Serpentine tube inspection positioning spine
US4896555A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 21, 1988 |
| Grant date | Jan 30, 1990 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 21, 2008 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T74/20426
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A serpentine tube inspection positioning spine formed from a plurality of identical links mated together. Each link has first and second bifurcated ends with the first end sized to fit within the second end of an adjacent link. Links are mated together by a pivot pin or axle which is accepted in a bore through the bifurcated ends. The second bifurcated end is provided with a substantially oval-shaped bore to allow sliding of the adjacent links relative to each other. Flat alignment faces on each end, with the first end having rounded corners, prevent buckling due to compressive forces during insertion while still allowing pivoting of the links for traveling through tubing bends.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.