MACHINING DEBRIS RECOVERY SYSTEM, HOLDING DEVICE AND COLLECTION DEVICE, POSITIONING METHOD AND REMOVAL METHOD OF SUCH A SYSTEM

Abstract

TITLE OF THE INVENTION: SYSTEM FOR RECOVERING MACHINING DEBRIS FROM A PIPE, HOLDING DEVICE AND COLLECTION DEVICE FOR FORMING SUCH A SYSTEM, METHOD FOR POSITIONING AND METHOD FOR REMOVING SUCH A SYSTEM A system (100, 300) for recovering machining debris from a pipe (600) which a holding device (100) and a collection device (300) for machining debris: - the holding device (100) being inserted into the pipe (600) through an orifice (601) and comprising: - a tube configured to bear on the pipe facing the orifice, - a retractable mechanism comprising at least two movable support feet around the orifice of the pipe, - a means for deploying the feet, - a means for fixing the collection device, - the collection device (300) comprising a trunk of deformable hollow cone comprising a means of attachment to the holding device,the truncated cone being configured to be inserted through the orifice and to expand inside the piping around the orifice. Figure for abstract: Figure 16,

Description

Title of the invention: MACHINING DEBRIS RECOVERY SYSTEM, HOLDING DEVICE AND COLLECTION DEVICE, POSITIONING METHOD AND REMOVAL METHOD OF SUCH A SYSTEM Technical field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a system for recovering machining debris from a pipe, a holding device and a collection device for forming such a system, a positioning method and a method for removing such a system. It applies, in particular, to the machining of existing pipes to replace an element, such as a plug. More particularly, the present invention applies in the context of pipes transporting fluids, such fluids may comprise radioactive elements. State of the art

[0002] Pipes carrying radioactive waste have radiological plugs. Over time, radiological plugs wear out and need to be replaced. Replacing such plugs involves machining the pipe to remove the plug and welding a new plug into the hole created. Machining creates debris that needs to be recovered so that it does not damage the pipe.

[0003] Currently, there are balloon systems placed in the plug hole configured to collect machining debris. However, these systems are not reliable and may break when removed. Furthermore, these systems are not reusable. In addition, the balloons themselves generate waste. Summary of the invention

[0004] The present invention aims to remedy all or part of these drawbacks.

[0005] The present invention relates to a device for holding a device for collecting machining debris in a pipe. The present invention makes it possible to collect machining debris while being reusable. In addition, the present invention is adaptable to any size of orifice made in the pipe. Finally, the installation and removal of the devices of the present invention are easy for the operator.

[0006] Furthermore, the present invention does not generate waste since the system is reusable. Brief description of the figures

[0007] Other advantages, aims and particular characteristics of the invention will emerge from the following non-limiting description of at least one particular embodiment of the device and method which are the subject of the present invention, with reference to the appended drawings, in which:

[0008] [Fig. 1] represents, schematically and in section, a first particular embodiment of the holding device which is the subject of the present invention,

[0009] [Fig.2] represents, schematically and in perspective, a first mode of particular embodiment of the holding device which is the subject of the present invention,

[0010] [Fig.3] represents, schematically and in perspective, a first mode of particular embodiment of a shaft of a means of deployment of the holding device which is the subject of the present invention,

[0011] [Fig.4] represents, schematically and in exploded view, a first mode of particular embodiment of the collection device which is the subject of the present invention,

[0012] [Fig.5] represents, schematically and in perspective, a first mode of particular embodiment of a removable handle of the collection device which is the subject of the present invention,

[0013] [Fig.6] represents, schematically and in side view, the first embodiment particular of the collection device provided with the removable handle which is the subject of the present invention,

[0014] [Fig.7] represents, schematically and in perspective, the first embodiment particular of the holding device which is the subject of the present invention facing a pipe,

[0015] [Fig.8] represents, schematically and in side view, the first embodiment particular of the holding device object of the present invention inserted in the piping, in which the removable shaft is fixed to the holding device and a guide rod is assembled to the removable shaft,

[0016] [Fig.9] represents, schematically and in side view, the first embodiment particular of the holding device which is the subject of the present invention inserted into the piping during activation of the deployment means,

[0017] [Fig. 10] represents, schematically and in section, the first particular embodiment of the holding device which is the subject of the present invention inserted into the piping during activation of the deployment means,

[0018] [Fig. 11] represents, schematically and in section, the first particular embodiment of the holding device which is the subject of the present invention inserted into the piping during activation of the deployment means,

[0019] [Fig. 12] represents, schematically and in section, the first particular embodiment of the holding device which is the subject of the present invention inserted into the piping during activation of the deployment means,

[0020] [Fig. 13] represents, schematically and in side view, the first particular embodiment of the holding device which is the subject of the present invention inserted into the piping during the withdrawal of the removable shaft, once the feet are deployed,

[0021] [Fig. 14] represents, schematically and in side view, the first particular embodiment of the insertion of the collection device into the piping,

[0022] [Fig. 15] shows, schematically and in side view, the first embodiment of the collection device once inserted into the piping using the removable handle,

[0023] [Fig. 16] represents, schematically and in side view, the first embodiment of the system which is the subject of the present invention once inserted into the piping after removal of the removable handle,

[0024] [Fig. 17] represents, schematically and in section, the first embodiment of the system which is the subject of the present invention once inserted into the piping comprising the removable handle for removing the collection device,

[0025] [Fig. 18] shows, schematically and in side view, the first particular embodiment of the withdrawal of the collection device in the piping, the truncated cone being deformed,

[0026] [Fig. 19] represents, schematically and in section, the first particular embodiment of the collection device which is the subject of the present invention after removal of the piping, the truncated cone being turned over,

[0027] [Fig.20] represents, schematically and in section, the first particular embodiment of the holding device which is the subject of the present invention inserted into the piping when the mobile feet are folded,

[0028] [Fig.21] represents, schematically and in side view, the first mode of particular embodiment of the holding device which is the subject of the present invention inserted into the piping once the mobile feet are folded,

[0029] [Fig.22] represents, schematically and in side view, the first particular embodiment of the holding device which is the subject of the present invention inserted during removal,

[0030] [Fig.23] represents, schematically and in the form of a flowchart, a particular succession of steps of the positioning method of the system which is the subject of the present invention and

[0031] [Fig.24] represents, schematically and in the form of a flowchart, a particular succession of steps of the method of removing the system which is the subject of the present invention. Description of the embodiments

[0032] The present description is given without limitation, each characteristic of an embodiment being able to be combined with any other characteristic of any other embodiment in an advantageous manner.

[0033] The expression "and / or", as used herein and in the claims, is to be understood to mean "either or both" of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements which are present conjunctively in some cases and disjunctively in other cases. Multiple elements listed with "and / or" are to be interpreted in the same way, i.e., "one or more" of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present, other than the elements specifically identified by the "and / or" clause, whether or not they are related to these specifically identified elements.Thus, by way of non-limiting example, a reference to "A and / or B", when used in conjunction with open language such as "comprising" may refer, in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including other elements); etc.

[0034] As used herein in the description and in the claims, "or" is to be understood as having the same meaning as "and / or" as defined above. For example, when separating elements in a list, "or" or "and / or" is to be interpreted as being inclusive, i.e., the inclusion of at least one, but also more than one, number or list of elements, and, optionally, additional elements not listed. Only terms clearly indicating the contrary, such as "only one of" or "exactly one of", or, when used in the claims, "consisting of", refer to the inclusion of only one element of a number or list of elements.

[0035] As used in this specification and in the claims, the term "at least one", with reference to a list of one or more elements, is to be understood to mean at least one element selected from one or more elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each element specifically listed in the list of elements and not excluding any combination of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows for the optional presence of elements other than the specifically identified elements in the list of elements to which the term "at least one" refers, whether or not related to those specifically identified elements.Thus, by way of non-limiting example, "at least one of A and B" (or, equivalently, "at least one of A or B", or, equivalently, "at least one of A and / or B") may refer, in one embodiment, to at least one, possibly including more than one, A, without B. present (and optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, at least one, optionally including more than one, B, without A present (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, at least one, optionally including more than one, A, and at least one, optionally including more than one, B (and optionally including other elements); etc.

[0036] In the claims, as well as in the description below, all transitional expressions such as "comprising", "including", "carrying", "having", "containing", "involving", "holding", "composed of", and the like, are to be understood as being open, i.e., as meaning including, but not limited to. Only the transitional expressions "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of" are to be understood as closed or semi-closed transitional expressions, respectively.

[0037] We call "interior" any volume circumscribed by an envelope, for example a truncated cone or a truncated cylinder and "exterior" the volume outside the envelope.

[0038] It should be noted from now on that the figures are to scale but at different scales.

[0039] Figures 1 and 2 show two schematic views of an embodiment of the holding device 100 which is the subject of the present invention.

[0040] The holding device 100 is configured to be inserted into the piping through an orifice and comprises a tube 101 having an axis 120 and two ends, 102 and 103, at least one of the ends 102 being configured to bear on the piping facing the orifice.

[0041] The tube 101 is a truncated cylinder with a generator parallel to the axis 120 and a directrix, any shape known to those skilled in the art. Preferably, the directrix of the tube is circular with a diameter smaller than the diameter of the orifice of the pipe. In other words, the tube 101 is a truncated right cylinder of revolution. In other embodiments, the tube 101 may have a hexagonal or octagonal directrix.

[0042] Preferably, the dimension of the tube 101 along its axis 120 is less than the diameter of the piping.

[0043] The end 102 configured to bear on the piping is blind. The end 102 has, on the outside of the tube 101, an adhesion coating, for example made of silicone or rubber.

[0044] The end 103 is open and configured to receive a retractable mechanism 105.

[0045] The retractable mechanism 105 comprises at least two movable feet, 106 and 107, for support around the orifice of the pipe. Each foot, 106 and 107, has a proximal end attached to the retractable mechanism 105 and a distal end configured to rest around the orifice of the tubing. The distal end of each leg, 106 and 107, has an adhesion coating, 121 or 121, such as rubber or silicone. The adhesion coating, 121 or 122, may be a nipple screwed onto the end of a leg, 106 or 107.

[0046] An adhesion coating is a coating configured to increase the coefficient of friction between two surfaces.

[0047] Preferably, the retractable mechanism 105 comprises a ring 104 movable in translation along the axis of the tube, each foot, 106 and 107, being fixed by a pivot connection to the movable ring 104, the axis of each pivot connection being perpendicular to the axis 120 of the tube 101.

[0048] When the retractable mechanism 105 has two feet, the pivot connection axes between the feet, 106 and 107, and the movable ring 104 are parallel. When the retractable mechanism 105 has three feet (not shown), the axes of the pivot connections between each foot and the movable ring form an angle of 120° with the adjacent axes.

[0049] More generally, the angle between two adjacent axes of pivot connections between a foot and the movable ring is equal to 360 divided by n, n being the number of feet.

[0050] The movable ring 104 comprises a part outside the tube 101, of a shape corresponding to the director of the tube 101. The ring 104 forms a pivot connection with the tube 101.

[0051] The movable ring 104 comprises a portion inside the tube 101 corresponding to the retractable mechanism 105. The inner portion and the outer portion may be connected by at least one pin in a manner known to those skilled in the art. The tube 101 may comprise one groove per pin, each groove defining the travel of the movable ring 104. Each pin being inserted into a groove.

[0052] Preferably, the movable ring 104 is located between the two ends, 102 and 103.

[0053] The movable ring may comprise a surface facing the open end 103 and a surface facing the blind end 102.

[0054] The retractable mechanism 105 comprises at least one compression spring 108a and / or 108b, along the axis 120 of the tube 101, the set of compression springs 108a and 108b being supported on the end 102 of the tube 101 on the one hand and on the ring 104 on the other hand.

[0055] It is recalled that a compression spring is a spring configured to be compressed. In other words, its ends are configured to be brought together, the deformation of the spring creating a force exerted along the axis of the spring by moving its ends apart.

[0056] The compression spring assembly, 108a and / or 108b, is compressed when the feet, 106 and 107, are in the retracted position as shown in [Fig.l].

[0057] In the embodiment shown, a first compression spring 108a bears on the end 102 of the tube 101, inside the tube 101 and on a spacer comprising the guide orifice 109. A second compression spring 108b bears on the spacer comprising the guide orifice 109 and the movable ring 104, on the surface opposite the blind end 102.

[0058] In other embodiments, the compression spring is placed around the tube 101 and the end 102 has a shoulder outside the tube 101 on which the compression spring bears.

[0059] The movable ring 104 is crossed, in the axis 120 of the tube 101, by a stop 111 of diameter corresponding to the diameter of a guide rod 309. Preferably, the stop 111 is tapped and forms a means of fixing the collection device 300 to the holding device 100. In the remainder of the description, the fixing means 111 is also called “stop”.

[0060] In embodiments, the blind end 102 comprises a bore 110 in the axis 120 of the tube 101 with a diameter corresponding to the diameter of the guide rod 309. Optionally, the tube 101 comprises, between the movable ring 104 and the blind end 102, a guide bore 109 with a diameter, in the axis 120 of the tube 101, with a diameter corresponding to the diameter of the guide rod 309.

[0061] Preferably, each foot, 106 and 107, comprises a stop, 112 and 113, configured to come into contact with the tube 101, when the feet, 106 and 107, are in a so-called “retracted” position.

[0062] Each stop, 112 and 113, is positioned outside the tube 101 and has an arcuate surface with a radius corresponding to the outside diameter of the tube 101. Each stop, 112 and 113, is connected to the foot, 106 or 107, by a protrusion inserted into a corresponding groove of the tube 101. Each stop, 112 and 113, bears around the groove in which the stop, 112 or 113, is inserted.

[0063] The device 100 further comprises a means for deploying the feet, 106 and 107, of the retractable mechanism 105. The deployment means is configured to: - in the retracted position: lock the position of the feet, 106 and 107, such that the stops, 106 and 107 are in contact with the outside of the tube 101. - in the deployed position: separate the distal ends of the feet, 106 and 107, under the effect of the spring 108a and / or 108b.

[0064] Preferably, the tube 101 comprises at least one notch 116 forming an elbow 117. The notch 116 opens onto the open end 113, and forms a right angle. In other words, the path of a lug along the notch 116 from the open end 103 towards the blind end 102 is parallel to the axis 120 of the tube 101 then perpendicular to the axis 120 of the tube 101.

[0065] The end of the elbow 117 may comprise a housing configured to receive the lug. The housing forms a fold towards the open end 103 of the tube, parallel to the direction of the portion of the notch 116 opening onto the open end 103 of the tube.

[0066] In embodiments, the bend has an angle greater than 90°. In this way, a stop is formed in the bend of the notch to retain the lug.

[0067] The deployment means comprises a removable shaft 200 comprising a lug 203 corresponding to the notch 116, the lug 203 having an engaged position in which the lug is in the bend 117 of the notch 116 and a disengaged position obtained by rotation of the shaft 200 along the axis 120 of the tube 101.

[0068] The engaged position of the lug 203 corresponds to the retracted position set out above and the disengaged position corresponds to the deployed position set out above.

[0069] In [Fig.3], we observe the removable shaft 200 of the deployment means.

[0070] The removable shaft 200 has the shape of a truncated cylinder of revolution 201 with a diameter corresponding to the internal diameter of the tube 101. The removable shaft has two ends, one being configured to protrude from the orifice of the piping when the removable shaft is positioned in the tube 101, the other being configured to be inserted between the feet 106 and 107 of the holding device 100.

[0071] Preferably, the removable shaft 200 comprises at least two grooves 202, the number of grooves 202 corresponding to the number of feet, 106 and 107, the removable shaft 200 being configured to engage between the feet, 106 and 107, in the axis 120 of the tube 101, the feet, 106 and 107, being inserted into the grooves 202.

[0072] The dimension of the grooves along the axis 120 of the tube 200 when the holding device 100 and the removable shaft 200 are assembled, is greater than or equal to the dimension of the feet, 106 and 107 along the axis of the tube.

[0073] Preferably, the grooves 202 are configured to bear on the feet, 106 and 107 during the rotational movement carried out to disengage the lug 203 from the notch 116.

[0074] The lug 203 is positioned on an outer surface of the removable shaft 200 between two grooves 202.

[0075] Preferably, the removable shaft 200 has axial symmetry along its axis of revolution.

[0076] In embodiments, the removable shaft 200 is crossed by an orifice 204 coaxial with the axis of revolution of the removable shaft 200. The orifice is an insertion orifice for a guide rod 309.

[0077] [Fig. 3] shows a particular embodiment of a collection device 300 which is the subject of the present invention.

[0078] The collection device 300 comprises a deformable hollow truncated cone 301 comprising an attachment means, 307 and 309, corresponding to the stop 111 of the holding device 100, the truncated cone 301 being configured to be inserted through the orifice and to deploy around the orifice.

[0079] The truncated cone 301 is a truncated cone of revolution with a circular base. The axis of the truncated cone 301 is configured to coincide with the axis 120 of the tube 101 when the holding device 100 and the collecting device 300 are assembled.

[0080] The truncated cone 301 has a funnel shape. In other words, the truncated cone 301 is defined by an inner surface and an outer surface, both in the form of a truncated cone of revolution with a circular base, the diameter of the base of the inner surface being less than the diameter of the base of the outer surface.

[0081] The truncated cone 301 has two bases, a proximal base, 302 and 304, assembled by means of fixing, 307 and 309, and a distal base 303 configured to bear against the piping around the orifice.

[0082] The diameter of the distal base 303 is greater than the diameter of the proximal base, 302 and 304. The diameter of the proximal base 302 and 304 is less than the diameter of the end 103 of the tube 101. The proximal base, 302 and 304, can therefore be inserted into the end 103 of the tube 101. The proximal base has an inner face 302 and an outer face 304.

[0083] The truncated cone 301 is made of a material that is elastically deformable under the forces required to pass through the orifice of the pipe, for example neoprene, silicone or rubber. The material of the truncated cone 301 is such that the truncated cone turns over when a compressive force is applied between the bases, 303 and 304, of the truncated cone 301.

[0084] The proximal base, 302 and 304, is crossed by a threaded rod 305. For example, the threaded rod 35 may be a screw whose head bears against the outer surface 304 of the proximal base. The head of the screw is, for example, a cylindrical head with hexagon socket (acronym "CHC"). In the optional embodiment shown in [Fig.4], a washer may be inserted between the head of the screw 305 and the outer surface 304 of the proximal base.

[0085] A nut 310 with a thread matching the thread of the screw 305 is positioned against the inner surface 302 of the proximal base to hold the head of the screw 305 against the outer surface 304 of the proximal base. In the optional embodiment shown in [Fig.4], a washer 311 may be inserted between the nut 310 and the inner surface 304 of the proximal base.

[0086] The screw-nut assembly, 305 and 310, is such that the body of the screw 305 passes through the proximal base and extends into the volume delimited by the interior surface of the truncated cone 301.

[0087] In embodiments, a base, 302 and 304, of the truncated cone 301 near the apex of the cone comprises a magnet positioned in the interior volume formed by the hollow of the truncated cone 301. For example, one of the nut 310, the screw 305 and the washer 311 is magnetized. In other embodiments, a magnet is attached to the interior surface 302 of the proximal base.

[0088] Preferably, the screw 305 is crossed in its axis by a bore, tapped or not, for the passage of the guide rod 309.

[0089] The guide rod 309 is an at least partially threaded rod. The guide rod 309 may comprise a head known to those skilled in the art, for example a round, hexagonal or hollow hexagonal head.

[0090] Once the holding device 100 and the collecting device 300 are assembled, the guide rod 309 has a dimension along the axis 120 of the tube 101 greater than the dimension between the two ends, 102 and 103, of the tube 101.

[0091] The guide rod 309 passes through the screw 305.

[0092] Preferably, the collection device 300 comprises a means for bringing the distal base 303 of the truncated cone 301 into contact around the orifice. The contacting means is configured to keep the distal base 303 in contact with the surface around the orifice of the pipe to be substantially sealed.

[0093] For example, the contacting means may comprise a spring 306 placed around the guide rod 309. The spring is configured to bear on the head of the screw 305 or on the outer surface 304 of the proximal base, on the one hand, and on the other hand on a locking means 307.

[0094] The locking means 307 comprises a bore for the passage of the guide rod 309. The locking means 307 is configured to bear against the ring 104 of the holding device 100, between the feet 106 and 107. The locking means 307 may comprise a means for holding one end of the spring 306, for example at least one headless screw 308.

[0095] The guide rod 309 may form the attachment means of the collection device 300.

[0096] The attachment means is positioned on a base, 302 and 304, of the truncated cone 301 close to the top of the cone and comprises a threaded rod 309, the fixing means comprising a corresponding threaded stop 111.

[0097] In [Fig.5], we observe a particular embodiment of a removable handle 400 of the collection device 500 comprising an end 403 configured to be placed in abutment against a base 302 of the truncated cone 301 close to the top of the cone in the interior volume formed by the hollow of the truncated cone 301.

[0098] The removable handle 400 comprises a rod 401 in the form of a truncated cylinder of revolution ending in an end 402 in the form of a truncated cone. The other end of the rod 401 comprises a handle 404. The handle 404 may be of any type known to those skilled in the art.

[0099] The rod 401 comprises, at the truncated cone-shaped end 402, an orifice 403 of dimensions corresponding to the dimensions of the head of the guide rod 309 in the axis of the rod.

[0100] When the removable handle 400 and the collection device 300 are assembled, the axis of the rod 401 of the removable handle 400, the axis of the guide rod 309, the axis of the truncated cone 301 are merged.

[0101] When the removable handle 400, the collecting device 300 and the holding device 100 are assembled, the axis of the rod 401 of the removable handle 400, the axis of the guide rod 309, the axis of the truncated cone 301 and the axis of the tube 101 are merged.

[0102] In other words, the removable handle 400 comprises the guide rod 309 of the truncated cone 301 positioned along the axis 120 of the tube 101, the guide rod 309 passes through the truncated cone 301. It is recalled that the tube 101 comprises at least one bore, 109 and / or 110, for guiding with dimensions corresponding to the guide rod 309.

[0103] The orifice 403 is a threaded bore configured to be placed in abutment on the inner surface 302 of the base of the truncated cone 301 close to the apex of the cone in the inner volume formed by the hollow of the truncated cone, said base 302 comprising the threaded rod 305, for example the CHC screw. The bore 403 and the rod 305 are configured to be assembled.

[0104] The removable handle 400 may comprise cleats, 405 and 406 configured to limit the movement of the removable handle 400 in the axis of the tube 120.

[0105] In other words, the orifice 403 accommodates the head of the guide rod 309. The guide rod 309 is inserted into the screw 305. When the orifice 403 comes into contact with the screw 305, the bore 403 can engage with the screw 305 forming an assembly of the removable handle with the collection device 300 as shown in [Fig.6].

[0106] The system which is the subject of the present invention is, for example, configured for a pipe 600 with a diameter of between 100 mm and 1000 mm, preferably between 400 mm and 800 mm. The diameter of the orifice 601 may be, for example, between 25 mm and 60 mm, and preferably between 27 mm and 42 mm.

[0107] In embodiments not shown, the collection device 300 comprises an endoscopic camera whose viewing angle is oriented towards the inside of the truncated cone 301. In this way it is possible to verify that no debris remains in the truncated cone 301 before its removal.

[0108] In [Fig.23], we observe a particular embodiment of a method 900 for positioning a system, 100, 200, 300, 400, object of the present invention in a pipe 600 comprising an orifice 601, the method 900 the following steps: - insertion 901 of the holding device 100 into the piping 600 through the orifice 601, the end 102 of the tube 101 resting on the piping 600 facing the orifice 601, - deployment 902 of the mobile feet, 106 and 107, of the retractable mechanism 105 around the orifice 601 of the piping 600, - insertion 903 of the collection device 300 through the orifice 601 of the piping 600, - fixing 904 of the collection device 300 to the other end 103 of the tube 101, - deployment 905 of the truncated cone 301 of the collection device 300.

[0109] Preferably, the means of the devices 100, 200, 300, and 400 are configured to implement the steps of the method 300 and their embodiments as set out above and the method 300 as well as its different embodiments can be implemented by the different means of the devices 100, 200, 300 and 400.

[0110] The method 900 is illustrated with reference to figures 7 to 16 representing the different steps of the method 900.

[0111] In [Fig.7], a section of piping 600 is observed comprising an orifice 601 to be machined, the radiological plug of the orifice 601 to be machined having been removed. [Fig.7] also represents the holding device in which the removable shaft 200 is assembled to the holding device 100.

[0112] When the removable shaft 200 is assembled to the holding device 100, the feet, 106 and 107, are inserted into the grooves 202 and the lug 203 is engaged in the bend 117 of the notch 116. In this way, the removable shaft 200 is secured to the tube 101 and the feet, 106 and 107, are in the retracted position.

[0113] The holding device 100, and the removable shaft 200 are inserted into the piping 600 through the orifice 601. The blind end 102 of the tube 101 being inserted first through the orifice 601.

[0114] The insertion step 901 is shown in Figures 8 and 9.

[0115] In [Fig.8], the holding device 100 is observed bearing on the inner surface 602 of the pipe 600. The outer surface of the blind end 102 bears against the inner surface 602 of the pipe 600 on a portion diametrically opposite a portion 603 comprising the orifice 601. The axis 120 of the tube 101 is then substantially coincident with the axis of the orifice 601. The end of the part 201 in the form of a cylinder truncated by the removable shaft 200 protrudes from the pipe through the orifice 601.

[0116] In [Fig.9], the guide rod 309 is inserted into the removable shaft through the orifice 204. The guide rod 309 is then screwed into the fixing means, i.e. the stop 111.

[0117] The deployment step 902 is shown in Figures 10 to 13.

[0118] At the end of the travel of the guide rod 309 in the fixing means, an additional rotation of the guide rod 309 causes the rotation of the entire shaft removable 200 and the disengagement of the lug 203 from the notch 116, as shown in [Fig. 10].

[0119] Once the lug 203 is disengaged from the notch 116, the distal ends of the feet, 106 and 107 move apart under the effect of the set of springs, 108a and / or 108b, while being kept pressed against the piping 600 around the orifice 601. Figures 11, 12 and 13 represent different distances of separation of the distal ends of the feet, 106 and 107.

[0120] In [Fig. 12], the feet are deployed and the pressure exerted on the removable shaft will be released by the operator. The removable shaft is removed once the removable feet are open. Thus the ends of the feet come into contact with the surface 603 of the pipe 600 around the orifice 601.

[0121] In [Fig.13], we observe the withdrawal of the removable shaft 200 in which the guide rod 309 is screwed. The lug 203 being disengaged from the elbow 117 of the notch 116, the removable shaft is free in translation relative to the holding device 100. The removable shaft 200 is withdrawn through the orifice 601.

[0122] [Fig. 14] represents the insertion step 903 of the collection device 500.

[0123] In [Fig.14], the guide rod 309 has been fixed in the hole 403 of the removable handle 400. The guide rod 309 passes through the hole of the nut 305 and the hole 403 of the removable handle is fixed to the screw 305.

[0124] The assembly 500 is positioned so as to be inserted into the orifice 601 by the end of the guide rod 309. The guide rod 309 passes through the different guide orifices 110 and 109 and the stop 111. The screwing of the guide rod 309 causes the deformation of the truncated cone 301 and its simultaneous displacement through the orifice 601. The guide rod 309, the truncated cone 301 and the rod 401 of the removable handle are aligned with the axis 120 of the tube 101.

[0125] [Fig. 15] represents the deployment step 905.

[0126] Once the truncated cone 301 has completely passed through the orifice 601, the truncated cone 301 returns to its initial shape inside the pipe 600. Under the effect of the spring 306, the distal base 303 of the truncated cone is held in contact against the pipe 600 over a portion 603 around the orifice 601 and between the feet, 106 and 107.

[0127] By rotation, the removable handle 400 is unscrewed and the guide rod 309 is held in the holding device 100 and the collecting device 300.

[0128] Preferably, the pitch of the screw 305 and the pitch of the thread of the guide rod 309 are configured so that the force to be exerted to remove the removable handle 400 from the screw is less than the force to be exerted to unscrew the guide rod 309 from the stop 111.

[0129] [Fig. 16] shows the holding device 100 and the collecting device 300 placed in the piping 600.

[0130] The machining operation can then be carried out in a manner known to those skilled in the art. The machining debris is recovered in the truncated cone 301, preferably by the magnet.

[0131] Once the machining operation is complete, a vacuum cleaner is inserted into the interior volume of the truncated cone 301 through the orifice 601 and the collected debris is sucked out. A magnet may also be inserted into the truncated cone 301 to recover any debris.

[0132] Any removal of debris is ensured by inspection either using a finger or an endoscopic camera.

[0133] In [Fig.24], we observe a particular embodiment of a method 906 for removing a system according to one of claims 100, 200, 300, 400, through an orifice 601 of a pipe 600, which comprises the following steps: - detachment 907 of the collection device 200 from the fixing means 111 of the tube 101, - application 908 of a compressive force between the bases, 303 and 304, of the truncated cone 301 of the collection device 300 and turning over the truncated cone 301, - withdrawal 909 of the collection device 300, - folding 910 of the mobile feet, 106 and 107, of the retractable mechanism 105 around the orifice 601 of the piping 600, - removal 911 of the holding device 100 from the piping 600 through the orifice 601.

[0134] Preferably, the means of the devices 100, 200, 300, and 400 are configured to implement the steps of the method 300 and their embodiments as set out above and the method 300 as well as its different embodiments can be implemented by the different means of the devices 100, 200, 300 and 400.

[0135] The method 906 is illustrated with reference to figures 17 to 22 representing the different steps of the method 906.

[0136] [Fig. 17] represents the detachment step 907.

[0137] In [Fig. 17], it is observed that the removable handle 400 is reassembled and screwed onto the screw 305 of the collection device 300. The guide rod 309 is unscrewed from the stop 111.

[0138] The operator, simultaneously with unscrewing, exerts traction on the removable handle along the axis 120 of the tube 101. Under the effect of said traction, the truncated cone 301 turns over, then is removed through the orifice. The removal step 909 is shown in [Fig. 18]. In particular, in [Fig. 18], we observe the deformation of the truncated cone 301 under the effect of the compression force between the bases 303 and 304.

[0139] [Fig. 19] shows the collection device 300, equipped with the removable handle 400, removed from the pipe 600 whose truncated cone 301 has been turned over.

[0140] Once the collection device 300 has been removed, the operator proceeds to the step 910 of folding the feet, 106 and 107, of the holding device 100. This is shown in figures 20 to 21.

[0141] In [Fig.20], it is observed that the removable shaft 200 is inserted so that the end comprising the grooves presses against the ring 104. The operator applies a force to compress the springs, 108a and 108b. Once the stops 112 and 113 come into contact with the outer surface of the tube 101, the lug 203 of the removable shaft 200 is engaged in the notch 116. A rotational movement makes it possible to engage the lug 203 in the bend 117 of the notch 116. The removable shaft 200 is then secured to the holding device 100 and the feet, 106 and 107, are in the retracted position shown in [Fig.21].

[0142] [Fig.22] represents the removal step 911, the assembly comprising the removable shaft 200 and the holding device 100 is removed by pulling through the orifice 601.

[0143] A new radiological plug can then be installed on the machined orifice 601. Statement of the invention

[0144] According to a first aspect, the present invention relates to a system for recovering machining debris from a pipe which comprises a holding device and a device for collecting machining debris: - the holding device being configured to be inserted into the piping through an orifice and comprising: - a tube having an axis and two ends, at least one of the ends being configured to bear on the piping facing the orifice, - a retractable mechanism comprising at least two mobile support feet around the pipe opening, - a means for deploying the feet of the retractable mechanism, - a means for fixing the collection device, the fixing means being positioned at the other end of the tube; - the collection device comprising a deformable hollow truncated cone comprising an attachment means corresponding to the attachment means of the holding device, the truncated cone being configured to be inserted through the orifice and to deploy inside the piping around the orifice.

[0145] By these arrangements, the holding device is inserted into the pipe, and then the collection device is attached to it. The machining operation can take place, with the machining debris being collected at the cone. Once the machining and debris cleaning operation is complete, the system can be removed and reused later.

[0146] In embodiments, the tube comprises at least one notch forming an elbow and the deployment means comprises a removable shaft comprising a lug corresponding to the notch, the lug having an engaged position in which the lug is in the bend of the notch and a disengaged position obtained by rotation of the shaft along the axis of the tube.

[0147] Thanks to these arrangements, the feet are deployed quickly by disengagement of the lug from the notch under a rotational force.

[0148] In embodiments, the removable shaft comprises at least two grooves, the number of grooves corresponding to the number of legs, the removable shaft being configured to engage between the legs in the axis of the tube, the legs being inserted into the grooves.

[0149] Thanks to these arrangements, the removable shaft is inserted between the feet and the size of the holding device is therefore limited.

[0150] In embodiments, the retractable mechanism comprises a ring movable in translation along the axis of the tube, each foot being fixed by a pivot connection to the movable ring, the axis of each pivot connection being perpendicular to the axis of the tube.

[0151] Thanks to these arrangements, the feet are moved simultaneously by actuation of the ring.

[0152] In embodiments, the system which is the subject of the present invention comprises at least the set of compression springs along the axis of the tube, the compression spring bearing on the end of the tube which bears on the piping on the one hand and on the intermediate ring on the other hand.

[0153] Thanks to these arrangements, once the lug is disengaged from the notch, the feet are deployed under the force of the spring.

[0154] In embodiments, each leg includes a stop configured to contact the tube when the legs are in a so-called "retracted" position.

[0155] Thanks to these provisions, the trajectory of movement of the feet in the retracted position is limited.

[0156] In embodiments, the base of the truncated cone is attached to the top on the orifice side into which a magnet is introduced positioned in the interior volume formed by the hollow of the truncated cone.

[0157] Thanks to these arrangements, the pipe debris, generally metallic, is attracted by the magnet and collected at the level of the magnet to be evacuated there.

[0158] In embodiments, the attachment means is positioned on the base of the truncated cone near the apex of the cone and comprises a threaded rod, the attachment means comprising a corresponding threaded bore.

[0159] Thanks to these arrangements, the collection device can be easily fixed to the holding device by applying a rotational movement.

[0160] In embodiments, the fixing means is positioned on the movable ring.

[0161] Thanks to these arrangements, the spring applies a force to the movable ring which keeps the cone-shaped truncated member in contact with the wall of the pipe, around the orifice. The assembly is therefore substantially watertight.

[0162] In embodiments, the collection device comprises a removable handle comprising one end configured to be pressed against the base of the truncated cone and pressed against the apex of the cone in the interior volume formed by the hollow of the truncated cone.

[0163] Thanks to these provisions, the operation of installing and removing the collection device is simplified.

[0164] In embodiments, the removable handle comprises a guide rod of the cone-shaped truncated portion positioned along the axis of the tube, the guide rod passing through the cone-shaped truncated portion, the tube comprising at least one guide bore of dimensions corresponding to the rod.

[0165] Thanks to these provisions, the relative positioning of the collection device with respect to the holding device is facilitated.

[0166] In embodiments, the removable handle comprises a threaded bore at the end configured to be placed in abutment on a base of the truncated cone in abutment on the apex of the cone in the interior volume formed by the hollow of the truncated cone, said base comprising a threaded rod, the bore and the rod being configured to be assembled.

[0167] Thanks to these provisions, the removable handle is secured to the cone-shaped truncated section to remove the collection device.

[0168] In embodiments, the material of the truncated cone is such that the truncated cone inverts when a pulling force is applied to the removable handle.

[0169] Thanks to these arrangements, once the machining operation is finished, the debris is magnetized and / or sucked into the truncated cone, then the truncated cone is turned over to exit through the orifice of the pipe.

[0170] According to a second aspect, the present invention aims at a holding device for forming a system which is the subject of the present invention, configured to be inserted into the piping through an orifice and comprising: - a tube having an axis and two ends, at least one of the ends being configured to bear on the piping facing the orifice, - a retractable mechanism comprising at least two mobile support feet around the pipe opening, - a means of deploying the feet of the retractable mechanism, - a means of fixing the collection device, the fixing means being positioned at the other end of the tube.

[0171] The aims, advantages and particular characteristics of the holding device which is the subject of the present invention being similar to those of the system which is the subject of the present invention, they are not recalled here.

[0172] According to a third aspect, the present invention relates to a device for collecting debris in a pipe to form a system which is the subject of the present invention, which comprises a deformable hollow cone-shaped truncated member comprising a fixing means corresponding to the fixing means of the holding device, the cone-shaped truncated member being configured to be inserted through the orifice and to be deployed inside the pipe and around the orifice.

[0173] The aims, advantages and particular characteristics of the collection device which is the subject of the present invention being similar to those of the system which is the subject of the present invention, they are not recalled here.

[0174] According to a fourth aspect, the present invention aims at a method for positioning a system which is the subject of the present invention in a pipe comprising an orifice, which comprises the following steps: - insertion of the holding device into the pipe through the orifice, one end of the tube resting on the pipe facing the orifice, - deployment of the mobile feet of the retractable mechanism around the pipe opening, - insertion of the collection device through the pipe opening, - fixing the collection device to the other end of the tube, - deployment of the truncated cone of the collection device.

[0175] The aims, advantages and particular characteristics of the positioning method which is the subject of the present invention being similar to those of the system which is the subject of the present invention, they are not recalled here.

[0176] According to a fifth aspect, the present invention relates to a method for removing a system which is the subject of the present invention, through an orifice of a pipe, which comprises the following steps: - detachment of the collection device from the tube fixing means, - applying a pulling force to the removable handle and turning the truncated cone, - removal of the collection device, - folding the movable feet of the retractable mechanism around the pipe opening, - removal of the pipe holding device through the orifice.

[0177] The aims, advantages and particular characteristics of the removal method which is the subject of the present invention being similar to those of the system which is the subject of the present invention, they are not recalled here.

Claims

Claims

1. System (100, 200, 300) for recovering machining debris from a pipe (600) which comprises a holding device (100) configured to be inserted into the pipe (600) through an orifice (601) and comprising: - a tube (101) having an axis (120) and two ends (102 and 103), at least one of the ends (102) being configured to bear on the pipe facing the orifice, - a retractable mechanism (105) comprising at least two movable feet (106, 107) for supporting around the orifice of the pipe, - a means (108a, 108b, 200) for deploying the feet of the retractable mechanism, and - a means (111) for fixing the collection device, the fixing means being positioned at the other end (103) of the tube;system characterized in that it further comprises a collection device (300) comprising an elastically deformable hollow truncated cone (301) configured to pass through the orifice of the piping and comprising an attachment means (307) configured to attach to the attachment means of the holding device fixed in the piping, the truncated cone being configured to be inserted through the orifice and to deploy by returning to its initial shape inside the piping around the orifice.;

2. System (100, 200, 300) according to claim 1, wherein the tube (101) comprises at least one notch (116) forming an elbow (117) and the deployment means comprises a removable shaft (200) comprising a lug (203) corresponding to the notch, the lug having an engaged position in which the lug is in the elbow of the notch and a disengaged position obtained by rotation of the shaft along the axis of the tube.

3. System (100, 200, 300) according to claim 2, wherein the removable shaft (200) comprises at least two grooves (202), the number of grooves (202) corresponding to the number of feet (106, 107), the removable shaft being configured to engage between the feet in the axis of the tube, the feet being inserted into the grooves.

4. System (100, 200, 300) according to one of claims 1 to 3, in which the retractable mechanism (105) comprises a movable ring (104) in translation along the axis (120) of the tube (101), each foot (106, 107) being fixed by a pivot connection to the movable ring, the axis of each pivot connection being perpendicular to the axis of the tube.

5. System (100, 200, 300) according to claim 4, which comprises at least one compression spring (108a, 108b) along the axis (120) of the tube (101), the set of compression springs bearing on the end of the tube (102) bearing on the piping, on the one hand, and on the intermediate ring (104), on the other hand.

6. System (100, 200, 300) according to one of claims 1 to 5, in which each foot (106, 107) comprises a stop (112, 113) configured to come into contact with the tube (101) when the feet are in a so-called “retracted” position.

7. System (100, 200, 300) according to one of claims 1 to 6, in which a base (302, 304) of the truncated cone (301) close to the apex of the cone comprises a magnet positioned in the interior volume formed by the hollow of the truncated cone.

8. System (100, 200, 300) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the attachment means (305 to 308) is positioned on a base (302, 304) of the truncated cone (301) close to the apex of the cone and comprises a threaded rod (309), the attachment means (111) comprising a corresponding threaded bore.

9. System (100, 200, 300) according to 2 to 8 and one of claims 4 or 5, wherein the fixing means (111) is positioned on the movable ring (104).

10. System (100, 200, 300) according to one of claims 1 to 9, in which the collection device (300) comprises a removable handle (400) comprising an end (402) configured to be placed in abutment against a base (302, 304) of the truncated cone (301) close to the top of the cone in the interior volume formed by the hollow of the truncated cone.

11. System (100, 200, 300) according to claim 10, in which the removable handle (400) comprises a guide rod (309) for the truncated cone (301) positioned along the axis (120) of the tube (101), the guide rod passing through the truncated cone, the tube comprising at least one guide bore (109, 110) of dimensions corresponding to the rod.

12. System (100, 200, 300) according to one of claims 10 or 11, in which the removable handle (400) comprises a threaded bore (403) at the end configured to be placed in abutment on a base (302, 304) of the truncated cone (301) close to the apex of the cone in the interior volume formed by the hollow of the truncated cone, said base comprising a threaded rod (305), the bore and the rod being configured to be assembled.

13. The system (100, 200, 300) of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the material of the truncated cone (301) is such that the truncated cone turns over when a compressive force is applied between the bases (302, 303, 304) of the truncated cone.

14. Holding device (100) for forming a system according to one of claims 1 to 13, configured to be inserted into a pipe (600) through an orifice (601) and comprising: - a tube (101) having an axis (120) and two ends (102 and 103), at least one of the ends (102) being configured to bear on the pipe facing the orifice, - a retractable mechanism (105) comprising at least two movable feet (106, 107) for supporting around the orifice of the pipe, - a means (108a, 108b, 200) for deploying the feet of the retractable mechanism and - a means (111) for fixing to a collection device, the fixing means being positioned at the other end (103) of the tube.

15. Device (300) for collecting debris in a pipe (600) to form a system according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that it comprises an elastically deformable hollow truncated cone (301) configured to pass through the orifice of the pipe and comprising an attachment means (307) configured to attach to the attachment means of the holding device fixed in the pipe, the truncated cone being configured to be inserted through the orifice and to deploy by returning to its initial shape inside the pipe around the orifice.

16. Method (900) for positioning a system (100, 200, 300, 400) according to one of claims 1 to 13 in a pipe (600) comprising an orifice (601), characterized in that it comprises the following steps: - insertion (901) of the holding device (100) into the pipe via the orifice, one end (102) of the tube (101) bearing on the pipe opposite the orifice, - deployment (902) of the movable feet (106, 107) of the retractable mechanism (105) around the orifice of the pipe,

17. - insertion (903) of the collection device (300) through the orifice of the pipe, by compressing the elastically deformable truncated cone (301), - fixing (904) of the collection device to the other end (103) of the tube (101), - deployment (905) of the truncated cone (301) of the collection device, the truncated cone then returning to its initial shape inside the piping around the orifice. Method (906) for removing a system (100, 200, 300, 400) according to one of claims 1 to 13, through an orifice (601) of a pipe (600), characterized in that it comprises the following steps: - detachment (907) of the collection device (200) from the fixing means (111) of the tube (101), - application (908) of a compressive force between the bases (302, 303, 304) of the truncated cone (301) of the collection device and turning over the truncated cone, - removal (909) of the collection device, - folding (910) of the movable feet (106, 107) of the retractable mechanism (105) around the orifice of the pipe, - removal (911) of the holding device (100) of the pipe through the orifice.

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