EP3630416B1 - Rohrhandhabungsvorrichtung - Google Patents

Rohrhandhabungsvorrichtung Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3630416B1
EP3630416B1 EP18746004.3A EP18746004A EP3630416B1 EP 3630416 B1 EP3630416 B1 EP 3630416B1 EP 18746004 A EP18746004 A EP 18746004A EP 3630416 B1 EP3630416 B1 EP 3630416B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
pipe
urging element
handling apparatus
urging
drive mechanism
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.)
Active
Application number
EP18746004.3A
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English (en)
French (fr)
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EP3630416A1 (de
Inventor
Sung-Hua Wang
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Cattano Ltd
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Cattano Ltd
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Filing date
Publication date
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Publication of EP3630416A1 publication Critical patent/EP3630416A1/de
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Publication of EP3630416B1 publication Critical patent/EP3630416B1/de
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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
    • B25B—TOOLS OR BENCH DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, FOR FASTENING, CONNECTING, DISENGAGING OR HOLDING
    • B25B27/00—Hand tools, specially adapted for fitting together or separating parts or objects whether or not involving some deformation, not otherwise provided for
    • B25B27/02—Hand tools, specially adapted for fitting together or separating parts or objects whether or not involving some deformation, not otherwise provided for for connecting objects by press fit or detaching same
    • B25B27/10—Hand tools, specially adapted for fitting together or separating parts or objects whether or not involving some deformation, not otherwise provided for for connecting objects by press fit or detaching same inserting fittings into hoses
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B21—MECHANICAL METAL-WORKING WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
    • B21D—WORKING OR PROCESSING OF SHEET METAL OR METAL TUBES, RODS OR PROFILES WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
    • B21D39/00—Application of procedures in order to connect objects or parts, e.g. coating with sheet metal otherwise than by plating; Tube expanders
    • B21D39/04—Application of procedures in order to connect objects or parts, e.g. coating with sheet metal otherwise than by plating; Tube expanders of tubes with tubes; of tubes with rods
    • B21D39/046—Connecting tubes to tube-like fittings

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to pipe handling apparatus, in particular to pipe handling apparatus for use in inserting a pipe into, or releasing a pipe from, a pipe fitting.
  • a secure and reliable connection between a pipe and a pipe fitting is important; however, a problem exists in ensuring that a proper fit between the pipe and the pipe fitting is established during connection. For example, an inability to achieve sufficient grip, awkward access and/or limited manoeuvring space can not only hinder an adequate connection between the pipe and pipe fitting being achieved but can also hamper subsequent expedient disconnection.
  • UK Patent Publication GB 2481412 A represents the closest prior art and discloses a pipe handling tool comprising a shoulder and a pipe drive mechanism.
  • a collar of a pipe connector element is located against the shoulder of the pipe handling tool, and the pipe drive mechanism is operable to urge a received section of pipe towards the shoulder, and in turn towards the received pipe connector element, to insert the pipe into engagement with the received pipe connector element with a positive mechanical fit.
  • UK Patent Publication GB 2481412 A also discloses first and second pipe chamfering tools for removing material from the end of a pipe to provide the pipe with a bevelled edge, this feature serving to facilitate entry of the pipe end into a pipe connector element.
  • the present invention provides improved pipe handling apparatus.
  • pipe handling apparatus comprising: a frame, a support element, and a pipe drive mechanism; the pipe drive mechanism comprising a first pipe urging element and a second pipe urging element, the first pipe urging element and the second pipe urging element each rotatable relative to the frame; said pipe handling apparatus configured to receive a pipe such that a received pipe is supported by the support element and is gripped between the first pipe urging element and the second pipe urging element, and said pipe drive mechanism configured, in response to operation thereof, to urge a received pipe in a drive direction; the pipe drive mechanism comprising a first pipe urging element engagement arrangement providing a first operative connection between the first pipe urging element and the second pipe urging element, the first pipe urging element engagement arrangement configured to guide rotation of the first and second pipe urging elements during operation of the pipe drive mechanism, the first pipe urging element engagement arrangement comprising a first toothed gear portion of the first pipe urging element and a second toothed gear portion of the second pipe urging element, the first pipe urging element
  • the pipe handling apparatus may comprise a first handle that extends from the frame element and a second handle that extends from the frame element, the first handle rotatable relative to the second handle to actuate the pipe drive mechanism to cause rotation of the first pipe urging element and, in turn, the second pipe urging element.
  • the second pipe urging element engagement arrangement may comprise: a third toothed gear portion of the second pipe urging element and a fourth toothed gear portion of a head of the first handle, the second pipe urging element and the first handle arranged such that the third toothed gear portion and the fourth toothed gear portion mesh together.
  • the first pipe urging element engagement arrangement may have a first gear ratio
  • the second pipe urging element engagement arrangement has a second gear ratio
  • the second gear ratio is different from the first gear ratio.
  • the first pipe urging element may comprise a first body presenting a first surface having a first profile
  • the second pipe urging element may comprise a second body presenting a second surface having a second profile
  • the first profile of the first surface and the second profile of the second surface may be in mirror image.
  • the first and second surfaces may each have a generally concave scalloped profile.
  • the first and second surfaces may each comprise a lower region, an intermediate region and an upper region, the first and second surfaces may be relatively profiled such that a pipe receiving space is defined between the respective lower regions and the respective upper regions, and the intermediate regions may be relatively profiled to receive a pipe having a substantially circular cross-sectional shape therebetween.
  • the upper regions may each comprise a respective overhang portion that projects beyond the intermediate region and is configured to move over a received pipe when the pipe urging mechanism is actuated.
  • the support element may define a generally 'U'-shaped recess for receiving a pipe with a generally circular cross-sectional shape therein.
  • the pipe urging mechanism may be operable to drive a pipe in each of a first drive direction and a second drive direction, the second drive direction opposite the first drive direction.
  • Pipe handling apparatus 101 is shown in Figures 1 & 2 .
  • the pipe handling apparatus 101 comprises a frame 102, a support element 103 and a pipe drive mechanism, indicated generally at 104.
  • the pipe drive mechanism 104 comprises a first pipe urging element 105 and a second pipe urging element 106.
  • the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are each rotatable relative to the frame 102 of the pipe handling apparatus 101.
  • the first pipe urging element 105 comprises a first toothed gear portion 107 and the second pipe urging element 106 comprises a second toothed gear portion 108.
  • the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are arranged such that the respective first and second toothed gear portions 107, 108 mesh together.
  • the pipe drive mechanism 104 further comprises a pipe urging element drive mechanism, indicated generally at 109. Operation of the pipe urging element drive mechanism 109 causes the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 to rotate about an axis through a respective pivot 110, 111.
  • the pipe handling apparatus 101 is configured to receive a pipe such that a received pipe is supported by the support element 103 and is gripped between the first pipe urging element 105 and the second pipe urging element 106, and the pipe drive mechanism 104 is configured, in response to operation thereof, to urge a received pipe in a drive direction.
  • the pipe drive mechanism 104 of the pipe handling apparatus 101 is shown in a first condition in Figure 1 and is shown in a second condition in Figure 2 .
  • first and second pipe urging elements 105 and 106 are in a first relative relation
  • first and second pipe urging elements 105 and 106 are in a second relative relation.
  • the pipe drive mechanism 104 is repeatedly movable between the first and the second condition, as will be described in further detail below.
  • the support element 103 of the pipe handling apparatus 101 comprises a shoulder that defines a generally "U" shaped recess 112 therein.
  • the shape of the recess is suitable for receiving an item with a generally circular cross-sectional shape therein.
  • the recess may have any suitable shape and may have a lower edge at any suitable height relative to the first and second pipe urging elements 105 and 106.
  • the support element 103 may have any suitable arrangement and dimensions.
  • the support element 103 of the pipe handling apparatus 101 may be fixed to or integral with the frame 102. In an example in which the support element 103 is fixed to the frame 102, the support element 103 may be removably fixed to the frame 102.
  • the pipe handling apparatus 101 is shown in the second condition, with a section of a first pipe 301 fitted to a pipe fitting 302.
  • the pipe fitting 302 is a pipe connector element.
  • the pipe fitting 302 is also connected to a section of a second pipe 303.
  • a pipe fitting as referred to herein may therefore be a pipe connector element but may be any other type of pipe fitting such as a pipe blanking element.
  • Pipe fitting 302 defines a waist 304 along the length thereof, the waist 304 being disposed between a first pipe fitting shoulder 305 and a second pipe fitting shoulder 306.
  • the first pipe fitting shoulder 305 is located nearer to a first end 307 of the pipe fitting 302 and the second pipe fitting shoulder 306 is nearer to the second end 308 of the pipe fitting 302.
  • the pipe fitting 302 is located relative to the pipe handling apparatus 101 such that the waist 304 is aligned with the recess 112 of the support element 103 of the pipe handling apparatus 101 with the first pipe fitting shoulder 305 closer to the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 and the second pipe fitting shoulder 306 further from the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106.
  • the first pipe 301 extends through the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 and into the pipe fitting 302 in a first direction, indicated by arrow D1
  • the second pipe 303 extends into the pipe fitting 302 in a second direction, indicated by arrow D2, opposite to the first direction D1.
  • the shown arrangement represents a stage following use of the pipe handling apparatus 101 to connect the first pipe 301 with the pipe fitting 302.
  • a first use of the pipe handling apparatus 101 is to connect a pipe with a pipe fitting.
  • a second, different use of the pipe handling apparatus 101 is to disconnect a pipe from a pipe fitting.
  • the pipe fitting 302 would be located relative to the support element 103 as shown.
  • a pushing force could be applied to the pipe fitting 302 in the first direction D1 that would cause the first pipe fitting shoulder 305 to abut against the support element 103 of the pipe handling apparatus 101 and in a 'releasing' use, a pulling force could be applied to the pipe fitting 302, in the second direction D2 that could cause the second pipe fitting shoulder 306 to abut against the support element 103 of the pipe handling apparatus 101.
  • the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 each comprise a body 401, 402 respectively, each body 401, 402 presenting a respective surface 403, 404.
  • the surfaces 403, 404 of the bodies 401, 402 present a lower region 501, 502, an intermediate region 503, 504 and an upper region 505, 506.
  • the profiles of the respective surfaces 403, 404 of the bodies 401, 402 of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are in mirror image.
  • the surfaces 403, 404 are relatively profiled such that a pipe receiving space 407 is defined between the lower regions 501, 502 and upper regions 505, 506.
  • the bodies 401, 402 of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 present a generally '(' (opening-round-bracket) or ')'(closing-round-bracket) shape profile, with the intermediate regions 503, 504 relatively profiled to receive a pipe having a substantially circular cross-sectional shape therebetween.
  • the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 may be configured to receive a pipe of a predetermined diameter therebetween, and may be configured to receive pipes of the same or different diameters.
  • the surfaces 403, 404 have a generally concave scalloped profile, such that a series of ridges, such as ridges 405 and 406, are presented.
  • the ridges 405, 406 extend in a depth direction DD of the surfaces 403, 404, this being the direction extending between the top and bottom edges thereof, and are spaced in a radial direction R of the surfaces 403, 404, this being the direction extending between side edges thereof.
  • the ridges 405, 406 function to increase the grip on a pipe received between the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 to urge the pipe in a drive direction as will be described below.
  • the surfaces 403, 404 may have any suitable profile, and may have similar or dissimilar profiles.
  • the surfaces 403, 404 may have any suitable finish, which may be selected to increase frictional engagement with a pipe.
  • the lower regions 501, 502 of the surfaces 401, 402 are located above the first and second toothed gear portions 107, 108 of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 respectively.
  • first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 which can be seen in both Figure 4 and in Figure 5 , is that the upper regions 505, 506 of the surfaces 403, 404 provide a respective overhang portion 408, 409.
  • the overhang portions 408, 409 project beyond the intermediate regions 503, 504 of the surfaces 401, 402.
  • Another important feature of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 is the shape of the upper surfaces 410, 411 thereof.
  • the upper surfaces 410, 411 each have a tip 412, 413 respectively. Extending from the tip 412, 413 is a first edge 414, 415 and a second edge 416, 417.
  • the upper surfaces 410, 411 of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are generally shaped as an equilateral triangle with truncated corners.
  • the shape of the upper surfaces 410, 411 of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are substantially symmetrical about a line drawn from the respective pivot 110, 111 and the respective tip 412, 413.
  • Figures 6 to 8 illustrate the relative relations of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 during rotation from the first condition to the second condition.
  • the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are shown in a first relative relation.
  • the first edges 414, 415 thereof respectively are substantially parallel to one another.
  • the respective second edges 416, 417 are substantially aligned with each other and extend substantially normal to the direction in which the first edges 414, 415 extend.
  • the respective second edges 416, 417 extend at an angle of approximately 80° to the direction in which the first edges 414, 415 extend.
  • a section of pipe 601 can be located between them, or the pipe handling apparatus can be located around the section of pipe 601, as shown.
  • first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are rotatable about axes through the respective pivots 110, 111 in the directions indicated by arrows RF1 and RF2.
  • Rotation of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 in this way represents rotation to urge the received section of pipe 601 in a forward direction F, this being towards the support element of the pipe handling apparatus (not shown in Figures 6 to 8 ) .
  • the received section of pipe 601 is urged towards a pipe fitting 602 received by the pipe handling apparatus.
  • first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are rotated to urge the received section of pipe 601 in the forward direction F, the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are moved from the first relative relation shown in Figure 6 to an intermediate relative relation as shown in Figure 7 . From comparison of Figures 6 & 7 , it can be seen that as the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 rotate in the respective directions RF1 and RF2, the received section of pipe 601 is moved forwards. In addition, according to an important feature of the pipe handling apparatus, the tips 412, 413 are moved closer together and the overhang portions 408, 409 are moved over the received section of pipe 601.
  • first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are rotatable further about the axes through the respective pivots 110, 111 in the directions indicated by arrows RF1 and RF2 into a second relative relation shown in Figure 8 . From comparison of Figures 7 & 8 , it can be seen that as the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 rotate further in the respective directions RF1 and RF2, the received section of pipe 601 is moved further forwards.
  • the pipe handling apparatus may be conveniently removed from around the section of pipe 601.
  • the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 may then be rotated back into the first relative relation, in the directions indicated by arrows RB1 and RB2, to move the received section of pipe 601 in a backward direction B, which is opposite the forward direction F.
  • first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are movable from a first relative relation in which a section of pipe can be inserted between them or the pipe handling apparatus located around the section of pipe, into an intermediate relative relation in which the received section of pipe is retained between the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 and then into a second relative relation in which the received section of pipe can be removed from between the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 or the pipe handling apparatus removed from around the section of pipe.
  • first relative relation and the second relative relation represent the end positions of an angle through which the first and second pipe urging elements can be rotated.
  • the provision of the overhang portions 408, 409 of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 advantageously overcomes the problem of a pipe lifting from the pipe handling apparatus as the pipe is being moved by the pipe handling apparatus 101 in the forward or the rearward direction.
  • the shape of the overhang portions 408, 409 and the upper surfaces 410, 411 serve to keep the pipe within the pipe handling apparatus 101 when the pipe is being moved under the operation of the pipe handling apparatus 101
  • the shape of the overhang portions 408, 409 and the upper surfaces 410, 411 also serves to allow the pipe and the pipe handling apparatus 101 to be positioned relative to each other before and after the pipe is moved under the operation of the pipe handling apparatus 101.
  • Figures 9 to 11 illustrate the relative relations of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 during rotation from the second condition to the first condition.
  • first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are shown in the second relative relation, in a similar arrangement to that shown in Figure 8 .
  • the second edges 416, 417 thereof respectively are substantially parallel to one another, and the respective first edges 414, 415 are substantially aligned with each other and extend substantially normal to the direction in which the second edges 416, 417 extend.
  • the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are shown located around a section of pipe 601 that has previously been connected to a pipe fitting 602.
  • first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are rotatable about the axes through the respective pivots 110, 111 in the directions indicated by arrows RB1 and RB2.
  • Rotation of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 in this way represents rotation to urge the received section of pipe 601 in a backward direction B, this being away from the support element of the pipe handling apparatus (not shown in Figures 9 to 11 ).
  • the received section of pipe 601 is urged away from the pipe fitting 602 received by the pipe handling apparatus.
  • first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are rotated to urge the received section of pipe 601 in the backward direction B, the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are moved from the second relative relation shown in Figure 9 to an intermediate relative relation as shown in Figure 10 , in a similar arrangement to that shown in Figure 7 . From comparison of Figures 9 & 10 , it can be seen that as the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 rotate in the respective directions RB1 and RB2, the received section of pipe 601 is moved rearwards. As can also be seen, as the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are moved from the second relative relation into the intermediate relative relation, the tips 412, 413 are moved closer together and the overhang portions 408, 409 are moved over the received section of pipe 601.
  • first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are rotatable further about the axes through the respective pivots 110, 111 in the directions indicated by arrows RB1 and RB2 into a first relative relation shown in Figure 11 , in a similar arrangement to that shown in Figure 6 . From comparison of Figures 10 & 11 , it can be seen that as the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 rotate further in the respective directions RB1 and RB2, the received section of pipe 601 is moved further rearwards.
  • FIG 11 the received section of pipe 601 is shown having been disconnected from the pipe fitting 602.
  • the pipe handling apparatus 101 may now be conveniently removed from around the section of pipe 601 or the section of pipe 601 may be removed from the pipe handling apparatus 101, as appropriate.
  • first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are movable from a second relative relation in which a section of pipe can be inserted between them or the pipe handling apparatus located around the section of pipe, into an intermediate relative relation in which the received section of pipe is retained between the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 and then into a first relative relation in which the received section of pipe can be removed from between the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 or the pipe handling apparatus removed from around the section of pipe.
  • the pipe handling apparatus 101 is usable to connect a pipe with a pipe fitting and is usable to disconnect a pipe from a pipe fitting.
  • first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are each rotatable relative to the frame 102 of the pipe handling apparatus 101 and are each rotatable about an axis through a respective pivot 110, 111.
  • the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are rotatable between a first relative relation, as shown in Figure 12 , and a second relative relation, as shown in Figure 13 .
  • the first and second toothed gear portions 107, 108 of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 respectively are meshed during rotation between, and when in, the first and second relative relations.
  • the pipe handling apparatus 101 comprises at least one actuation member operable to actuate the pipe drive mechanism 104 to cause rotation of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106.
  • at least one rotatable actuation member is provided.
  • at least one rotatable actuation member in the form of a handle is provided.
  • the pipe handling apparatus 101 is configured to be operated manually.
  • the pipe handling apparatus 101 comprises a first handle 1201 and a second handle 1202 for use in operating the pipe drive mechanism 104.
  • the first handle 1201 is movable relative to the frame 102 and the second handle 1202 is fixed relative to the frame 102.
  • the first handle 1201 is rotatable about an axis through pivot 110 between an open condition, as shown in Figure 12 , and a closed condition, as shown in Figure 13 , relative to the second handle 1202. Rotation of the first handle 1201 causes rotation of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106.
  • the handles 1201, 1202 may have any suitable shape and dimensions.
  • supplementary apparatus may be operatively connected to the pipe handling apparatus 101 to facilitate rotation of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106.
  • supplementary apparatus may be operatively connected to the handles to facilitate actuation of the pipe drive mechanism.
  • the supplementary apparatus may comprise a mechanical, electrical, pneumatic or hydraulic system, for example.
  • the pipe handling apparatus is arranged to urge pipe of relatively larger size than pipes that may be handled by the manually operable pipe handling apparatus of the specific illustrated embodiment, and in such an alternative embodiment, the pipe handling apparatus may be provided with any suitable actuation arrangement in place of handles.
  • the actuation arrangement may comprise a mechanical, electrical, pneumatic or hydraulic system, for example.
  • the pipe handling apparatus is configured for use in the laying of drains or other service pipes.
  • the pipe drive mechanism may be biased towards one of the first and the second conditions.
  • the pipe drive mechanism may be biased towards the first condition, which is particularly applicable when the pipe handling apparatus is to be used mainly for inserting pipes into pipe fittings.
  • FIG 14 Further details of the pipe drive mechanism of the pipe handling apparatus 101 are shown in Figure 14 , in which components thereof are shown in a disassembled arrangement, and in Figure 15 , in which components of the pipe handling apparatus 101 in a disassembled arrangement.
  • the pipe drive mechanism comprises a first pipe urging element engagement arrangement and a second pipe urging element engagement arrangement.
  • the first and second pipe urging element engagement arrangements are linked.
  • the first handle 1201 has a head 1401. It is to be appreciated that the head 1401 may be fixed to or integral with the remainder of the first handle 1201.
  • first pivot 110 extends from the first pipe urging element 105 and locates within a first pivot aperture 1402 defined within the first handle 1201 and a second pivot aperture 1403 defined within the frame 102 and aligned with the first pivot aperture 1402.
  • second pivot 111 extends from the second pipe urging element 106 and locates within a third pivot opening or aperture 1404 defined within a spacer element 1405 and a fourth pivot aperture 1406 defined within the frame 102 and aligned with the third pivot opening or aperture 1404.
  • the thickness of the spacer element 1405 is substantially the same as the thickness of the head 1401 of the first handle 1201.
  • the first pipe urging element engagement arrangement comprises a first guide projection 1407 that extends downwardly from the first pipe urging element 105 to locate within a first guide aperture 1408 of the head 1401 of the first handle 1201.
  • the first guide projection 1407 has a generally circular cross-sectional shape and the first guide aperture 1408 defines a generally arcuate edge 1409.
  • the first guide aperture 1408 defines a path P1 of relative movement between the first guide projection 1407 and the first guide aperture 1408, the ends of which represent the end points of the angle through which the first pipe urging element 105 is rotatable.
  • the second pipe urging element engagement arrangement comprises a second guide projection 1410 that extends downwardly from the second pipe urging element 106 and locates within a second guide aperture 1411 defined within a second projection guide element 1412 that is movably located within a channel 1413 defined in the head 1401 of the first handle 1201.
  • the second guide projection 1410 has a generally circular cross-sectional shape and the second guide aperture 1411 also has a generally circular shape, the second guide projection 1410 and the second guide aperture 1411 relatively shaped and dimensioned such that the second guide projection 1410 is locatable within the second guide aperture 1411 with minimal play.
  • the second projection guide element 1412 is movable within the channel 1413 in either of the opposite directions along a travel path P2.
  • the second pipe urging element 106 rotates around an axis through the second pivot 111
  • the second projection guide element 1412 slides within the channel 1413 towards or away from the second pivot 111.
  • the first and second pipe urging element engagement arrangements are linked by the head 1401 of the first handle 1201.
  • rotation of the first handle 1201 causes the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 to rotate in either a forward direction of rotation (RF) or a rearward direction of rotation (RB), the directions of rotation being described above with reference to Figures 6 to 8 and Figures 9 to 11 .
  • RF forward direction of rotation
  • RB rearward direction of rotation
  • rotation of the first handle 1201 causes the head 1401 to rotate, in the same direction.
  • Rotation of the head 1401 of the first handle 1201 causes the second guide aperture 1411 to move, in turn causing the second guide projection 1410 to move to rotate the second pipe urging element 106, in turn causing the first pipe urging element 105 to rotate by means of the meshed engagement between the second toothed gear portion 108 of the second pipe urging element 106 and the first toothed gear portion 107 of the first pipe urging element 105, causing the first guide projection 1407 to move within the first guide aperture 1408, which is caused to move by rotation of the head 1401 of the first handle 1201.
  • rotation of a rotatable actuation member to effect actuation of the pipe drive mechanism 104 may translate to rotation of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 according to a ratio that is less than, equal to, or greater than, 1:1.
  • rotation of the first handle 1401 through an angle of approximately 45° translates to rotation of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 through an angle of approximately 110°.
  • a first operative connection between the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 is provided by the arrangement of the head 1401, first and second guide projections 1407, 1410 and the second projection guide element 1412, and a second operative connection between the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 is provided by the arrangement of the first and second gear portions 107, 108.
  • the pipe drive mechanism 104 of the pipe handling apparatus 101 is configured to effect rotation of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 without relying on the meshing between the first and second toothed gear portions 107, 108. This advantageously overcomes the problem of localised forces acting on the teeth of the meshed gear portions 107, 108 during use of the pipe handling apparatus 101 that can cause wear and distortion and degrade the proper functioning of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 over time. It is to be appreciated that such a pipe drive mechanism may have any suitable configuration.
  • the support element 103 may be removably fixed to the frame 102.
  • Figures 16 & 17 show the pipe handling apparatus 101 with the pipe drive mechanism 104 in the first condition and in the second condition respectively.
  • the pipe handling apparatus and parts thereof may be fabricated from any suitable material or combination of materials, and may be manufactured using any suitable method, technique or process or any combination thereof.
  • the pipe handling apparatus may have any suitable dimensions and any desired aesthetic appearance.
  • the pipe handling apparatus may be manufactured from, or comprise, one or more metal materials, such as aluminium, carbon steel or stainless steel.
  • one or more actuation members may be provided with a sleeve, which may be fabricated from a plastics material or a rubber material, for enhancing grip on the actuation member.
  • a pipe handling apparatus as described herein may be provided with a pipe chamfering tool.
  • the pipe chamfering tool may provide at least the same functionality as a pipe chamfering tool as described in UK Patent Publication GB 2481412 A .
  • a pipe chamfering tool provided with a pipe handling apparatus as described herein may be separate from or attached to the pipe handling apparatus.
  • the pipe chamfering tool may be removably attached to the pipe handling apparatus.
  • the pipe handling apparatus provides a tool for achieving improved grip on, and movement of, a pipe to be connected with or disconnected from another pipe or a pipe fitting.
  • the pipe handling apparatus of the invention described herein comprises at least the following features of improvement when compared to the pipe handling apparatus described in UK Patent Publication GB 2481412 A :
  • FIG. 18 shows a schematic of the pipe handling apparatus
  • Figure 19 is a schematic showing features of the pipe drive mechanism of the pipe handling apparatus in further detail
  • Figures 20 & 21 show plan views of the pipe handling apparatus with the pipe drive mechanism thereof in a first condition and in a second condition respectively.
  • the pipe handling apparatus 1801 comprises a frame 1802, a support element 1803 and a pipe drive mechanism, indicated generally at 1804, the pipe drive mechanism 1804 comprising a first pipe urging element 1805 and a second pipe urging element 1806, the first and second pipe urging elements 1805, 1806 each rotatable relative to the frame 1802 and the first pipe urging element 1805 comprising a first toothed gear portion 1807 and the second pipe urging element 1806 comprises a second toothed gear portion 1808, the first and second pipe urging elements 1805, 1806 arranged such that the respective first and second toothed gear portions 1807, 1808 can mesh together, and the pipe drive mechanism 1804 further comprising a pipe urging element drive mechanism, indicated generally at 1809.
  • the pipe urging element drive mechanism 1809 causes the first and second pipe urging elements 1805, 1806 to rotate about an axis through a respective pivot 1810, 1811.
  • the pipe urging element drive mechanism 1809 comprises a first handle 1812 that is movable relative to the frame 1802 and a second handle 1813 that is fixed relative to the frame 1802.
  • the pipe handling apparatus 1801 comprises a first pipe urging element engagement arrangement operative between the first pipe urging element 1805 and the second pipe urging element 1806 and a second pipe urging element engagement arrangement between the first pipe urging element 1805 and the second pipe urging element 1806, the first and second pipe urging element engagement arrangements configured to guide rotation of the first pipe urging element and the second pipe urging element during operation of the pipe drive mechanism.
  • the first pipe urging element engagement arrangement comprises the first toothed gear portion 1807 of the first pipe urging element 1805 and the second toothed gear portion 1808 of the second pipe urging element 1806.
  • the second pipe urging element engagement arrangement comprises a third toothed gear portion 1901 of the second pipe urging element 1806 and a fourth toothed gear portion 1902 of a head 1903 of the first handle 1812, the second pipe urging element 1806 and the first handle 1801 arranged such that the third toothed gear portion 1901 and the fourth toothed gear portion 1902 mesh together.
  • the first pipe urging element engagement arrangement has a first gear ratio and the second pipe urging element engagement arrangement has a second gear ratio and the second gear ratio may be the same as, or different from, the first gear ratio.
  • the pipe drive mechanism 1804 is operable to urge a received pipe in either of a pair of opposite directions. Referring to Figures 20 & 21 , moving the first handle 1812 from the open position shown in Figure 20 to the closed position shown in Figure 21 will cause a received pipe to be moved in a forward direction F and the moving the first handle 1812 from the closed position shown in Figure 21 to the open position shown in Figure 20 will cause a received pipe to be moved in a rearward direction B.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Quick-Acting Or Multi-Walled Pipe Joints (AREA)

Claims (11)

  1. Rohrhandhabungsvorrichtung (101), umfassend:
    einen Rahmen (102),
    ein Stützelement (103) und
    einen Rohrantriebsmechanismus (104);
    wobei der Rohrantriebsmechanismus (104) ein erstes Rohrdrückelement (105) und ein zweites Rohrdrückelement (106) umfasst, wobei das erste Rohrdrückelement (105) und das zweite Rohrdrückelement (106) jeweils relativ zum Rahmen (102) drehbar sind;
    wobei die Rohrhandhabungsvorrichtung (101) dazu ausgelegt ist, ein Rohr so aufzunehmen, dass ein aufgenommenes Rohr durch das Stützelement (103) gestützt wird und zwischen dem ersten Rohrdrückelement (105) und dem zweiten Rohrdrückelement (106) gegriffen wird, und
    wobei der Rohrantriebsmechanismus (104) dazu ausgelegt ist, als Reaktion auf dessen Betätigung ein aufgenommenes Rohr in eine Antriebsrichtung zu drücken;
    wobei der Rohrantriebsmechanismus (104) eine erste Rohrdrückelementeingriffsanordnung umfasst, die eine erste Wirkverbindung zwischen dem ersten Rohrdrückelement (105) und dem zweiten Rohrdrückelement (106) bereitstellt, wobei die erste Rohrdrückelementeingriffsanordnung dazu ausgelegt ist, während des Betriebs des Rohrantriebsmechanismus die Drehung des ersten und des zweiten Rohrdrückelements (105, 106) (104) zu führen, wobei die erste Rohrdrückelementeingriffsanordnung einen ersten Verzahnungsabschnitt (107) des ersten Rohrdrückelements (105) und einen zweiten Verzahnungsabschnitt (108) des zweiten Rohrdrückelements (106) umfasst, wobei das erste Rohrdrückelement (105) und das zweite Rohrdrückelement (106) so angeordnet sind, dass der erste Verzahnungsabschnitt (107) und der zweite Verzahnungsabschnitt (108) miteinander kämmen, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass:
    der Rohrantriebsmechanismus (104) ferner eine zweite Rohrdrückelementeingriffsanordnung umfasst, die eine zweite Wirkverbindung zwischen dem ersten Rohrdrückelement (105) und dem zweiten Rohrdrückelement (106) bereitstellt;
    die zweite Rohrdrückelementeingriffsanordnung dazu ausgelegt ist, während des Betriebs des Rohrantriebsmechanismus (104) die Drehung des ersten und des zweiten Rohrdrückelements (105, 106) zu führen;
    wobei der Rohrantriebsmechanismus (104) dazu ausgelegt ist, eine Drehung des ersten und des zweiten Rohrdrückelements (105, 106) zu bewirken, ohne sich auf das Kämmen zwischen dem ersten und dem zweiten Verzahnungsabschnitt (107, 108) der ersten Rohrdrückelementeingriffsanordnung zu verlassen.
  2. Rohrhandhabungsvorrichtung (10 I) gemäß Anspruch 1, umfassend einen ersten Handgriff (1201), der sich von dem Rahmen (102) erstreckt, und einen zweiten Handgriff (1202), der sich von dem Rahmen (102) erstreckt, wobei der erste Handgriff (1201) relativ zu dem zweiten Handgriff (1202) drehbar ist, um den Rohrantriebsmechanismus (104) zu betätigen, um eine Drehung des ersten Rohrdrückelements (105) und wiederum des zweiten Rohrdrückelements (106) zu bewirken.
  3. Rohrhandhabungsvorrichtung (101) gemäß Anspruch 2, wobei die zweite Rohrdrückelementeingriffsanordnung umfasst:
    einen dritten Verzahnungsabschnitt (1901) des zweiten Rohrdrückelements (106) und einen vierten Verzahnungsabschnitt (1902) eines Kopfes (1903) des ersten Handgriffs (1801), wobei das zweite Rohrdrückelement (106) und der erste Handgriff (1801) so angeordnet sind, dass der dritte Verzahnungsabschnitt (1901) und der vierte Verzahnungsabschnitt (1902) miteinander kämmen.
  4. Rohrhandhabungsvorrichtung (101) gemäß Anspruch 3, wobei die erste Rohrdrückelementeingriffsanordnung ein erstes Übersetzungsverhältnis aufweist, die zweite Rohrdrückelementeingriffsanordnung ein zweites Übersetzungsverhältnis aufweist und das zweite Übersetzungsverhältnis von dem ersten Übersetzungsverhältnis verschieden ist.
  5. Rohrhandhabungsvorrichtung (101) gemäß Anspruch 2, wobei die zweite Rohrdrückelementeingriffsanordnung umfasst:
    eine erste Führungsöffnung (1408) eines Kopfes (1401) des ersten Handgriffs (1201) und einen ersten Führungsvorsprung (1407), der sich von dem ersten Rohrdrückelement (105) erstreckt, um in der ersten Führungsöffnung (1408) zu liegen, und
    eine zweite Führungsöffnung (1411) des Kopfes (1401) des ersten Handgriffs (1201) und einen zweiten Führungsvorsprung (1410), der sich von dem ersten Rohrdrückelement (105) erstreckt, um in der zweiten Führungsöffnung (1411) zu liegen.
  6. Rohrhandhabungsvorrichtung (101) gemäß einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 5, wobei:
    das erste Rohrdrückelement (105) einen ersten Körper (401) umfasst, der eine erste Oberfläche (403) mit einem ersten Profil aufweist,
    das zweite Rohrdrückelement (106) einen zweiten Körper (402) umfasst, der eine zweite Oberfläche (404) mit einem zweiten Profil aufweist, und
    das erste Profil der ersten Oberfläche (403) und das zweite Profil der zweiten Oberfläche (404) spiegelbildlich sind.
  7. Rohrhandhabungsvorrichtung (101) gemäß Anspruch 6, wobei:
    die erste und die zweite Oberfläche (403, 404) jeweils einen unteren Bereich (501, 502), einen Zwischenbereich (503, 504) und einen oberen Bereich (505, 506) umfassen,
    die erste und die zweite Oberfläche (403, 404) relativ so profiliert sind, dass ein Rohraufnahmeraum (407) zwischen den jeweiligen unteren Bereichen (501, 502) und den jeweiligen oberen Bereichen (505, 506) definiert ist, und
    die Zwischenbereiche (503, 504) dazu relativ profiliert sind, ein Rohr mit einer im Wesentlichen kreisförmigen Querschnittsform dazwischen aufzunehmen.
  8. Rohrhandhabungsvorrichtung (101) gemäß Anspruch 7, wobei die erste und die zweite Oberfläche (403, 404) jeweils ein allgemein konkaves, gewelltes Profil aufweisen.
  9. Rohrhandhabungsvorrichtung (101) gemäß Anspruch 7 oder Anspruch 8, wobei die oberen Bereiche (505, 506) jeweils einen entsprechenden Überhangabschnitt (408, 409) aufweisen, der über den Zwischenbereich (503, 504) hinausragt und dazu ausgelegt ist, sich über ein aufgenommenes Rohr zu bewegen, wenn der Rohrantriebsmechanismus (104) betätigt wird.
  10. Rohrhandhabungsvorrichtung (101) gemäß einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 9, wobei das Stützelement (103) eine allgemein U-förmige Ausnehmung (112) zum Aufnehmen eines Rohres mit einer allgemein kreisförmigen Querschnittsform definiert.
  11. Rohrhandhabungsvorrichtung (101) gemäß einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 10, wobei der Rohrantriebsmechanismus (104) dazu betreibbar ist, ein Rohr in eine erste Antriebsrichtung und eine zweite Antriebsrichtung zu treiben, wobei die zweite Antriebsrichtung der ersten Antriebsrichtung entgegengesetzt ist.
EP18746004.3A 2017-06-27 2018-06-27 Rohrhandhabungsvorrichtung Active EP3630416B1 (de)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GBGB1710197.3A GB201710197D0 (en) 2017-06-27 2017-06-27 Pipe handling apparatus
PCT/GB2018/051788 WO2019002850A1 (en) 2017-06-27 2018-06-27 PIPE HANDLING APPARATUS

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3630416A1 EP3630416A1 (de) 2020-04-08
EP3630416B1 true EP3630416B1 (de) 2024-01-24

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ID=59523468

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EP (1) EP3630416B1 (de)
GB (1) GB201710197D0 (de)
WO (1) WO2019002850A1 (de)

Family Cites Families (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2007175820A (ja) * 2005-12-28 2007-07-12 Hitachi Metals Ltd 配管用接続工具
GB2481412A (en) 2010-06-22 2011-12-28 Simon John Thistlethwaite Pipe handling apparatus
US20160023331A1 (en) * 2014-07-26 2016-01-28 Jun-Fan Chen Dis/assembling plier for a connector
EP3078457B1 (de) * 2015-04-09 2017-09-13 Yung Chi Industry Co., Ltd. Rohrpressvorrichtung

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GB201710197D0 (en) 2017-08-09
WO2019002850A1 (en) 2019-01-03

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