Cutting device

Abstract

To provide a cutting device capable of reducing the time and cost required to cut objects to be cut installed in a liquid, while also reducing burden on divers' bodies.SOLUTION: A cutting device used to cut an object to be cut comprises: a base frame; a first arm and a second arm, each having a base end side fixed to the base frame; a first pulley supported by the first arm; a second pulley supported by the second arm; an endless wire saw supported by the first pulley and the second pulley and contacting the object to be cut in a region between the first pulley and the second pulley; a drive mechanism for moving the wire saw; a first movement mechanism for moving the first pulley in a direction from the base end side toward a tip end side of the first arm when cutting the object to be cut; and a second movements mechanism for moving the second pulley in a direction from the base end side toward a tip end side of the second arm when cutting the object to be cut.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a cutting device used to cut an object, and a cutting method for cutting an object using the cutting device. [Background technology]

[0002] In architectural and civil engineering work, wire sawing is used to demolish and remove various structures such as reinforced concrete buildings, steel pipes, and bridges. In wire sawing, a wire saw is wound around the object to be cut (the workpiece) and is run at high speed while applying a predetermined tension, thereby cutting the workpiece. In addition, cutting the workpiece with a wire saw may also use a so-called push-cut method, in which the wire saw is supported by a pulley and pressed against the workpiece (see Patent Document 1, etc.). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-69529 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Cutting work on objects to be cut is also carried out in construction work on rivers, oceans, ports, etc., such as the construction of dams, levees, and bridges. For example, in the construction of a river dam, construction work is carried out underwater inside an area surrounded by multiple steel pipe sheet piles installed underwater, and the steel pipe sheet piles are cut and removed in the final stage of construction. Cutting such underwater objects is mainly performed by divers using underwater arc cutting.

[0005] However, there is a limit to the amount of time a diver can work continuously underwater, and cutting the material underwater must be done intermittently, with frequent interruptions. Therefore, cutting the material using underwater arc cutting is time-consuming and costly. Furthermore, working underwater for long periods of time places strain on the diver's body, increasing the risk of diving accidents. In particular, when large-scale structures such as steel pipe sheet piles are installed underwater, the construction period and construction costs increase significantly, and work must be done at deep depths, increasing the physical strain on the diver.

[0006] The present invention has been made in consideration of such problems, and aims to provide a cutting device that can reduce the time and cost required to cut an object placed in liquid and reduce the physical burden on the diver, as well as a method for cutting an object using the cutting device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cutting device used when cutting an object to be cut in a liquid, the cutting device comprising: a base frame; a first arm and a second arm, each having a base end fixed to the base frame; a first pulley supported by the first arm; a second pulley supported by the second arm; an endless wire saw supported by the first pulley and the second pulley and contacting the object to be cut in the area between the first pulley and the second pulley; a drive mechanism for moving the wire saw; a first moving mechanism for moving the first pulley in a direction from the base end side to the tip side of the first arm when cutting the object to be cut; and a second moving mechanism for moving the second pulley in a direction from the base end side to the tip side of the second arm when cutting the object to be cut, wherein the first moving mechanism comprises a first movable body to which the first pulley is connected, and the second moving mechanism comprises a second movable body to which the second pulley is connected, and at least one of the first movable body and the second movable body is provided with a pressure gauge.

[0008] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cutting device used when cutting an object to be cut in a liquid, the cutting device comprising: a base frame; a first arm and a second arm, each having a base end fixed to the base frame; a first pulley supported by the first arm; a second pulley supported by the second arm; an endless wire saw supported by the first pulley and the second pulley and contacting the object to be cut in the area between the first pulley and the second pulley; a drive mechanism for moving the wire saw; a first moving mechanism for moving the first pulley in a direction from the base end side to the tip side of the first arm when cutting the object to be cut; and a second moving mechanism for moving the second pulley in a direction from the base end side to the tip side of the second arm when cutting the object to be cut, wherein the first moving mechanism comprises a first movable body to which the first pulley is connected, and the second moving mechanism comprises a second movable body to which the second pulley is connected, and at least one of the first movable body and the second movable body is equipped with a camera.

[0009] Preferably, the drive mechanism, the first movement mechanism, the second movement mechanism, and the pressure gauge are connected to a controller. Also, preferably, the drive mechanism, the first movement mechanism, the second movement mechanism, and the camera are connected to a controller. Also, preferably, the cutting device further includes a cover that covers the base frame and the drive mechanism. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] A cutting device according to one aspect of the present invention includes a first arm supporting a first pulley and a second arm supporting a second pulley. A wire saw supported by the first and second pulleys is moved while contacting an object placed between the first and second arms, thereby cutting the object. This enables automatic and continuous cutting of objects placed in liquid, significantly reducing the time and cost required to cut the object. Furthermore, the amount of work performed by the diver in the liquid is reduced, easing the physical strain on the diver. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. [Figure 2] FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a front view showing the cutting device with the first pulley and the second pulley lowered. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a cutting device and a steel pipe sheet pile. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a partially cross-sectional front view showing the cutting device and the steel pipe sheet pile. [Figure 6] FIG. 6(A) is a partial cross-sectional front view showing the cutting device and the steel pipe sheet pile in the first step, and FIG. 6(B) is a partial cross-sectional front view showing the cutting device and the steel pipe sheet pile in the second step. [Figure 7] Figure 7(A) is a cross-sectional view showing the steel pipe sheet pile in the third step, Figure 7(B) is a cross-sectional view showing the steel pipe sheet pile in the fourth step, and Figure 7(C) is a cross-sectional view showing the steel pipe sheet pile with the upper part removed. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Hereinafter, the present embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. First, an example of the configuration of a cutting device according to this embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the cutting device 2, and FIG. 2 is a front view showing the cutting device 2. In FIGS. 1 and 2, the X-axis direction (first horizontal direction, left-right direction) and the Y-axis direction (second horizontal direction, front-rear direction) are perpendicular to each other. Furthermore, the Z-axis direction (vertical direction, up-down direction, height direction) is perpendicular to the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. Hereinafter, the configuration of the cutting device 2 will be described mainly with reference to FIG. 1.

[0013] The cutting device 2 includes a rectangular parallelepiped base frame 4 that corresponds to the framework of the cutting device 2. The width, depth, and height directions of the base frame 4 are aligned along the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis, respectively. For example, the base frame 4 is formed by connecting columnar frames made of a metal such as stainless steel. The base frame 4 also includes a first frame 4a and a second frame 4b that correspond to the lower side of the base frame 4 along the width direction (X-axis direction) and are aligned generally parallel to each other.

[0014] A first arm 6a and a second arm 6b are connected to the underside of the base frame 4. The first arm 6a and the second arm 6b are columnar members made of metal such as stainless steel, and are arranged generally parallel to each other along the Z-axis direction. For example, the base end side (one end, upper end) of the first arm 6a is fixed to one end of the first frame 4a, and the base end side (one end, upper end) of the second arm 6b is fixed to the other end of the first frame 4a.

[0015] An X-axis support arm 8a and a Y-axis support arm 10a that support and reinforce the first arm 6a are connected to the first arm 6a. The base end (one end, upper end) of the X-axis support arm 8a is fixed to the first frame 4a, and the tip end (the other end, lower end) of the X-axis support arm 8a is fixed to the right side of the first arm 6a. The base end (one end, upper end) of the Y-axis support arm 10a is fixed to the second frame 4b, and the tip end (the other end, lower end) of the Y-axis support arm 10a is fixed to the rear surface of the first arm 6a.

[0016] Similarly, an X-axis support arm 8b and a Y-axis support arm 10b are connected to the second arm 6b to support and reinforce the second arm 6b. The base end (one end, upper end) of the X-axis support arm 8b is fixed to the first frame 4a, and the tip end (the other end, lower end) of the X-axis support arm 8b is fixed to the left side surface of the second arm 6b. Furthermore, the base end (one end, upper end) of the Y-axis support arm 10b is fixed to the second frame 4b, and the tip end (the other end, lower end) of the Y-axis support arm 10b is fixed to the rear surface of the second arm 6b.

[0017] X-axis support arms 8a, 8b are disposed so as to be inclined relative to first arm 6a and second arm 6b in the XZ plane, suppressing deformation of first arm 6a and second arm 6b in the X-axis direction. Y-axis support arms 10a, 10b are disposed so as to be inclined relative to first arm 6a and second arm 6b in the YZ plane, suppressing deformation of first arm 6a and second arm 6b in the Y-axis direction.

[0018] The first arm 6a supports a first pulley 12a. Specifically, a first movement mechanism 14a is provided on the front side of the first arm 6a to move the first pulley 12a along the length direction (Z-axis direction) of the first arm 6a. The first movement mechanism 14a includes a first drive pulley 16a attached to the base end side of the first arm 6a and a first driven pulley 18a attached to the tip end side of the first arm 6a. A first power transmission member 20a, such as an endless loop-shaped chain or belt, is wound around the first drive pulley 16a and the first driven pulley 18a. A first rotational drive source 22a (see FIG. 2), such as a motor, is connected to the first drive pulley 16a to rotate the first drive pulley 16a in both directions.

[0019] Furthermore, the first moving mechanism 14a includes a first movable body 24a made of a metal such as stainless steel and fixed to the first power transmission member 20a. The first pulley 12a is rotatably connected to the front side of the first movable body 24a, and the rear side of the first movable body 24a is supported by the first arm 6a so that the first movable body 24a can move along the first arm 6a. In other words, the first pulley 12a is supported by the first arm 6a via the first moving mechanism 14a.

[0020] Similarly, the second arm 6b supports a second pulley 12b. Specifically, a second movement mechanism 14b is provided on the front side of the second arm 6b, which moves the second pulley 12b along the length direction (Z-axis direction) of the second arm 6b. The second movement mechanism 14b includes a second drive pulley 16b attached to the base end side of the second arm 6b and a second driven pulley 18b attached to the tip end side of the second arm 6b. A second power transmission member 20b, such as an endless loop-shaped chain or belt, is wound around the second drive pulley 16b and the second driven pulley 18b. A second rotational drive source 22b, such as a motor, is connected to the second drive pulley 16b, which rotates the second drive pulley 16b in both directions.

[0021] Furthermore, the second movement mechanism 14b includes a second movable body 24b made of a metal such as stainless steel and fixed to the second power transmission member 20b. The second pulley 12b is rotatably connected to the front side of the second movable body 24b, and the rear side of the second movable body 24b is supported by the second arm 6b so that the second movable body 24b can move along the second arm 6b. In other words, the second pulley 12b is supported by the second arm 6b via the second movement mechanism 14b.

[0022] When the first rotary drive source 22a rotates the first drive pulley 16a in a first direction (clockwise in FIG. 2), the first power transmission member 20a travels in the first direction, and the first pulley 12a moves (descends) together with the first movable body 24a in a direction from the base end to the tip end of the first arm 6a. On the other hand, when the first rotary drive source 22a rotates the first drive pulley 16a in a second direction (counterclockwise in FIG. 2), the first power transmission member 20a travels in the second direction, and the first pulley 12a moves (ascends) together with the first movable body 24a in a direction from the tip end to the base end of the first arm 6a.

[0023] Furthermore, when second drive pulley 16b is rotated in a first direction (counterclockwise in FIG. 2) by second rotary drive source 22b, second power transmission member 20b travels in the first direction, and second pulley 12b moves (descends) together with second movable body 24b in a direction from the base end to the tip end of second arm 6b. On the other hand, when second drive pulley 16b is rotated in a second direction (clockwise in FIG. 2) by second rotary drive source 22b, second power transmission member 20b travels in the second direction, and second pulley 12b moves (ascends) together with second movable body 24b in a direction from the tip end to the base end of second arm 6b.

[0024] As described above, the first moving mechanism 14a and the second moving mechanism 14b each constitute a wrapping transmission mechanism, and can independently move (raise and lower) the first pulley 12a and the second pulley 12b. By controlling the rotation of the first driving pulley 16a and the second driving pulley 16b, the first pulley 12a and the second pulley 12b can be positioned at any desired height (position in the Z-axis direction).

[0025] A beam-shaped support frame 26 made of metal such as stainless steel is fixed to the lower front surface of the base frame 4. The support frame 26 is disposed above the first frame 4a and generally parallel to the first frame 4a, and supports a drive mechanism 28. The drive mechanism 28 includes a third drive pulley 30 supported by the support frame 26, and a third rotation drive source 32 (see FIG. 1), such as a motor, that rotates the third drive pulley 30.

[0026] An endless wire saw 34 that cuts an object to be cut (a workpiece) is wound around the first pulley 12a, the second pulley 12b, and the third drive pulley 30. For example, a diamond wire saw formed by fixing beads containing diamond abrasive grains to a wire (core material) is used as the wire saw 34.

[0027] The lower end side of the wire saw 34 is supported by the first pulley 12a and the second pulley 12b, and is arranged, for example, along the X-axis direction in a state where it is stretched between the first arm 6a and the second arm 6b. The drive mechanism 28 rotates the third drive pulley 30 with the third rotation drive source 32, thereby feeding out the wire saw 34 that is in contact with the third drive pulley 30 and causing the wire saw 34 to travel.

[0028] A plurality of fixed pulleys 36 supported by the support frame 26 are provided on both sides of the third drive pulley 30. Figures 1 and 2 show an example in which six fixed pulleys 36 are provided on the first arm 6a side of the third drive pulley 30, and two fixed pulleys 36 are provided on the second arm 6b side of the third drive pulley 30. Furthermore, a pair of third pulleys 38a and a pair of fourth pulleys 38b are provided above the support frame 26. A wire saw 34 is wound around each of the plurality of fixed pulleys 36, the pair of third pulleys 38a, and the pair of fourth pulleys 38b.

[0029] A third movement mechanism 40a is connected to the pair of third pulleys 38a, which moves the pair of third pulleys 38a along the Z-axis direction. Furthermore, a fourth movement mechanism 40b is connected to the pair of fourth pulleys 38b, which moves the pair of fourth pulleys 38b along the Z-axis direction. For example, the third movement mechanism 40a and the fourth movement mechanism 40b are configured by a wrapping transmission mechanism similar to the first movement mechanism 14a and the second movement mechanism 14b.

[0030] Specifically, the third movement mechanism 40a includes a columnar first rail 42a made of metal such as stainless steel and arranged from the upper end to the lower end of the base frame 4, and a third power transmission member 44a (see FIG. 1) such as a chain or belt that is looped along the first rail 42a. A rotational drive source (not shown) such as a motor that drives the third power transmission member 44a is connected to the third power transmission member 44a.

[0031] The third movement mechanism 40a also includes a third movable body 46a made of a metal such as stainless steel and fixed to a third power transmission member 44a. A pair of third pulleys 38a are rotatably connected to the front side of the third movable body 46a, and the rear side of the third movable body 46a is supported by the first rail 42a so that the third movable body 46a can move along the first rail 42a. When the third power transmission member 44a is driven, the pair of third pulleys 38a move (up and down) together with the third movable body 46a along the first rail 42a in the Z-axis direction.

[0032] Similarly, the fourth movement mechanism 40b includes a columnar second rail 42b made of a metal such as stainless steel and arranged from the upper end to the lower end of the base frame 4, and a fourth power transmission member 44b (see FIG. 1) such as a chain or belt that is looped along the second rail 42b. A rotational drive source (not shown) such as a motor that moves the fourth power transmission member 44b is connected to the fourth power transmission member 44b.

[0033] The fourth movement mechanism 40b also includes a fourth movable body 46b made of metal such as stainless steel and fixed to a fourth power transmission member 44b. A pair of fourth pulleys 38b are rotatably connected to the front side of the fourth movable body 46b, and the rear side of the fourth movable body 46b is supported by the second rail 42b so that the fourth movable body 46b can move along the second rail 42b. When the fourth power transmission member 44b is driven, the pair of fourth pulleys 38b move (up and down) together with the fourth movable body 46b along the second rail 42b in the Z-axis direction.

[0034] The wire saw 34 unwound from the third drive pulley 30 passes through multiple fixed pulleys 36 provided closer to the first arm 6a than the third drive pulley 30, a pair of third pulleys 38a, and a pair of fourth pulleys 38b, before reaching the first pulley 12a. The wire saw 34 unwound from the first pulley 12a travels between the first arm 6a and the second arm 6b and reaches the second pulley 12b. The wire saw 34 unwound from the second pulley 12b passes through multiple fixed pulleys 36 provided closer to the second arm 6b than the third drive pulley 30, before reaching the third drive pulley 30.

[0035] The third movement mechanism 40a raises and lowers the pair of third pulleys 38a in accordance with the lifting distance of the first pulley 12a. The fourth movement mechanism 40b raises and lowers the pair of fourth pulleys 38b in accordance with the lifting distance of the second pulley 12b. This allows the wire saw 34 traveling between the first arm 6a and the second arm 6b to be raised and lowered while maintaining its tension.

[0036] 3 is a front view showing the cutting device 2 with the first pulley 12a and the second pulley 12b lowered. When the first moving mechanism 14a and the second moving mechanism 14b lower the first pulley 12a and the second pulley 12b, the pair of third pulleys 38a and the pair of fourth pulleys 38b also lower following the first pulley 12a and the second pulley 12b. At this time, one of the third pulleys 38a and the fourth pulleys 38b may be lowered after the other of the third pulleys 38a and the fourth pulleys 38b is lowered, or the third pulleys 38a and the fourth pulleys 38b may be lowered simultaneously. Furthermore, if the lowering distance of the first pulley 12a and the second pulley 12b is short, only one of the third pulleys 38a and the fourth pulleys 38b may be lowered.

[0037] With an object to be cut placed between the first arm 6a and the second arm 6b, when the wire saw 34 is moved down while traveling, the wire saw 34 comes into contact with the object to be cut in the region between the first pulley 12a and the second pulley 12b. As a result, the wire saw 34 is pressed against the object to be cut, and the object to be cut is cut.

[0038] When lowering the first pulley 12a or the second pulley 12b, it is desirable to interlock the first moving mechanism 14a or the second moving mechanism 14b with the third moving mechanism 40a or the fourth moving mechanism 40b so that a slight upward force is applied to the wire saw 34 from the third moving mechanism 40a or the fourth moving mechanism 40b to resist the downward force applied to the wire saw 34 from the first moving mechanism 14a or the second moving mechanism 14b. This prevents the pair of third pulleys 38a or the pair of fourth pulleys 38b from lowering more than necessary, which would cause the tension in the wire saw 34 to loosen.

[0039] On the other hand, when raising the first pulley 12a or the second pulley 12b, the first moving mechanism 14a or the second moving mechanism 14b and the third moving mechanism 40a or the fourth moving mechanism 40b are interlocked to raise the first pulley 12a or the second pulley 12b. Note that, in this case, in order to prevent the tension of the wire saw 34 from loosening, the first moving mechanism 14a or the second moving mechanism 14b and the third moving mechanism 40a or the fourth moving mechanism 40b may be interlocked so that a slight downward force is applied to the wire saw 34 from the first moving mechanism 14a or the second moving mechanism 14b to resist the upward force applied to the wire saw 34 from the third moving mechanism 40a or the fourth moving mechanism 40b.

[0040] Each component of the cutting device 2 (first movement mechanism 14a, second movement mechanism 14b, drive mechanism 28, third movement mechanism 40a, fourth movement mechanism 40b, etc.) is connected to a controller 48. The controller 48 corresponds to a control section (control unit, control device) that controls the operation of the cutting device 2, and outputs a control signal to each component of the cutting device 2.

[0041] Specifically, the controller 48 controls the elevation of the first pulley 12a and the second pulley 12b by outputting control signals to the first rotary drive source 22a and the second rotary drive source 22b (see FIG. 1). The controller 48 also controls the travel of the wire saw 34 by outputting control signals to the third rotary drive source 32 (see FIG. 1). Furthermore, the controller 48 controls the elevation of the third pulley 38a and the fourth pulley 38b by outputting control signals to the rotary drive sources included in the third moving mechanism 40a and the fourth moving mechanism 40b, respectively.

[0042] For example, the controller 48 is configured by a computer and includes a calculation unit that performs calculations necessary to control the cutting device 2, and a storage unit that stores various information (data, programs, etc.) used to control the cutting device 2. The calculation unit includes a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The storage unit includes memories such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0043] Next, a specific example of a method for cutting an object to be cut using the cutting device 2 will be described. The cutting device 2 cuts an object to be cut (object to be cut) placed between the first arm 6a and the second arm 6b with a wire saw 34. In particular, the cutting device 2 can cut various structures placed in liquid such as river water or seawater during construction work in rivers, oceans, ports, etc. Below, as a representative example, a case where the object to be cut is a steel pipe sheet pile placed in liquid will be described.

[0044] Fig. 4 is a perspective view showing the cutting device 2 and the steel pipe sheet pile 11, and Fig. 5 is a partially sectional front view showing the cutting device 2 and the steel pipe sheet pile 11. For example, a plurality of steel pipe sheet piles 11 are arranged in a ring shape in liquid such as seawater or river water to form a revetment, quay wall, breakwater, etc. There is no limit to the size of the steel pipe sheet pile 11, and it can be selected appropriately depending on the purpose of the construction work.

[0045] The steel pipe sheet pile 11 includes a steel pipe 13 formed in a hollow cylindrical shape, and a pair of joints 15a, 15b provided on the outer side surface (outer peripheral surface) of the steel pipe 13 so as to sandwich the center of the steel pipe 13. The joints 15a, 15b are members that protrude outward in the radial direction of the steel pipe 13 from the outer peripheral surface of the steel pipe 13, and are formed in a columnar shape extending from one end (upper end) to the other end (lower end) of the steel pipe 13.

[0046] The steel pipe sheet piles 11 are connected to each other via the joints 15a, 15b by fitting a joint 15a of one steel pipe sheet pile 11 into a joint 15b of another steel pipe sheet pile 11. There are no restrictions on the shape of the joints 15a, 15b, and for example, PP type, LT type, and PT type are used depending on the application of the steel pipe sheet pile 11. Furthermore, a filler 17 such as mortar is filled inside the fitted joints 15a, 15b to ensure watertightness between the adjacent steel pipes 13 and to improve the strength of the joints 15a, 15b.

[0047] Annular connecting members 19 made of metal or the like are provided inside the multiple steel pipe sheet piles 11 arranged in a ring shape to support the steel pipe sheet piles 11. The connecting members 19 are connected to the outer circumferential surfaces of the steel pipes 13, and prevent the steel pipe sheet piles 11 from tilting or moving.

[0048] When removing the steel pipe sheet piles 11 placed in liquid, the joints 15a, 15b are cut to separate the individual steel pipe sheet piles 11, and then the steel pipe sheet piles 11 are pulled out of the liquid one by one. At this time, by using the cutting device 2 according to this embodiment, the cutting work of the steel pipe sheet piles 11 can be automated (fully automated or semi-automated). Below, the procedure for cutting the steel pipe sheet piles 11 placed in liquid with the cutting device 2 will be described.

[0049] First, the first arm 6a and the second arm 6b are partially or entirely placed in liquid so that the steel pipe sheet pile 11 is placed between them (first step). Fig. 6(A) is a partially cross-sectional front view showing the cutting device 2 and the steel pipe sheet pile 11 in the first step. Note that Fig. 6(A) shows only the main components of the cutting device 2.

[0050] In the first step, the first arm 6a and the second arm 6b are inserted into a liquid 50 such as river water or seawater in which the steel pipe sheet pile 11 is placed. At this time, the first arm 6a and the second arm 6b are arranged so as to sandwich the joints 15a and 15b connected to each other, and the wire saw 34 supported by the first pulley 12a and the second pulley 12b is arranged so as to overlap the joints 15a and 15b.

[0051] Next, the wire saw 34 is brought into contact with the steel pipe sheet pile 11 to cut the steel pipe sheet pile 11 along the depth direction of the liquid 50 (second step). Fig. 6(B) is a partially sectional front view showing the cutting device 2 and the steel pipe sheet pile 11 in the second step. Note that Fig. 6(B) shows only the main components of the cutting device 2.

[0052] In the second step, first, the wire saw 34 is caused to travel by the drive mechanism 28 (see FIG. 1, etc.). Specifically, the third drive pulley 30 is rotated by the third rotary drive source 32, causing the wire saw 34 to travel at a predetermined speed from the first pulley 12a toward the second pulley 12b. At this time, the height positions of the first pulley 12a and the second pulley 12b may be the same or different. When the height positions of the first pulley 12a and the second pulley 12b are different, the wire saw 34 stretched between the first pulley 12a and the second pulley 12b is inclined with respect to the horizontal direction (X-axis direction).

[0053] Next, with the wire saw 34 running, the first pulley 12a and the second pulley 12b are lowered by the first moving mechanism 14a and the second moving mechanism 14b (see FIG. 1, etc.). Specifically, the first rotary drive source 22a rotates the first drive pulley 16a to run the first power transmission member 20a, thereby lowering the first movable body 24a and moving the first pulley 12a in a direction from the base end (upper end) to the tip end (lower end) of the first arm 6a. Furthermore, the second rotary drive source 22b rotates the second drive pulley 16b to run the second power transmission member 20b, thereby lowering the second movable body 24b and moving the second pulley 12b in a direction from the base end (upper end) to the tip end (lower end) of the second arm 6b.

[0054] While the wire saw 34 is traveling from the first pulley 12a to the second pulley 12b, the first pulley 12a and the second pulley 12b are lowered, and the wire saw 34 is pressed against the steel pipe sheet pile 11 in the region between the first pulley 12a and the second pulley 12b. As a result, the region of the steel pipe sheet pile 11 overlapping with the wire saw 34 is cut along the depth direction (Z-axis direction) of the liquid 50. In addition, a cut edge 11a is formed in the region of the steel pipe sheet pile 11 cut by the wire saw 34.

[0055] Specifically, the joints 15a and 15b connected to each other are cut along the height direction of the steel pipe 13 (the length direction of the joints 15a and 15b). At this time, the wire saw 34 may cut into the joints 15a and 15b parallel to the X-axis direction, or may cut into the joints 15a and 15b at an angle with respect to the X-axis direction. Then, when the joints 15a and 15b are cut from the upper end to the lower end, the pair of steel pipe sheet piles 11 connected by the joints 15a and 15b are separated.

[0056] It should be noted that other members may be connected to the steel pipe sheet pile 11. In this case, the other members may be cut together with the steel pipe sheet pile 11 by the wire saw 34. For example, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, an annular connecting member 19 is fixed to the steel pipe sheet pile 11. In this case, by arranging the joints 15a, 15b and the connecting member 19 between the first arm 6a and the second arm 6b, the joints 15a, 15b and the connecting member 19 can be cut simultaneously by the wire saw 34. This reduces the number of steps and time required to separate the steel pipe sheet pile 11.

[0057] When all of the mutually connected joints 15a, 15b are cut with the wire saw 34, the plurality of steel pipe sheet piles 11 arranged in an annular shape are separated into individual pieces. Then, the steel pipe sheet piles 11 are removed by lifting them out of the liquid 50 one by one.

[0058] If the length of the joints 15a, 15b is greater than the upper limit of the lifting distance of the first pulley 12a and the second pulley 12b, the joints 15a, 15b will not be cut all the way to the bottom even if the wire saw 34 is lowered. In this case, the steel pipe sheet pile 11 may be cut laterally to remove the upper part of the steel pipe sheet pile 11, and then cutting of the steel pipe sheet pile 11 may be continued again with the wire saw 34.

[0059] Specifically, first, in the second step, the first pulley 12a and the second pulley 12b are lowered to the tip ends of the first arm 6a and the second arm 6b. As a result, the joints 15a, 15b of the steel pipe sheet pile 11 are cut in the region between the first pulley 12a and the second pulley 12b, and cut edges 11a (grooves) having a depth that does not reach the lower end of the steel pipe sheet pile 11 are formed in the joints 15a, 15b.

[0060] Next, a cross-cutting wire saw is inserted into the cut 11a formed in the steel pipe sheet pile 11 (third step). Fig. 7(A) is a cross-sectional view showing the steel pipe sheet pile 11 in the third step.

[0061] In the third step, a cross-cutting wire saw 52 is inserted into the cut surface 11a of the steel pipe sheet pile 11. As the cross-cutting wire saw 52, ​​for example, a diamond wire saw can be used similarly to the wire saw 34. However, it is preferable that the cross-cutting wire saw 52 is thinner than the wire saw 34. This allows the cross-cutting wire saw 52 to be smoothly inserted into the cut surface 11a. Then, the cross-cutting wire saw 52 is positioned at the bottom of the cut surface 11b.

[0062] Next, the steel pipe sheet pile 11 is cut by the cross-cutting wire saw 52 along a direction intersecting the depth direction of the liquid 50 (fourth step). For example, in the fourth step, the cross-cutting wire saw 52 is moved along the radial direction (Y-axis direction) of the steel pipe 13 while traveling in a tensioned state. As a result, the steel pipe 13 and the joints 15a, 15b are cut along the radial direction of the steel pipe 13 by the cross-cutting wire saw 52. Figure 7(B) is a cross-sectional view showing the steel pipe sheet pile 11 in the fourth step.

[0063] When the steel pipe sheet pile 11 is cut laterally by the cross-cutting wire saw 52, ​​a cut 11b is formed in the steel pipe sheet pile 11 along the radial direction of the steel pipe sheet pile 11, and the steel pipe sheet pile 11 is separated into an upper part and a lower part. Then, the upper part of the steel pipe sheet pile 11 is pulled up and removed. Fig. 7(C) is a cross-sectional view showing the steel pipe sheet pile 11 from which the upper part has been removed.

[0064] Thereafter, the first to fourth steps are repeated for the lower part of the steel pipe sheet pile 11, and the joints 15a, 15b and the steel pipe 13 are cut in stages. This makes it possible to separate and remove the steel pipe sheet pile 11 even when the length of the joints 15a, 15b is greater than the upper limit of the lifting distance of the first pulley 12a and the second pulley 12b.

[0065] As described above, the cutting device 2 according to this embodiment includes the first arm 6a supporting the first pulley 12a and the second arm 6b supporting the second pulley 12b. The wire saw 34 supported by the first pulley 12a and the second pulley 12b travels and contacts the workpiece placed between the first arm 6a and the second arm 6b, thereby cutting the workpiece. This makes it possible to automatically and continuously cut the workpiece placed in the liquid 50, significantly reducing the time and cost required to cut the workpiece. Furthermore, the amount of work required by the diver in the liquid 50 is reduced, easing the physical strain on the diver.

[0066] In this embodiment, the case where the object to be cut is the steel pipe sheet pile 11 has been described, but there is no limitation on the object to be cut by the cutting device 2. For example, the cutting device 2 can also cut structures made of reinforced concrete, steel frames, marble, bricks, etc.

[0067] The cutting device 2 may also be provided with a camera, various sensors, and the like for monitoring the state of the cutting device 2 and the status of the cutting process. For example, the first movable body 24a (see FIG. 1, etc.) may be provided with a first camera capable of photographing the first pulley 12a, and the second movable body 24b (see FIG. 1, etc.) may be provided with a second camera capable of photographing the second pulley 12b. By photographing the first pulley 12a and the second pulley 12b with the first camera and the second camera, it becomes possible to monitor the states of the first pulley 12a and the second pulley 12b while the workpiece is being cut.

[0068] Furthermore, the first movable body 24a may be provided with a first pressure gauge for measuring water pressure, and the second movable body 24b may be provided with a second pressure gauge for measuring water pressure. In this case, the depths in the liquid 50 at which the first pulley 12a and the second pulley 12b are located can be calculated based on the pressures measured by the first and second pressure gauges. This makes it possible to monitor the progress of cutting the workpiece.

[0069] The first camera, the second camera, the first pressure gauge, and the second pressure gauge are each connected to a controller 48. The controller 48 outputs control signals to the first camera and the second camera to control the timing, frequency, etc. of capturing images of the first pulley 12a and the second pulley 12b by the first camera and the second camera. The controller 48 also outputs control signals to the first pressure gauge and the second pressure gauge to control the timing, frequency, etc. of measuring water pressure.

[0070] Furthermore, when cutting a steel pipe sheet pile 11 that is installed deep in the liquid 50 or a steel pipe sheet pile 11 with its upper portion removed (see FIG. 7(C)), the entire cutting device 2 may be placed in the liquid 50 in the first step. In this case, the base frame 4 (see FIG. 1, etc.) is also placed in the liquid 50 together with the first arm 6a and the second arm 6b. As a result, the drive mechanism 28 (see FIG. 1, etc.) is also placed in the liquid 50, and the third drive pulley 30 becomes difficult to rotate due to the resistance of the liquid 50.

[0071] Therefore, it is preferable that the cutting device 2 further includes a cover that covers the base frame 4 and the drive mechanism 28 (the third drive pulley 30 and the third rotation drive source 32). For example, a cover made of glass, plastic, metal, or the like is attached so as to cover the entire base frame 4 and the drive mechanism 28.

[0072] The drive mechanism 28 (third drive pulley 30 and third rotation drive source 32) may be provided inside the base frame 4. In this case, the drive mechanism 28 is covered by a cover that covers the top, bottom, front, rear, right side, and left side of the base frame 4. The cover may also be provided with a through-hole through which the wire saw 34 passes.

[0073] By covering the base frame 4 with the cover, when the base frame 4 is placed so as to be submerged in the liquid 50, the liquid 50 is prevented from entering the inside of the base frame 4. This prevents the third drive pulley 30 provided inside the base frame 4 from being submerged in the liquid 50, and the torque required to rotate the third drive pulley 30 can be reduced.

[0074] When the above-mentioned cover is provided, it is preferable to also install the fixed pulley 36, the third pulley 38a, and the fourth pulley 38b inside the base frame 4. This allows the fixed pulley 36, the third pulley 38a, and the fourth pulley 38b to rotate smoothly.

[0075] Furthermore, instead of providing a cover that covers the base frame 4, it is also possible to provide a small cover that covers only the drive mechanism 28. Similarly, the fixed pulley 36, the third pulley 38a, and the fourth pulley 38b may each be covered with a small cover.

[0076] Furthermore, a cover that covers the first pulley 12a and the first camera may be attached to the first movable body 24a (see FIG. 1, etc.). Similarly, a cover that covers the second pulley 12b and the second camera may be attached to the second movable body 24b (see FIG. 1, etc.). This allows the first pulley 12a and the second pulley 12b to rotate smoothly and protects the first camera and the second camera from the liquid 50.

[0077] In addition, the structure, method, etc. according to this embodiment can be modified as appropriate without departing from the scope of the object of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0078] 11 Steel pipe sheet pile 11a, 11b cut 13 Steel pipe 15a, 15b joints 17 Filling material 19 Connecting members 2 Cutting device 4 Base Frame 4a 1st frame 4b 2nd frame 6a First Arm 6b Second Arm 8a, 8b X-axis support arm 10a, 10b Y-axis support arm 12a 1st pulley 12b 2nd pulley 14a 1st movement mechanism 14b Second movement mechanism 16a First drive pulley 16b Second drive pulley 18a First driven pulley 18b 2nd driven pulley 20a First power transmission member 20b Second power transmission member 22a First rotary drive source 22b Second rotary drive source 24a 1st movable body 24b Second movable body 26 Support frame 28 Drive mechanism 30 Third drive pulley 32 Third rotary drive source 34 Wire Saw 36 Fixed pulley 38a Third Pulley 38b 4th pulley 40a 3rd movement mechanism 40b 4th movement mechanism 42a 1st rail 42b 2nd rail 44a Third power transmission member 44b Fourth power transmission member 46a 3rd movable body 46b 4th movable body 48 Controller 50 liquid 52 Cross-cutting wire saw

Claims

1. A cutting device used when cutting an object to be cut in a liquid, A base frame; a first arm and a second arm each having a base end fixed to the base frame; a first pulley supported by the first arm; a second pulley supported by the second arm; an endless wire saw supported by the first pulley and the second pulley and in contact with the workpiece in a region between the first pulley and the second pulley; a drive mechanism for moving the wire saw; a first moving mechanism that moves the first pulley in a direction from the base end side to the tip end side of the first arm when cutting the object to be cut; a second movement mechanism that moves the second pulley in a direction from the base end side to the tip end side of the second arm when cutting the object to be cut, the first moving mechanism includes a first movable body to which the first pulley is connected, the second movement mechanism includes a second movable body to which the second pulley is connected, A cutting device comprising a pressure gauge in at least one of the first movable body and the second movable body.

2. A cutting device used when cutting an object to be cut in a liquid, A base frame; a first arm and a second arm each having a base end fixed to the base frame; a first pulley supported by the first arm; a second pulley supported by the second arm; an endless wire saw supported by the first pulley and the second pulley and in contact with the workpiece in a region between the first pulley and the second pulley; a drive mechanism for moving the wire saw; a first moving mechanism that moves the first pulley in a direction from the base end side to the tip end side of the first arm when cutting the object to be cut; a second movement mechanism that moves the second pulley in a direction from the base end side to the tip end side of the second arm when cutting the object to be cut, the first moving mechanism includes a first movable body to which the first pulley is connected, the second movement mechanism includes a second movable body to which the second pulley is connected, A cutting device comprising a camera on at least one of the first movable body and the second movable body.

3. The cutting device according to claim 1 , wherein the drive mechanism, the first moving mechanism, the second moving mechanism, and the pressure gauge are connected to a controller.

4. The cutting device according to claim 2 , wherein the drive mechanism, the first movement mechanism, the second movement mechanism, and the camera are connected to a controller.

5. 5. The cutting device according to claim 1, further comprising a cover for covering the base frame and the drive mechanism.

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