Modular pipe loader assembly
US12404730B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 13, 2023 |
| Grant date | Sep 2, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 13, 2043 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B19/20
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A horizontal directional drilling machine having a modular pipe loader system. The system comprises a first and second pipe loader assembly supported on a drill frame. Each assembly supports a shuttle arm. The shuttle arms are configured to move independently of one another along a shuttle path that is traverse to a longitudinal axis of the drill frame. Movement of each shuttle arm is powered by an actuator supported on each pipe loader assembly. Each pipe loader assembly includes a sensor used to measure parameters related to the position of each shuttle arm relative to the drill frame. A controller analyzes the measured parameters and directs operation of each actuator in order to keep the shuttle arms moving in unison during operation.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.