Buried pipeline repair system
US9303794B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 11, 2013 |
| Grant date | Apr 5, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 13, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE02F5/003
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A damaged portion of a pipeline buried in a trench is gradually lifted from the trench to expose the damaged portion above water and provide easy access to the damaged portion. Inflatable roller bags are placed under the pipeline adjacent the damaged portion; the roller bags are then inflated in a controlled manner using a computer-based control unit. A control manifold is connected to the control unit and each of the roller bags by a separate air conduit allowing controlled bag-inflation and bag-deflation process for each roller bag. Once the pipeline is repaired, the roller bags are deflated, lowering the pipeline back to its original position in the trench.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.