US20070221600A1 - Pipelayer and method of loading pipelayer or excavator for transportation - Google Patents
Pipelayer and method of loading pipelayer or excavator for transportation Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20070221600A1 US20070221600A1 US11/746,464 US74646407A US2007221600A1 US 20070221600 A1 US20070221600 A1 US 20070221600A1 US 74646407 A US74646407 A US 74646407A US 2007221600 A1 US2007221600 A1 US 2007221600A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- pipelayer
- boom
- assembly
- track
- excavator
- 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.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B66—HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
- B66C—CRANES; LOAD-ENGAGING ELEMENTS OR DEVICES FOR CRANES, CAPSTANS, WINCHES, OR TACKLES
- B66C23/00—Cranes comprising essentially a beam, boom, or triangular structure acting as a cantilever and mounted for translatory of swinging movements in vertical or horizontal planes or a combination of such movements, e.g. jib-cranes, derricks, tower cranes
- B66C23/18—Cranes comprising essentially a beam, boom, or triangular structure acting as a cantilever and mounted for translatory of swinging movements in vertical or horizontal planes or a combination of such movements, e.g. jib-cranes, derricks, tower cranes specially adapted for use in particular purposes
- B66C23/36—Cranes comprising essentially a beam, boom, or triangular structure acting as a cantilever and mounted for translatory of swinging movements in vertical or horizontal planes or a combination of such movements, e.g. jib-cranes, derricks, tower cranes specially adapted for use in particular purposes mounted on road or rail vehicles; Manually-movable jib-cranes for use in workshops; Floating cranes
- B66C23/44—Jib-cranes adapted for attachment to standard vehicles, e.g. agricultural tractors
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B66—HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
- B66C—CRANES; LOAD-ENGAGING ELEMENTS OR DEVICES FOR CRANES, CAPSTANS, WINCHES, OR TACKLES
- B66C23/00—Cranes comprising essentially a beam, boom, or triangular structure acting as a cantilever and mounted for translatory of swinging movements in vertical or horizontal planes or a combination of such movements, e.g. jib-cranes, derricks, tower cranes
- B66C23/18—Cranes comprising essentially a beam, boom, or triangular structure acting as a cantilever and mounted for translatory of swinging movements in vertical or horizontal planes or a combination of such movements, e.g. jib-cranes, derricks, tower cranes specially adapted for use in particular purposes
- B66C23/36—Cranes comprising essentially a beam, boom, or triangular structure acting as a cantilever and mounted for translatory of swinging movements in vertical or horizontal planes or a combination of such movements, e.g. jib-cranes, derricks, tower cranes specially adapted for use in particular purposes mounted on road or rail vehicles; Manually-movable jib-cranes for use in workshops; Floating cranes
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B66—HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
- B66C—CRANES; LOAD-ENGAGING ELEMENTS OR DEVICES FOR CRANES, CAPSTANS, WINCHES, OR TACKLES
- B66C23/00—Cranes comprising essentially a beam, boom, or triangular structure acting as a cantilever and mounted for translatory of swinging movements in vertical or horizontal planes or a combination of such movements, e.g. jib-cranes, derricks, tower cranes
- B66C23/18—Cranes comprising essentially a beam, boom, or triangular structure acting as a cantilever and mounted for translatory of swinging movements in vertical or horizontal planes or a combination of such movements, e.g. jib-cranes, derricks, tower cranes specially adapted for use in particular purposes
- B66C23/36—Cranes comprising essentially a beam, boom, or triangular structure acting as a cantilever and mounted for translatory of swinging movements in vertical or horizontal planes or a combination of such movements, e.g. jib-cranes, derricks, tower cranes specially adapted for use in particular purposes mounted on road or rail vehicles; Manually-movable jib-cranes for use in workshops; Floating cranes
- B66C23/365—Cranes comprising essentially a beam, boom, or triangular structure acting as a cantilever and mounted for translatory of swinging movements in vertical or horizontal planes or a combination of such movements, e.g. jib-cranes, derricks, tower cranes specially adapted for use in particular purposes mounted on road or rail vehicles; Manually-movable jib-cranes for use in workshops; Floating cranes dismantable into smaller units for transport purposes
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
- E02F9/00—Component parts of dredgers or soil-shifting machines, not restricted to one of the kinds covered by groups E02F3/00 - E02F7/00
- E02F9/003—Devices for transporting the soil-shifting machines or excavators, e.g. by pushing them or by hitching them to a tractor
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
- E02F9/00—Component parts of dredgers or soil-shifting machines, not restricted to one of the kinds covered by groups E02F3/00 - E02F7/00
- E02F9/18—Counterweights
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L1/00—Laying or reclaiming pipes; Repairing or joining pipes on or under water
- F16L1/024—Laying or reclaiming pipes on land, e.g. above the ground
- F16L1/06—Accessories therefor, e.g. anchors
Definitions
- Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a pipelayer and a method for of loading a pipelayer or excavator for transportation.
- One embodiment includes a method for transporting a pipelayer or excavator from a first work site to a second worksite via a public road.
- FIGS. 2-6 are various views of a pipelayer, according to one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 3 illustrates another perspective view of the pipelayer, wherein the longitudinal axis L mf of the main assembly is parallel to a longitudinal axis L uc of the undercarriage.
- FIG. 8 illustrates the other one of the track assemblies loaded on the first trailer.
- FIG. 11 illustrates the remaining pipelayer loaded on the second trailer.
- FIG. 21 illustrates the remaining excavator loaded on the second trailer.
- the main assembly 150 a includes a main frame 105 , an optional adaptor 110 , a cab 115 , a boom 120 , a piston and cylinder assembly 125 , a winch 130 , a pulley block 135 , a load block 140 , a counterweight 145 , and an engine 147 .
- the main frame 105 has a first side 105 a and a second side 105 b distal from the first side 105 a . Attached to the first side 105 a are the optional adaptor 110 and the operator's cab 115 . Pivoted to the adaptor 110 at 120 p is a first longitudinal end of the boom 120 .
- the engine 147 may drive a hydraulic pump (not shown) and a generator or alternator (not shown) for providing hydraulic or electrical energy to components, such as the cab sensors, the PCA 125 , and the winch 130 .
- Associated hydraulic and electrical circuitry (not shown) interconnecting these components may also be provided.
- the engine may be a diesel engine or an alternative fuel engine. Examples of alternative fuel engines include diesel-electric hybrid and hydrogen fuel-cells.
- the diesel-electric hybrid may use a smaller diesel engine and a bank of batteries (not shown) which would allow operation of the pipelayer 100 without operation of the diesel engine.
- a rotor of an electric or hydraulic track motor may be rotationally coupled to the drive sprocket and a housing of the track motor may be attached to the track frame.
- a conduit such as an electrical cable or hydraulic hose, may extend from the main frame 105 to the track motor.
- the conduit may be connected to the track motor by a quick-connect fitting. Operation of the track motor will cause movement of the track shoe 185 relative to the track frame.
- one or more outriggers 165 are selectively pivotal relative to the lower frame.
- Each outrigger may include a first arm 165 a , a second arm 165 b , a third arm 165 c , and a pad 165 d .
- the first arm 165 a is selectively pivotal relative to the lower frame 160 .
- the second arm 165 b is selectively pivotal relative to the first arm and is retractable within the first arm 165 a .
- the third arm 165 c is selectively longitudinally coupled to the second arm 165 b and is retractable within the third arm 165 c .
- the pad 165 d is pivoted to the third arm 165 c .
- the outriggers 165 are operable between an extended position and a retracted position.
- Each of the sheave blocks 435 a, b includes a plurality of pulleys or sheaves.
- the cable 132 extends from the second drum and around the sheaves of the sheave blocks 435 a, b in order to achieve a mechanical advantage. Unwinding of the cable 432 from the second winch drum lowers the boom 120 and winding of the cable 432 around the second winch drum raises the boom 120 .
- Loading of the pipelayer 400 is similar to loading of the pipelayer 100 . If the third trailer 200 c is used, the first sheave block 435 a may simply be removed and loaded on the second trailer 200 b with the remaining pipelayer 400 (may depend on whether the adaptor 110 is used, see above). Usage and loading of the pipelayer 400 is similar to usage and loading of the pipelayer 100 .
- FIG. 21 illustrates the remaining excavator 600 loaded on the second trailer 200 b .
- the remaining excavator 600 may be loaded onto the second tractor trailer 200 b .
- the boom assembly 620 may be articulated so that the arm 620 b is folded underneath the boom 620 a . Since the stick 620 b can be folded underneath the boom 620 a , the stinger trailer 205 is not required.
- the counterweight 145 and/or the boom assembly 620 may be loaded on a third tractor-trailer 200 c.
Abstract
Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a pipelayer and a method for of loading a pipelayer or excavator for transportation. One embodiment includes a method for transporting a pipelayer or excavator from a first work site to a second worksite via a public road. The method includes acts of: raising the pipelayer or excavator off of track shoes of the pipelayer or excavator; removing a first track assembly from the pipelayer or excavator using a boom of the pipelayer or a boom assembly of the excavator; loading the first track assembly onto a first trailer of a first tractor-trailer using the boom of the remaining pipelayer or the boom assembly of the remaining excavator; removing the second track assembly from the pipelayer using the boom of the remaining pipelayer or the boom assembly of the remaining excavator; and loading the second track assembly onto the first trailer using the boom of the remaining pipelayer or the boom assembly of the remaining excavator.
Description
- This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/125,691, filed May 10, 2005, which is a continuation-in-part (petition pending) of International Application No. PCT/US2003/007613, filed Mar. 11, 2003.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a pipelayer and a method for of loading a pipelayer or excavator for transportation.
- 2. Description of the Related Art
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FIG. 1 is a front view of aprior art pipelayer 10. Thepipelayer 10 is typically used for the construction of underground pipelines which transport hydrocarbons, such as natural gas or gasoline. Typical operation of the pipelayer includes raising, carrying, and loweringheavy pipe 12. Thepipelayer 10 is a crawler or tractor-type vehicle having amaneuverable boom 42 disposed on a side thereof. For this reason, thepipelayer 10 is referred to as a sideboom. - The
pipelayer 10 further includes amain frame assembly 14 having first and second opposedsides radiator guard 20. Thepipelayer 10 includes first and second endless self-laying track assemblies 22, 24, with each of thetrack assemblies rigid cross bar 28 and a pivot shaft connect eachtrack assembly respective side main frame assembly 14. Apipelayer frame 32 has afirst portion 34 secured to themain frame assembly 14 and asecond portion 36 secured to one of the roller frames by a plurality of fasteners. Thefirst portion 34 is joined to thesecond portion 36 by apin arrangement 40. Theboom arm 42 has afirst end portion 44, pivotally connected to the pipelayer framesecond portion 36, and asecond end portion 46 supporting a cable operatedload block assembly 48. Adrawworks 50 runs acable 52 in and out to raise and lower theblock assembly 48 and thepipe 12. A fluid operatedcylinder 54 has afirst end portion 56 connected to thepipelayer frame 32 and asecond end portion 58 releasably connected to the boom armsecond end portion 46. Acounterweight 55 is attached to themain frame 14. Thecounterweight 55 may also be secured to one of the roller frames by a counterweight frame (not shown) similar to thepipelayer frame 32. - The
boom arm 42 of thepipelayer 10 cannot rotate without driving thetrack assemblies track assemblies track assemblies boom arm 42 would face the trench in order to deliver the piece of pipe. - Further, the
pipelayer 10 is a specialized vehicle. It is not configured to perform other jobs at a pipeline work site, such as excavation. When pipelaying duties are complete, the pipelayer may idle in a yard until required again, which may be a substantial period of time. - The
boom arm 42, thepipelayer frame 32, and the counterweight frame increase the width of thepipelayer 10 versus traditional crawlers. This increased width causes difficulty in transporting the pipelayer from one work site to another over public roads as the increased width means that the pipelayer will not fit on a standard trailer without requiring permits and/or pilot vehicles which increase the expense associated with transportation. Alternatively, theboom arm 42, thepipelayer frame 32, thecounterweight 55, and the counterweight frame of thepipelayer 10 may be removed for transportation. However, this substantial disassembly of thepipelayer 10 increases the labor and thus also increases transportation costs. - Therefore, there exists a need in the art for a pipelayer that facilitates the pipelaying operation, may be used for other purposes, and/or possesses the ability to be transported via public roads with minimal disassembly.
- Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a pipelayer and a method for of loading a pipelayer or excavator for transportation. One embodiment includes a method for transporting a pipelayer or excavator from a first work site to a second worksite via a public road. The method includes acts of: raising the pipelayer or excavator off of track shoes of the pipelayer or excavator; removing a first track assembly from the pipelayer or excavator using a boom of the pipelayer or a boom assembly of the excavator; loading the first track assembly onto a first trailer of a first tractor-trailer using the boom of the remaining pipelayer or the boom assembly of the remaining excavator; removing the second track assembly from the pipelayer using the boom of the remaining pipelayer or the boom assembly of the remaining excavator; and loading the second track assembly onto the first trailer using the boom of the remaining pipelayer or the boom assembly of the remaining excavator.
- Another embodiment includes a pipelayer. The pipelayer includes an undercarriage and a main assembly supported by the undercarriage so that the main assembly may rotate relative to the undercarriage. The undercarriage includes a lower frame and two track assemblies. Each track assembly includes a track frame removably attached to the lower frame and a track shoe supported by the track frame so that the track shoe may move around the track frame. The main assembly includes a main frame and a boom pivoted to the main frame.
- Another embodiment includes a method of using a pipelayer. The method includes acts of: providing a pipelayer; removing a counterweight of the pipelayer; and operating the pipelayer on a steep grade without the counterweight.
- So that the manner in which the above recited features of the present invention can be understood in detail, a more particular description of the invention, briefly summarized above, may be had by reference to embodiments, some of which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of this invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, for the invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments.
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FIGS. 2-6 are various views of a pipelayer, according to one embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the pipelayer, wherein a longitudinal axis Lmf of the main assembly is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis Luc of the undercarriage.FIG. 2A is a schematic illustrating a configuration of the pipelayer so that the boom pivot is within both a rectangular footprint and a rectangular tipping fulcrum of the pipelayer. -
FIG. 3 illustrates another perspective view of the pipelayer, wherein the longitudinal axis Lmf of the main assembly is parallel to a longitudinal axis Luc of the undercarriage. -
FIG. 4 illustrates another perspective view of the pipelayer, wherein the longitudinal axis Lmf of the main assembly is parallel to a longitudinal axis Luc of the undercarriage. -
FIG. 5 illustrates an orthogonal view of the pipelayer, wherein the longitudinal axis Lmf of the main assembly is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis Luc of the undercarriage. -
FIG. 6 illustrates another orthogonal view of the pipelayer, wherein the longitudinal axis Lmf of the main assembly is parallel to a longitudinal axis Luc of the undercarriage. -
FIGS. 7-12 illustrate acts of a method for partially disassembling the pipelayer and loading the pipelayer on two tractor-trailers (only trailer shown) for transporting the pipelayer between jobs, according to another embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 7 illustrates the outriggers in the extended position and one of the track assemblies loaded on a first trailer. -
FIG. 8 illustrates the other one of the track assemblies loaded on the first trailer. -
FIG. 9 illustrates an act of backing the second trailer underneath the remaining pipelayer. -
FIG. 10 illustrates axles of the second trailer passing underneath the remaining pipelayer. -
FIG. 11 illustrates the remaining pipelayer loaded on the second trailer. -
FIG. 12 illustrates the boom and counterweight loaded on a third trailer. -
FIG. 13 illustrates a short pipe transporting act of the pipelaying operation. -
FIG. 14 illustrates a short pipe centering/joining act of the pipelaying operation. -
FIG. 15 illustrates long pipe centering/joining act of the pipelaying operation. -
FIG. 16 illustrates long pipe centering/joining act of the pipelaying operation performed on a grade. -
FIG. 17 is an orthogonal view of a pipelayer, according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. - FIGS. 18A-D illustrate a removable counterweight system (RCW), according to another embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 18A is a side view of the RCW in a first position where a counterweight is engaged with the main frame.FIG. 18B is a side view of the RCW in a second position where the counterweight is dis-engaged with the main frame and set on the ground.FIG. 18C is a front view of the counterweight.FIG. 18D is a section view ofFIG. 18C taken alongline 18D-18D. -
FIGS. 19-21 illustrate an excavator and acts of a method for partially disassembling the excavator and loading the excavator on two or more tractor-trailers for transporting the excavator between work sites over public roads, according to another embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 19 illustrates the outriggers in the extended position and a first act of loading one of the track assemblies on the first trailer. -
FIG. 20 illustrates a second act of loading one of the track assemblies on the first trailer. -
FIG. 21 illustrates the remaining excavator loaded on the second trailer. -
FIGS. 22 and 23 illustrate acts of a method for partially disassembling the excavator (or pipelayer) and loading the excavator on two or more tractor-trailers (only trailer shown) for transporting the excavator between work sites over public roads, according to another embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 22 illustrates the excavator driven over the trailer after a gooseneck of the trailer has been removed. -
FIG. 23 illustrates the excavator lifted off the track shoes by the gooseneck jack. -
FIGS. 2-6 are various views of apipelayer 100, according to one embodiment of the present invention. Thepipelayer 100 includes amain assembly 150 a mounted on anundercarriage 150 b so that themain assembly 150 a may rotate relative to theundercarriage 150 b.FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of thepipelayer 100, wherein a longitudinal axis Lmf of themain assembly 150 a is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis Luc of theundercarriage 150 b.FIG. 3 illustrates another perspective view of thepipelayer 100, wherein the longitudinal axis Lmf of themain assembly 150 a is parallel to a longitudinal axis Luc of theundercarriage 150 b.FIG. 4 illustrates another perspective view of thepipelayer 100, wherein the longitudinal axis Lmf of themain assembly 150 a is parallel to a longitudinal axis Luc, of theundercarriage 150 b.FIG. 5 illustrates an orthogonal view of thepipelayer 100, wherein the longitudinal axis Lmf of themain assembly 150 a is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis Luc of theundercarriage 150 b.FIG. 6 illustrates another orthogonal view of thepipelayer 100, wherein the longitudinal axis Lmf of themain assembly 150 a is parallel to a longitudinal axis Luc of theundercarriage 150 b. - The
main assembly 150 a includes amain frame 105, anoptional adaptor 110, acab 115, aboom 120, a piston andcylinder assembly 125, awinch 130, apulley block 135, aload block 140, acounterweight 145, and anengine 147. Themain frame 105 has afirst side 105 a and asecond side 105 b distal from thefirst side 105 a. Attached to thefirst side 105 a are theoptional adaptor 110 and the operator'scab 115. Pivoted to theadaptor 110 at 120 p is a first longitudinal end of theboom 120. As used herein, the term pivoted or pivot includes a single axis pivot, such as a hinge, and a double axis pivot, such as a universal joint. The piston and cylinder assembly (PCA) 125 is also pivoted to theadaptor 110 and to theboom 120 so that extension of thePCA 125 will lower the boom and retraction of the PCA will raise theboom 120. Theadaptor 110 may be removably attached to theframe 110 to allow theboom 120 to be replaced with an excavator boom (not shown) or a crane boom (not shown). Alternatively, theboom 120 may be directly pivoted to themain frame 105. - Attached near the first longitudinal end of the
boom 120 is awinch 130. Thewinch 130 includes a drum having a cable 132 (only partially shown) wrapped therearound. The drum is rotatable relative to a housing of the winch. The drum may be driven by a hydraulic motor (not shown). Pivoted to a second longitudinal end of theboom 120 is apulley block 135. Hung from thepulley block 135 by thecable 132 is aload block 140. Each of theblocks cable 132 extends from the winch drum along theboom 120 and around the sheaves of thepulley block 135 andload block 140 in order to achieve a mechanical advantage. Unwinding of thecable 132 from the drum lowers theload block 140 and winding of thecable 132 around the drum raises theload block 140. - The
boom 120 may be an A-frame and may include two primarystructural members 120 a, b and two cross bars. Theboom 120 may also be asymmetric in that one of the primarystructural members 120 a may extend from themain frame 105 at a first angle relative to a vertical axis that is less than a second angle relative to the vertical axis at which the other one 120 b of the primary structural members extends from the main frame. The asymmetric design allows better visibility for the operator and improves loading characteristics of the boom as compared to a symmetric design. Thestructural members 120 a, b may be made from high strength steel square tubing. Alternatively, the boom may be a symmetric A-frame or include only a single structural member. - Attached to the
second side 105 b is acounterweight 145. Housed in thesecond side 105 b of the main frame is anengine 147. Theengine 147 may drive a hydraulic pump (not shown) and a generator or alternator (not shown) for providing hydraulic or electrical energy to components, such as the cab sensors, thePCA 125, and thewinch 130. Associated hydraulic and electrical circuitry (not shown) interconnecting these components may also be provided. The engine may be a diesel engine or an alternative fuel engine. Examples of alternative fuel engines include diesel-electric hybrid and hydrogen fuel-cells. The diesel-electric hybrid may use a smaller diesel engine and a bank of batteries (not shown) which would allow operation of thepipelayer 100 without operation of the diesel engine. - Rotation of the
main assembly 150 a relative to theundercarriage 150 b and support for themain assembly 150 a by theundercarriage 150 b are provided by a rotary drive mechanism (not shown) and abearing 155. The rotary drive mechanism may include a hydraulic or electric motor (not shown) attached to the main frame and rotationally coupled to a pinion (not shown) which meshes with a gear (not shown) rotationally coupled to the undercarriage 150. Operation of the motor will cause themain assembly 150 a to rotate relative to theundercarriage 150 b. The rotary drive mechanism may further include a turn lock mechanism (not shown) for selectively rotationally coupling themain assembly 150 a relative to theundercarriage 150 b. The turn lock mechanism may include a gear tooth (not shown) selectively engageable with the gear via operation of a hydraulic cylinder or electic motor (not shown) and a proximity switch to verify engagement of the tooth with the gear. Engagement of the gear with the tooth rotationally couples themain assembly 150 a to theundercarriage 150 b. Verification of engagement by the proximity switch also prevents operation of the motor. - Alternatively, the turn lock mechanism may include a disk (not shown) incorporated in the motor and a retaining mechanism for retaining the disk. The turn lock mechanism is such that when the rotary motor is stopped, the disk is retained by the retaining mechanism to fix a rotor of the motor so as not to rotate, and when the motor is started, the disk is hydraulically or electrically disengaged from the motor, thereby freeing the rotor.
- The
cab 115 is includes walls, a ceiling, and windows to protect the operator from weather conditions and allow visibility for the operator. Placement of thecab 115 on themain frame 105 a may allow the operator unobstructed view to the front, left, and/or right. Thecab 115 further includes a seat (not shown), operating instruments (not shown), and operating controls (not shown). The cab may further include a load management system (LMS). The LMS is a microprocessor based system and includes a variety of sensors in communication with the microprocessor to calculate and display boom angle, boom capacity, and/or the load on load block. The LMS may include a database of boom capacities for various operating positions and surface grades. The LMS may alert the operator, with audio and/or visual warnings, when rated capacity is imminent, reached, and/or exceeded. - The LMS may allow an operator to simulate a multi-position pipelaying operation before performing the operation. The operator may move the pipelayer through various expected positions of the operation and note the load capacity at each position. Alternatively, the LMS may be programmed to record the capacity at each position and simulate the operation once the actual load is known. The operator then may pick up the load and estimate whether the load will exceed the load capacity at any of the expected positions. If so, he may then re-configure the expected positions until the load may be safely handled. The LMS may also warn the operator of an impending two-block event (when the load block contacts the pulley block).
- The LMS system may also log a history of the lifts performed by the
pipelayer 100, and this data can be downloaded to a computer for later analysis. The LMS may include an external, boom-mounted light bar to provide a simple visual indicator of approximate load on hook. The light bar may include a color scheme of lights. For example, green lights mean the crane is under a light load, yellow indicates a heavier load, and a red signals a high load condition. The LMS may also monitor grade of the surface that the pipelayer is operating on and calculate and display the proper load value that corresponds to the grade. The LMS may communicate with an LMS of asecond pipelayer 100 and indicate the load distribution between the two pipelayers for pipelaying operations performed in tandem. With this information, the operators may coordinate activities to ensure that an optimal load distribution is maintained. - The
undercarriage 150 b includes alower frame 160 attached to thebearing 155 and twotrack assemblies 175, each removably attached to thelower frame 160. Each of thetrack assemblies 175 includes a track frame and one ormore rollers 180 a,b, such as sprockets, operatively coupled to a track shoe orbelt 185. Thetrack shoe 185 extends around the track frame and is movable relative to the track frame. Therollers 180 a, b are supported by the track frame so that the rollers may rotate relative to the track frame. One of therollers 180 a, b may be a drive sprocket and the other an idler roller. A rotor of an electric or hydraulic track motor (not shown) may be rotationally coupled to the drive sprocket and a housing of the track motor may be attached to the track frame. A conduit, such as an electrical cable or hydraulic hose, may extend from themain frame 105 to the track motor. The conduit may be connected to the track motor by a quick-connect fitting. Operation of the track motor will cause movement of thetrack shoe 185 relative to the track frame. -
FIG. 2A is a schematic illustrating configuration of thepipelayer 100 so that theboom pivot 120 p is within a rectangular outer footprint OFP, a rectangular tipping fulcrum TF, and a rectangular inner footprint IFP of thepipelayer 100. The outer footprint OFP is defined by outer sides of the track shoes 185. The tipping fulcrum TF is defined by longitudinal centerlines of each of thetrack shoes 185 and by longitudinal centerlines of therollers 180 a, b. The inner footprint IFP is defined by inner sides of the track shoes 185. Since theboom pivot 120 p is within the footprints OFP, IFP and the tipping fulcrum TF in the perpendicular and parallel positions ofFIGS. 5 and 6 , then it is also within the footprints and tipping fulcrum for any rotational position of the main frame relative to the undercarriage (represented by the dashed circle). Alternatively, theboom pivot 120 p may be disposed between the outer footprint OFP and the tipping fulcrum TF or the inner footprint IFP and the tipping fulcrum TF. -
FIGS. 7-12 illustrate acts of a method for partially disassembling thepipelayer 100 and loading the pipelayer on two or more tractor-trailers 200 a-c (only trailer shown and gooseneck removed for simplicity) for transporting thepipelayer 100 between work sites over public roads, according to another embodiment of the present invention. The trailers 200 a-c may be standard lowboy flatbed trailers.FIG. 7 illustratesoutriggers 165 in the extended position and one of thetrack assemblies 175 loaded on afirst trailer 200 a.FIG. 8 illustrates the other one of thetrack assemblies 175 loaded on thefirst trailer 200 a. - To facilitate dis-assembly of the
pipelayer 100 for transport and re-assembly of thepipelayer 100 for delivery to the next job site, each of thetrack assemblies 175 may include one ormore lugs 190 attached to the track frame. Each of thelugs 190 may include ahook 190 a and ahole 190 b. Each of thelugs 190 is received in anopening 195 a of abracket assembly 195 of thelower frame 160. Thebracket assembly 195 may include twoplates 195 d spaced apart to define theopening 195 a, eachplate 195 d attached to thelower frame 160.Fasteners 195 b, c (i.e., a bolt or a pin) may each be disposed through corresponding holes in theplates 195 d. To attach eachtrack assembly 175 to thelower frame 160, thefastener 195 c is removed and thehook 190 a is engaged with thefastener 195 b and thefastener 195 c is then inserted through holes in theplates 195 d and thehole 190 b and then locked to the track frame (i.e. by a nut or a clip). The track conduit may then be connected to the track motor by the quick-connect fitting. Alternatively, thelug 190 may be attached to thelower frame 160 and thebracket assembly 195 may be attached to the track frame. - Alternatively, each of the track motor housings may be attached to the
lower frame 160 and each rotor thereof rotationally coupled to a respective drive roller via a removable shaft. The shaft would be removably rotationally coupled at the track motor. Alternatively, each of thetrack assemblies 175 may be attached to thelower frame 160 by one or more telescoping axles (not shown). The telescoping axles would extend to provide a wide footprint for pipelaying operation and retract to provide a narrow footprint for transportation. - To further facilitate dis-assembly for transport and re-assembly for delivery of the
pipelayer 100, one ormore outriggers 165 are selectively pivotal relative to the lower frame. Each outrigger may include afirst arm 165 a, asecond arm 165 b, athird arm 165 c, and apad 165 d. Thefirst arm 165 a is selectively pivotal relative to thelower frame 160. Thesecond arm 165 b is selectively pivotal relative to the first arm and is retractable within thefirst arm 165 a. Thethird arm 165 c is selectively longitudinally coupled to thesecond arm 165 b and is retractable within thethird arm 165 c. Thepad 165 d is pivoted to thethird arm 165 c. Theoutriggers 165 are operable between an extended position and a retracted position. - Starting from a retracted position (
FIG. 2 ), thefirst arm 165 a is pivoted from a retracted position against a side of thelower frame 160 to an extended position about perpendicular to the side of thelower frame 160. Thefirst arm 165 a may then be locked into position. Thesecond arm 165 b is then extended from within thefirst arm 165 a. Thesecond arm 165 b may begin to pivot downward as it is being extended or may be locked into a position parallel to the first arm. When thesecond arm 165 b is fully extended it either pivots to a perpendicular position relative to thefirst arm 165 a or unlocked so that it may pivot to such a position. Thesecond arm 165 b is then locked into the perpendicular position. Thethird arm 165 c and thepad 165 d may then be extended from within thesecond arm 165 b. As thethird arm 165 c extends, thepad 165 d will contact the ground and begin to lift the pipelayer off of the track shoes 185. Thearms 165 may be coordinated so that all of the arms operate simultaneously. Once thethird arm 165 c is fully extended, thethird arm 165 c may be locked into position. Theoutrigger 165 is then fully actuated. - The
track assemblies 175 may then be removed. To operate theoutrigger 165 to the retraced position the above recited process is reversed. Operation of theoutrigger 165 may be fully automated and controlled from the cab and/or wirelessly by a remote control (not shown) so that the operator may view operation of theoutrigger 165 from the ground. Automation of theoutrigger 165 operation may be accomplished by the provision of a hydraulic or electric motor or piston (not shown) to pivot thefirst arm 165 a and hydraulic or electric lines (not shown) to actuate the second 165 b and third 165 c arms and the locking mechanisms. - The
outriggers 165 are operated to lift thepipelayer 100 off of the track shoes 185. Thefasteners 195 c are removed. Theboom 120 and theload block 140 are used to lift thetrack assembly 175 from thelower frame 160. To accomplish this, theboom 120 may be raised to a substantially vertical position and theload block 140 may be lowered to thetrack assembly 175 that is being removed. Thetrack assembly 175 may be prepared for loading by attaching aclamp 250 that grasps edges of thetrack assembly 175 and has a lifting lug for connection to theload block 140. Alternatively, chains with hooks (not shown) could be used instead of theclamp 250. Theload block 140 may be raised to lift thetrack assembly 175 from thelower frame 160. Theboom 120 may then be lowered to move thetrack assembly 175 over the trailer. Theload block 140 may then be lowered to set thetrack assembly 175 onto thetrailer 200 a. Removal of thesecond track assembly 175 is similar to that of thefirst track assembly 175 with the addition that themain assembly 150 a may be rotated so that thecab 115 faces thesecond track assembly 175 and then rotated back after thesecond track assembly 175 is secured so that thesecond track assembly 175 may be placed on thetrailer 200 a. Alternatively, thetrailer 200 a may instead be moved adjacent to thesecond track assembly 175. -
FIG. 9 illustrates an act of backing thesecond trailer 200 b underneath the remaining pipelayer 100 (minus the two track assemblies 175).FIG. 10 illustrates axles of the second trailer passing underneath the remainingpipelayer 100.FIG. 11 illustrates the remainingpipelayer 100 loaded on the second trailer. After thetrack assemblies 175 have been removed and loaded on thefirst trailer 200 a, the second trailer 600 b is aligned for backing up underneath the remainingpipelayer 100. The second trailer 600 b is positioned so that a longitudinal axis of the trailer is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis Luc of theundercarriage 150 b. This is because the length of thelower frame 160 may be equal to or less than or substantially equal to or less than a width of thesecond trailer 200 b whereas the width of thelower frame 160 may be greater or substantially greater than the width of thesecond trailer 200 b. Themain assembly 150 a may be oriented so that thecab 115 faces thesecond trailer 200 b so that the operator may view thesecond trailer 200 b backing up. Alternatively, themain assembly 150 a may be oriented so that thecab 115 faces away from thesecond trailer 200 b and the operator may exit thecab 115 and view the backing up of thetrailer 200 a from the ground. -
FIG. 10 illustrates axles of the second trailer 200 bpassing underneath the remainingpipelayer 100. Backing up of thesecond trailer 200 b then commences. Thejack assemblies 165 provide sufficient clearance for axles of thesecond trailer 200 b to pass underneath the remainingpipelayer 100. Before finishing the backing up of thesecond trailer 200 b, themain assembly 150 a may be rotated 180 degrees (or may already be in that position) so that the truck operator may place thecounterweight 145 orsecond side 105 b of themain frame 105 in substantial vertical alignment with a front end of thesecond trailer 200 b (the end proximate the tractor). -
FIG. 11 illustrates the remainingpipelayer 100 loaded on thesecond trailer 200 b. Once the remainingpipelayer 100 is aligned with the front end of thesecond trailer 200 b, thejack assemblies 165 are retraced until thelower frame 160 rests on thesecond trailer 200 b. Thejack assemblies 165 may then be fully actuated to the retracted position for transport. Theboom 120 may then be lowered to a horizontal or nearly horizontal position. Theboom 120 may hang over a rear end of thesecond trailer 200 b. A stinger orflip trailer 205 may be hitched to the rear end of thesecond trailer 200 b to contain the overhang (depending on the length of the overhang and the local transportation laws). Alternatively, a shorter boom may be used so that there is no overhang. Thepipelayer 100 may then be transported to another worksite using the two tractor-trailers 200 a, b. -
FIG. 12 illustrates the boom and counterweight loaded on athird trailer 200 c. If, for example, the route to the next work site crosses a load zoned bridge, it may be necessary to reduce the weight of thesecond trailer 200 b. Thecounterweight 145 and theboom 120 may then be removed and transported on athird trailer 200 c. Alternatively, thecounterweight 145 and theboom 120 may be removed prior to loading the remainingpipelayer 100 onto thesecond trailer 200 b. Thestinger trailer 205 would not be used for thesecond trailer 200 b. As shown, theboom 120 is loaded with thewinch 130 facing thethird trailer 200 c and supporting the first end of theboom 120. Alternatively, theboom 120 may be loaded with thewinch 130 facing away from thethird trailer 200 c and a block (not shown) may be used to support the first end of theboom 120. - The
PCA 125 may be left on the remainingpipelayer 100, may be removed with theboom 120, or may be removed from both theboom 120 and the remainingpipelayer 100. If thePCA 125 is left on the remainingpipelayer 100, a free end may be supported by a bracket (not shown). If thePCA 125 is removed from both theboom 120 and the remainingpipelayer 100, then it may be transported on either the second 200 b or thethird trailer 200 c. Alternatively, if theadaptor 110 is used, theadaptor 110 and theboom 120 together (disposing of the need to disassemble the PCA 125) may be loaded on thethird trailer 200 c (with the counterweight 145) or theboom 120 may be separated from theadapter 110 and loaded as shown. Alternatively, only one of theboom 120 and thecounterweight 145 may be removed from the remainingpipelayer 100 and loaded on thethird trailer 200 c. -
FIGS. 13-16 illustrate a pipelaying operation using one or more pipelayers 100, according to anther embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 12 illustrates a short pipe transporting act of the pipelaying operation.FIG. 13 illustrates short pipe centering/joining act of the pipelaying operation.FIG. 14 illustrates long pipe centering/joining act of the pipelaying operation.FIG. 15 illustrates a centering/joining act of the pipelaying operation performed on a grade. - In the pipelaying operation, the following acts are repeated: (a) short pipe transporting:
short pipes 336 stacked on amaterial handling vehicle 335 are moved to a place near atrench 337 and arranged in a line; (b) short pipe centering/joining: an adequate number ofshort pipes 336, which have been aligned in the place near thetrench 337 by the short pipe transporting act, are joined by welding into along pipe 338; and (c) long pipe centering/joining act: thelong pipe 338 prepared by the short pipe centering/joining act is joined by welding to thepipeline 339 under construction. - As shown in
FIG. 13 , a working field WF is formed in the short pipe transporting operation on the right of thetrench 337, which has been dug. In the working field WF, a traveling space RS1 for thepipelayer 100 and a traveling space RS2 for thematerial handling vehicle 335 are arranged in this order from the side of the dugtrench 337, so that thepipelayer 100 and thematerial handling vehicle 335 can travel together in an operating direction parallel with thedug trench 337. After the self-propulsion of theundercarriage 150 b allows thepipelayer 100 to move the distance corresponding to the planned pitch of alignment of theshort pipes 336 in the operating direction, themain assembly 150 a turns about to take one of theshort pipes 335 out of thematerial handling vehicle 335 and place it near thedug trench 337. Each of theshort pipes 336 are prepared for laying by wrapping a sling T therearound. By repeating this operation, some or all theshort pipes 336 stacked on thematerial handling vehicle 335 are moved to and aligned in the place near the dug trench 37. - In the short pipe centering/joining act, as shown in
FIG. 14 , theshort pipes 336 aligned in the place near thedug trench 337 are raised to a level suited for welding operation and the are centered to make longitudinal axes of adjacentshort pipes short pipes 336 is performed by cooperation of a plurality ofpipelayers 100 based on an instruction from the hoistman HM. - In the long pipe centering/joining act, as shown in
FIG. 15 , anend 338 a of thelong pipe 338 and anend 339 a of thepipeline 339 under construction are raised to a level suited for welding operation and centered to make longitudinal axes of theends ends pipelayers 100 based on an instruction from the hoistman HM. - If either of the centering/joining acts is carried out on a grade, these acts may proceed as shown in
FIG. 16 . The pivotedpulley block 135 compensates for the grade, thereby maintaining a portion of thecable 132 and theload block 140 aligned with a direction of gravity G. -
FIG. 17 is an orthogonal view of apipelayer 400, according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. Asecond winch 430 is used instead of thePCA 125 to hoist theboom 120. Thesecond winch 430 is attached to theadaptor 110 or directly to themain frame 105 and includes a second drum having asecond cable 432 wrapped therearound. The second drum is rotatable relative to a second housing of thesecond winch 430. The second drum may be driven by a hydraulic motor (not shown). Pivoted to the second longitudinal end of theboom 120 is a first sheave block 435 a. Asecond sheave block 435 b is pivoted to the second winch housing, theadaptor 110, or directly to themain frame 105. Each of the sheave blocks 435 a, b includes a plurality of pulleys or sheaves. Thecable 132 extends from the second drum and around the sheaves of the sheave blocks 435 a, b in order to achieve a mechanical advantage. Unwinding of thecable 432 from the second winch drum lowers theboom 120 and winding of thecable 432 around the second winch drum raises theboom 120. Loading of thepipelayer 400 is similar to loading of thepipelayer 100. If thethird trailer 200 c is used, the first sheave block 435 a may simply be removed and loaded on thesecond trailer 200 b with the remaining pipelayer 400 (may depend on whether theadaptor 110 is used, see above). Usage and loading of thepipelayer 400 is similar to usage and loading of thepipelayer 100. - In another alternative embodiment, the
winch 130 may be attached to a modified adaptor instead of theboom 120, for example, proximate to thecab 115. In another alternative embodiment, thesecond winch 430 may be used instead of thePCA 125 to hoist theboom 120 and both thesecond winch 430 and thewinch 130 may be attached to a modified adaptor, for example, proximate to thecab 115. In another alternative embodiment, thewinch 130 may be attached to themain frame 105 instead of theboom 120, for example, proximate to thecab 115. In another alternative embodiment, the boom may be longitudinally extended by adding a second boom section (not shown) flanged to theboom 120. The flange may include a hinge so that the second boom section may be folded over theboom 120 for transportation. - In another alternative embodiment, a modified adaptor (not shown) may be used having a first member pivoted to the first side of the main frame and a second member pivoted to the second side of the main frame, the two members also pivoted together. In a one aspect of this alternative embodiment, the
second winch 430 may be used instead of thePCA 125 to hoist theboom 120 and thesecond winch 430 may be attached to the one of the adaptor members proximate to the pivot between the members. In another aspect of this alternative embodiment, thewinch 130 may be attached to the one of the adaptor members proximate to the pivot between the members instead of to theboom 120. In another aspect of this alternative embodiment, theboom 120 may be pivoted to the first adaptor member at a location midway along the adaptor member and thePCA 125 may be pivoted to the adaptor member at the first side of the main frame. In another aspect of this alternative embodiment, a second winch may be used instead of thePCA 125 to hoist theboom 120 and bothwinches - FIGS. 18A-D illustrate a removable counterweight system (RCW) 500, according to another embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 18A is a side view of theRCW 500 in a first position where acounterweight 545 is removably attached to the main frame 105 (atsecond side 105 b).FIG. 18B is a side view of theRCW 500 in a second position where thecounterweight 545 is removed from themain frame 105 and set on the ground. Thecounterweight 545 is shown separately in FIGS. 18C-D for clarity.FIG. 18C is a front view of thecounterweight 545.FIG. 18D is a section view ofFIG. 18C taken alongline 18D-18D. - The
RCW 500 may be installed on thepipelayer 100 in lieu of thecounterweight 145. TheRCW 500 may be hydraulically operated between the first and second positions. TheRCW 500 may be operated from thecab 115 and/or from controls (not shown) located on themain frame 105. TheRCW 500 allows for quick, automated, and independent removal of thecounterweight 545 in instances where the pipelayer 100 (or 400) will be operated on steep grades. During steep grade operation, thecounterweight 145/545 destabilizes thepipelayer 100 in certain rotational orientations of themain assembly 150 a relative to theundercarriage 150 b and/or loading scenarios. Removal of thecounterweight 545 allows more versatile operation of thepipelayer 100 on steep grades. Alternatively or in addition thereto, the weight of thelower frame 160 may be increased by adding weights (not shown) or increasing the thickness of structural members to compensate for removal of thecounterweight 545 and/or increase stability of thepipelayer 100 on steep grades. Alternatively or in addition to using the RCW for steep grade operation, theRCW 500 may be used to load thecounterweight 545 on thethird trailer 200 c (discussed above). Alternatively, thepipelayer 100 may be operated on steep grades without theRCW 500 by relying on the LMS to safely constrain movement of thepipelayer 100 from unstable positions. - The
RCW 500 may include a piston and cylinder assembly (PCA) 505, abase 510, ahead 520, one or morefront arms 525 a, one or morerear arms 525 b, and thecounterweight 545. Thebase 510 is attached to themain frame 105 via lugs. One or more blocks (not shown for clarity) may be attached to themain frame 105 proximate to thebase 510. ThePCA 505 is pivoted to themain frame 105 via a lug and pivoted to thehead 520. Thefront arms 525 a are pivoted to themain frame 105 via lugs and pivoted to thehead 520. Therear arms 525 b are pivoted to themain frame 105 via lugs and pivoted to thehead 520. One ormore forks 515 are also pivoted to thehead 520. Theforks 515 allow thecounterweight 545 to be pivoted to thehead 520 by receivingrespective eyes 545 e attached to thecounterweight 545. Once holes through the forks are aligned with respective holes through theeyes 545 e, pins (not shown) are inserted through each fork and eye, thereby securing thecounterweight 545 to thehead 520. The forks may 515 also be free to rotate about their longitudinal axis. - The
counterweight 545 includes a body having arecess 545 r formed therein, one ormore blocks 545 b attached thereto and disposed in therecess 545 r, and theeyes 545 e attached thereto and disposed in the recess. Theeyes 545 e may be attached to the body via theblocks 545 b. When thecounterweight 545 is in the first position, thePCA 505, thebase 510, thearms 525 a, b, and theforks 515 may be disposed in therecess 545 r. Thehead 520 may extend upward out of therecess 545 r or be disposed in therecess 545 r as well. - Starting from the first position where the
PCA 505 is fully extended, retraction of thePCA 505 articulates the head 520 (and the counterweight 545) horizontally away from themain frame 105 and vertically downward until thecounterweight 545 is seated on the ground. The front 525 a and rear 525 b arms support thehead 520 as it articulates between the first and second positions. Once thecounterweight 545 is seated on the ground, the pins may be removed and thehead 520 may be returned to the first position to stow it for pipelayer operation without thecounterweight 545. To re-attach thecounterweight 545, the process is reversed. Thehead 520 is articulated to the second position, the pins inserted, and the PCA extended. Extension of the PCA articulates the head 520 (and the counterweight 545) vertically upward and horizontally toward themain frame 105 until bottoms of theblocks 545 b are seated on thebase 510 and faces of theblocks 545 b abut the base blocks. One or more safety latch mechanisms (not shown) may be actuated (manually or automatically) once thecounterweight 545 is seated on thebase 510. Further, a proximity sensor may be provided to verify that the counterweight has properly seated. -
FIGS. 19-21 illustrate anexcavator 600 and acts of a method for partially disassembling theexcavator 600 and loading the excavator on two or more tractor-trailers 200 a-c (only trailer shown and gooseneck removed for simplicity) for transporting theexcavator 600 between work sites over public roads, according to another embodiment of the present invention. Acts similar to those described above with reference toFIGS. 7-12 will not be repeated. Theexcavator 600 may be thepipelayer 100 after theadapter 110 and theboom 120 have been removed and anexcavator boom assembly 620 attached to themain frame 105. Theexcavator boom assembly 620 includes aboom 620 a pivoted to themain frame 105 at a first end thereof and an arm or stick 620 b pivoted to the second end of theboom 620 a at a first end thereof. One or more first PCAs 625 a are pivoted to the main frame and pivoted to theboom 620 a for articulating the first boom to themain frame 105. Asecond PCA 625 b is pivoted to theboom 620 a and pivoted to thestick 620 b for articulating thestick 620 b relative to theboom 620 a. Abucket 640 is pivoted to the second end of thestick 620 b. Athird PCA 625 c is pivoted to thestick 620 b and to thebucket 640 via a linkage for articulating thebucket 640 relative to thestick 620 b. -
FIG. 19 illustrates theoutriggers 165 in the extended position and a first act of loading one of thetrack assemblies 175 on thefirst trailer 200 a.FIG. 20 illustrates a second act of loading one of the track assemblies on thefirst trailer 200 a. First andsecond eyes 690 a, b are attached to theboom 620 a and thestick 620 b, respectively. Thesecond eye 690 b is optional as an eye located on the back of thebucket 640 may be used instead. Once thetrack assembly 175 is ready to be removed, theboom assembly 620 is articulated to the position shown and theclamp 250 is secured to thefirst eye 690 a with a cable. Theboom assembly 620 is raised to lift thetrack assembly 175 from thebrackets 195. Thetrack assembly 175 will then swing away from the remainingexcavator 600. Theboom assembly 620 may then be lowered and thetrack assembly 175 set on the ground. In this position, theboom assembly 620 may then be articulated so the clamp 250 (and cable) may be secured to thesecond eye 690 b. Once theclamp 250 is secured to thesecond eye 690 b, theboom assembly 620 may be articulated to load thetrack assembly 175 onto the first tractor-trailer 200 a. The acts may then be repeated to load theother track assembly 175 onto the first tractor-trailer 200 a (with the addition of rotating themain assembly 150 a about theundercarriage 150 b). - Alternatively, a winch (not shown) may be attached to the
boom assembly 620 instead of theeyes 690 a, b for hoisting the track assemblies. The winch may be attached to thestick 620 b near thebucket 640. In this alternative, theclamp 250 would be connected to the winch cable and the winch would then be operated to lift and swing the track assembly over to the winch. The boom assembly would then be articulated to lower the track assembly onto thetractor trailer 200 a. -
FIG. 21 illustrates the remainingexcavator 600 loaded on thesecond trailer 200 b. Once thetrack assemblies 175 have been loaded on thefirst tractor trailer 200 a, the remainingexcavator 600 may be loaded onto thesecond tractor trailer 200 b. Theboom assembly 620 may be articulated so that thearm 620 b is folded underneath theboom 620 a. Since thestick 620 b can be folded underneath theboom 620 a, thestinger trailer 205 is not required. As discussed above with reference toFIG. 12 , if it is necessary to reduce the weight of thesecond trailer 200 b, thecounterweight 145 and/or theboom assembly 620 may be loaded on a third tractor-trailer 200 c. -
FIGS. 22 and 23 illustrate acts of a method for partially disassembling the excavator 600 (orpipelayer 100, 400) and loading theexcavator 600 on two or more tractor-trailers 200 a-c (only trailer shown) for transporting theexcavator 600 between work sites over public roads, according to another embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 22 illustrates theexcavator 600 driven over thetrailer 200 b after agooseneck 210 of the trailer has been removed.FIG. 23 illustrates theexcavator 600 lifted off thetrack shoes 120 by agooseneck jack 215. - In this embodiment, the
excavator 600 or thepipelayer 100 may be loaded for transportation without requiring theoutriggers 165. Instead of raising theexcavator 600 or thepipelayer 100 off of the track shoes using theoutriggers 165, thegooseneck jack 215 is used. As shown, theboom assembly 620 is in the folded position; however, the boom assembly may also be in the position illustrated inFIGS. 19 and 20 . Thetrailer 200 b is removed from the tractor and a front end of thetrailer 200 b set on the ground. Thegooseneck 210 of thetrailer 200 b is removed from a front end of thetrailer 200 b. Theexcavator 600 or thepipelayer 100 is driven over thetrailer 200 b via the front end and parked. Wood blocks may be placed between thelower frame 160 and thetrailer 200 b. Thegooseneck 210 is reattached to the front end of thetrailer 200 b. Thejack 215 included with thegooseneck 210 is used to raise the front end off the ground, thereby also raising theexcavator 600 or thepipelayer 100 off of the track shoes 120. Thejack 215 may be operated using one or more hydraulic lines (not shown) connected to a hydraulic pump of the truck. - The weight may then be transferred from the
gooseneck jack 215 to one or more jack stands (not shown). Thelower frame 160 may be chained down to thetrailer 200 b. Removal and loading of thetrack assemblies 175 onto thetrailer 200 a may then proceed as shown inFIGS. 19-20 orFIGS. 7-8 and as discussed above. Thetrailer 200 b may be attached to the tractor and the remainingexcavator 600 or thepipelayer 100 transported to the next worksite using thetrailer 200 b (after folding theboom assembly 620 or after lowering theboom 120 and hitching the stinger 205 (if needed) as inFIG. 11 ). Alternatively, as discussed above, theboom 120,boom assembly 620, and/or thecounterweight 145 may be removed from the remainingexcavator 600 or thepipelayer 100 and loaded on thetrailer 200 c. Alternatively, a lowboy beam trailer (not shown) may be used instead of a lowboy flatbed trailer. - While the foregoing is directed to embodiments of the present invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof, and the scope thereof is determined by the claims that follow.
Claims (49)
1. A method for transporting a pipelayer or excavator from a first work site to a second worksite via a public road, comprising acts of:
raising the pipelayer or excavator off of track shoes of the pipelayer or excavator;
removing a first track assembly from the pipelayer or excavator using a boom of the pipelayer or a boom assembly of the excavator;
loading the first track assembly onto a first trailer of a first tractor-trailer using the boom of the remaining pipelayer or the boom assembly of the remaining excavator;
removing the second track assembly from the pipelayer using the boom of the remaining pipelayer or the boom assembly of the remaining excavator; and
loading the second track assembly onto the first trailer using the boom of the remaining pipelayer or the boom assembly of the remaining excavator.
2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:
backing a second trailer of a second tractor-trailer underneath the remaining pipelayer or excavator; and
lowering the remaining pipelayer or excavator onto the second trailer.
3. The method of claim 2 , further comprising transporting the pipelayer or the excavator to the second worksite using only the two tractor-trailers.
4. The method of claim 2 , further comprising:
removing the boom and/or a counterweight of the pipelayer or excavator from the remaining pipelayer or excavator; and
loading the boom and/or the counterweight onto a third trailer of a third tractor-trailer.
5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the counterweight is removed and loaded and removing and loading the counterweight comprises operating a piston and cylinder assembly of the pipelayer or excavator.
6. The method of claim 2 , further comprising hitching a stinger trailer to the second trailer.
7. The method of claim 1 , wherein raising the pipelayer or excavator comprises operating outriggers of the pipelayer or excavator.
8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the pipelayer or excavator is the pipelayer.
9. The method of claim 10 , wherein the pipelayer comprises:
an undercarriage, comprising:
a lower frame;
two track assemblies, each track assembly, comprising:
a track frame removably attached to the lower frame; and
a track shoe supported by the track frame so that the track shoe may move around the track frame;
a main assembly supported by the undercarriage so that the main assembly may rotate relative to the undercarriage, the main assembly comprising:
a main frame; and
the boom pivoted to the main frame.
10. The method of claim 1 , wherein the pipelayer or excavator is the excavator.
11. The method of claim 10 , wherein removing each track assembly uses a boom of the boom assembly and loading each track assembly uses a stick of the boom assembly.
12. The method of claim 10 , wherein removing each track assembly uses a winch attached to the boom assembly.
13. The method of claim 10 , further comprising folding a stick of the boom assembly underneath a boom of the boom assembly.
14. The method of claim 1 , wherein raising the pipelayer or excavator comprises operating a jack of a second trailer.
15. The method of claim 14 , further comprising:
removing a gooseneck from a front end of the second trailer;
driving the pipelayer or excavator over the second trailer via the front end; and
reattaching the gooseneck to the front end of the second trailer.
16. A pipelayer, comprising:
an undercarriage, comprising:
a lower frame;
two track assemblies, each track assembly, comprising:
a track frame removably attached to the lower frame; and
a track shoe supported by the track frame so that the track shoe may move around the track frame;
a main assembly supported by the undercarriage so that the main assembly may rotate relative to the undercarriage, the main assembly comprising:
a main frame; and
a boom pivoted to the main frame.
17. The pipelayer of claim 16 , further comprising an adaptor removably attached to the main frame, wherein the boom is pivoted to the adaptor.
18. The pipelayer of claim 16 , further comprising a winch attached to the boom.
19. The pipelayer of claim 16 , wherein the boom is an A-frame.
20. The pipelayer of claim 19 , wherein the boom is asymmetric.
21. The pipelayer of claim 16 , further comprising:
a winch;
a cable operatively connected to the winch; and
a pulley block operatively connected to the cable and pivoted to the boom.
22. The pipelayer of claim 21 , wherein the pivot between the pulley block and the boom is a hinge.
23. The pipelayer of claim 21 , further comprising a load block operatively connected to the cable.
24. The pipelayer of claim 16 , further comprising a piston and cylinder assembly pivoted to the boom and pivoted to the main frame.
25. A method of using the pipelayer of claim 16 , comprising:
lifting a pipe using the pipelayer;
rotating the pipe about a radius using the pipelayer; and
lowering the pipe into a trench using the pipelayer.
26. A method of using the pipelayer of claim 17 , comprising:
removing the adaptor and the boom; and
attaching an excavator boom or a crane boom to the main frame.
27. The pipelayer of claim 16 , further comprising a cab attached to the main frame, wherein an operator's field of vision to a front, a left, and a right side is unobstructed when an operator is seated in the cab.
28. The pipelayer of claim 16 , further comprising an outrigger pivoted to the lower frame, the outrigger operable to extend into contact with the ground to support the pipelayer.
29. The pipelayer of claim 28 , wherein the outrigger comprises:
a first arm pivoted to the lower frame and operable between a first position along the lower frame and a second position extending from the lower frame; and
a second arm operable between a first position retracted in the first arm and a second position extended from the first arm.
30. The pipelayer of claim 29 , wherein the outrigger further comprises:
a third arm operable between a first position retracted in the second arm and a second position extended from the second arm; and
a pad pivoted to the third arm.
31. The pipelayer of claim 16 , further comprising a track motor attached to the track frame, wherein the track shoe is operatively connected to the track motor.
32. The pipelayer of claim 16 , further comprising an engine attached to the main frame.
33. The pipelayer of claim 32 , wherein the engine is a diesel-electric hybrid.
34. The pipelayer of claim 32 , wherein the engine is a hydrogen fuel-cell.
35. The pipelayer of claim 16 , wherein a length of the lower frame is substantially equal to or less than a width of a standard trailer of a tractor-trailer.
36. The pipelayer of claim 16 , wherein a width of the lower frame is greater than a width of a standard trailer of a tractor-trailer.
37. The pipelayer of claim 16 , wherein a width of the undercarriage is not variable.
38. The pipelayer of claim 16 , wherein:
the removable attachment between the track frame and the lower frame comprises a lug and a bracket assembly,
the lug comprises a hook and a hole,
the lug is attached to one of the track frame and the lower frame,
the bracket assembly is attached to the other of the track frame and the lower frame, and
the bracket assembly comprises a first fastener which receives the hook and a second removable fastener disposed through the hole.
39. The pipelayer of claim 16 , further comprising:
a winch attached to the main frame; and
a cable operatively connected to the winch and to the boom at an end of the boom distal from the pivot between the boom and the main frame so that operation of the winch will raise or lower the boom.
40. The pipelayer of claim 16 , wherein a rectangular inner footprint is defined by inner sides of the track shoes and the pivot between the boom and the main frame is located within the inner footprint.
41. The pipelayer of claim 40 , wherein the pivot between the boom and the main frame is located within the inner footprint at any rotational orientation of the main frame relative to the undercarriage.
42. The pipelayer of claim 16 , wherein:
the boom is pivoted to a first side of the main frame, and
the main assembly further comprises a counterweight removably attached to a second side of the main frame, the second side opposite the first side.
43. The pipelayer of claim 42 , further comprising:
a piston and cylinder assembly (PCA) pivoted to the main frame and pivoted to the counterweight, wherein the PCA is operable between a first position where the counterweight is removably attached to the second side of the main frame and a second position where the counterweight is seated on the ground.
44. The pipelayer of claim 43 , further comprising:
a head pivoted to the counterweight;
a first pair of arms pivoted to the main frame and the head;
a second pair of arms pivoted to the main frame and the head, wherein the PCA is pivoted to the counterweight via the head.
45. The pipelayer of claim 42 , wherein the counterweight has a recess formed therein and the PCA is disposed in the recess when the PCA is in the first position.
46. The pipelayer of claim 42 , further comprising a proximity sensor operable to verify that the counterweight is in the first position.
47. A method of using a pipelayer, comprising acts of:
providing a pipelayer;
removing a counterweight of the pipelayer; and
operating the pipelayer on a steep grade without the counterweight.
48. The method of claim 47 , wherein removing the counterweight comprises operating a piston and cylinder assembly of the pipelayer.
49. The method of claim 47 , wherein a weight of an undercarriage of the pipelayer has been increased to compensate for removal of the counterweight.
Priority Applications (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/746,464 US20070221600A1 (en) | 2003-03-11 | 2007-05-09 | Pipelayer and method of loading pipelayer or excavator for transportation |
CA002597025A CA2597025A1 (en) | 2007-05-09 | 2007-08-10 | Pipelayer and method for loading pipelayer or excavator for transportation |
AU200720692F AU318313S (en) | 2007-05-09 | 2007-11-09 | Pipelayer |
PCT/US2008/063078 WO2008141095A1 (en) | 2007-05-09 | 2008-05-08 | Pipelayer and method of loading pipelayer or excavator for transportation |
US12/683,789 US7896178B2 (en) | 2003-03-11 | 2010-01-07 | Industrial vehicle counterweight system |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/US2003/007613 WO2004080881A1 (en) | 2003-03-11 | 2003-03-11 | Pipe layer apparatus |
US11/125,691 US20070241074A9 (en) | 2003-03-11 | 2005-05-10 | Pipelayer crane excavator apparatus and methods |
US11/746,464 US20070221600A1 (en) | 2003-03-11 | 2007-05-09 | Pipelayer and method of loading pipelayer or excavator for transportation |
Related Parent Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/125,691 Continuation-In-Part US20070241074A9 (en) | 2003-03-11 | 2005-05-10 | Pipelayer crane excavator apparatus and methods |
PCT/US2007/026183 A-371-Of-International WO2009082371A1 (en) | 2007-12-20 | 2007-12-20 | Color sensing device |
Related Child Applications (3)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US29/280,036 Continuation USD567259S1 (en) | 2007-05-09 | 2007-05-15 | Pipelayer |
US12/683,789 Continuation US7896178B2 (en) | 2003-03-11 | 2010-01-07 | Industrial vehicle counterweight system |
US13/754,125 Continuation US8665438B2 (en) | 2007-12-20 | 2013-01-30 | Color sensing device |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20070221600A1 true US20070221600A1 (en) | 2007-09-27 |
Family
ID=39367063
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/746,464 Abandoned US20070221600A1 (en) | 2003-03-11 | 2007-05-09 | Pipelayer and method of loading pipelayer or excavator for transportation |
US12/683,789 Expired - Lifetime US7896178B2 (en) | 2003-03-11 | 2010-01-07 | Industrial vehicle counterweight system |
Family Applications After (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/683,789 Expired - Lifetime US7896178B2 (en) | 2003-03-11 | 2010-01-07 | Industrial vehicle counterweight system |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US20070221600A1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU318313S (en) |
CA (1) | CA2597025A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2008141095A1 (en) |
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US11821172B2 (en) * | 2020-10-08 | 2023-11-21 | Caterpillar Inc. | Automated load drop based on machine configuration |
US20230339730A1 (en) * | 2022-04-26 | 2023-10-26 | Caterpillar Inc. | Configuration of a structural support for a boom of a pipelayer machine |
US11866307B2 (en) * | 2022-04-26 | 2024-01-09 | Caterpillar Inc. | Configuration of a structural support for a boom of a pipelayer machine |
USD1017647S1 (en) * | 2022-04-26 | 2024-03-12 | Caterpillar Inc. | Pipelayer boom |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
AU318313S (en) | 2008-03-05 |
US7896178B2 (en) | 2011-03-01 |
CA2597025A1 (en) | 2008-05-02 |
WO2008141095A1 (en) | 2008-11-20 |
US20100102016A1 (en) | 2010-04-29 |
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Owner name: VOLVO CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT AB, SWEDEN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:DAVIS, DANIEL E.;REEL/FRAME:021773/0790 Effective date: 20081003 |
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Owner name: DAVIS, DANIEL E., TEXAS Free format text: SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNOR:VOLVO CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT AB;REEL/FRAME:021839/0918 Effective date: 20081007 |
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