Apparatus for inserting foldable conduit below ground
US4397585A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 22, 1981 |
| Grant date | Aug 9, 1983 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 22, 2001 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH02G1/06
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A plow arrangement is disclosed for inserting continuous lengths of foldable conduit in the ground. A plow forms a cavity in the ground for receiving the conduit. Folded conduit is conveyed from a reel to an inlet end of a feeder or boot. As the conduit passes through the feeder, it is unfolded. The feeder discharges the unfolded conduit horizontally behind the plow. Soil lifted by the plow falls around the unfolded conduit constraining it to its unfolded configuration. A vehicle advances the plow and feeder through the ground. The feeder includes a surface for engaging the base of the conduit and guides for engaging the top. The surface and guides converge adjacent the outlet of the feeder to unfold the conduit passing inbetween. Further the surface and guides have arcuate portions that bend the conduit about its apex to urge it to its unfolded configuration.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.