WO2021124176A1 - Appareil de pose de tuyau amélioré - Google Patents

Appareil de pose de tuyau amélioré Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2021124176A1
WO2021124176A1 PCT/IB2020/062076 IB2020062076W WO2021124176A1 WO 2021124176 A1 WO2021124176 A1 WO 2021124176A1 IB 2020062076 W IB2020062076 W IB 2020062076W WO 2021124176 A1 WO2021124176 A1 WO 2021124176A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
pipe laying
laying apparatus
actuator
pipe
previous
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IB2020/062076
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Daniel John CATO
Original Assignee
Demspey Wood Plant Limited
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Demspey Wood Plant Limited filed Critical Demspey Wood Plant Limited
Publication of WO2021124176A1 publication Critical patent/WO2021124176A1/fr

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Classifications

    • 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
    • F16L1/028—Laying or reclaiming pipes on land, e.g. above the ground in the ground
    • F16L1/036—Laying or reclaiming pipes on land, e.g. above the ground in the ground the pipes being composed of sections of short length
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B66—HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
    • B66C—CRANES; LOAD-ENGAGING ELEMENTS OR DEVICES FOR CRANES, CAPSTANS, WINCHES, OR TACKLES
    • B66C1/00—Load-engaging elements or devices attached to lifting or lowering gear of cranes or adapted for connection therewith for transmitting lifting forces to articles or groups of articles
    • B66C1/10—Load-engaging elements or devices attached to lifting or lowering gear of cranes or adapted for connection therewith for transmitting lifting forces to articles or groups of articles by mechanical means
    • B66C1/22—Rigid members, e.g. L-shaped members, with parts engaging the under surface of the loads; Crane hooks
    • B66C1/24—Single members engaging the loads from one side only
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B66—HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
    • B66C—CRANES; LOAD-ENGAGING ELEMENTS OR DEVICES FOR CRANES, CAPSTANS, WINCHES, OR TACKLES
    • B66C1/00—Load-engaging elements or devices attached to lifting or lowering gear of cranes or adapted for connection therewith for transmitting lifting forces to articles or groups of articles
    • B66C1/68—Load-engaging elements or devices attached to lifting or lowering gear of cranes or adapted for connection therewith for transmitting lifting forces to articles or groups of articles mounted on, or guided by, jibs
    • 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
    • F16L1/065—Accessories therefor, e.g. anchors fixed on or to vehicles
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B66—HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
    • B66C—CRANES; LOAD-ENGAGING ELEMENTS OR DEVICES FOR CRANES, CAPSTANS, WINCHES, OR TACKLES
    • B66C1/00—Load-engaging elements or devices attached to lifting or lowering gear of cranes or adapted for connection therewith for transmitting lifting forces to articles or groups of articles
    • B66C1/10—Load-engaging elements or devices attached to lifting or lowering gear of cranes or adapted for connection therewith for transmitting lifting forces to articles or groups of articles by mechanical means
    • B66C1/42—Gripping members engaging only the external or internal surfaces of the articles
    • B66C1/44—Gripping members engaging only the external or internal surfaces of the articles and applying frictional forces
    • B66C1/445—Gripping members engaging only the external or internal surfaces of the articles and applying frictional forces motor actuated
    • B66C1/447—Gripping members engaging only the external or internal surfaces of the articles and applying frictional forces motor actuated by hydraulic or pneumatic motors

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an improved pipe laying apparatus. More particularly, it relates to a pipe laying apparatus attachable to a boom or excavator arm.
  • the invention broadly comprises a pipe laying apparatus attachable to a boom, the pipe laying apparatus comprising: a generally C-shaped body; a clamping assembly connected to the body adapted to clamp a top surface of a pipe, the clamping assembling having a clamping arm movable between a clamped position and an unclamped position; a slider assembly connected to the body adapted to push the pipe away from a rear-end of the body, the slider assembly slidably movable between a retracted position and an extended position; and an actuator comprising: a cylinder barrel; and a rod movable between a retracted rod position, intermediate rod position and an extended rod position; and wherein the actuator actuates both the clamping assembly between the clamped position and the unclamped position, and the slider assembly between the retracted position and extended position.
  • the actuator has a first pin connected the slider assembly at a first actuator end and a second pin connected to the clamping assembly at a second actuator end.
  • the first actuator end is a rod end of the actuator and the second actuator end is a rear-end of the actuator.
  • the actuator is a double acting cylinder.
  • the actuator moves the pipe laying apparatus firstly to the unclamped position and then the extended position in a single extension stroke of the actuator.
  • the actuator moves the pipe laying apparatus firstly to the retracted position and then the clamped position in a single retraction stroke of the actuator.
  • the pipe laying apparatus has a retracted and clamped position, a retracted and unclamped position and an extended and unclamped position.
  • the pipe laying apparatus is in the retracted and clamped position when the rod is in a retracted rod position. According to another aspect the pipe laying apparatus is in the retracted and unclamped position when the rod is in the intermediate rod position, the intermediate rod position being between the extended rod position and the retracted rod position. According to another aspect pipe laying apparatus is in the extended and unclamped position when the rod is in an extended rod position.
  • the invention further comprises a front elongate slot adapted to constrain and guide movement of the first pin and a rear elongate slot adapted to constrain movement of the second pin.
  • front and rear elongate slots constrain and guide movement of the pins to one degree of translational freedom.
  • the pipe laying apparatus is in the retracted and clamped position when the first pin is located at a rear end of the front elongate slot and the second pin is located at a front end of the rear elongate slot.
  • the pipe laying apparatus is in the retracted and unclamped position when the first pin is located at a rear end of the front elongate slot and the second pin is located at a rear end of the rear elongate slot.
  • the pipe laying apparatus is in the extended and unclamped position when the first pin is located at a front end of the front elongate slot and the second pin is located at a rear end of the rear elongate slot.
  • the front elongate slot and the rear elongate slot are located on the body of the pipe laying apparatus.
  • the first pin is guided by a pair of front elongate slots on opposite sides of the actuator, and the second pin is guided by a pair of rear elongate slots on opposite sides of the actuator.
  • the elongate slots are located on one or more guiding plates attached to the body.
  • the actuator comprises a spring to reduce force required to move the clamping arm so that the force for moving the clamping arm is less than force required to move the slider assembly.
  • the spring is located on one side of the actuator.
  • the spring is located on a cap side of the actuator.
  • the spring is a compression spring which biases the spring to an expanded condition to assist moving the clamping arm to the unclamped position before the slider assembly moves to the extended position.
  • the compression spring biases the clamping arm to the unclamped position.
  • the compression spring is compressed and held in a compressed spring position when hydraulic pressure acts on a rod side of the actuator such that the pipe laying apparatus is in the retracted and clamped position.
  • the spring is a tension spring which biases the spring to a retracted condition to keep the slider assembly in the retracted position to allow the clamping arm to move to the unclamped position before the slider assembly moves to the extended position.
  • the tension spring biases the slider assembly to the retracted position.
  • the hydraulic fluid force overcomes the tension spring force when hydraulic pressure acts on a cap side of the actuator such that the slider assembly moves towards to the extended position.
  • the actuator further comprises one or more pressure relief valves.
  • the generally C-shaped body has an upper support arm and an elongate lower support arm.
  • the actuator is located in the lower support arm.
  • the slider assembly is located on and slides along the lower support arm.
  • the slider assembly comprises a back portion for engaging with and pushing a back end of the pipe, the back portion being on a plane approximately perpendicular to the sliding direction of the slider assembly.
  • the actuator is connected to the slider assembly by a generally L-shaped connecting brace.
  • the invention further comprises one or more pads located on one or more surfaces of the slider assembly.
  • clamping arm pivots between the clamped and unclamped positions.
  • the actuator is connected to the clamping arm by a linkage bar.
  • the clamping arm is located within the body profile.
  • the clamping assembly comprises a clamping plate to engage the top surface of the pipe, the clamping plate located at a distal end of the clamping arm.
  • the pipe laying apparatus operates using a single pair of hydraulic lines.
  • the invention further comprises a hitch attachment for coupling the pipe laying apparatus to the boom.
  • Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a pipe laying apparatus.
  • Figure 2 shows a simplified perspective view of a clamping assembly and slider assembly of the pipe laying apparatus.
  • Figure 3 shows an exploded view of the apparatus of figure 1.
  • Figure 4A shows a side view of the pipe laying apparatus in a retracted and clamped position.
  • Figure 4B shows a side view of the pipe laying apparatus in a retracted and unclamped position.
  • Figure 4C shows a side view of the pipe laying apparatus in an extended and unclamped position.
  • Figure 5 shows a simplified perspective view of an actuator and guide plates.
  • Figure 6A shows the pipe laying apparatus holding a pipe in the retracted and clamped position.
  • Figure 6B shows the pipe laying apparatus pushing the pipe in the extended and unclamped position.
  • Figure 7 shows a perspective exploded view of the slider assembly
  • Figure 8 shows a perspective view of the clamping assembly
  • Figures 9A-9D shows a schematic of the sequence of movements of an actuator with a compression spring
  • Figures 10A-10D shows a schematic of the sequence of movements of an actuator with a tension spring.
  • the pipe laying apparatus 1 is adapted to be attached to a boom for picking up and laying pipes 2.
  • the pipe laying apparatus 1 attaches to a mobile boom on a vehicle such as an excavator, digger, tractor, cranes or other heavy lifting machinery.
  • the pipe laying apparatus 1 is attached to an excavator arm.
  • the pipe laying apparatus 1 preferably comprises a hitch attachment 7 for coupling the apparatus to the boom, as is generally known in the industry.
  • the pipe laying apparatus 1 is adapted to lay pipes (pipe sections) in trenches 3 or other similar tight spaces in the ground (as shown in figures 6A-6B). It should be appreciated that the pipe laying apparatus 1 can improve the safety and efficient of pipe laying as the pipes can be positioned into the trench 3, with no or limited manual intervention by workers in the trench.
  • the pipe laying apparatus 1 is adapted to pick up and lay concrete pipes 2 for drainage (e.g. wastewater, sewerage, stormwater), electrical and telecommunications services, or other underground services.
  • the pipe laying apparatus 1 in some configurations is designed to move pipes 2 with weights up to approximately 2000 kg.
  • the pipe laying apparatus 1 is designed to lay pipes with weights ranging between 200 kg and 2000 kg, or more. It is anticipated the apparatus 1 can be adapted to lay pipes (or other objects) of different weights with no or minor modifications.
  • the pipe laying apparatus 1 is designed to lay pipes with an inner diameter (with a spun concrete rubber ring) between a nominal diameter between approximately 375 mm to approximately 1050mm. It is anticipated the apparatus 1 can be adapted to lay pipes (or other objects) of different diameters with no or minor modifications.
  • the pipe laying apparatus 1 is configured to lay concrete pipes. It is anticipated the apparatus 1 can also lay pipes of different materials including PVC, PE, ductile iron, GRP, steel etc. It is anticipated that the pipe laying apparatus 1 with minor or no modifications can pick up and lay other objects. In particular, the pipe laying apparatus 1 may be suitable to move tubular, other hollow structures or beams. In the preferred configurations, as shown in figure 1, the pipe laying apparatus
  • the body 10 has a generally C-shaped profile as shown in the figures.
  • the generally C-shaped body 10 has an upper support arm 12 and an elongate lower support arm 13 as referenced in figures 1 and 4A.
  • a clamping assembly 200 is connected to the body 10, and a slider assembly 300 is also connected to the body.
  • the clamping assembly 200 and/or the slider assembly 300 may be connected directly or indirectly to the body.
  • the clamping assembly 200 and the slider assembly 300 are coupled together in a separate subframe (guiding plates) 26 which is mounted in the body 10, as discussed in more detail later.
  • the clamping assembly 200 is adapted to clamp a top surface of the pipe 2, as shown in figure 6A.
  • the clamping assembly 200 applies pressure onto the pipe 2, so that the pipe laying apparatus grips or holds onto the pipe 2 securely.
  • the clamping assembly 200 applies a downward pressure onto the pipe 2, so that the pipe is clamped between the clamping assembly (from above) and the slider assembly 300 (from below). It should be appreciated that the clamping assembly 200 is designed to hold the pipe 2 securely onto the pipe laying assembly 1, while the pipe is lifted and moved to a desired location.
  • the clamping assembly 200 has a clamping arm 201 movable between a clamped position (figures 4A and 6A) and an unclamped position (figures 4B 6B).
  • a clamped position (figures 4A and 6A)
  • an unclamped position (figures 4B 6B).
  • the pipe 2 In the clamped position, the pipe 2 is secured onto the pipe laying apparatus 1.
  • the pipe 2 In the unclamped position, the pipe 2 is not secured and is free to move off the pipe laying apparatus 1.
  • the slider assembly 300 is adapted to move relative to the body 10, to push the pipe away from the body 10.
  • the slider assembly 300 is adapted to push the pipe
  • the slider assembly 300 is slidably movable between a retracted position (figures 4A, 4B & 6A) and an extended position (figures 4C & 6B).
  • a retracted position (figures 4A, 4B & 6A)
  • an extended position (figures 4C & 6B).
  • the pipe 2 In the retracted position, the pipe 2 is located towards the rear end 11 of the body 10, and the pipe is supported for movement.
  • the excavator moves the global position of the pipe laying apparatus 1.
  • local movement of the slider assembly 300 from a retracted to extended position relative to the pipe laying apparatus 1 itself can provide minor/smaller accurate pipe 2 movements.
  • the slider assembly 300 can provide smaller movements and push the pipe 2 to join it to another pipe already in the trench (figure 6B).
  • the present pipe laying apparatus 1 may be advantageous over typical pipe laying apparatuses which typically only clamp the pipes but are unable to push or seat the pipes into position.
  • the ability to push the pipe into position can eliminate or at least reduce safety risks to workers and inefficiencies associated with workers manually positioning pipes in tight spaces. This aspect of the device can also reduce the number of workers required for pipe laying, reducing costs associated with pipe laying.
  • the pipe laying apparatus 1 has an actuator 30.
  • the actuator 30 actuates both the clamping assembly 200 between the clamped position and the unclamped position, and the slider assembly 300 between the retracted position and extended position.
  • the actuator 30 of the pipe laying apparatus 1 is a hydraulic cylinder.
  • the clamping assembly 200 and the slider assembly 300 is actuated as hydraulic fluid 41 is introduced into the cylinder barrel.
  • a hydraulic actuator may provide particular advantages such as performing well given its compact size. Additionally, using hydraulics may be advantageous as it is typically the primary power source for excavator attachments.
  • actuator types may be used to actuate the pipe laying apparatus 1.
  • electric, pneumatic actuators or other suitable actuator types known to a person skilled in the art may be used.
  • the actuating mechanism is simple and reliable, as it has fewer moving parts.
  • the pipe laying apparatus 1 can be simpler to control for the operator in comparison to traditional pipe laying apparatuses. In comparison, typical pipe laying apparatus or other machinery require separate actuators for different functions of the apparatus. Furthermore, costs can be reduced as only one actuator is required, and less maintenance to the pipe laying apparatus 1 may be required.
  • both the clamping assembly 200 and the slider assembly 300 can be operated using a single pair of hydraulic lines.
  • the pipe laying apparatus 1 may operate off vehicles with a single pair of hydraulic lines without the need to plumb additional lines.
  • the actuator 30 of the pipe laying apparatus 1 can operate off the tilt bucket lines on most excavators without the need to plumb additional lines.
  • the clamping and slider movement can be controlled by a single lever by the operator.
  • the hydraulic plumbing to the apparatus can be simplified, can be cheaper to produce, and/or will be easier to maintain.
  • the sequence in which the apparatus moves can be controlled.
  • the sequenced is controlled by the specific design (e.g. the presence of a spring 40) and interaction of the actuator 30 with the assemblies 200, 300.
  • the sider assembly 300 only moves to the extended position, when the clamping arm 201 is in the unclamped position (to avoid damage to the pipe and/or apparatus).
  • the operation of the actuator 30, including how it controls the sequence of movements will be discussed in more detail below.
  • the pipe laying apparatus 1 preferably has three main positions for different modes of operation for pipe laying.
  • the pipe laying apparatus 1 has: a) a retracted and clamped position (figure 4A); b) a retracted and unclamped position (figure 4B); and c) an extended and unclamped position (figure 4C).
  • the actuator 30 moves the pipe laying apparatus 1 between these positions as required.
  • the pipe laying apparatus 1 is in a retracted and unclamped position (figure 4B).
  • the slider assembly 300 is in the retracted position, and the clamping assembly 200 is in the unclamped position.
  • the lower support arm 13 of the generally C-shaped body 10 (and the slider assembly 300), can be inserted horizontally into the hollow interior of the pipe 2.
  • Buffer strips 15, and/or a nudge block 16 may be provided to protect the body from impact or scratch damage or wear as the body is inserted into the pipe or the end of the body is used to nudge a pipe.
  • the buffer strips 15 and or nudge block 16 may be made of a polymer or similar material, and preferably be replaceable as they themselves wear.
  • the inner pipe surface 4 engages with and sits on a top surface 301 of the slider assembly 300.
  • the pipe 2 can sit on the pipe laying apparatus 1, when the clamping arm 201 is in the unclamped position (as the clamping arm is lifted upwards, and out of the way).
  • the clamping arm 201 is an unclamped position, an upper portion 5 of the pipe 2 can enter a receiving area 14 of the generally C-shaped body 10, as shown in figure 6B.
  • the slider assembly 300 has a back portion 305 for engaging with and pushing a back end of the pipe 2.
  • the back portion 305 is on a plane approximately perpendicular to the sliding direction of the slider assembly.
  • the apparatus optionally includes a yoke 17, (particularly for use with larger diameter pipes) and arranged in plane with back portion 305 so that the pipe is contacted at 3 positions around the circumference of the pipe. This allows the slider assembly to push the pipe "evenly”.
  • Yoke 17 is preferably easily (and quickly) removable, and also preferably is provided in a number of sizes suitable for different diameters of pipe being laid. The yoke 17 when contacting a pipe being laid at different positions around the circumference of the pipe, assists with pushing the pipes in a straight line. If pushed only by back portion 305, large pipes may have a tendency to rotate when pushed.
  • the apparatus 1 picks up a pipe 2
  • the apparatus is positioned such that a back end of the pipe 2 is located at or towards the back portion 305 of the slider assembly 300. This ensures the pipe 2 can be pushed by the back portion 305 and yoke 17 (which preferably has pusher pads), in the extended and unclamped position.
  • a pipe 2 located at or towards the back portion 305 will also ensure the centre of gravity of the pipe 2 is within the length of the slider assembly 300.
  • a pipe with its centre of gravity within the length of the slider assembly 300 can provide advantages such as the pipe remaining stable on the apparatus, even when the apparatus is in its unclamped position. It should be appreciated that the present apparatus 1 can easily lay pipe onto the floor of a trench 3. In comparison, a sling style pipe lifter would find it difficult to do so, due to it needing to remove the sling from underneath the pipe when it is on the ground.
  • the way the pipe laying apparatus 1 engages with the pipe 2, can present other advantages over other pipe laying apparatuses.
  • the pipe laying apparatus 1 can lift pipes which are stacked side-by-side.
  • clamps which engage the outer sides of pipes will not be able to pick up pipes which are stacked side-by-side.
  • the pipe laying apparatus moves to a retracted and clamped position (figure 4A).
  • the slider assembly 300 In the retracted and clamped position, the slider assembly 300 is in the retracted position, and the clamping assembly 200 is in the clamped position.
  • an upper portion 5 of the pipe is clamped between the clamping arm 201 and the slider assembly 300. Clamping the pipe 2 to the pipe laying apparatus 1 allows the pipe to be moved from one location (e.g. a stack of pipes) to another (e.g. inside a trench) safely and securely, by preventing the pipe from sliding off.
  • the clamping arm 201 moves from the clamped position to the unclamped position i.e. the pipe laying apparatus 1 moves back to the retracted and unclamped position, ready for the pipe 2 to be positioned in the trench.
  • the pipe laying apparatus 1 can push the pipe 2 away from the rear-end 11 of the body 10 so that the pipe can be pushed towards and engage a previously laid pipe with no or limited manual intervention by workers in the trench 3.
  • an end of the pipe 2 being laid is pushed into the sealed collar of a previously laid pipe.
  • the force required to insert a pipe into an adjacent pipe is high.
  • the slider assembly 300 moves a sufficient distance between the retracted and extended positions to provide the force required (from figure 6A to 6B).
  • Filler material such as gravel can be added to the trench (preferably to a shallow depth, no more than half height of pipe) after each pipe section 2 is laid.
  • the filler material is manually worked around the pipe 2 and under the overhang to ensure the pipe is stable in its correct position for the next section to be laid and joined up.
  • the pipe laying apparatus 1 can maintain pressure on the pipe 2 as the slider assembly 300 remains in the extended position during this process (i.e. the operator leaves the controls untouched until the pipe is secure with filler material).
  • the pipe laying apparatus 1 further comprises a target device to check the correct line and grade (vertical slope of the pipeline) for the specific pipe laying job.
  • the target device can be mounted to the pipe laying apparatus 1.
  • the target device can provide a laser at the beginning of the pipeline to the correct line and grade. Subsequently, as each section is laid, the pipes are checked and adjusted against the laser beam for reference. A target device can be placed in the pipe section being laid to check line and grade. Since each pipe section will rest with the top inner surface sitting on top of the slider assembly 300, the distance from the top inner surface of any pipe to any point on the device will be the same for pipe of any size. Therefore, a target device can be fixed to the pipe laying apparatus 1 at a known distance from the top of the slider assembly 300, and this distance will not change for different pipes used.
  • the apparatus will also include one or more cameras to assist the operator in visualising the location of a pipe about the need to exit the excavator and/or get close to the trench.
  • one camera may be mounted on top of the device looking forwards, which will assist the operator with aligning the pipes without the need for a spotter.
  • An additional camera may be located underneath the device and looking forward in order to enable the operator to view a laser target located in the invert of the pipe and assist the operator to make final adjustments.
  • An operator may use the cameras and the nudge block 16 located at the front of the device to move a pipe while viewing a laser target on the camera.
  • the pipe laying apparatus 1 moves back to the retracted and unclamped position (figure 4B).
  • the actuator 30 of the present invention converts hydraulic energy to movement of the clamping assembly 200, and the slider assembly 300. Movement of these assemblies 200, 300 is required at different stages of a pipe laying operation.
  • the actuator 30 has a cylinder barrel 32.
  • the actuator 30 also has a rod 33 which moves between a retracted rod position (figure 4A), intermediate rod position (figure 4B) and an extended rod position (figure 4C).
  • the actuator 30 is a double acting cylinder.
  • a piston 31 separates the cylinder barrel 32 into two sides (a rod side 34, and a cap side 35). The difference in pressure between the two sides due to the introduction of hydraulic fluid 41 into one of the sides, causes the rod 33 to extend or retract (i.e. a double acting cylinder).
  • the actuator 30 comprises one or more pressure relief valves (not shown).
  • the primary purpose of the pressure relief valves is to prevent or limit the likelihood of damage or cracking of the pipe 2 due to excessive clamping or pushing force.
  • the pressure relief valves are connected to the ports of the actuator to allow control of the clamping and slider force. The pressure relief valve reduces the likelihood of damage to the actuator 30 due to excessive pressure build up. When the pressure exceeds a predetermined level, the pressure relief valve opens to relieve some pressure.
  • the pressure relief valve can be set to the appropriate pressure level based on the strength of the concrete pipe. To clamp the pipe, the operator simply needs to actuate the clamping mechanism for long enough to ensure maximum pressure is achieved.
  • the actuator 30 is located in the lower support arm 13.
  • the actuator 30 stroke is in line with the direction of movement of the slider assembly 300.
  • the actuator 30 located in the lower support arm 13 can provide advantages such as allowing for a compact clean looking design, the arm can protect the actuator 30 from impact damage, and the stroke of actuator is in-line with the motion of sider assembly.
  • the stroke the actuator being in-line with the motion of the slider can eliminate the need for linkage to control the slider assembly 300, which allows precise linear control of the more difficult operation of using the slider assembly to seat the pipe in position.
  • the actuator 30 is connected to the assemblies by pins.
  • the actuator 30 has a first pin 36 connected to the slider assembly 300 at a first actuator end 38 (preferably a rod end of the actuator).
  • the actuator 30 also has a second pin 37 connected to the clamping assembly 200 at a second actuator end 39 (preferably a rear-end/ cylinder end of the actuator).
  • the movement of the first and second pins 36, 37 are preferably constrained and guided by elongate slots 20, 23.
  • a front elongate slot 20 is adapted to constrain and guide movement of the first pin 36 and a rear elongate slot 23 is adapted to constrain movement of the second pin 37 (best shown in figure 5).
  • the front and rear elongate slots 20, 23 constrain and guide movement of the pins 36, 37 to one degree of translational freedom, such that movement of the pins are linear. Furthermore, the elongate slots 20, 23 along with the cylinder design constrains the slider assembly 300 from moving side to side.
  • the front elongate slot 20 and rear elongate slot 23 are preferably located on the body 10 of the pipe laying apparatus 1 (directly or indirectly).
  • the elongate slots 20, 23 are located on one or more guiding plates 26 attached to the body.
  • a pair of elongate slots are located on each side of each pin.
  • the first pin to 36 is guided by a pair of front elongate slots 20 on opposite sides of the actuator 30, and the second pin 37 is guided by a pair of rear elongate slots 23 on opposite sides of the actuator 30.
  • a pair of guiding plates 26 are located on opposite sides of the actuator 3, each guiding plate having a front elongate slot 20 and a rear elongate slot 23 to guide the first pin 36 and second pin 37 respectively.
  • the three main positions for different modes of operation for pipe laying can be provided as the pins 36, 37 move from one end of an elongate slot to the other.
  • the pipe laying apparatus 1 is in: a) a retracted and clamped position (figure 4A, 9A) when the first pin 36 is located at a rear end 22 of the front elongate slot 20 and the second pin 37 is located at a front end 24 of the rear elongate slot 23.
  • the actuator 30 moves between the different rod positions by introducing hydraulic fluid 41 into the rod side 34 or the cap side 35 of the cylinder barrel 32 as required.
  • hydraulic fluid 41 is introduced to the cap side 35 of the cylinder (figures 9B & 9C).
  • hydraulic fluid 41 is introduced to the rod side 34 of the cylinder (figures 9A & 9D).
  • the three main positions for different modes of operation for pipe laying can be provided by the actuator 30 as it moves between a retracted rod position and an extended rod position.
  • the pipe laying apparatus 1 is in: a) a retracted and clamped position (figure 4A, 9A) when the rod 33 is in the retracted rod position; b) a retracted and unclamped position (figure 4B, 9B) when the rod is in the intermediate rod (between the extended rod position and the retracted rod position); and c) an extended and unclamped position (figure 4C, 9C) when the rod is in the extended rod position.
  • the actuator 30 comprises a spring 40 located on one side of the actuator.
  • a first end 42 of the spring 40 is fixed relative to the body 10 of the pipe laying apparatus, while the other end 43 of the spring engages with a spring stop 44 on the cylinder barrel 32, as shown in figure 5.
  • the spring 40 is located on a cap side 35 of the actuator 30.
  • the purpose of the spring 40 is to reduce hydraulic force required to move the clamping arm 201 so that it is less than the force required to move the slider assembly 300.
  • the spring 40 helps provide the sequence of movements of the apparatus 1, as discussed below.
  • the spring 40 biases the actuator 30 to the intermediate rod position (i.e.
  • the slider is retracted, and the clamping arm is unclamped), between the retracted rod position and the extended rod position. Only when enough hydraulic pressure is provided to overcome the spring force, does the actuator 30 move to the retracted rod position or extended rod position (i.e. to move the clamping arm to the clamped position and the slider to the extended position).
  • the spring 40 enables the actuator 30 to provide multiple (e.g. two) actuator positions on a single stroke.
  • the actuator 30 moves the pipe laying apparatus 1 firstly to the unclamped position (figure 9B) and then the extended position (figure 9C) in a single extension stroke (E) of the actuator.
  • a single actuator system allows the clamp to be lifted to unclamp the pipe, and the slider to move to the extended position to push the pipe into position, in a single extension stroke.
  • the actuator 30 moves the pipe laying apparatus 1 firstly to the retracted position (figure 9D) and then the clamped position (figure 9A) in a single retraction stroke (R) of the actuator.
  • the particular interaction of the components in the actuator 30 determines the order of movements. This eliminates the possibility of an operator moving the pipe laying apparatus 1 in the wrong order. For example, it would not be desirable if the operator was able to extend the slider assembly 300 when the clamping arm 201 is in the clamped position, as this may damage the pipe 2 and/or the apparatus 1.
  • the spring 40 is a compression spring, the operation shown in figures 9A-9D (and figures 4A-4C).
  • the compression spring 40 (which tends towards an expanded spring condition) biases the second pin 37 away from the cylinder barrel 32 and to a rear end 25 of the rear elongate slot 23 (figure 9B).
  • the compression spring 40 thus biases the clamping arm 201 to the unclamped position.
  • the retracted rod position is provided as hydraulic fluid 41 is introduced on a rod side 34 of the actuator 30 to drive the piston towards a cap end of the actuator (on the retraction stroke, R).
  • the compression spring 40 In the retracted and clamped position, the compression spring 40 is compressed and held in a compressed spring position by the hydraulic pressure acting on the rod side 34 of the actuator. In the retracted and clamped position, the spring 40 is preferably at its maximum compression. In this position, the amount of hydraulic pressure exerted by the cylinder is greater than the spring's tendency to expand. Preferably the spring force is equal or greater than the mass force of the clamping arm 201 acting under gravity, over the full range of motion of the clamping arm.
  • the magnitude of clamping force on the pipe 2 provided by the clamping arm 201 can be controlled according to the amount of hydraulic fluid 41 introduced into the cylinder barrel 32 (up to the maximum set by the pressure relief valve).
  • a pressure relief valve (not shown) limits the clamping force to prevent excessive clamping force and therefore damage or cracking of the pipe 2.
  • the intermediate rod position is provided as hydraulic fluid 41 is introduced on a cap side 35 of the actuator 30 to drive the piston towards a rod end of the actuator (on the extension stroke, E).
  • hydraulic fluid 41 is introduced to the cap side 35
  • the compression spring 40 can expand towards its natural expanded state.
  • the spring's 40 expansion force and the hydraulic fluid force overcomes static friction force such that the clamping arm 201 moves towards to the unclamped position (as the second pin 37 moves to the rear end 25 of the rear elongate slot 23).
  • the clamping arm 201 continues to move towards its unclamped position (lifting upwards), until the second pin 37 reaches the rearmost end of the rear elongate slot 23.
  • the unclamping process occurs while the slider assembly 300 and therefore the pipe 2 remains static.
  • the clamping arm is prevented from moving further, i.e. no longer moves upwards, and a different operation begins (to extend the slider) on the same extension stroke (E).
  • the clamping arm 201 unclamps (figure 4B) before the slider assembly 300 extends (figure 9C) due to the presence of the spring 40.
  • the spring 40 biases to its expanded condition to assist movement of the second pin 37 (i.e. it is easier to move the second pin 37 in comparison to the first pin 36 due to the spring force). It should be appreciated that the presence of the spring provides for the preferred sequence of movements.
  • the pipe laying apparatus 1 unclamps the pipe 2 first, before pushing it by extending the slider assembly 300, so that the pipe 2 and/or apparatus are not damaged.
  • the spring 40 could allow the slider assembly 300 to move before the clamping arm 201 moves to the unclamped position (which could damage the pipe and/or the apparatus).
  • a combination of the two motions could occur in an uncontrolled manner, as both pins are unconstrained when the cylinder is extending.
  • a pressure relieve valve ensures the pipe 2 is not seated with excessive force to prevent cracking or dislodging the pipeline as discussed above.
  • the pipe laying apparatus 1 is lowered and removed from the pipe.
  • hydraulic fluid 41 is introduced to the rod side 34 of the actuator 30 (on the retraction stroke), to return the slider assembly 300 to the intermediate position.
  • the slider assembly 300 retracts (figure 9D) before the clamping arm 201 can move to the clamp position (back to figure 9A), due to the presence of the spring 40.
  • the static friction of retracting the cylinder barrel 32 (to the retracted rod position) is less than the force required to compress the compression spring 40.
  • the slider assembly 300 therefore retracts without lowering the clamping arm 201.
  • the actuator can continue to retract in the retraction stroke (R) to compress the compression spring 40, lowering the clamping arm 201 into the retracted and clamped position (i.e. back to figure 9A).
  • the spring 40' is a tension spring, the operation shown in figures 10A-10D.
  • the tension spring 40' (which tends towards a retracted spring condition) biases the first pin 36 towards the cylinder barrel 32 and to a rear end 22 of the front elongate slot 20 (figure 10B).
  • the tension spring 40' biases the slider assembly 300 to the retracted position to keep the slider assembly in the retracted position to allow the clamping arm to move to the unclamped position before the slider assembly moves to the extended position.
  • An actuator 30 with a tension spring 40' operates similarly to the embodiment with the compression spring 40 described above (e.g. the sequence of movements is the same).
  • the presence of the tension spring 40' enables the actuator 30 to provide two actuator positions (and thus capable of moving both the slider and the clamping arm) on a single stroke.
  • the actuator 30 moves the pipe laying apparatus 1 firstly to the unclamped position (figure 10B) and then the extended position (figure IOC) in a single extension stroke (E) of the actuator.
  • the clamping arm 201 moves to the unclamped position first as the force require to move the second pin 37 is less than the first pin 36, as the tension spring 40' keeps the first pin 36 retracted.
  • the unclamping process occurs while the slider assembly 300 and therefore the pipe 2 remains static.
  • the slider assembly 300 retracts (figure 10D) before the clamping arm 201 can move to the clamp position, as the tension spring 40' reduces the force required for retracting in comparison to the force required for clamping.
  • the hydraulic fluid force overcomes the tension spring force as the hydraulic pressure continues to act on a cap side 35 of the actuator 30. It is anticipated that different actuators 30 with different actuator configurations may adopted, while following the same principles of function as described above. Minor modifications may be made to the operation of the actuator 30, to provide the same sequence of movements.
  • the slider assembly 300 as best shown in figure 7 extends to push the pipe 2 to the desired position.
  • the slider assembly 300 is located on and slides along the lower support arm 13.
  • a bottom surface (optionally with slider pads mounted to the bottom) slides on a top surface plate 27 (referenced in figure 3).
  • the top surface plate 27 is preferably mounted to the guide plates 26.
  • the slider assembly 300 comprises a pair of side flanges 302 adapted for structural stiffness and strength of the slider assembly 300 (referenced in figure 2).
  • the actuator 30 is connected to the slider assembly 300 by a generally L-shaped connecting brace 303 (shown in figure 7).
  • the L-shaped connecting brace 303 engages a large surface area of the slider assembly 300 so that the actuator 30 can efficiently move the slider.
  • the L-shaped connecting brace engages a lower surface, and a rear surface of the slider.
  • the slider assembly 300 comprises one or more pads 304 as referenced on figure 7.
  • the pads 304 can be located on one or more surfaces of the slider assembly 300, such as on a top surface of the slider assembly to receive the pipe 2, a bottom surface to improve sliding, and pads on a back end 305 of the slider and yoke 17 to engage with the pipe when pushing it into position.
  • the pad(s) 304 can reduce the likelihood of damage to the pipes 2 and/or slider, thus increasing the lifespan of the apparatus, or improve sliding.
  • the pads 304 preferably comprises low friction, high wear resistant plastic such as HDPE, UHMWPE, Nylon, elastomers (e.g. rubber) or other suitable materials known to a person skilled in the art.
  • low friction, high wear resistant plastic such as HDPE, UHMWPE, Nylon, elastomers (e.g. rubber) or other suitable materials known to a person skilled in the art.
  • the clamping assembly 200 as best shown in figure 8 moves downwards to clamp and secure a pipe 2.
  • the clamping assembly comprises a clamping plate 203 to engage the top surface of the pipe 2.
  • the clamping plate 203 is located at a distal end of the clamping arm 201.
  • the clamping arm 201 is located within the body profile in the retracted position, as shown in the side view in figure 4B.
  • the clamping arm 201 in the retracted position is stowed in the upper support arm 12 so that it is out of the way when a pipe 2 is received by the pipe laying apparatus 1.
  • the clamping arm 201 pivots between the clamped and unclamped positions.
  • the actuator 30 is connected to the clamping arm 201 by a linkage bar 202.
  • the clamping plate 203 is mounted to the clamping arm 201 by a free rotating pin connection so can remain parallel to the pipe 2 and ensured even clamping pressure.
  • the pipe laying apparatus 1 comprises feet 8 or another support feature, as referenced in figure 1.
  • the feet 8 allows the pipe laying apparatus 1 to rest on the ground in a stable upright position.
  • the feed 8 reduces the chance of the apparatus 1 falling over on unstable ground which could be dangerous to bystanders or may damage the apparatus.
  • Providing the pipe laying apparatus 1 in an upright position may also be useful, such as to attach the apparatus to the hitch of an excavator or other machinery.
  • the feet 8 are sufficiently narrow or in line with the apparatus 1 such that there is no or limited interference with the walls of a trench 3 for the range of pipe sizes intended to be used.
  • This invention may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, and any or all combinations of any two or more of said parts, elements or features, and where specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which this invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Excavating Of Shafts Or Tunnels (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un appareil de pose de tuyau amélioré permettant de soulever et manœuvrer des tuyaux à poser dans une tranchée. L'appareil amélioré comprend un corps généralement en forme de C et un élément de serrage servant respectivement à supporter le poids du tuyau et à maintenir le tuyau en position. L'appareil comprend en outre un ensemble coulissant relié au corps et conçu pour pousser le tuyau à l'opposé d'une extrémité arrière du corps, afin de faire coulisser le tuyau en position. Un agencement d'actionneur unique permet d'actionner à la fois l'ensemble de serrage et l'ensemble coulissant entre une position repliée et une position déployée.
PCT/IB2020/062076 2019-12-18 2020-12-17 Appareil de pose de tuyau amélioré WO2021124176A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
NZ76030019 2019-12-18
NZ760300 2019-12-18

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2021124176A1 true WO2021124176A1 (fr) 2021-06-24

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/IB2020/062076 WO2021124176A1 (fr) 2019-12-18 2020-12-17 Appareil de pose de tuyau amélioré

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WO (1) WO2021124176A1 (fr)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
RU221182U1 (ru) * 2023-07-06 2023-10-24 Публичное акционерное общество "Северсталь" (ПАО "Северсталь") Захват для рулонов стали

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3561615A (en) * 1969-07-16 1971-02-09 Terry A Forsberg Pipe positioning and handling device
US4714381A (en) * 1985-05-02 1987-12-22 G. Brent Hatch Machine for laying conduit and methods for use thereof
US20050117973A1 (en) * 2003-09-23 2005-06-02 Nelson Jimmie P. Method and system for preparing a trench and laying pipe in a trench
EP2098767A1 (fr) * 2008-03-08 2009-09-09 Excavadoras de Totana SL Dispositif pour assembler des tuyaux

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3561615A (en) * 1969-07-16 1971-02-09 Terry A Forsberg Pipe positioning and handling device
US4714381A (en) * 1985-05-02 1987-12-22 G. Brent Hatch Machine for laying conduit and methods for use thereof
US20050117973A1 (en) * 2003-09-23 2005-06-02 Nelson Jimmie P. Method and system for preparing a trench and laying pipe in a trench
EP2098767A1 (fr) * 2008-03-08 2009-09-09 Excavadoras de Totana SL Dispositif pour assembler des tuyaux

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
RU221182U1 (ru) * 2023-07-06 2023-10-24 Публичное акционерное общество "Северсталь" (ПАО "Северсталь") Захват для рулонов стали
RU221247U1 (ru) * 2023-07-06 2023-10-26 Публичное акционерное общество "Северсталь" (ПАО "Северсталь") Захват для рулонов стали

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