preferably is disposed adjacent mixing means 34. The mixture applying means advantageously includes a table section 45 disposed in a generally horizontal orientation below a transversely recipro-cating nozzle 46. The table section preferably includes major surfaces shown as surfaces 47 and 4.~° at a slight angle to one another forming at least one shallow de-pression 48 which most preferably is disposed trans-versely to the movement of a blanket thereover. Ad-vantageously, one or more wiper blades 49 are adjust-ably disposed transversely adjacent the exit end of the table section 45. Tn addition, a hold down roller 50 may be positioned adjacent the entry end of the table.
The tubular structure forming portion 16 of the apparatus 11 includes a frame section 51 with arcuate blanket support means 52 associated therewith. Blanket transporting means 53 is disposed adjacent the blanket support means 52 and is aligned therewith. The blanket transporting means is movable from one end 54 of the arcuate blanket support to an opposite end 55 thereof.
A plurality of spaced finger rnembers 56 and 5~
are disposed along each longitudinal edge 58 and 59 _g-of the arcuate blanket support 52. Tnterconnecting means 60 jams adjacent finger members.
The blanket transporting means 53 advantageously includes blanket end engaging means 62 and preferably includes at least two spaced end engaging means mounted on transverse carrier means 63. The transverse carrier advantageously is supported between spaced parallel longitudinal track members F~4 and 65 of the frame sec-tion 51.
The movable finger members 56 and 57 of structure forming portion 16 preferably are pivotally connected to the arcuate blanket support 52. Advantageously, the movable finger members include sections 66 and 67 that are pivotally connected along the length of each finger member.
The ffinger members preferably are interconnected to provide simultaneous movement of all finger members 56 or 57 that are disposed along one edge 58 or 59 respectively of the arcuate blanket support 52. In addition, the finger members along one edge advanta-geously are interconnected to provide simultaneous move=
went of the corresponding finger sections 66 or 67 of adjacent finger members. Preferably, a continuous expanded metal section 68 or the like may be utilized to interconnect corresponding sections along one edge.
The structure forming portion 16 advantageously also includes support assemblies 71 and 72 disposed -adjacent each end of -the blanket support 52. The support assemblies preferably include cooperating arcuate sec-tions 73 and 74 which are movably suspended from side members 76 and 77 of the frame section 51. The lower ends 78 and 79 of the cooperating arcuat a sections 73 and 74 normally overlap but separate periodically as required in the advance of the continuous tubular strut--ture through the structure forming portion 16 as will be described hereinafter.
To facilitate the formation of different sizes of tubular structures, frame section 51 of structure forming portion 16 may include cross members 81 and a carrier 63 which telescope so they may be shortened or lengthened as required~~to::accommodate'different size arcuate blanket supports 52. Alternatively, the arcuate support 52 may be constructed with adjustable sections (not shown).
The tubular structure forming portion 16 advanta-geously is orientable with respect to the support por-tion 13 and most preferably is orientable to a position substantially parallel to a base section. Also, the matrix forming portion 15 preferably is orientable with respect to base section 21 and with respect to the structure.forming portion 16.
Advantageously, as shown in the drawings, the tubu-lar structure forming portion 16 of the apparatus 11 of the invention is disposed on a separate base section 2~'~~~~~~~
20 which preferably includes wheeled carriage means 22.
The structure forming port ion 16 advantageously is pivotally connected t o base section 20 through upstand-ing supports 82 and pistons 83 so the structure forming portion can be swung from an operating position as shown in Figure 11 to a stored or traveling position in Figure 12.
Tn the same way, the matrix forming portion 15 carried on base section 21 can be pivoted on upstand-ing support 84 from an operating position in Figure 11 that is aligned with the structure forming portion t o, a stored position as shown in Figure 12. The matrix forming portion 15 advantageously may be carried on base section 21 with 'the raw material supplying portion 14 and the control portion 17.
The control portion 17 of the mobile continuous tubular structure forming and placing apparatus 11 of the invention includes blanket advancing means 85, fin-ger moving means 86 and coordinating means 8~. The means 8'7 coordinates the blanket advance, mixture de-livery and the finger movement in a preselected sequence to form a continuous tubular structure.
The control portion advantageously includes a plurality of pumps, valves, monitors, drives and the like (not shown). Preferably, a pump, a valve, and a flow monitor are located along the length of each conduit 36 - 3g that extends between the raw material reservoirs 30 - 33 and the mixing chamber 43. Drives activate the blanket advancing means 85 and the finger moving means 86.
Preferably, the control portion 17 includes pro-grammable memory means 88 which enables the coordina-ting means 8'7 to automatically control the operation of the apparatus 11. The coordinating means advanta-geously includes a process controller that initiates changes in the flows of materials and speeds of drives t o bring variations therein back to the rates speci-fied in 'the programs present in the memory 88.
This coordination commonly is achieved through the transmission of information such as digital pulses from the monitors and/or sensors at the control com-ponents to 'the process controller. The operating in-formation is compared with the preselected programming parameters stored in the memory 88. If differences are detected, instructions from the controller change 'the operation of the components t o restore the various operations to the preselected processing specifications.
The apparatus 11 of the present invention described above and shown in the drawings is used to form a novel continuous tubular structure employing the forming and placing method of the invention.
The specifications of the continuous 'tubular struc-ture first are established. Thereafter, the control portion 1~ including memory 88 which may be a computer, is programmed with the necessary processing parameters to form the desired tubular structure and to achieve the proper placement thereof. Also, the particular blanket materials and the raw materials required t o produce the desired matrix therein are selected.
Suitable porous blankets include woven, knit, non-woven structures, etc. The blankets e.g. fabrics, mats, etc. may be formed of continuous or discontinuous fibers, yarns, slit ribbons and similar natural and synthetic fibrous materials. Reinforcing members such as rapes, cables and the like 'that extend~longitudinally and/or transversely of the blanket centerline may be included if desired. -The solidifiable liquid mixture applied to the blanket in the method of the invention advantageously includes a resin forming mixture and preferably is a thermosetting resin forming mixture such as a polyester or polyurethane forming mixture. The mixture also may include catalysts, fillers, particulate reinforcements and the like.
The apparatus 11 is moved to a location at which the continuous tubular structure is to be foamed and placed. The apparatus is generally aligned alongside a previously excavated trench 8g unto which the struc-ture is to be placed. Buttons and/or switches (not shown) are depressed to activate the memory 88 and I
the other components of the control portion 17. The coordinating means 87 energizes pistons 83 to swing the matrix forming portion 15 and the structure form-ing port ion 16 into an operating position in which the portions are aligned over the trench.
Thereafter, pumps, valves and flow monitors (not shown) are energized by the coordinating means 87 in preselected sequences of the program stored in the memory 88. This causes the raw materials in reservoirs 30 - 33 to advance along the conduits 36 - 39 tourard the mixing chamber 43. For example, to provide a poly-urethane resin matrix, reservoir 30 may contain an isocyanate, reservoir 31 a polyol, 32 a filler, and 33 colors or catalysts, etc. as required.
For the production of a high quality 'tubular struc-ture of the invention, it is important that the raw materials delivered to the mixing chamber 43 be uniform in volume and composition. This can be facilitated by providing a continuous flow of raw materials to the mixing chamber and the immediate transfer of the mixture therefrom to the mixture applying means 41.
Advantageously, separate bypass return conduit 40 is utilized from the end of each conduit 36 - 3g at a point adjacent the mixing chamber 43 back to respec-tive reservoir 30 - 33. This construction provides a freshly formed uniform mixture to the mixture appli-cator even though the distance is considerable between the reservoirs and the mixing chamber which is located closely adjacent to the applicator.
As shown in higure 2 of the drawings, the freshly formed mixture delivered to the mixture applicator passes through transversely reciprocating nozzle 46 which is positioned above table section 45 over'which a porous flexible blanket 91 is advancing. A preselected quan-tity of the mixture flows uniformly, continuously and simultaneously into an entire continuously moving width of the blanket. The quantity of the mixture applied to the blanket is controlled by an adjustable wiper blade 49 that contacts the blanket.
The treated blanket passes between a pair of op-posed rollers 92 which apply pressure to the treated blanket to form a uniform matrix 'therein. The rate of advance of the blanket is monitored and coordinated with the flow rate of the mixture into the blanket and the pressure applied thereto.
Simultaneously with the treatment of blanket 91, a continuous second blanket 93 is transferred to an adjacent temporary supporting surface shown in the drawings as arcuate blanket support 52 and positioned along the length thereof.
Thereafter9 the fre~ end of treated 'blanket 91 is grasped by end engaging means 62 mount ed on trans-verse carrier 63. The carrier_ then is advanced along _15_ longitudinal track members 6LE and 65 of the frame sec-tion 51 to the opposite end 55 -thereof. During 'this advance, the blanket passes through support assembly ~2 and under collapsed bladder material 94~ The blanket 91 now in contact with continuous blanket 93 is cut at a point adjacent the entry end 5~E of the arcuate sup-port 52 with suitable cutting means (not shown). Since the matrix in the treated blanket is still in viscous liquid form, part of the matrix migrates downwardly into the continuous blanket.
At the same time, the end engaging means 62 mounted on transverse carrier 63 is returned to grasp the cut end of the treated blanket 91 and the carrier advanced along the frame section dra~nring the blanket over the previously deposited length of blanket. The deposit of additional lengths of blanket is continued until the preselected programmed specifications are achieved.
The length of bladder material 94 which has been positioned along the axis of the arcuat a blanket sup-port 52 is sealed at end 54 of the blanket support with a clamp 95. An air supply tube g6 is attached to free end 9'7 of the bladder and -the bladder is ~:n-flated into contact with the stack of blankets.
The longitudinal edges of the blankets are wrapped around the bladder and overlapped. This is accomplished by pivoting of the spaced finger members 56 which are in contact with the blanket stack toward 'the inflated bladder.
As shown in Figures ~E and 5 of the drawings, each finger member 56 first is pivoted at its base toward the bladder. This movement causes the part of the blanket stack in contact therewith to move against the bladder. Since the finger members are intercon-nected, all of the finger members 56 spaced along the length of the one edge 58 of the arcuate blanket sup-port 52 will simultaneously press the corresponding area along the full length of the stack against the bladder.
Thereafter, the section of each finger member 56 spaced from the arcuate support edge 58 moves the entire longitudinal edge of the blanket stack against the bladder. Since the blankets are flexible and adhesive, they remain against the bladder while the finger members 57 on opposite edge 5g of the arcuate support 52 are activated and pivoted in two steps in the same manner as with the opposing finger members 56 described above.
This action brings the second edge of the blanket stack into contact with and overlapping the first edge of the blanket stack as shown. The formation of the tubu-lar structure now is completed.
The apparatus 11 is moved forward along the trench causing the completed tubular structure 98 to be separ-ated from the arcuate blanket support 5~ and the free end of the structure to drop into the tronch 89 while still attached to the air supply. The attached end of structure 98 remains in contact with the discharge end 55 of the arcuate blanket support.
-1?-~ ~'~ ~'~ c~ ~.~
The apparatus is stopped and the next section of -tubular structure is fabricated repeating the steps performed in the fabrication of the first tubular section as described above with one addition. The end g9 of the completed structure in contact with the elongated arcuate support 52 is spaced above the end of the arc--uate support with support assembly '71 to facilitate overlapping of the blanket stacks from one section to the next on the continuous blanket 93.
Figure 6 illustrates schematically in perspective the overlap of a forward edge of a blanket stack with the trailing end 99 of a tubular structure 98 that has exited arcuate support 52. ~Cn Figure '7, one longitudi-nal edge 101 of the blanket stack has been wrapped around the inflated bladder (not shown). Figure 8 illustrates the second edge 102 of the blanket stack wrapped around the bladder and overlapping the first edge 1;01.
Figure g illustrates schematically in greater detail the staggered arrangement of blankets in a stack. The blankets 103, 104 and 105 are offset both from side to side and forward and rearward of one another. The stag-gering and overlap of the blanket edges provides a tapered interconnection of the tubular sections as shown in Figure 10. In this way, a novel continuous integral tubular structure with uniform high strength along its length'is achieved according to the method of the present invention.
_l8_ 2~~~ ~ ~~~
The specific strength of a tubular structure is dependent upon the type of fabric employed in the blan-kets, the particular treating material arid the wall thickness. The wall thickness depends upon the number of fabric layers and the material with which they are treated. The diameter of the 'tubular structure is dependent upon the air bladder size, the size of the arcuate blanket support ~2 and the distance between the opposed finger members ~6 and 5'7.
The blankets in a stack may differ in type and construction as discussed above. Sn addition, the blankets in a stack may all be treated with a solidi--fiable liquid mixture or alternatively the stack may include one or more untreated blankets. If desired, a stack may include alternating treated and untreated blankets. Since the matrix within a treated blanket normally is in a viscous liquid state when the blankets are stacked, a part of the matrix in a treated blanket may migrate into an adjoining untreated blanket prior to the solidification thereof.
Also, the liquid mixture applied to the blankets can be a different formulation from that applied to the other blankets. Advantageously, the innermost or top blanket includes a matrix different from that of underlying blankets. The matrix of the inner blanket preferably is flexible after the wrapped blankets are set in a final configuration and secured to a final surface. Most preferably, the:inner blanket vatrix has _19_ l a significantly greater elongation than 'the matrix of underlying blankets.
The above description and the accompanying drawings show that the present invention provides a novel appa-ratus, method and product with features and advantages not known previously. The continuous tubular structure is formed, placed and set easily and efficiently with a minimum of supervision and labor and without special equipment or procedures. The resulting structure is high in strength and low in cost.
The configuration and composition of the tubular structure can be modified along its length automatically to meet the requirements for spillways, headgates, changes in direction and the like. The structure has a long useful life without maintenance or repair. The structure is durable and resistant to damage From impact, fxost, settling of the base and the like.
The base surface requires little, if any, prepara-tion before the tubular structure is placed" The tubular structure can be placed at depressed temperatures not suitable for concrete placement.
The method of the invention permits a wide variety of different tubular structures to be produced. Changes from one design to another can be raade easily and quickly.
2~~~~~a~
It will be apparent 'that various modifications can be made in the particular apparatus, method and product described in detail above and shown in the draw-ings within the scope of the present invention. The arrangement of components, method steps and types of materials can be changed to meet specific requirements.
Also, the tubular structure can, be filled with a foam forming material, if desired. These and other changes can be made in the apparatus, method and product pro-vided the functioning and operation thereof are not adversely affected. Therefore, the scope of the present invention is to be limited only by the following claa.ms.
Claims (30)
1. Mobile continuous tubular structure forming and placing apparatus including a support portion, a raw material supplying portion, a matrix forming por-tion, a tubular structure forming portion and a control portion; said support portion including a base section with wheeled carriage means depending therefrom; said raw material supplying portion including a plurality of reservoirs connected independently with said matrix forming portion through conduit means; said matrix form-ing portion including mixing and applying means; said tubular structure forming portion including a frame section, arcuate blanket support means associated with said frame section, blanket transporting means disposed adjacent said arcuate blanket support means and aligned therewith, said blanket transporting means being movable from one end of sand arcuate blanket support means to an opposite end thereof, a plurality of spaced movable finger members disposed along each longitudinal edge of said arcuate blanket support means, interconnecting means joining adjacent finger members; said control portion including blanket advancing means, finger moving means and coordinating means for said blanket advance, mixture delivery and finger movement in a preselected sequence to form a continuous tubular structure.
2. Mobile continuous structure forming and placing apparatus according to Claim 1 wherein said arcuate blanket support means includes an elongated arcuate section.
3. Mobile continuous structure forming and placing apparatus according to Claim 1 wherein said blanket transporting means includes end engaging means.
4. Mobile continuous structure forming and placing apparatus according to Claim 1 wherein said blanket transporting means includes at least two spaced end engaging means mounted on transverse carrier means.
5. Mobile continuous structure forming and placing apparatus according to Claim 4 wherein said transverse carrier means is supported between spaced parallel longitudinal track members of said frame section.
6. Mobile continuous structure forming and placing apparatus according to Claim 1 wherein said movable fin-ger members are pivotally connected to said arcuate blanket support means.
7. Mobile continuous structure forming and placing apparatus according to Claim 1 wherein said movable fin-ger members include sections pivotally connected along the length thereof.
8. Mobile continuous structure forming and placing apparatus according to Claim 1 wherein said finger members are interconnected to provide simultaneous movement of all finger members disposed along one edge of said arcuate blanket support means.
9. Mobile continuous structure forming and placing apparatus according to Claim 7 wherein said finger members along one edge of said arcuate blanket support means are interconnected to provide simultaneous move-ment of corresponding finger sections of adjacent fin-ger members.
10. Mobile continuous structure forming and placing apparatus according to Claim 1 wherein said matrix form-ing portion includes a table section disposed in a generally horizontal orientation during application of a solidifiable liquid mixture to a blanket moving thereover.
11. Mobile continuous structure forming and placing apparatus according to Claim 10 wherein said table section includes major surfaces disposed at a slight angle to one another forming at least one shallow depression transverse to movement of said blanket thereover.
12. Mobile continuous structure forming and placing apparatus according to Claim 1 wherein said tubular structure forming portion is orientable with respect to said base section.
13. Mobile continuous structure forming and placing apparatus according to Claim 12 wherein said tubular structure farming port ion is orientable to a position substantially parallel to said base section.
14. Mobile continuous structure forming and placing apparatus according to Claim 1 wherein said matrix forming portion is orientable with respect t o said base section.
15. Mobile continuous structure forming and placing apparatus according to Claim 1 wherein said tubular structure forming portion is orientable with respect to said matrix forming portion.
16. Mobile continuous structure forming and placing apparatus according to Claim 1 wherein said tubular structure forming portion includes envelope inflating means.
17. A method of continuously forming and placing an extended length of a tubular structure at a job site including the steps of providing a supply of a porous flex-ible blanket, providing a plurality of thermosetting resin forming raw material reservoirs, advancing each raw material independently to mixing means disposed closely adjacent to mixture applying means, mixing Said raw materials in pre-selected proportions, immediately continuously flowing uniformly a preselected quantity of a high viscosity flow-able thermosetting resin forming mixture simultaneously into an entire continuously moving width of said porous flexible blanket, applying pressure against said treated blanket to form a uniform matrix therein, monitoring the rate of advance of said blanket, coordinating said rate of advance with the flow rate of said mixture into said blanket and with the pressure applied thereto, transferring a con-tinuous blanket to an adjacent temporary surface, positioning at least one length of treated blanket over said supported continuous blanket, positioning a substantially flat non-porous flexible envelope along the stacked blankets, intro-ducing a pressurized gas into said envelope, inflating said envelope while in contact with said stacked blankets, wrap-ping said stacked blankets around said inflated envelope, disposing opposite longitudinal free edges of said blankets in an overlapping relationship, continuously positioning said inflated envelope/wrapped blanket combination along a preselected path while said combination is deformable and said matrix is adhesive, maintaining said non-porous envelope in an inflated state until said wrapped blankets are set in a final tubular configuration and bonded to a final support-ing surface.
18. A method according to Claim 17 wherein said supported continuous blanket is treated to form a matrix therein.
19. A method according to Claim 17 wherein a top length of said stacked blankets includes a matrix with a composition different from that of underlying blankets.
20. A method according to Claim 17 wherein said matrix of said top length of said stacked blankets is flexible after said wrapped blankets are set in a final configuration.
21. A method according to Claim 17 wherein said matrix of said top blanket length has a significantly greater elongation than the matrix of underlying blankets.
22. A method according to Claim 17 wherein a plurality of blanket lengths are positioned sequentially over said supported continuous blanket.
23. A method according to Claim 22 wherein transverse edges of said stacked blankets are staggered in a prede-termined arrangement and after being wrapped around said inflated envelope are in contact with corresponding transverse edges of preceding and succeeding wrapped blankets disposed along said supported continuous blanket.
24. A method according to Claim 17 including simul-taneously wrapping an entire longitudinal free edge of said blanket lengths in said overlapping relationship.
25. A method according to Claim 17 wherein at least one length of an untreated blanket is positioned in contact with at least one treated blanket forming said stack of blankets.
26. A method according to Claim 17 wherein alterna-ting treated and untreated blankets form said stack of blankets.
27. A method according to Claim 17 wherein a foam forming material is introduced into said envelope.
28. A tubular structure of extended length formed according to the method of Claim 17.
29. A tubular structure of extended length formed according to the method of Claim 18.
30. A tubular structure of extended length formed according to the method of Claim 27.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US07/753,344 US5145282A (en) | 1988-08-23 | 1991-08-30 | Continuous tubular structure forming and placing apparatus and method |
| US753344 | 2000-12-29 |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2074764A1 CA2074764A1 (en) | 1993-03-01 |
| CA2074764C true CA2074764C (en) | 2003-12-16 |
Family
ID=25030247
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2074764 Expired - Lifetime CA2074764C (en) | 1991-08-30 | 1992-07-28 | Continuous tubular structure forming and placing apparatus and method |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2074764C (en) |
-
1992
- 1992-07-28 CA CA 2074764 patent/CA2074764C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2074764A1 (en) | 1993-03-01 |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| US5145282A (en) | Continuous tubular structure forming and placing apparatus and method | |
| US4955759A (en) | Ditch lining apparatus and method and product therefrom | |
| US4872784A (en) | Ditch lining apparatus and method and product therefrom | |
| US4009063A (en) | Method of lining a pipe | |
| US3726951A (en) | Method for preparing walled structures from foamable thermosetting synthetic resinous material | |
| US4450128A (en) | Glass fiber-reinforced cement plates | |
| US6416854B2 (en) | Monolithic roofing surface membranes and applicators and methods for same | |
| CN101900239B (en) | Method for repairing drainage pipeline without water supply suspended | |
| EP0681512B1 (en) | Laminated waterstop using bentonite and bentones | |
| EA017468B1 (en) | Method and gypsum delivery system for manufacturing gypsum board | |
| JPH11500079A (en) | Structural reinforcement members and their use for product reinforcement | |
| US3740291A (en) | Method and apparatus for applying a coating to a tubular member | |
| JP4133805B2 (en) | Glass fiber reinforced gypsum board and manufacturing method | |
| CA3060530A1 (en) | Cementitious composite mat | |
| WO2007122472A1 (en) | Method and machine for lining a pipe | |
| CA2187092C (en) | Structure forming method, apparatus and the resulting product | |
| CA2074764C (en) | Continuous tubular structure forming and placing apparatus and method | |
| CN85105541B (en) | Reinforced conventional concrete pipe having an evenly distributed steel wire reinforcement and method for its manufacture | |
| US4358264A (en) | Centrifugal molding apparatus for manufacturing composite material pipes | |
| US3625014A (en) | Method and apparatus for underwater deposition of settable materials | |
| CA2385011C (en) | Structure forming method, apparatus and product | |
| CA2040666C (en) | Continuous structure forming method and the resulting product | |
| CA1308640C (en) | Manufacture of flexible reinforced polymeric article | |
| US5725716A (en) | Structure forming method and apparatus | |
| CN218948478U (en) | Glass fiber reinforced plastic product production device |
Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKEX | Expiry |