Apparatus and method for the robotic repairing of an underground pipe junction with a flexible patch mechanism
US6688337B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 19, 2001 |
| Grant date | Feb 10, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 13, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16L55/265
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus and method for sealing an underground junction between a lateral service line and a main pipeline from the inside-out. One embodiment provides a substantially rigid patching apparatus which may be positioned and installed with a robotic device within a main pipeline. The patching apparatus has a flange shaped to fit the internal diameter of the main pipeline and a tubular stem or sleeve which penetrates into the lateral service line. The patching apparatus contains an interconnection substrate such as felt, sponge or other similar material. The interconnection substrate may be impregnated with a bonding agent which sealingly interconnects the patching apparatus to the main pipeline and lateral service line, and may be heated by utilizing a heating element within a support cage, thus reducing the time required for curing.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.