With Forming Or Cutting Of Pipe Or Cable Patents (Class 405/156)
  • Patent number: 11353154
    Abstract: Example aspects of a stent spring for repairing a pipe and a method for retaining a stent in a compressed configuration is disclosed. The stent spring for repairing a pipe can comprise a substantially tubular mesh structure defining a void, the void defining a central axis, the mesh structure comprising one or more strands, the one or more strands defining a plurality of openings, wherein the stent spring is configurable in an expanded stent spring configuration and a compressed stent spring configuration; and a tab extending radially inward from the mesh structure into the void, the tab defining a tab opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2022
    Assignee: Mueller International, LLC
    Inventor: Aurelian Ioan Furcoiu
  • Patent number: 11292147
    Abstract: Methods of trimming fiber reinforced polymer composite workpieces are provided which use a pure waterjet discharged from a cutting head in liquid phase unladened with solid particles at an operating pressure of at least 60,000 psi and in combination with other cutting parameters to provide a final component profile without delamination, splintering, fraying or unacceptable fiber pullout or fiber fracture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2022
    Assignee: Flow International Corporation
    Inventors: Mohamed A. Hashish, Charles D. Burnham, Steven J. Craigen
  • Patent number: 10596717
    Abstract: Methods of trimming fiber reinforced polymer composite workpieces are provided which use a pure waterjet discharged from a cutting head in liquid phase unladened with solid particles at an operating pressure of at least 60,000 psi and in combination with other cutting parameters to provide a final component profile without delamination, splintering, fraying or unacceptable fiber pullout or fiber fracture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2020
    Assignee: Flow International Corporation
    Inventors: Mohamed A. Hashish, Charles D. Burnham, Steven J. Craigen
  • Patent number: 9334999
    Abstract: A pipe pulling lubrication apparatus includes a pipe anchor having an anchor body. The anchor body includes a first coupling feature near an anchor body proximal portion and a distal pipe coupling feature near an anchor body distal portion. The distal pipe coupling feature is configured to couple and position a replacement pipe exterior surface near an anchor body exterior surface. The lubrication apparatus further includes a lubrication system including a lubricant conduit extending within the anchor body from the distal pipe coupling feature toward an anchor body intermediate portion between the first coupling feature and the distal pipe coupling feature. The lubrication system includes a lubricant distributor having one or more lubricant passages extending from the lubricant conduit toward the anchor body exterior surface, the lubricant distributor is configured to deliver a lubricant to the replacement pipe exterior surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2016
    Assignee: TT Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Tjader
  • Patent number: 9212763
    Abstract: The invention relates to an assembly that includes a pipe for transporting liquid, deformable between an internal circular cross-section and a flattened internal cross-section that can be null and that can be folded on itself longitudinally, and a device for installing the pipe. The device includes a rotating turret about which the pipe is wound and flattened, presentation means for presenting one opposite the other in a commonly conformed state, two pipe sections, assembly means for a water-tight link between said sections, optional tensioning means for transmitting an axial tension to the elongated pipe, and means for attaching ballast to the elongated pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2015
    Assignee: VIA MARINA
    Inventor: Claude Lebelle
  • Patent number: 9145749
    Abstract: A diamond wire saw and method provides a frame that includes a clamp that attaches to a target (e.g. piling, beam, tubular), an elongated toothed rack extending away from the mount and target, and a moving portion that carries the diamond wire and motor drives that advance the moving portion toward the target and along the toothed rack while driving the wire around roller guides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Assignee: TETRA TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: Galen R. Clark, II
  • Patent number: 9085944
    Abstract: A gripping assembly with gripping members, as part of a grapple attachment, used to grasp and manipulate elongated objects, for example pipe, is described. Due to the gripping action of the gripping members and tilt control capabilities of the grapple attachment, total positive control of the pipe is maintained, even if the gripping assembly picks up pipe off center. The grapple attachment is able to be used on all pipe surface types, including pipe surfaces that are dirty, snow or ice covered. The gripping members are configured to prevent damage to the pipe and to adjacent pipes, and will not crush the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2015
    Assignee: LAVALLEY INDUSTRIES, LLC
    Inventors: Jason LaValley, Roger LaValley, Marvin Larson, Lawrence D. Kilpo, Michael Burgess
  • Publication number: 20150139734
    Abstract: A method for removing from a terrain (T) a buried longitudinal portion (P) of a substantially cylindrical pipe made of a ductile material and of a type suitable for use in oil pipelines, water pipelines, gas pipelines or the like, which method comprises steps of: digging at least an excavation (S1, S2) in the terrain (T), at a longitudinal end (P1, P2) of the buried portion (P) to be removed, such as to make the end accessible; making at least a through-cut in the wall of the portion (P) of pipe to be removed, so as to obtain at least a strip having two opposite longitudinal edges which define a width of the strip that is smaller than a circumference of a wall of the portion (P) of pipe; taking the strip and removing it from the terrain, passing it through the excavation (S1, S2); and obstructing the underground volume that has housed the portion (P) of the pipe (P) and the excavation (S1, S2) with filler material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2013
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventors: Alfredo Frassinelli, Aurelio Simoncelli, Franco Iacucci
  • Patent number: 9028172
    Abstract: An articulating band saw apparatus provides a frame that includes a vertically extending section having upper and lower end portions. An elevator moves between the upper and lower end portions of the frame. A first hydraulic actuator is supported on the elevator for movement therewith. A first arm provides arm end portions, the first arm supported by the first hydraulic actuator. An end of the first arm supporting a second hydraulic actuator that is spaced away from the first hydraulic actuator. The second hydraulic actuator supports a second arm. An endless band type saw is mounted on the free end of the second arm generally opposite the second actuator. The band saw is movable by articulation of the first and second actuators and resulting movement of the first and second arms. In one embodiment, the band saw is a diamond wire saw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Tetra Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Galen R. Clark, II, Michael Todd Martin, Gary L. Siems
  • Publication number: 20150010360
    Abstract: The invention relates to the implementation of a fluid transportation pipe. In order to achieve this, the pipe is equipped with a ballasting system, and, along a laying axis, the pipe, thus equipped, is immersed in a fluid having movement, such as the sea. A ballast mass of the ballasting system then substantially causes at least this ballasting system to sink.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2012
    Publication date: January 8, 2015
    Applicant: VIA MARINA
    Inventors: Claude Lebelle, Francois Thiebaud, Benoît Nardari
  • Patent number: 8882393
    Abstract: The invention relates to a tool for longitudinally subdividing buried sewer pipes having an asymmetric, generally oval cross section, made substantially of a support shoe opposing a cutting blade acting in the direction of the pipe axis. The device also has two side cutting blades and is moved through the old pipe by means of a rod and a cylindrical calibration mandrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: Tracto-Technik GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Elmar Koch, Martin Köper, Michael Heimes, Sebastian Schwarzer
  • Publication number: 20140321919
    Abstract: An articulating band saw apparatus provides a frame that includes a vertically extending section having upper and lower end portions. An elevator moves between the upper and lower end portions of the frame. A first hydraulic actuator is supported on the elevator for movement therewith. A first arm provides arm end portions, the first arm supported by the first hydraulic actuator. An end of the first arm supporting a second hydraulic actuator that is spaced away from the first hydraulic actuator. The second hydraulic actuator supports a second arm. An endless band type saw is mounted on the free end of the second arm generally opposite the second actuator. The band saw is movable by articulation of the first and second actuators and resulting movement of the first and second arms. In one embodiment, the band saw is a diamond wire saw.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2014
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Applicant: Tetra Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Galen R. Clark, II, Michael Todd Martin, Gary L. Siems
  • Patent number: 8833219
    Abstract: A device for cutting a length of pipe includes a clamp portion for clamping around a length of pipe and a bow moveable with respect to the clamp portion that retains a loop of diamond embedded wire. The device further includes a feed for driving the bow with respect to the clamp portion and a detector for detecting bending of the wire and a control responsive to the detector for controlling feed rates. The device is made of modular parts and has synchronizing arms for clamping around a length of pipe. In one embodiment, the wheels are retained in enclosures with slots through which the cutting wire passes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth R. Pierce
  • Patent number: 8757930
    Abstract: The pipe access device is comprised of a curved plate adapted to engage an underground pipe along an arc of the outer surface of the pipe, and a boss extending upwardly from the curved plate about an aperture in the curved plate. The curved plate extends along an arc of the outer surface of the curved plate that corresponds to a central angle of the pipe less than or equal to 180°. The curved plate includes a concave surface with a radius of curvature less than a radius of curvature of the outer surface of the pipe so as to bias the curved plate against the outer surface of the pipe when the curved plate is flexed to engage the pipe. The pipe access device is for use in providing access to the buried pipe that requires minimal excavation and disruption of the soil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: LMK Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Larry W. Kiest, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8696245
    Abstract: An articulating band saw apparatus provides a frame that includes a vertically extending section having upper and lower end portions. An elevator moves between the upper and lower end portions of the frame. A first hydraulic actuator is supported on the elevator for movement therewith. A first arm provides arm end portions, the first arm supported by the first hydraulic actuator. An end of the first arm supporting a second hydraulic actuator that is spaced away from the first hydraulic actuator. The second hydraulic actuator supports a second arm. An endless band type saw is mounted on the free end of the second arm generally opposite the second actuator. The band saw is movable by articulation of the first and second actuators and resulting movement of the first and second arms. In one embodiment, the band saw is a diamond wire saw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Tetra Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Galen R. Clark, II, Michael Todd Martin, Gary L. Siems
  • Patent number: 8690479
    Abstract: A speedy construction method for the penstock of a large scale hydraulic turbine is provided. The construction sequence thereof is as follows: the spiral case of the hydraulic turbine is installed firstly, then, upwards along the water flow direction, the penstock is arranged in turn from the intake section of the spiral case. The penstock is assembled and welded on a roll welding rack or on a penstock pallet car by use of segments so as to be installed rapidly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Chengdu Alangtech Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Zhixiang Peng
  • Patent number: 8641326
    Abstract: An improved method for replacing existing underground sewer pipe is accomplished without excavation, pipe bursting, or pipe reaming. First, vertical sight holes are drilled into the ground and through the existing pipe. Slurry material from the vertical hole drilling fills the old pipe. Then, a pilot hole is drilled in a first direction through the old pipe. Then, a reaming tool is pulled in the opposite direction so as to enlarge the pilot hole and grind out the old pipe, while simultaneously pulling the new pipe into position behind the reaming tool. The broken old pipe and slurry are vacuumed out of the vertical relief holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Inventor: Ted R. Dimitroff
  • Patent number: 8596918
    Abstract: Pipe splitting apparatuses and systems including a replaceable blade, and methods therefor, are provided. In various examples, a pipe splitting apparatus includes an outer surface including a recess. A blade including a portion is disposed within the recess. A hardenable material is disposed within the recess. The hardenable material is configured to flow upon application to fill empty space within the recess and at least partially around the portion of the blade disposed within the recess. The hardenable material is further configured to harden after application to secure the portion of the blade within the recess and fix the blade to the pipe splitting apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: IT Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Tjader
  • Publication number: 20130279989
    Abstract: A pipe-laying vessel including a pipe-laying tower extending upwardly from the vessel, the vessel including a welding station for joining a new pipestring to an end of the pipeline held by the tower, a clamp assembly on the tower for engaging a pipestring with a lower end adjacent to the end of the pipeline held by the tower and with the pipestring extending upwardly from its lower end alongside the tower, wherein the clamp assembly includes a pipestring clamp that serves both the function of a transfer clamp for transferring the pipestring from a position alongside the tower but displaced from the pipe-laying path to a position approximately aligned with the pipe-laying path, and the function of a line-up clamp for lining up the pipestring with the end of the pipeline.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: Saipem S.P.A.
    Inventors: Michel Pierre Armand Baylot, Yann Hajeri, Kimon Tullio Ardavanis, Stefano Bianchi
  • Patent number: 8475081
    Abstract: An articulating band saw apparatus provides a frame that includes a vertically extending section having upper and lower end portions. An elevator moves between the upper and lower end portions of the frame. A first hydraulic actuator is supported on the elevator for movement therewith. A first arm provides arm end portions, the first arm supported by the first hydraulic actuator. An end of the first arm supporting a second hydraulic actuator that is spaced away from the first hydraulic actuator. The second hydraulic actuator supports a second arm. An endless band type saw is mounted on the free end of the second arm generally opposite the second actuator. The band saw is movable by articulation of the first and second actuators and resulting movement of the first and second arms. In one embodiment, the band saw is a diamond wire saw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Tetra Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Galen R. Clark, II, Michael Todd Martin, Gary L. Siems
  • Patent number: 8465227
    Abstract: A diamond wire saw and method provides a frame that includes a clamp that attaches to a target (e.g. piling, beam, tubular), an elongated toothed rack extending away from the mount and target, and a moving portion that carries the diamond wire and motor drives that advance the moving portion toward the target and along the toothed rack while driving the wire around roller guides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Tetra Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Galen R. Clark, II
  • Patent number: 8454271
    Abstract: The pipe access device is comprised of a curved plate adapted to engage an underground pipe along an arc of the outer surface of the pipe, and a boss extending upwardly from the curved plate about an aperture in the curved plate. The curved plate extends along an arc of the outer surface of the curved plate that corresponds to a central angle of the pipe less than or equal to 180°. The curved plate includes a concave surface with a radius of curvature less than a radius of curvature of the outer surface of the pipe so as to bias the curved plate against the outer surface of the pipe when the curved plate is flexed to engage the pipe. The pipe access device is for use in providing access to the buried pipe that requires minimal excavation and disruption of the soil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: LMK Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Larry W. Kiest, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8418728
    Abstract: Methods of adhering structural elements to polyethylene and like materials are provided. A two-part modified epoxy adhesive is used in the repair of a main/lateral pipe junction, in connecting PE pipe to form a pipe line, in providing an access to the interior bore of a buried pipe, and other applications of requiring a buried structural element be adhered to a PE or like material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: LMK Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Larry W. Kiest, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8414225
    Abstract: A cable retention and release mechanism includes a cable gripping device including a cable passage. A cable extends through the cable passage. A cable gripping device collar is movably coupled around the cable gripping device. An outer cable gripping device surface is seated against a cable gripping device receiving inner surface preventing movement of the cable gripping device relative to the cable gripping device collar. The cable gripping device receiving inner surface clamps the cable gripping device on the cable and prevents sliding movement of the cable. A jack is movably coupled with the cable gripping device collar. In a first engaged position the jack is engaged against the cable gripping device proximal end. In a second engaged position the jack unseats the outer cable gripping device surface from the cable gripping device receiving inner surface and releases the clamping of the cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: TT Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Tjader
  • Patent number: 8328468
    Abstract: Pipe splitting apparatuses and systems including a replaceable blade, and methods therefore, are provided. In various examples, a pipe splitting apparatus includes an outer surface including a recess. A blade including a portion is disposed within the recess. A hardenable material is disposed within the recess. The hardenable material is configured to flow upon application to fill empty space within the recess and at least partially around the portion of the blade disposed within the recess. The hardenable material is further configured to harden after application to secure the portion of the blade within the recess and fix the blade to the pipe splitting apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: TT Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Tjader
  • Patent number: 8317427
    Abstract: A portable winch and method of use is shown. One advantage of winches shown includes an ability to lower a boom or boom sections into limited access exit pit for winching operations such as pipe bursting. Sectional boom designs shown provide the ability to easily raise and lower a boom large distances without the need for a single long boom. Selected winch designs shown include flexible inserts between the boom and the winch frame that help resist damage from unforeseen shifting of the device during operation. Designs and methods shown also include multiple pulleys on a boom end unit. Fasteners are shown that reduce build up of debris.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: TT Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Tjader
  • Patent number: 8172482
    Abstract: The pipe access device is comprised of a curved plate adapted to engage an underground pipe along an arc of the outer surface of the pipe, and a boss extending upwardly from the curved plate about an aperture in the curved plate. The curved plate extends along an arc of the outer surface of the curved plate that corresponds to a central angle of the pipe less than or equal to 180°. The curved plate includes a concave surface with a radius of curvature less than a radius of curvature of the outer surface of the pipe so as to bias the curved plate against the outer surface of the pipe when the curved plate is flexed to engage the pipe. The pipe access device is for use in providing access to the buried pipe that requires minimal excavation and disruption of the soil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: LMK Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Larry W. Kiest, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20120093585
    Abstract: A pipe-laying vessel (1) is provided, including a tower (2) extending upwardly from the vessel, a pipe loading arm (9) for raising a length of pipe from the deck to a position aligned with the tower. The pipe-laying vessel may also include a support assembly (110) for supporting a bulky item to be accommodated along the pipeline, the support assembly including a frame (111) pivotable between a first load receiving position and a second tilted position in which it extends approximately parallel to the tower, and drive means for pivoting the tiltable frame between its first and second positions. The pipe-laying vessel may alternatively or additionally include a welding assembly station cabin (100) in the region of a lower portion of the tower, a movable support assembly (110) for supporting a bulky item to be accommodated along the pipeline, the movable support assembly being disposed on top of the cabin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2009
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Applicant: SAIPEM S.P.A
    Inventors: Herve Jean Francois Legaignoux, Michel Pierre Baylot, Emmanuel Huot, Kimon Tullio Ardavanis
  • Publication number: 20120039670
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for inserting a pipe (4) via a pit (1) into an underground borehole, wherein the pipe is flattened before entering the pit, and wherein the pipe is redirected within the pit in the direction of the axis of the borehole, so as to re-deform the pipe before entering the borehole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2010
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Applicant: TRACTO-TECHNIK GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventor: Franz-Josef Puttmann
  • Patent number: 8109694
    Abstract: This document discusses, among other things, devices, apparatuses, and methods for the replacement of existing underground pipes. In general, an apparatus comprises a body, including a receiving portion, and a breaking assembly adapted to be positioned within the receiving portion and detachably coupled to the body. In one example, the body and the breaking assembly are adapted, when coupled, to split the existing underground pipe when pulled therethrough using one or more cutting wheels. In varying examples, each cutting wheel radially protrudes out of a breaking assembly housing an increasing amount along a length of the apparatus allowing for a clean, progressive cut of the existing pipe. In another example, the body and the breaking assembly are adapted, when coupled, to burst the existing pipe when pulled therethrough. Advantageously, the present devices, apparatuses, and methods may provide replacement of underground pipes requiring minimal excavation and making economical use of parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: TT Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Tjader
  • Patent number: 8109693
    Abstract: A diamond wire saw and method provides a frame that includes a clamp that attaches to a target (e.g. piling, beam, tubular), an elongated toothed rack extending away from the mount and target, and a moving portion that carries the diamond wire and motor drives that advance the moving portion toward the target and along the toothed rack while driving the wire around roller guides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Tetra Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Galen R. Clark, II
  • Patent number: 8056633
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for removing a subsea structure wherein a housing defining a subsea structure receiving space and having a jetting system attached at or near the bottom of the housing is used to form an excavation around the subsea structure to the desired depth and a frame attached to or mounted in the housing carries a cutter assembly which is movable from a first position on the frame to a second position on the frame, the first position being on one side of the subsea structure, the second position being on the opposite side of the subsea structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Inventors: Marc T. Barra, James L. Parker, III, Adam C. Alborado, Robert M. Champagne, III
  • Publication number: 20110188940
    Abstract: The invention concerns a method for the construction of a long pipeline using a mobile pipeline producing unit, the mobile unit being able to produce specific lengths of the pipeline, each specific length being a fraction of the length of the long pipeline, the method comprising placing the mobile unit at a first position at the stretch of the projected long pipeline, producing a specific length of pipeline in one direction of the projected long pipeline, producing a second specific length of pipeline in the opposite direction, moving the mobile production unit to a second position at the stretch of the projected long pipeline, producing a third specific length of pipeline in a direction of the long pipeline, producing a fourth specific length of pipeline in the opposite direction, optionally moving the mobile production unit to a further position at the stretch of the projected long pipeline, producing a further specific length of pipeline in a direction of the projected long pipeline, producing another furt
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2008
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Inventors: Graham Dudley Freeth, Richard James Anthony Smith
  • Patent number: 7922424
    Abstract: A diamond wire saw and method provides a frame that includes a clamp that attaches to a target (e.g. piling, beam, tubular), an elongated toothed rack extending away from the mount and target, and a moving portion that carries the diamond wire and motor drives that advance the moving portion toward the target and along the toothed rack while driving the wire around roller guides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Tetra Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Galen R. Clark, II
  • Patent number: 7726028
    Abstract: A cutting device for cutting or bursting a pipeline includes a basic body having at least one cutting or perforating element, wherein the cutting or perforating element discontinuously cuts the pipeline in the longitudinal direction or at least discontinuously weakens the pipe material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Tracto-Technik GmbH
    Inventors: Elmar Koch, Martin Köper, Franz-Josef Püttmann
  • Patent number: 7726909
    Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for concurrently forming a plurality of pipelines. The apparatus includes a support chassis coupled to at least one transportation facilitation member. The transportation facilitation member facilities the movement of the support chassis along a surface. A first pipe fuser is disposed on the support chassis and is configured to fuse a first section of pipe to a first pipeline. A second pipe fuser may also be disposed on the support chassis. The second pipe fuser may be configured to independently fuse a second section of pipe to a second pipeline. The first pipe fuser fuses the first section of pipe to the first pipeline with the support chassis in a stationary position. The second pipe fuser fuses the second section of pipe to the second pipeline with the support chassis in the same stationary position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Hi-Pointe Management Services, Inc
    Inventors: Beverly A. Miller, William H. Miller, Christopher S. Shannon
  • Patent number: 7720570
    Abstract: Systems, methods and devices for the remote control of a robot which incorporates interchangeable tool heads. Although applicable to many different industries, the core structure of the system includes a robot with a tool head interface for mechanically, electrically and operatively interconnecting a plurality of interchangeable tool heads to perform various work functions. The robot and tool head may include several levels of digital feedback (local, remote and wide area) depending on the application. The systems include a single umbilical cord to send power, air, and communications signals between the robot and a remote computer. Additionally, all communication (including video) is preferably sent in a digital format. Finally, a GUI running on the remote computer automatically queries and identifies all of the various devices on the network and automatically configures its user options to parallel the installed devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: RedZone Robotics, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric Close, Adam Slifko, Edison T. Hudson, Ronald G. Genise
  • Publication number: 20100104370
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a fixation device for fixation of a position of an inner pipe of a double-walled pipe with respect to a pipe laying structure and/or an outer pipe of said double-walled pipe, said fixation device comprising: an inner pipe gripping device (23) configured to grip said inner pipe, and a connection device (24,25,2S) configured to connect said inner pipe gripping device with said pipe laying structure and/or said outer pipe, said connection device having a flexible state in which, during use, the inner pipe gripping device is movable with respect to said pipe laying structure and/or said outer pipe, and a fixation state in which, during use, the inner pipe gripping device is fixated with respect to the pipe-laying structure and/or said outer pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2006
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Applicant: HEEREMA MARINE CONTRACTORS NEDERLAND B.V.
    Inventor: Jan van Egmond
  • Patent number: 7698974
    Abstract: A device and method for pipe replacement is shown. A pipe replacement device is shown that includes at least one scoring wheel to provide a more progressive cut that provides consistency in the split of the pipe. A pulling force is reduced using pipe replacement devices and methods in a splitting operation. A pipe replacement device is shown that includes at least one skid structures with a long and consistent profile. In methods shown, friction between a pipe replacement device and the pipe being split is reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: TT Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Tjader
  • Patent number: 7674072
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for connecting a lateral pipe to a main pipe are provided by a tool having a first end within the main pipe and a second end outside the lateral pipe so as to apply pressure to the below-ground connection of the main and lateral pipes from an above-ground location. The entire operation may be done without a person having to enter into an access opening in the ground to connect the lateral pipe to the main pipe. A laser is used to determine the depth of the access hole relative to the surface of the ground and the main sewer pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventors: William E. Shook, Ted R. Dimitroff
  • Patent number: 7645093
    Abstract: An articulating band saw apparatus provides a frame that includes a vertically extending section having upper and lower end portions. An elevator moves between the upper and lower end portions of the frame. A first hydraulic actuator is supported on the elevator for movement therewith. A first arm provides arm end portions, the first arm supported by the first hydraulic actuator. An end of the first arm supporting a second hydraulic actuator that is spaced away from the first hydraulic actuator. The second hydraulic actuator supports a second arm. An endless band type saw is mounted on the free end of the second arm generally opposite the second actuator. The band saw is movable by articulation of the first and second actuators and resulting movement of the first and second arms. In one embodiment, the band saw is a diamond wire saw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: Tetra Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Galen R. Clark, II, Michael Todd Martin, Gary L. Siems
  • Patent number: 7631608
    Abstract: An apparatus for cutting an underwater cable, wire or line is provided. The apparatus includes a body with a lid and a base. A piston is located, within the body, and a piston rod is coupled to the piston. An elongate lever cutting element is pivotally coupled to a distal end of the piston rod and also pivotally coupled to the base. Upon actuation, water is introduced through the lid and into the body, moving the piston and piston rod, which actuates the elongate lever cutting element. This Abstract is provided for the sole purpose of complying with the Abstract requirement rules that allow a reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the disclosure contained herein. This Abstract is submitted with the explicit understanding that it will not be used to interpret or to limit the scope or the meaning of the claims.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Tammy Lombardi, Samuel R. Bona, Steve Whiteside
  • Patent number: 7624817
    Abstract: A bore hole reaming apparatus characterized by one or more cleaning devices such as bursting heads attached to a pull rod and typically having one or more mandrels attached thereto in tandem for pulling a length of pipe through a pre-bored opening using a pulling apparatus. In a typical embodiment the bore hole reaming apparatus is characterized by a pair of bursting heads mounted in spaced-apart relationship in tandem on the pull rod and fitted with one or more mandrels attached to a third bursting head. The mandrel(s) is typically secured to a fourth bursting head by a cable and the fourth bursting head is attached to a string of typically HDPE pipe to be pulled through the bore hole. The mandrel(s) straighten irregularities and clean, smooth and enlarge the bore hole to facilitate pulling the pipe string through the bore hole with minimum friction on the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Inventor: Samuel W. Putnam
  • Publication number: 20090285634
    Abstract: A method and apparatus to produce a non-helically wound subsea umbilical is disclosed. The apparatus to produce a non-helically wound umbilical may be portable to facilitate manufacturing of subsea umbilicals in remote locations. This apparatus is smaller and more economical to build and operate than conventional cabling machines that currently are used by many manufactures to produce helically wound subsea umbilicals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2008
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Applicant: DEEP DOWN, INC.
    Inventor: Ronald E. SMITH
  • Patent number: 7578636
    Abstract: A device and method for pipe replacement is shown. One advantage of devices and methods provided includes a splitting blade that provides a progressive cut into challenging pipe configurations such as ductile materials, thin walled pipes, corrugated pipes, or combinations of these properties. A pipe splitter and method is also shown that includes at least one hoop tensioning feature protruding from a body portion to pull the pipe against at least one splitting blade and increase splitting effectiveness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Assignee: TT Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Tjader
  • Patent number: 7559722
    Abstract: A method for reforming or rerounding an underground pipe includes the initial steps of inserting a reforming tool into the underground pipe and locating the pipe reforming tool at a location to be reformed. At least two arms of the reforming tool are then extended into engagement with the inner periphery of the underground pipe, which arms push the underground pipe outwardly in a manner effective to change its cross-sectional shape. The arms may then be retracted and the tool withdrawn from the pipeline. Such “reforming” or “rerounding” tool is preferably mounted at the distal end of a rod string so that the tool can be pushed, pulled and/or spun by operation of the rod pulling and pushing machine powering the rod string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: Earth Tool Company, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Robert F. Crane
  • Publication number: 20090123234
    Abstract: Systems and methods for concurrently destroying old pipes and installing new pipes in their place. An exemplary embodiment is a pipe bursting and replacement tool that includes a body and first and second connectors. The body has a shape that generally tapers from a smaller diameter at the front end to a larger diameter at the rear end. The taper need not be smoothly increasing, but may alternatively be stepped. The first connector couples the body to a pulling rod to and allows the body to be misaligned with the rod to relieve stress on the connection between the two. The second connector couples the replacement pipe to the body so that the replacement pipe can be pulled behind the body into the space previously occupied by an old pipe that is burst by the tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Inventor: Oran W. Venable
  • Publication number: 20090097922
    Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for concurrently forming a plurality of pipelines. The apparatus includes a support chassis coupled to at least one transportation facilitation member. The transportation facilitation member facilities the movement of the support chassis along a surface. A first pipe fuser is disposed on the support chassis and is configured to fuse a first section of pipe to a first pipeline. A second pipe fuser may also be disposed on the support chassis. The second pipe fuser may be configured to independently fuse a second section of pipe to a second pipeline. The first pipe fuser fuses the first section of pipe to the first pipeline with the support chassis in a stationary position. The second pipe fuser fuses the second section of pipe to the second pipeline with the support chassis in the same stationary position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Publication date: April 16, 2009
    Inventors: Beverly A. Miller, William H. Miller, Christopher S. Shannon
  • Patent number: 7476055
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for lining an underground conduit is disclosed. The apparatus 10 comprises: an annular frame 40 having a crown portion 42 and a base portion 49; a strip guide disposed around and supported by the annular frame 40, the guide arranged to guide a strip 12 around a helical path; a pair of strip pinch rollers mounted to the frame 40 at a position circumferentially about halfway between the crown portion 42 and the base portion 49; a drive assembly mounted to the frame for driving the strip 12 downwards into the helical path in a winding direction so as to present an incoming first edge to an adjacent second edge of a wound convolution of the strip; a liquid remover mounted to the frame, the liquid remover arranged to prevent liquid that has adhered to and ascended with the second edge from descending down towards the incoming first edge; and an extruder 80 mounted to the frame 40 for extruding a molten bead of plastic onto the strip 12 at a position just before said overlap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Inventors: Ian Roger Bateman, Craig Anthony Mayman
  • Patent number: 7455117
    Abstract: In one aspect of the invention a downhole winding tool adapted to dispense a lining material in a borehole comprises a lining material. The winding tool also has entry and exit seals that are adapted to permit the movement of the lining material through the winding tool. The entry and exit seals restrict formation pressure and contaminants from entering the winding tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Inventors: David R. Hall, John Fernandez