Adjustable arm and tube cutting assembly for horizontally cutting vertical tubes

Abstract

The utility model relates to an adjustable arm and a pipe cutting assembly used for horizontally cutting a vertical pipe. In one form, a pipe cutting assembly includes an adjustable arm including: at least one horizontal guide body movably mountable to and extending radially from a circular guide of the pipe cutting assembly; at least one vertical guide rail slidably mounted to the at least one horizontal guide body and horizontally movable relative to the at least one horizontal guide body; and a cutting torch mounting member for mounting a cutting torch, the mounting member being slidably mountable to the at least one vertical guide rail and being vertically movable relative to the at least one vertical guide rail.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to a pipe cutting assembly for horizontally cutting vertical pipes and a method of using the same. In particular, this utility model relates to an adjustable arm used with the pipe cutting assembly. Background Technology

[0002] A pile, or foundation pile, is a vertical structural element driven or drilled into the ground at a construction site to serve as the foundation for subsequent construction. Piles can include pipe piles (i.e., vertical steel pipes), precast concrete piles, or even wooden piles. These piles are typically driven into the ground using a pile driver.

[0003] One problem with the piling process is that these piles are often driven into the ground at a small angle relative to a precise vertical orientation, rather than a precise vertical orientation. In some cases, this angle can be 15° or greater relative to the vertical direction.

[0004] In addition, another problem with this process is that these piles are often partially deformed due to the piling process, and in the case of pipe piles, they may no longer have a substantially circular cross section or may include slight bending.

[0005] To compensate for the above defects, the pipe piles are usually cut horizontally once they are driven into the ground.

[0006] Traditionally, oxygen pipe cutters with chains / brackets or angle grinders can be used to cut pipes horizontally. However, the applicant has found that such chains / brackets are prone to slippage, resulting in non-horizontal cuts, and that the cutting discs of angle grinders are prone to frequent failures, thereby unnecessarily prolonging the cutting process.

[0007] Another method for horizontally cutting pipe piles is through the use of the Sawyer™ Quick Set™ pipe cutting machine. This machine includes a circular guide that mounts around the pile and a torch holder positioned relative to the circular guide on a pivotable arm to control the distance between the cutting tip of the torch and the pile, and is configured to move around the pipe pile to cut it horizontally. However, the applicant has found that the pivotable arm does not provide sufficient travel relative to the pile to deliver a high-quality cut. In fact, the applicant has found that when cutting partially deformed piles (i.e., non-circular) or piles deviating from the vertical direction, the pivotable arm fails to position the cutting tip of the torch sufficiently close to the pile.

[0008] It will be clearly understood that if prior art publications are cited in this document, such citation does not constitute an acknowledgment that such publications constitute common general knowledge in the field in Australia or any other country. Utility Model Content

[0009] Embodiments of this utility model provide a pipe cutting assembly, an adjustable arm for use with the pipe cutting assembly, and a method of using the pipe cutting assembly and the adjustable arm for horizontally cutting vertical pipes. The pipe cutting assembly, the adjustable arm, and the method of use can at least partially solve one or more of the problems or defects mentioned above or can provide the public with a useful or commercial option.

[0010] According to a first aspect of the present invention, an adjustable arm is provided for use with a pipe cutting assembly to horizontally cut vertical pipes, the arm comprising:

[0011] At least one horizontal guide body, which is movably mounted to and extends radially from the circular guide of the tube cutting assembly;

[0012] At least one vertical guide rail, which is slidably mounted to the at least one horizontal guide body and is movable horizontally relative to the at least one horizontal guide body; and

[0013] A torch mounting component for mounting a cutting torch, the mounting component being slidably mounted to the at least one vertical guide rail and being vertically movable relative to the at least one vertical guide rail.

[0014] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a pipe cutting assembly for horizontally cutting vertical pipes is provided, the assembly comprising:

[0015] A circular guide, configurable and movable around a vertical tube, comprising two or more radially extending adjustable supports for leveling the circular guide relative to the vertical tube in a spaced-apart relationship; and

[0016] An adjustable arm, which can be mounted to a circular guide to move together with the circular guide around a vertical tube and to adjustably position the cutting torch relative to the vertical tube, the adjustable arm comprising:

[0017] At least one horizontal guide body extends radially outward from the circular guide;

[0018] At least one vertical guide rail, which is slidably mounted to the at least one horizontal guide body and is movable horizontally relative to the at least one horizontal guide body; and

[0019] A torch mounting component for mounting a cutting torch, the mounting component being slidably mounted to the at least one vertical guide rail and being vertically movable relative to the at least one vertical guide rail.

[0020] Advantageously, the cutting assembly of this invention (particularly the adjustable arm) provides a means for precisely controlling the position of the cutting torch relative to a vertical tube while rotating about a vertical tube that is deviated from or slightly deformed. In fact, the precise translational control provided by the adjustable arm allows the cutting tip of the torch to maintain close contact with the sidewall of the tube and thus forms a clean and precise cut during tube leveling. Such control would be fundamentally impossible with the prior art due to the limited travel distance of the pivotable arm mount.

[0021] As noted, the adjustable arm and pipe cutting assembly of this invention is primarily used for horizontally cutting vertical pipes, preferably vertical steel pipe piles. Therefore, it will be convenient to describe the adjustable arm and pipe cutting assembly below with reference to this exemplary application. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the adjustable arm and pipe cutting assembly can have a wider range of applications and is suitable for cutting pipes of any type or orientation.

[0022] Typically, a vertical tube can include any tube having a pair of opposite ends and at least one sidewall extending longitudinally between these opposite ends. The pair of opposite ends can include an embedded lower end and an opposite projecting upper end. The at least one sidewall can be curved, giving the tube a substantially circular profile, but also encompassing elliptical or oval shapes.

[0023] The vertical tube may extend upward from the ground base in a substantially vertical orientation, but also covers any deviation from the vertical direction of up to 25°, preferably up to 15°.

[0024] The vertical tube may preferably be made of one or more metal materials, preferably steel, but also includes one or more plastic materials (such as PVC).

[0025] As indicated, the tube cutting assembly includes a circular guide that can be fitted around a vertical tube and is used to guide an adjustable arm, including a cutting torch, around the vertical tube.

[0026] Circular guides can have any size, shape, and configuration suitable for assembly around a vertical tube. Typically, a circular guide may comprise one or more metal strips, each in the form of an extended arc. A circular guide may have a monolithic construction or may be formed from two or more guide parts.

[0027] In some embodiments, the circular guide may include a pair of arcuate members and a hinge that pivotally connects these arcuate members together. These arcuate members may be pivotable relative to each other and about the hinge between an open position and an operable position, in which the guide can be assembled around the circumference of a vertical tube, and in which the arcuate members are aligned to form a complete circular band.

[0028] Each arcuate member may include an outer end and a connecting end that attaches to the hinge. These outer ends may include a fastening mechanism or a portion thereof for securing these outer ends together when in the operable position.

[0029] In other embodiments, the circular guide may include a circular strip configured to fit onto the protruding upper end of the vertical tube.

[0030] A circular strip may include a pair of opposite surfaces interconnected by opposite side edges.

[0031] These opposing surfaces can include an upper surface and an opposite lower surface. These opposing surfaces can extend substantially parallel to each other.

[0032] Opposite side edges can include inner edges or circumferences and opposite outer edges or circumferences.

[0033] In some embodiments, the circular guide may further include a fastening clamp for securing the circular guide at a desired height along the height of the vertical tube. The fastening clamp may have any suitable size, shape, and construction. The circular guide may preferably be movable relative to the fastening clamp to rotate about the vertical tube.

[0034] In some such embodiments, the fastening clamp may include: an arcuate member slidably mounted or coupled to the inner edge portion of a circular guide for positioning against the sidewall of a vertical tube; and a fastening strip or chain coupled at a first end of the arcuate member and configured to extend around the vertical tube and preferably fastened under tension to the opposite second end of the arcuate member.

[0035] The arcuate member may include a pair of opposite ends and an arcuate body extending between the pair of opposite ends. The pair of opposite ends may include a first end and an opposite second end. The arcuate member may include a pair of opposite sides. The pair of opposite sides may include: an outer edge slidably mounted or coupled to a circular guide; and an opposite inner edge for positioning against the sidewall of a vertical tube, preferably via two or more radially extending adjustable supports.

[0036] The fastening strip or chain may include a pair of opposite ends, which include: a connecting end that is connected to a first end of the arcuate member; and a distal outer end that is configured to fasten to an opposite second end of the arcuate member.

[0037] The distal outer end of the fastening strip or chain may include a latching clamp for securing the distal end of the fastening strip or chain to a second end under tension. Typically, the latching clamp may be connected or coupled to the distal end of the fastening strip or chain via a spring, preferably a tension spring or a range spring, to facilitate the application of tension around the vertical tube.

[0038] As indicated, the circular guide includes two or more radially extending adjustable supports for leveling the circular guide relative to the vertical tube in a spaced-apart relationship. These adjustable supports can have any suitable size, shape, and construction.

[0039] In some embodiments, these supports may each include an adjusting screw that extends radially through a threaded hole in the arcuate member.

[0040] Each adjusting screw may include a distal end configured to engage with the sidewall of the vertical tube, an opposite head, and a threaded rod extending between the distal end and the head.

[0041] The threaded rod may include external threads that extend at least partially along the length of the threaded rod.

[0042] The head may include an enlarged head or knob, etc., to assist the operator in manually rotating the adjusting screw when leveling the circular guide relative to the vertical tube.

[0043] The threaded hole can extend radially from the vertical tube between opposite sides of the arcuate member and through the opposite sides of the arcuate member.

[0044] A threaded hole may include an internal thread that extends at least partially along the length of the hole.

[0045] The threaded hole and the threaded rod of the adjusting screw can preferably be threaded together.

[0046] In other preferred embodiments, these supports may include a pair of mounting members pivotally connected to the arcuate member, preferably pivotally connected to the arcuate member at each of the pairs of opposite ends, and more preferably pivotally connected to the upper surface of the arcuate member at each of the pairs of opposite ends.

[0047] Each mounting element can be pivotable inward and outward relative to the curved member about a vertical axis for radial adjustment relative to the vertical tube.

[0048] Each mounting component may include a threaded hole extending through the mounting component as previously described, the threaded hole being used to receive an adjusting screw passing through the threaded hole as previously described.

[0049] Each mounting component may include an elongated slot for receiving a mechanical fastener that passes through the slot and enters the curved member to fix the pivot angle of the mounting component relative to the curved member and thus fix the radial position of the mounting component relative to the vertical tube.

[0050] Typically, the mechanical fastener may include a head and / or a washer and may extend into a pre-formed hole defined in the upper surface of the arcuate member.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment, a fastening strip or chain may be coupled to one of the mounting members at a first end of the arcuate member, and the distal end of the fastening strip or chain may be configured to be coupled to another mounting member of the mounting members, preferably under tension, at a second end of the arcuate member via a toggle clamp and a tension spring.

[0052] As indicated, the circular guide may be movable around the vertical tube and relative to the fastening clamp, and preferably slidable in a circular motion around the vertical tube.

[0053] The circular guide and the arcuate component of the fastening clamp can be slidably connected in any suitable manner so that the circular guide can move freely relative to the arcuate component.

[0054] For example, in some embodiments, the outer edge of the arcuate member may include an elongated groove or channel for slidably receiving a portion of the inner edge of the circular guide so that it can move through the elongated groove or channel.

[0055] Elongated grooves or channels can extend longitudinally between opposite ends of the outer edge of the curved member.

[0056] The elongated slot or channel may include one or more wheels, rollers, sliding bearing pads, etc., to facilitate the movement of the circular guide relative to the elongated slot or channel.

[0057] The size and shape of the elongated groove or channel can be determined to guide a component or part of a circular guide through it.

[0058] In some embodiments, the circular guide can be moved by hand around the vertical tube.

[0059] In other embodiments, the component may further include a drive mechanism for driving the movement of the circular guide around the vertical tube and relative to the fastening clamp. Any suitable drive mechanism can be used.

[0060] In some embodiments, the drive mechanism may include a drive sprocket mounted on the arcuate member and configured to engage a circular guide to move the guide relative to the arcuate member and about the vertical tube. The drive sprocket may be manually operated or driven by a motor (such as an electric motor).

[0061] In other embodiments, the drive mechanism may include a drive sprocket mounted to the arcuate member and configured to mesh with a gear, track, or rack defined on a circular guide (preferably the outer edge of the circular guide).

[0062] In a preferred embodiment, the drive mechanism may include a rack and pinion mechanism. The rack and pinion mechanism may include a pinion mounted to the arcuate member and configured to mesh with an arcuate rack defined or mounted on the outer edge of the circular guide. The pinion may include a crank arm and a handle for manually rotating the pinion and thus moving the circular guide about the vertical tube and relative to the fastening clamp.

[0063] As indicated, the component includes an adjustable arm that can be mounted to a circular guide for moving around a vertical tube and adjusting the position of the torch relative to the vertical tube.

[0064] The adjustable arm may include at least one horizontal guide body, at least one vertical guide rail that is slidably mounted to the horizontal guide body and is movable horizontally relative to the horizontal guide body, and a torch mount that is slidably mounted to the at least one vertical guide rail and is movable vertically relative to the at least one vertical guide rail.

[0065] In use, the horizontal movement of at least one vertical guide rail relative to at least one horizontal guide body can advantageously enable the translational adjustment of the cutting end of the torch relative to the vertical tube.

[0066] Similarly, the vertical movement of the torch mounting relative to at least one vertical guide rail can advantageously enable the height adjustment of the cutting end of the torch relative to the vertical tube.

[0067] At least one horizontal guide body can have any suitable size, shape, and construction, preferably a solid construction. The guide body can be a monolithic construction or can be formed by two or more body parts connected together.

[0068] The guide body can preferably be formed of metal.

[0069] The guide body can be a plate, cube, triangular prism, rectangular prism, pentagonal prism, hexagonal prism, octagonal prism, or generally in the shape of a polyhedron.

[0070] Typically, at least one horizontal guide body may have a rectangular prism shape. The body may be defined by a top wall, an opposite bottom wall, a pair of opposite end walls, and a pair of opposite side walls.

[0071] The top wall, bottom wall, and a pair of opposite side walls can extend longitudinally between opposite end walls.

[0072] These opposite ends can include an inner end and an opposite outer end.

[0073] At least one horizontal guide body may be mountable to a circular guide such that the horizontal guide body extends radially outward from the circular guide.

[0074] At least one horizontal guide body and a circular guide can be mounted together in any suitable manner, preferably in a fixed position.

[0075] For example, one of the top and bottom walls of the guide body can be fastened against one of the lower and upper surfaces of the circular guide using one or more mechanical fasteners.

[0076] Preferably, at least one horizontal guide body and a circular guide can be fastened together in a surface-to-surface arrangement, wherein a portion of the top wall at or near its inner end is fastened against a portion of the lower surface of the circular guide at or near its outer edge using one or more mechanical fasteners.

[0077] At least one vertical guide rail can have any suitable size, shape, and construction, preferably a solid construction. At least one vertical guide rail can be a monolithic construction or can be formed by two or more rail parts connected together.

[0078] The track can preferably be formed of metal.

[0079] At least one vertical guide rail may include a pair of opposite ends and an elongated body, which preferably extends longitudinally between the pair of opposite ends in a vertical orientation extending downward from the horizontal guide body.

[0080] These opposite ends may include an upper end that is slidably connected to a horizontal guide body and an opposite lower end.

[0081] The elongated body may be defined by at least one sidewall. The at least one sidewall may be planar, curved, or rounded.

[0082] The body can have any suitable cross-sectional shape. For example, the body can have a circular, elliptical, triangular, or rectangular cross-sectional shape, preferably a rectangular cross-sectional shape defined by four sidewalls. These four sidewalls may include an inner wall facing the vertical tube, an outer wall facing the opposite side, and two opposite sidewalls.

[0083] The horizontal guide body and at least one vertical guide rail can be slidably mounted together in any suitable manner, such that the at least one vertical guide rail can move horizontally toward and away from the vertical tube for translational adjustment of the cutting torch.

[0084] In some embodiments, at least one vertical guide rail may be slidably mounted to the horizontal guide body via a connecting mechanism or a portion thereof. For example, a first portion of the connecting mechanism associated with at least one vertical guide rail may mate or engage with a second portion of the connecting mechanism associated with at least one horizontal guide body.

[0085] The connecting mechanism may include mating convex and concave portions that are joined together.

[0086] In some embodiments, the horizontal guide body may include one or more elongated guide channels extending at least partially along its longitudinal axis between opposite ends, and at least one vertical guide rail may include one or more corresponding mounting portions configured to be received in and slidable along the elongated guide channels. The one or more mounting portions may each include an enlarged head or other type of retention member configured to engage with and preferably slidably retain within the elongated guide channels.

[0087] One or more guide channels may be defined on any one of these opposite sidewalls and bottom walls, preferably on at least one of these opposite sidewalls and bottom wall.

[0088] The mounting portion can be of any suitable size, shape, and form and can be movably coupled to the elongated guide channels in any suitable manner so as to slide horizontally along these elongated guide channels.

[0089] The horizontal guide body may preferably include an actuation mechanism for moving at least one vertical guide rail horizontally relative to the horizontal guide body.

[0090] Any suitable type of actuation mechanism can be used. The actuation mechanism can be manually actuated or actuated by using a drive, preferably the former. The movement can be linear, although non-linear movement, such as rotational movement, is also conceivable.

[0091] In some embodiments, the actuation mechanism may include a threaded shaft rotatably coupled to a horizontal guide body, and at least one vertical guide rail may be mounted on the threaded shaft to move along the threaded shaft by rotation of the threaded shaft.

[0092] A threaded shaft may include a threaded shaft rotatably coupled to the inner end of a horizontal guide body, an opposite head, and extending between the inner end and the opposite head at or near the inner end of the body.

[0093] A threaded shaft may include an external thread that extends at least partially along the length of the shaft.

[0094] The head may include an enlarged head or knobs to assist the operator in manually rotating the threaded shaft when adjusting the translational position of the torch relative to the vertical tube.

[0095] The upper end of the vertical guide rail may include a threaded hole for mounting to a threaded shaft. The threaded hole may extend between and through the inner and outer walls of the elongated body of the vertical guide rail at or near the upper end.

[0096] A threaded hole may include an internal thread that extends at least partially along the length of the hole.

[0097] The threaded hole and the threaded shaft can preferably be threaded together.

[0098] The torch mount can have any suitable size, shape, and construction to hold the torch and be slidably mounted to at least one vertical guide rail for vertical movement along that rail. The torch mount can be a single, integral construction, or it can be formed from two or more mounting parts connected together, preferably the latter.

[0099] The torch mounting component can preferably be made of metal.

[0100] The torch mount may include a pair of opposing plate members configured to be clamped together around an elongated body that is at least one vertical guide rail for movement along the elongated body.

[0101] The pair of opposite plate members may include an inner plate member and an outer plate member, which are configured to be clamped around at least one vertical guide rail.

[0102] These plate components can have any suitable shape. For example, these plate components can be circular, elliptical, triangular or rectangular, with a rectangular shape being preferred.

[0103] The inner panel members may include inner surfaces and opposite adjacent surfaces interconnected by opposite edges.

[0104] The outer panel component may include outer surfaces and opposite adjacent surfaces interconnected by opposite edges.

[0105] The corresponding adjacent surfaces of the inner and outer panel members can be fastened together in a surface-to-surface arrangement using one or more mechanical fasteners.

[0106] Opposite edges can include the bottom edge, the opposite top edge, and the opposite side edge.

[0107] Both the inner and outer plate members can define a central orifice through which a cutting torch is installed when these plate members are fastened together. The cutting torch can be installed to these plate members in any suitable manner, preferably releasably.

[0108] In some embodiments, the cutting torch can be mounted to these plate members by means of a cutting torch clamp or the like extending from one of the inner plate members and the outer plate members (preferably the outer plate member) into the central opening.

[0109] In some embodiments, the torch clamp may be adjustablely mounted to one of these outer plate members, such that the vertical angle of the torch relative to the torch mount can preferably be adjusted in a vertical plane.

[0110] In some such embodiments, the outer plate component may include a torch clamp mounting bracket that extends vertically from the outer surface in a vertical orientation and has an arcuate channel defined within the torch clamp mounting bracket. The torch clamp can be mounted to the torch clamp mounting bracket by a mechanical fastener that passes through the arcuate channel and is received in a threaded hole defined in a portion of the torch clamp.

[0111] Mechanical fasteners may include a distal end, a head, and a threaded rod extending between the distal end and the head.

[0112] The threaded rod may include external threads that extend at least partially along the length of the threaded rod.

[0113] The head may include an enlarged head or knobs to assist the operator in manually rotating the mechanical fasteners when adjusting the angle of the torch relative to the torch mount.

[0114] The threaded hole may include an internal thread configured to engage with an external thread on a threaded shaft defined on a mechanical fastener.

[0115] The torch mount can be slidably mounted to at least one vertical guide rail in any suitable manner.

[0116] Typically, each of the inner and outer panel members may define a longitudinally extending channel between its upper and lower edges for assembly around at least one vertical guide rail when fastened together. These channels may be connected to define a through passage through which at least one vertical guide rail extends. The torch mount may be slidable between its upper and lower ends on the elongated body of at least one vertical guide rail.

[0117] In some embodiments, at least one vertical guide rail may include an actuation mechanism for moving the torch mount along the at least one vertical guide rail. Any suitable actuation mechanism as previously described may be used.

[0118] In other embodiments, at least one vertical guide rail can be manually moved along the at least one vertical guide rail.

[0119] In some such embodiments, the torch mount may further include one or more retaining screws for securing the torch mount at a desired position along the height of at least one vertical guide rail.

[0120] One or more fixing screws may be received through one or more threaded holes defined in and extending through the inner plate and adjacent to a channel defined in the inner plate, for clamping or fixing against at least one vertical guide rail received in the channel.

[0121] Each fixing screw may include a distal end, an opposite head, and a threaded rod extending between the distal end and the opposite head, the distal end being configured to engage with or abut against the outer wall of the elongated body of at least one vertical guide rail.

[0122] The threaded rod may include external threads that extend at least partially along the length of the threaded rod.

[0123] The head may include an enlarged head or knob, etc., to assist the operator in manually rotating the fixing screws when securing the torch mount relative to at least one vertical guide rail.

[0124] One or more threaded holes may be defined in the outer panel member and extend through the opposite surface of the outer panel member and through the channel defined in the outer panel member.

[0125] Each of one or more threaded holes may include an internal thread configured to engage with an external thread on a threaded shaft defined on one or more fixing screws.

[0126] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a method for horizontally cutting a vertical pipe is provided, the method comprising:

[0127] Provide a pipe cutting assembly according to the second aspect;

[0128] Level the circular guide of the cutting assembly relative to the vertical tube; and

[0129] The adjustable arm of this component is used to adjust the position of the cutting torch relative to the vertical tube, while the circular guide moves around the vertical tube together with the cutting torch.

[0130] The method may include one or more features or characteristics of the tube cutting assembly, including an adjustable arm as described above.

[0131] Leveling may include adjusting two or more radially extending adjustable supports until the circular guide is leveled. Adjustment may include tightening and / or loosening a corresponding adjusting screw operably associated with each of a pair of mounting members of the arcuate member pivotally connected to the fastening clamp.

[0132] Adjusting two or more radially extending adjustable supports may further include periodically checking the circular guide with a level.

[0133] Adjusting the position of the cutting torch may include adjusting the translational position of the cutting end of the torch relative to the vertical tube, while moving the circular guide and the mounted cutting torch around the vertical tube.

[0134] Adjusting the translation position may include tightening and loosening the threaded shaft of at least one horizontal guide body actuation mechanism of the adjustable arm.

[0135] In use, the cutting tip of the torch ideally maintains a close proximity to the sidewall of the vertical tube while rotating around it via a circular guide.

[0136] Any feature described herein may be combined with any one or more of the other features described herein in any combination within the scope of this invention.

[0137] Any reference to prior art in this specification is not, and should not be construed as, an acknowledgment or any form of implication that the prior art is part of the common general knowledge. Attached Figure Description

[0138] The preferred features, embodiments, and variations of this invention will become apparent from the following detailed descriptions, which provide sufficient information for those skilled in the art to practice this invention. These detailed descriptions should not be construed as limiting the scope of the foregoing inventive content in any way. The detailed descriptions will be referenced to the following figures:

[0139] Figure 1 This is a photograph showing a pipe cutting assembly for horizontally cutting a vertical pipe according to an embodiment of the present invention, the pipe cutting assembly including an adjustable arm mounted around the vertical pipe;

[0140] Figure 2 It is shown as follows Figure 1 A photograph of the upper 3D view of the adjustable arm; and

[0141] Figure 3 It is shown as follows Figure 1 and Figure 2A photograph of a magnified image of a portion of the adjustable arm shown. Detailed Implementation

[0142] Figures 1 to 3 The illustration shows an embodiment of the present invention for horizontally cutting a vertical steel pipe 900 (only in the case of cutting a vertical steel pipe 900). Figure 1 and Figure 2 The tube cutting assembly 100 (shown in the image) is only available in the tube cutting assembly 100. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown in the figure, the tube cutting assembly includes an adjustable arm 200 and its components.

[0143] See Figure 1 The pipe cutting assembly 100 includes: a circular guide 110, which is assembled and movable about a vertical steel pipe 900, the guide 110 including two radially extending adjustable supports 120 for leveling the circular guide 110 relative to the vertical steel pipe 900 in a spaced-apart relationship; and an adjustable arm 200, which is mounted to the circular guide 110 to move together with the circular guide 110 about the vertical steel pipe 900 and to adjustably position the cutting torch 800 relative to the vertical pipe 900.

[0144] The circular guide 110 includes a circular strip configured to be fitted onto the protruding upper end of the vertical steel pipe 900.

[0145] The strip includes a pair of opposing surfaces interconnected by opposing side edges. The pair of opposing surfaces includes an upper surface 112 extending substantially parallel to each other and an opposing lower surface 114. The opposing side edges include an inner edge 116 and an opposing outer edge 118.

[0146] The circular guide 110 includes a fastening clamp 130 for securing the circular guide 110 along the vertical steel pipe 900 at a desired height, such that the circular guide 110 is movable relative to the fastening clamp 130 to rotate about the pipe 900.

[0147] The fastening clamp 130 includes an arcuate member 140 slidably mounted or coupled to the inner edge portion of the circular guide 110 for positioning against the sidewall of the tube 900; and a fastening chain 150 coupled to a first end of the arcuate member 140 and configured to extend around the vertical tube 900 and fasten under tension to the opposite second end of the arcuate member 140.

[0148] The arc-shaped member 140 is positioned against the side wall of the vertical tube 900 via two radially extending adjustable supports 120.

[0149] The fastening chain 150 includes a pair of opposite ends, which include a connecting end connected to a first end of the arcuate member 140 and a distal outer end configured to fasten to an opposite second end of the arcuate member 140.

[0150] The distal outer end of the fastening chain 150 includes a latch clamp connected to the distal end via a tension spring 152 for fastening the fastening chain around the vertical steel pipe 900 under tension.

[0151] See Figure 2 And as indicated, two radially extending adjustable supports 120 are used to level the circular guide 110 relative to the vertical tube 900 in a spaced-out relationship with the vertical tube.

[0152] Each support 120 includes a mounting 122 that is pivotally connected to the upper surface of the arcuate member 140 at or near the end of the arcuate member 140.

[0153] Each mounting element 122 can pivot inward and outward about a vertical axis relative to the arcuate member 140 for radial adjustment relative to the vertical tube 900.

[0154] Each mounting member 122 includes a threaded hole 124 extending through the mounting member 122 for threadedly receiving an adjusting screw 160 passing through the threaded hole. The threaded hole 124 includes an internal thread extending at least partially along the length of the hole 124.

[0155] The adjusting screw 160 includes a distal end configured to engage with the sidewall of the vertical tube 900, an opposite head 162, and a threaded rod extending between the distal end and the head.

[0156] The threaded rod includes an external thread that extends at least partially along the length of the threaded rod.

[0157] The head 162 includes an enlarged head or knob, etc., to assist the operator in manually rotating the adjusting screw 160 when leveling the circular guide 110 relative to the vertical tube 900.

[0158] Each mounting member 122 further includes an elongated groove 126 for receiving a mechanical fastener 128 that passes through the elongated groove and enters the arcuate member 140 to fix the pivot angle of the mounting member 122 relative to the arcuate member 140 and thus fix the radial position of the mounting member 122 relative to the vertical tube 900.

[0159] Return to reference Figure 1 And as indicated, the circular guide 110 can slide in a circular motion around the vertical tube 900 and relative to the fastening clamp 130.

[0160] The circular guide 110 is slidably connected to the arcuate member 140 of the fastening clamp 130 so that the circular guide 110 can move freely relative to the arcuate member 140.

[0161] Component 110 further includes a drive mechanism 170 for driving the circular guide 110 to move around the vertical tube 900 and relative to the fastening clamp 130.

[0162] The drive mechanism 170 includes a rack and pinion mechanism comprising a pinion 172 mounted to the arcuate member 140 and configured to mesh with an arcuate rack 174 mounted on the outer edge 118 of the circular guide 110. The pinion 172 includes a crank arm and a handle 176 for manual rotation of the pinion 172 and thus for movement of the circular guide 110 about the vertical tube 900 and relative to the fastening clamp 130.

[0163] See you again Figure 2 The adjustable arm 200 can be mounted to the circular guide 110 to move around the vertical tube 900 and adjustably position the cutting torch 800 relative to the vertical tube 900.

[0164] The adjustable arm 200 includes: a horizontal guide body 210; that is, at least one horizontal guide body; a vertical guide rail 220; that is, at least one vertical guide rail that can be slidably mounted to the horizontal guide body 210 and can move horizontally relative to the horizontal guide body; and a torch mount 230 that can be slidably mounted to the vertical guide rail 220 and can move vertically relative to the vertical guide rail.

[0165] In use, the horizontal movement of the vertical guide rail 220 relative to the horizontal guide body 210 advantageously enables the translational adjustment of the cutting end 810 of the cutting torch 800 relative to the vertical tube 900.

[0166] Similarly, the vertical movement of the torch mount 230 relative to the vertical guide rail 220 advantageously enables height adjustment of the cutting end 810 of the torch 800 relative to the vertical tube 900.

[0167] The horizontal guide body 210 has a rectangular prism shape and is made of metal.

[0168] The body 210 is defined by a top wall 212, an opposite bottom wall 214, a pair of opposite end walls and a pair of opposite side walls 215.

[0169] The top wall 212, the bottom wall 214 and a pair of opposite side walls 215 extend longitudinally between the pair of opposite end walls.

[0170] These opposite ends may include an inner end 216 and an opposite outer end 218.

[0171] The horizontal guide body 210 can be mounted to the circular guide 110 such that the horizontal guide body extends radially outward from the circular guide 110. Specifically, the horizontal guide body 210 and the circular guide 110 are fastened together in a surface-to-surface arrangement, wherein a portion of the top wall 212 at or near its inner end 216 is fastened by mechanical fasteners against a portion of the lower surface 114 of the circular guide 110 at or near its outer edge 118.

[0172] The vertical guide rail 220 includes a pair of opposite ends and an elongated body 222 defined by two outer frame members extending longitudinally between the pair of opposite ends. Like the horizontal guide body 210, the vertical guide rail 220 is also formed of metal.

[0173] The opposite ends include an upper end 224 slidably connected to the horizontal guide body 210, and an opposite lower end 226.

[0174] As indicated, the vertical guide rail 220 is slidably mounted to the horizontal guide body 210, such that the vertical guide rail 220 can move horizontally toward and away from the vertical tube 900 for translational adjustment of the cutting torch 800.

[0175] As shown, the horizontal guide body 210 includes three elongated guide channels 240 that extend at least partially along their longitudinal axis between opposite ends, and the vertical guide rail 220 includes three corresponding mounting portions 242 that are respectively received in the elongated guide channels 240 and are slidable along the elongated guide channels.

[0176] The guide channel 240 is defined on the bottom wall 214 and the opposite side wall 215.

[0177] The horizontal guide body 210 further includes an actuation mechanism for moving the vertical guide rail 220 horizontally relative to the horizontal guide body 210.

[0178] The actuation mechanism includes a threaded shaft rotatably coupled to a horizontal guide body 210, and a vertical guide rail 220 threadedly mounted on the threaded shaft so as to move along the threaded shaft by rotation of the threaded shaft.

[0179] The threaded shaft includes a threaded shaft that is rotatably coupled to the inner end 216 of the horizontal guide body 210, an opposite head 244, and extends between the inner end and the opposite head.

[0180] A threaded shaft includes an external thread that extends at least partially along the length of the shaft.

[0181] The head 244 includes an enlarged head or knob, etc., to assist the operator in manually rotating the threaded shaft when adjusting the translational position of the cutting torch 800 relative to the vertical tube 900.

[0182] The upper end portion 224 of the vertical guide rail 220 includes a threaded hole for mounting to a threaded shaft. The threaded hole extends at or near the upper end portion 224 between and through the inner and outer walls of the elongated body 222 of the vertical guide rail 220.

[0183] See Figure 3 The torch mount 230 is formed by a pair of opposing plate members 232, which are clamped together around two outer frame members of the elongated body 222 of the vertical guide rail 220 for vertical movement along the vertical guide rail. Like the horizontal guide body 210 and the vertical guide rail 220, the torch mount 230 is formed of metal.

[0184] The pair of opposing plate members 232 include an inner plate member 232A and an outer plate member 232B. These plate members 232 have a rectangular shape and are connected together in a surface-to-surface arrangement using one or more mechanical fasteners.

[0185] The inner plate members and the outer plate members 232A and 232B define a central opening 234 through which the cutting torch 800 is installed when these plate members 232 are fastened together.

[0186] The cutting torch 800 is indirectly mounted to the outer surface of the outer plate member 232B via a cutting torch clamp 235, which is mounted to a cutting torch clamp mounting bracket 236. The cutting torch clamp mounting bracket extends vertically from the outer surface in a vertical orientation and has an arc-shaped channel 237 defined in the cutting torch clamp mounting bracket for adjusting the vertical angle of the cutting torch 800 relative to the cutting torch mount 230.

[0187] The torch clamp 235 is mounted to the torch clamp mounting bracket 236 by a mechanical fastener 238, which passes through an arc-shaped channel 237 and is received in a threaded hole defined in a portion of the torch clamp 235.

[0188] The mechanical fastener 238 includes a distal end, a head 239, and a threaded rod extending between the distal end and the head.

[0189] The head 239 includes an enlarged head or knob, etc., to assist the operator in manually rotating the mechanical fastener 238 when adjusting the vertical angle of the torch 800 relative to the torch mount 230.

[0190] As indicated, the torch mount 230 can be slidably mounted to the vertical guide rail 220 for height adjustment of the torch 800.

[0191] Each of the inner and outer panel members 232A and 232B defines a longitudinally extending channel 250 between the upper and lower edges of the panel member 232 for assembling two outer frame members surrounding the elongated body 222 of the vertical guide rail 220. When these panel members 232 are joined together, the corresponding channels 250 on these panel members 232 connect together to define a through passage 252 through which the outer frame members of the elongated body 222 of the vertical guide rail 220 extend.

[0192] The torch mounting component 230 can be manually moved along the vertical guide rail 220.

[0193] However, the torch mount 230 further includes two fixing screws 255 for securing the torch mount 230 at the desired position along the height of the vertical guide rail 220.

[0194] The fixing screw 255 is received through a threaded hole that is defined in the inner plate 232A and extends through the inner plate and across the channel 250 defined in the inner plate, for clamping or fixing against the outer frame member of the elongated body 222 of the vertical guide rail 220.

[0195] Each fixing screw 255 includes a distal end, an opposite head 257, and a threaded rod extending between the distal end and the opposite head, the distal end being configured to engage with or abut against an outer frame member of an elongated body 222 of at least one vertical guide rail 220.

[0196] The head 257 includes an enlarged head or knob, etc., to assist the operator in manually rotating the fixing screw 255 when fixing the torch mount 230 relative to the vertical guide rail 220.

[0197] In this specification and claims (if any), the term 'Comprising' and including 'Includes' and 'Include / Contain' The derivatives of the term include each of the wholes described, but do not exclude the inclusion of one or more other wholes.

[0198] Throughout this instruction manual 'An Example' or 'Example' The reference to "in connection with embodiments" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Therefore, throughout this specification, the phrase "in connection with embodiments" is used. 'In one In the example, ' or 'In the embodiments'The appearance in different places does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. In addition, in one or more combinations, a particular feature, structure or characteristic can be combined in any suitable manner.

[0199] As specified, this invention has been described in language that is largely specific to its structural or methodological features. It should be understood that this invention is not limited to the specific features shown or described, as the means described herein include preferred forms of implementing this invention. Therefore, any form or modification of this invention is claimed within the appropriate scope of the appended claims (if any) as properly interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. An adjustable arm for use with a pipe cutting assembly to horizontally cut vertical pipes, characterized in that, The adjustable arm includes: At least one horizontal guide body, the at least one horizontal guide body being movably mounted to and extending radially from the circular guide of the tube cutting assembly; At least one vertical guide rail, which is slidably mounted to the at least one horizontal guide body and is movable horizontally relative to the at least one horizontal guide body; An actuation mechanism for horizontally moving the at least one vertical guide rail relative to the at least one horizontal guide body, the actuation mechanism comprising a threaded shaft rotatably coupled to the horizontal guide body, and the at least one vertical guide rail mounted on the threaded shaft for movement along the threaded shaft by rotation of the threaded shaft; and A torch mounting component for mounting a cutting torch, the mounting component being slidably mounted to the at least one vertical guide rail and being vertically movable relative to the at least one vertical guide rail.

2. The adjustable arm as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The horizontal movement of the at least one vertical guide relative to the at least one horizontal guide body enables the cutting end of the torch to be translated and adjusted relative to the vertical tube.

3. The adjustable arm as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The vertical movement of the torch mounting relative to the at least one vertical guide rail enables height adjustment of the cutting end of the torch relative to the vertical tube.

4. The adjustable arm as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The at least one horizontal guide body has a rectangular prism shape and can be mounted to the circular guide such that the body extends radially outward from the circular guide.

5. The adjustable arm as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The at least one horizontal guide body is fixedly mounted to the circular guide, such that the at least one horizontal guide body moves together with the circular guide around the vertical tube.

6. The adjustable arm as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The at least one horizontal guide body includes an inner end, an opposite outer end, and one or more elongated guide channels extending longitudinally between the inner end and the outer end for slidably mounting the at least one vertical rail to the one or more elongated guide channels.

7. The adjustable arm as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The at least one vertical track includes an upper end, an opposite lower end, and an elongated body extending longitudinally between the upper end and the opposite lower end. The upper end includes one or more mounting portions configured to be received in one or more elongated guide channels of the at least one horizontal guide body and to be slidable along the one or more elongated guide channels.

8. A pipe cutting assembly for horizontally cutting vertical pipes, characterized in that, The tube cutting assembly includes: A circular guide member, configurable and movable around the vertical tube, the guide member comprising two or more radially extending adjustable supports for leveling the circular guide member relative to the vertical tube in a spaced-apart relationship; and An adjustable arm, which can be mounted to the circular guide to move together with the circular guide around the vertical tube and to adjustably position the cutting torch relative to the vertical tube, the adjustable arm comprising: At least one horizontal guide body, the at least one horizontal guide body extending radially outward from the circular guide; At least one vertical guide rail, which is slidably mounted to the at least one horizontal guide body and is movable horizontally relative to the at least one horizontal guide body; An actuation mechanism for horizontally moving the at least one vertical guide rail relative to the at least one horizontal guide body, the actuation mechanism comprising a threaded shaft rotatably coupled to the horizontal guide body, and the at least one vertical guide rail mounted on the threaded shaft for movement along the threaded shaft by rotation of the threaded shaft; and A torch mounting component for mounting a cutting torch, the mounting component being slidably mounted to the at least one vertical guide rail and being vertically movable relative to the at least one vertical guide rail.

9. The tube cutting assembly as described in claim 8, characterized in that, It also includes a fastening clamp for securing the circular guide along the vertical tube at a desired height.

10. The tube cutting assembly as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that, It also includes a drive mechanism for driving the circular guide to move relative to the fastening clamp around the vertical tube.

Images