Patent · US Expired

Self-righting, bi-directional pipe caster

US7343863B2 · kind B2 · utility

2Cited by
3References
15Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventor

Key dates

Filing dateMar 25, 2005
Grant dateMar 18, 2008
Priority date
Expiry dateFeb 15, 2026

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
  • CPC primaryF16L55/28
  • WIPO fieldMechanical elements
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

An apparatus for transporting a payload along the inside of a substantially horizontal pipe. The apparatus includes vertically aligned upper and lower roller elements which are relationally pivotably connected to each other, both of which contact the inside surface of the pipe into which the apparatus is inserted. The apparatus further includes a steering pendulum which enables the apparatus to maintain a substantially vertical orientation as it is pushed or pulled through the pipe.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.