Pipeline patch trolley
US6626447B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 29, 2001 |
| Grant date | Sep 30, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 12, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16L55/28
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A vehicle for transporting and installing an annular patch in a pipeline having a curved inside surface. There is a tubular support member and an annular bladder mounted on the support member for forcing the patch against the inside of the pipeline when inflated. Pivoting wheel assemblies are mounted to the ends of the tubular support member so that the wheels extend normal to the curved inside surface of the pipeline. A ballast member is mounted between the wheel assemblies to maintain the vehicle in an upright orientation. Compressed air for inflating the bladder is supplied by hose to a fitting within the hollow interior of the tubular support. The wheel assemblies may be removable or inwardly pivotable so as to provide clearance for the patch to be slipped over the support and bladder.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.