Pipe support device

Abstract

To provide a pipe support device that allows for easier joining of pipes while positioning the pipe and the pipe to be joined. [Solution] The pipe support device 1 is used in a pipe having an insertion port W1a and a receiving port W2a, It supports the Socket W1a of the pipe and the Receptacle W2a of the pipe to be joined, W2, which is connected to pipe W1. Installation 1 consists of a receiving-side mounting part 10 that is attached to the receiving-side of the pipe to be joined W2, and the receiving-side mounting part 10 Extending axially from the receiving end of the pipe W2 to be joined, the insertion end support supports the insertion end of pipe W1. It has a holding portion 20 and a receiving portion 20 of the pipe W1 and the pipe W2 to be joined. A sliding support that is positioned radially relative to the mouth and is supported from below so as to be axially slidable. It has a holding portion 30.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a pipe support device that supports an insertion port of a pipe and a receiving port of a joined pipe joined to the pipe.

Background Art

[0002] Devices for supporting an insertion port of a pipe and a receiving port of a joined pipe joined to the pipe are known. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a pipe joining device in which an insertion port of one pipe is inserted into the inside of a receiving port of the other pipe. The pipe joining device of Patent Document 1 supports the receiving port and the insertion port of the pipe by clamping them from above, respectively.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 2 discloses a pipe joining attachment for a working machine having a gripping portion that grips a pipe and a joined pipe contact portion that contacts an outer peripheral surface on the receiving port side of a joined pipe joined to the pipe.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] By the way, the pipe joining device of Patent Document 1 is mounted on the receiving port and the insertion port in a state where the axis of the receiving port of the pipe and the axis of the insertion port of the pipe are aligned. In this case, when mounting the pipe joining device on the insertion port, it is necessary to perform an operation of lifting the insertion port upward using, for example, a lifting device or the like to position the axis of the insertion port on the axis of the receiving port. Therefore, in order to perform the operation, an operator needs to enter a excavation trench where the pipe is laid.

[0006] In contrast, by using the pipe joining attachment of the work machine described in Patent Document 2, the worker can position the pipe held by the gripping part by bringing the contact part for the pipe to be joined into contact with the pipe to be joined, without having to enter the excavated trench. However, the pipe joining attachment has a gripping part for gripping the pipe, and a drive mechanism for bringing the pipe held by the gripping part closer to the contact part for the pipe to be joined. As a result, the pipe joining attachment itself becomes larger, and the work machine that handles the pipe joining attachment also becomes larger. For this reason, the use of the pipe joining attachment may be limited when joining relatively small diameter pipes or when joining pipes in a relatively narrow space.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need for a pipe support device that does not require the worker to enter the excavated trench and that can support the pipe so that it can be joined to the pipe to be joined, with a compact configuration.

[0008] The object of the present invention is to provide a pipe support device that allows a pipe to be joined to a pipe with a compact configuration without requiring an operator to enter the excavated trench. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] A pipe support device according to one embodiment of the present invention supports the spigot of a pipe and the receptacle of a pipe to be joined to the pipe, in a pipe having a spigot and a receptacle. The pipe support device has a receptacle-side mounting portion attached to the receptacle side of the pipe to be joined, and a spigot-side support portion extending from the spigot-side mounting portion in the axial direction of the receptacle side of the pipe to be joined, and supporting the spigot side of the pipe. The spigot-side support portion has a sliding support portion that supports the spigot side of the pipe from below so as to be slidable in the axial direction while being positioned radially relative to the receptacle side of the pipe to be joined (first configuration).

[0010] According to the above configuration, by placing the spigot end of the pipe on the sliding support portion of the spigot end support portion that extends axially from the receiving end mounting portion, the spigot end of the pipe can be supported in a state that allows it to slide axially while being positioned radially with respect to the receiving end of the pipe to be joined.

[0011] This makes it easier to position the insertion end of the pipe relative to the receiving end of the pipe when joining the pipe and the pipe to be joined, without the worker having to enter the excavated trench.

[0012] Furthermore, the sliding support portion supports the spigot end of the pipe while reducing the frictional resistance generated between the spigot end of the pipe and the spigot end support portion. This allows the spigot end of the pipe to move smoothly in the axial direction with a compact configuration.

[0013] Therefore, it is possible to provide a pipe support device that does not require the worker to enter the excavated trench and can support the pipe so that it can be joined to the pipe to be joined with a compact configuration.

[0014] In the first configuration described above, the sliding support portion includes a pair of sliding support members that support both the left and right sides of the insertion end of the pipe from below, when the pipe support device is viewed in the axial direction (second configuration).

[0015] According to the above configuration, the pair of sliding support members can support both the left and right sides of the pipe's insertion end from below when viewed in the axial direction. This allows the insertion end of the pipe to be easily positioned and placed, and prevents the insertion end of the pipe from shifting laterally from its positioned location.

[0016] In the second configuration described above, the pair of sliding support members are inclined such that they move closer to each other as they move downward from the upper end when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe support device (third configuration).

[0017] According to the above configuration, when viewing the pipe support device in the axial direction, the pair of sliding support members are inclined so that they move closer to each other from the upper end downwards. Therefore, even if the insertion end of the pipe to be laid does not need to be precisely positioned in the left-right direction relative to the pipe support device, it can be precisely positioned relative to the receiving end of the pipe to be joined.

[0018] In the second configuration described above, the socket-side mounting portion has a left socket-side mounting member and a right socket-side mounting member that grip the socket side of the pipe to be joined. The insertion-side support portion has a left insertion-side support member connected to the left socket-side mounting member and extending in the axial direction, and a right insertion-side support member connected to the right socket-side mounting member and extending in the axial direction. The pair of sliding support members has a left sliding support member provided on the left insertion-side support member and a right sliding support member provided on the right insertion-side support member (fourth configuration).

[0019] According to the above configuration, the left socket mounting member, the left insertion support member, and the left sliding support member are located on the left side of the pipe's insertion side, while the right socket mounting member, the right insertion support member, and the right sliding support member are located on the right side of the pipe's insertion side.

[0020] As a result, the pipe support device is more securely attached to the receiving end of the pipe to be joined by the left receiving end mounting member and the right receiving end mounting member, and the receiving end of the pipe to be installed can be more easily and reliably positioned radially relative to the receiving end of the pipe to be joined by the left insertion end support member and the left sliding support member, and the right insertion end support member and the right sliding support member.

[0021] In the fourth configuration, the left receiving-port-side mounting member and the right receiving-port-side mounting member are configured to be switchable between a closed state in which the receiving-port side of the joined pipe is gripped and an open state in which the receiving-port side of the joined pipe is separated from the receiving-port side. The left insertion-port-side support member and the right insertion-port-side support member are such that the left sliding support member and the right sliding support member slidably support the insertion-port side of the pipe in the closed state, while being separated from the insertion-port side of the pipe in the open state, in conjunction with the left receiving-port-side mounting member and the right receiving-port-side mounting member (fifth configuration).

[0022] According to the above configuration, by switching the left receiving-port-side mounting member and the right receiving-port-side mounting member between the closed state and the open state, the receiving-port-side mounting portion can be easily attached to and detached from the receiving-port side of the joined pipe. And the left insertion-port-side support member and the right insertion-port-side support member that are interlocked with the left receiving-port-side mounting member and the right receiving-port-side mounting member cause the left sliding support member and the right sliding support member to slidably support the insertion-port side of the pipe in the closed state, while separating it from the insertion-port side of the pipe in the open state.

[0023] Thereby, when joining the insertion-port side of the pipe to the receiving-port side of the joined pipe, by setting the left receiving-port-side mounting member and the right receiving-port-side mounting member to the closed state, it is possible to slidably support while aligning the insertion-port side of the pipe with the receiving-port side of the joined pipe. After joining the insertion-port side of the pipe to the receiving-port side of the joined pipe, by setting the left receiving-port-side mounting member and the right receiving-port-side mounting member to the open state, the pipe support device can be easily removed from the joined pipe and the pipe. Therefore, it is possible to provide a pipe support device that can perform the joining operation between the pipe and the joined pipe more efficiently.

[0024] In the fourth configuration, the left sliding support member and the right sliding support member each have a length in the axial direction greater than the length in the left-right direction (sixth configuration).

[0025] As a result, at least a part of the left sliding support member can support the left side of the insertion port side of the pipe from below, and at least a part of the right sliding support member can support the right side of the insertion port side of the pipe from below. Therefore, even when the axis of the pipe and the axis of the joined pipe do not coincide, the insertion port side of the pipe can be supported from below in a slidable state in the axial direction of the pipe while being positioned radially with respect to the receiving port side of the joined pipe.

[0026] In the sixth configuration, the left sliding support member and the right sliding support member are inclined with respect to the axial direction so as to move away from the axis of the joined pipe from the end portion closer to the receiving port side attachment portion in the axial direction toward the opposite end portion (seventh configuration).

[0027] As a result, even when the axis of the pipe is inclined with respect to the axis of the receiving port side of the joined pipe, at least a part of the left sliding support member and at least a part of the right sliding support member can support the insertion port side of the pipe from below in a slidable state in the axial direction of the pipe while positioning the insertion port side of the pipe radially with respect to the receiving port side of the joined pipe. Therefore, a pipe support device capable of bending and joining the pipe and the joined pipe can be provided.

[0028] In the first configuration, the sliding support portion is provided on the tip side in the axial direction of the insertion port side support portion (eighth configuration).

[0029] According to the above configuration, even if the insertion port side of the pipe to be laid is not accurately positioned in the axial direction with respect to the pipe support device, the insertion port side of the pipe can be supported by the sliding support portion located at the tip side of the insertion port side support portion. Therefore, the workability of installing the insertion port side of the pipe on the insertion port side support portion can be improved.

[0030] In any one of the configurations described above from the first to the eighth, the sliding support portion includes a roller member that supports the insertion end of the pipe and rotates in one direction as the insertion end of the pipe approaches the receiving end of the pipe to be joined in the axial direction, and a reverse rotation prevention mechanism that prevents the roller member from rotating in the opposite direction to the one direction (configuration ninth).

[0031] According to the above configuration, when the insertion end of the pipe is slid axially by the roller member, the outer surface of the insertion end of the pipe is less likely to be scratched. Furthermore, since the sliding support part has a reverse rotation prevention mechanism that prevents the roller member from rotating in the reverse direction, it is possible to prevent the pipe from separating from the pipe to be joined due to the reaction force when inserting the insertion end of the pipe into the receiving end of the pipe to be joined.

[0032] Therefore, when joining the pipe and the pipe to be joined, it is possible to prevent the pipe from coming loose from the pipe to be joined. Thus, the pipe and the pipe to be joined can be joined more easily. [Effects of the Invention]

[0033] A pipe support device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a socket-side mounting portion attached to the socket side of the pipe to be joined, and a socket-side support portion extending from the socket-side mounting portion in the axial direction of the socket side of the pipe to be joined, and supporting the socket side of the pipe. The socket-side support portion has a sliding support portion that supports the socket side of the pipe so that it can slide in the axial direction while being positioned radially with respect to the socket side of the pipe to be joined.

[0034] This allows for easier positioning of the insertion end of the pipe relative to the receiving end of the pipe when joining the pipe and the pipe to be joined, without the worker having to enter the excavated trench. Furthermore, the sliding support part reduces frictional resistance between the insertion end of the pipe and the insertion end support part while supporting the insertion end of the pipe, allowing the insertion end of the pipe to move smoothly in the axial direction with a compact configuration. Thus, a pipe support device can be provided that does not require the worker to enter the excavated trench and can support the pipe so that it can be joined to the pipe with a compact configuration. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0035] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a side view showing a schematic configuration of a pipe support device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a top view showing the schematic configuration of the pipe support device. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows the pipe support device viewed from the pipe side in the axial direction. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows how the receiving end mounting portion of the pipe support device in Figure 3 is attached to the pipe to be joined. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the method of supporting and joining pipes to be joined using a pipe support device. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a side view showing how the receiving end of the pipe support device is attached to the pipe to be joined using a work machine. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a side view showing how the Socket-side support portion of the pipe support device supports the Socket-side of the pipe. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a side view showing how the insertion end of a pipe is inserted into the socket of the pipe to be joined by the pipe insertion section of the pipe support device. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a side view showing a schematic configuration of the pipe support device according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a top view showing the schematic configuration of the pipe support device. [Figure 11]Figure 11 is a side view showing how the pipe is supported by the socket-side support when the axis of the pipe is inclined vertically with respect to the axis of the pipe to be joined. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a top view showing how the pipe is supported by the socket-side support when the axis of the pipe is inclined to the left or right with respect to the axis of the pipe to be joined. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a view of the receiving end mounting portion of a pipe support device according to another embodiment, seen from the pipe side in the axial direction. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a side view showing a schematic configuration of the pipe insertion section of a pipe support device according to another embodiment. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a side view showing how the insertion end of a pipe is inserted into the socket of the pipe to be joined by the pipe insertion section of the pipe support device. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0036] The following describes each embodiment with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description of those parts will not be repeated. Note that the dimensions of the components in each drawing do not faithfully represent the dimensions of the actual components or the dimensional ratios of each component.

[0037] In the following description, the axial direction means the direction in which the axis L2 of the pipe W2 to be joined extends. The left-right direction means the horizontal direction that is also perpendicular to the axial direction. The horizontal direction includes not only the strictly horizontal direction but also the direction that intersects with the vertical direction. The radial direction means the direction perpendicular to the axial direction.

[0038] Furthermore, in the following explanation, the expressions "fix," "connect," and "attach" (hereinafter referred to as "fixing, etc.") include not only cases where components are directly fixed to each other, but also cases where they are fixed to each other via other components. In other words, in the following explanation, the expressions "fixing, etc." include both direct and indirect fixing of components to each other.

[0039] (Embodiment 1) (Pipe support device) Figure 1 is a side view showing the schematic configuration of the pipe support device 1 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 2 is a top view showing the schematic configuration of the pipe support device 1. Figure 3 is a view of the pipe support device 1 from the pipe W1 side in the axial direction. Note that in Figure 3, the pipe insertion section 50 is omitted from the illustration for the sake of clarity of the explanation.

[0040] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the pipe support device 1 is attached to the pipe to be joined W2 and supports the pipe W1 so that it can be inserted while positioning the insertion end of the pipe W1 relative to the receiving end of the pipe to be joined W2. The pipe support device 1 then joins the insertion end of the pipe W1, which is supported in this manner, to the receiving end of the pipe to be joined W2 by a pipe insertion part 50, which will be described later.

[0041] The pipe support device 1 is used in the excavation trench where the pipe W1 and the pipe to be joined W2 are laid. The pipe support device 1 is installed in the excavation trench, for example, by a work machine. The pipe support device 1 is sized to be installed in the excavation trench.

[0042] Pipe W1 and pipe W2 are, for example, water pipes. Pipe W1 and pipe W2 may be other types of pipes, such as sewer pipes, agricultural water pipes, or gas pipes. Pipe W1 and pipe W2 may be ductile cast iron pipes, other metal pipes, or resin pipes.

[0043] Pipe W1 and pipe W2 to be joined each have a socket at one end, a spigot at the other end, and a straight section between the socket and the spigot. In the following description, the spigot side of pipe W1 includes the spigot W1a of pipe W1, the straight section W1b adjacent to the spigot W1a, and the spigot projection W1c. The socket side of pipe W2 includes the socket W2a of pipe W2 and the straight section W2b adjacent to the socket W2a.

[0044] The pipe support device 1 is attached to the straight section W2b of the pipe to be joined W2. With the pipe support device 1 attached to the straight section W2b, it slidably supports the insertion end of the pipe W1 relative to the receiving end W2a of the pipe to be joined W2, positioning it radially. With the axis L1 of the pipe W1 positioned relative to the axis L2 of the pipe to be joined W2, the pipe support device 1 inserts the insertion end W1a of the pipe W1 into the receiving end W2a of the pipe to be joined W2. Specifically, the pipe support device 1 has a receiving end mounting section 10, an insertion end support section 20, and a pipe insertion section 50.

[0045] The socket-side mounting portion 10 is attached to the pipe to be joined W2. The spigot-side support portion 20 extends axially from the socket-side mounting portion 10 toward the pipe W1. The spigot-side support portion 20 supports the spigot side of the pipe W1 so that it can slide axially while positioning it relative to the socket side of the pipe to be joined W2. Details of the socket-side mounting portion 10 and the spigot-side support portion 20 will be described later.

[0046] The pipe insertion section 50 grips the spigot end of the pipe W1, which is supported by the spigot end support section 20, and moves it toward the receiving end W2a of the pipe to be joined, thereby inserting the spigot W1a into the receiving end W2a. The pipe insertion section 50 has a pair of gripping sections 51, 52, a pair of connecting sections 53, 54, and a moving mechanism 55.

[0047] The pair of gripping portions 51 and 52 are plate-shaped members extending in the axial direction. The pair of gripping portions 51 and 52 grip the outer circumferential surface of the insertion opening W1a of the pipe W1 from both the left and right sides, and the tip of the gripping portion on the pipe W2 side in the axial direction is configured to be able to contact the insertion opening projection W1c of the pipe W1 in the axial direction. The pair of gripping portions 51 and 52 are pressed radially inward by a pressing portion (not shown).

[0048] The pair of connecting parts 53 and 54 connect the base ends of the pair of gripping parts 51 and 52 to the pair of arm parts 57 and 58 of the moving mechanism 55, which will be described later. The pair of connecting parts 53 and 54 support the base ends of the pair of gripping parts 51 and 52 so that they can move in the radial direction of the pipe W1.

[0049] The moving mechanism 55 moves the pair of connecting parts 53 and 54 in the axial direction relative to the receiving end mounting part 10. The moving mechanism 55 has a moving main body part 56, a pair of arm parts 57 and 58, and a moving support part 59.

[0050] The movable main body 56 extends axially toward the pipe W1 from a movable support part 59 fixed to the receiving end mounting part 10. A pair of arm parts 57 and 58 extend left and right and downward from the tip of the movable main body 56 on the pipe W1 side. A pair of connecting parts 53 and 54 are connected to the lower ends of each of the pair of arm parts 57 and 58. The movable support part 59 supports the movable main body 56 so that it can move axially relative to the receiving end mounting part 10.

[0051] The moving mechanism 55 is composed of, for example, a hydraulic cylinder in which the moving body 56 extends and retracts in the axial direction. The moving mechanism 55 may also be configured such that the moving body 56 moves in the axial direction via a rack and pinion (not shown).

[0052] As described above, with the pair of gripping parts 51 and 52 gripping the pipe W1, the moving mechanism 55 moves the pair of gripping parts 51 and 52 toward the pipe to be joined W2 via the pair of connecting parts 53 and 54, so that the insertion opening W1a of the pipe W1 is inserted into the receiving opening W2a of the pipe to be joined W2. In this way, the pipe W1 and the pipe to be joined W2 are joined.

[0053] (Receiving side mounting part) The following describes the detailed configuration of the receiving end mounting portion 10 and the insertion end support portion 20 of the pipe support device 1. Figure 4 shows how the receiving end mounting portion 10 of the pipe support device 1 shown in Figure 3 is attached to the pipe to be joined W2. Note that in Figure 4, the pipe insertion portion 50 is omitted from the illustration for clarity of the explanation. Also, the pipe W1 is not depicted in Figure 4.

[0054] The receiving end mounting portion 10 is configured to be attached to the pipe to be joined W2 by a mechanical structure without using a power source such as a motor and cylinder. Specifically, as shown in Figures 1 to 4, the receiving end mounting portion 10 includes a right receiving end mounting member 11, a left receiving end mounting member 12, a support portion 13, an operating portion 15, and a link member 16.

[0055] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the right-side mounting member 11 has a semicircular shape that follows the outer circumference of the right side of the straight pipe section W2b of the pipe to be joined. The left-side mounting member 12 has a semicircular shape that follows the outer circumference of the left side of the straight pipe section W2b of the pipe to be joined. When there is no need to distinguish between the right-side mounting member 11 and the left-side mounting member 12, they will be referred to as a pair of mounting members 11 and 12.

[0056] The pair of mounting members 11 and 12 are configured to be switchable between an open state, where they are separated from the pipe W2 to be joined, and a closed state, where they grip the pipe W2 to be joined. A brief explanation follows.

[0057] The upper ends of the pair of mounting members 11 and 12 are rotatably connected to the right and left sides of a support portion 13 that extends horizontally above the pipe W2 to be joined. The support portion 13 is rotatably connected to the upper ends of the pair of mounting members 11 and 12 and also supports the operating portion 15 so that it can move vertically.

[0058] The operating unit 15 is located above the support unit 13 and is supported so as to be movable in the vertical direction relative to the support unit 13. The link member 16 connects the pair of mounting members 11 and 12 to the operating unit 15. Therefore, when the operating unit 15 moves vertically relative to the support unit 13, the link member 16 also moves vertically. As described above, the upper ends of the pair of mounting members 11 and 12 are rotatably connected to the right and left sides of the support unit 13. Therefore, when the link member 16 moves vertically, the pair of mounting members 11 and 12 rotate so that their lower ends move apart or closer together in the left-right direction. This switches the pair of mounting members 11 and 12 between a closed state and an open state.

[0059] More specifically, the operating unit 15 moves downward so as to approach the support unit 13, thereby closing the pair of mounting members 11 and 12 via the link member 16. The operating unit 15 moves upward so as to move away from the support unit 13, thereby opening the pair of mounting members 11 and 12 via the link member 16.

[0060] In the receiving-side mounting portion 10 having the above configuration, for example, by a work machine gripping the operating portion 15 and suspending the receiving-side mounting portion 10, the operating portion 15 can be moved upward relative to the support portion 13, as shown in Figure 4. That is, by the work machine suspending the operating portion 15, the pair of mounting members 11 and 12 can be opened. On the other hand, when the operating portion 15 is not suspended, as shown in Figure 3, the operating portion 15 moves downward due to its own weight. That is, the operating portion 15 moves closer to the support portion 13. Therefore, for example, by releasing the grip of the operating portion 15 by the work machine, the pair of mounting members 11 and 12 can be closed.

[0061] Therefore, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, for example, the work machine can grip the operating part 15 and position the support part 13 above the straight pipe section W2b of the pipe to be joined W2, and the work machine can release its grip on the operating part 15 to attach the receiving end mounting part 10 to the straight pipe section W2b of the pipe to be joined W2.

[0062] (Support part on the insertion side) As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the Socket-side support portion 20 is configured to support the Socket-side of the pipe W1 when the Receiving-side mounting portion 10 is closed. On the other hand, as shown in Figure 4, the Socket-side support portion 20 is configured to move away from the Socket-side of the pipe W1 joined to the pipe W2 when the Receiving-side mounting portion 10 is open. The configuration of the Socket-side support portion 20 will be described below, followed by a description of the Socket-side support portion 20 when the Receiving-side mounting portion 10 is in the open or closed state.

[0063] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the socket-side support portion 20 supports the socket side of the pipe W1. The socket-side support portion 20 includes a right socket-side support member 21, a left socket-side support member 22, and a sliding support portion 30.

[0064] (Support member on the insertion side) The right-side insertion support member 21 is connected to the lower part of the right-side receiving mounting member 11, which is located to the right of the pipe W2 to be joined, and extends axially from the right-side receiving mounting member 11 toward the pipe W1. Therefore, the right-side insertion support member 21 is located to the right of the pipe W1. The left-side insertion support member 22 is connected to the lower part of the left-side receiving mounting member 12, which is located to the left of the pipe W2 to be joined, and extends axially from the left-side receiving mounting member 12 toward the pipe W1. Therefore, the left-side receiving mounting member 12 is located to the left of the pipe W1. When there is no need to specifically distinguish between the right-side insertion support member 21 and the left-side insertion support member 22, they will be referred to as a pair of insertion-side support members 21 and 22.

[0065] A sliding support portion 30, described later, is connected to the pipe W1 end of the pair of insertion-side support members 21 and 22. In this way, the pair of insertion-side support members 21 and 22 support the sliding support portion 30 with respect to the receiving-side mounting portion 10.

[0066] (Sliding support part) The sliding support portion 30 supports the insertion end of the pipe W1 so that it can slide axially while positioning it radially relative to the receiving end of the pipe W2 to be joined. Specifically, the sliding support portion 30 includes a right sliding support member 31, a left sliding support member 32, and a reverse rotation prevention mechanism S.

[0067] The right sliding support member 31 is provided at the end of the right insertion-side support member 21 on the pipe W1 side. The left sliding support member 32 is provided at the end of the left insertion-side support member 22 on the pipe W1 side. The right sliding support member 31 and the left sliding support member 32 are spaced axially away from the positions of the pair of mounting members 11 and 12, and are aligned horizontally at the same axial position. Specifically, as shown in Figure 2, the right sliding support member 31 and the left sliding support member 32 are positioned to the left and right, respectively, with respect to the axis L1 of the pipe W1 when the pipe support device 1 is viewed from above. When there is no need to specifically distinguish between the left sliding support member 32 and the right sliding support member 31, they will be referred to as a pair of sliding support members 31 and 32.

[0068] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the right sliding support member 31 extends in the left-right direction to the right of the axis L2 of the pipe W2 to be joined, when the receiving end mounting portion 10 is closed and the pipe support device 1 is viewed from above. The right sliding support member 31 slidably supports the right and lower side of the pipe W1.

[0069] The right sliding support member 31 includes, for example, a right roller member R1 and a right case 33. The right roller member R1 is a member that rotates about a rotation axis X1. The rotation axis X1 of the right roller member R1 extends to the right and in the left-right direction relative to the axis L2 of the pipe W2 to be joined, when the receiving end mounting portion 10 is closed and the pipe support device 1 is viewed from above. The rotation axis X1 of the right roller member R1 is tilted such that, when the receiving end mounting portion 10 is closed and the pipe support device 1 is viewed in the axial direction, the right side is positioned higher than the left side.

[0070] The right case 33 is a case that rotatably houses the right roller member R1. The right case 33 is fixed to the right insertion side support member 21. The right roller member R1 is rotatably housed in the right case 33 with its upper portion exposed from the right case 33.

[0071] When the receiving end mounting portion 10 is closed, the left sliding support member 32 extends in the left-right direction to the left of the axis L2 of the pipe W2 to be joined, as viewed from above of the pipe support device 1. The left sliding support member 32 slidably supports the left and lower sides of the pipe W1.

[0072] The left sliding support member 32 includes, for example, a left roller member R2 and a left case 34. The left roller member R2 is a member that rotates about a rotation axis X2. The rotation axis X2 of the left roller member R2 extends to the left and in the left direction relative to the axis L2 of the pipe W2 to be joined, when the receiving end mounting portion 10 is closed and the pipe support device 1 is viewed from above. The rotation axis X2 of the left roller member R2 is tilted such that, when the receiving end mounting portion 10 is closed and the pipe support device 1 is viewed in the axial direction, the left side is positioned higher than the right side.

[0073] The left case 34 is a case that rotatably houses the left roller member R2. The left case 34 is fixed to the left insertion side support member 22. The left roller member R2 is rotatably supported relative to the left case 34, with its upper portion exposed from the left case 34. Unless there is a need to specifically distinguish between the right roller member R1 and the left roller member R2, they will be referred to as roller members R1 and R2, respectively.

[0074] As described above, the rotation axis X1 of the right roller member R1 is tilted such that, with the receiving end mounting portion 10 closed and the pipe support device 1 viewed axially, the right side is positioned higher than the left side. Similarly, the rotation axis X2 of the left roller member R2 is tilted such that, with the receiving end mounting portion 10 closed and the pipe support device 1 viewed axially, the left side is positioned higher than the right side. In other words, the rotation axes X1 and X2 of the roller members R1 and R2 are tilted so that they approach each other as they move downward from the upper end.

[0075] The portions of roller members R1 and R2 that are exposed from their respective cases 33 and 34 contact the outer circumferential surface of the insertion end of pipe W1 when the receiving end mounting portion 10 is closed, thereby supporting the insertion end of pipe W1. Roller members R1 and R2 rotate when the pipe W1 they are in contact with moves in the axial direction.

[0076] Each roller member R1 and R2 has a size and strength sufficient to support the insertion end of the pipe W1. Each roller member R1 and R2 is, for example, a metal roller member. Known roller members can be used as long as each roller member R1 and R2 has the size and strength described above.

[0077] The surfaces of each roller member R1 and R2 are covered with a material that generates frictional force when in contact with the insertion end of the pipe W1. The surfaces of each roller member R1 and R2 are covered with, for example, rubber or urethane. The surfaces of each roller member may also be covered with other materials or may be exposed.

[0078] The reverse rotation prevention mechanism S restricts the movement of each roller member R1 and R2 so that each roller member R1 and R2 rotates only in one direction, which is the direction in which the insertion end of pipe W1 approaches the receiving end of pipe W2 in the axial direction. In other words, the reverse rotation prevention mechanism S causes each roller member R1 and R2 to rotate only in the aforementioned one direction and not in the direction in which the insertion end of pipe W1 moves away from the receiving end of pipe W2 in the axial direction.

[0079] The anti-reverse rotation mechanism S can employ a known configuration as long as it can restrict the rotation of each roller member R1, R2 in one direction. For example, the anti-reverse rotation mechanism S can utilize a one-way clutch mechanism that transmits rotational force in only one direction.

[0080] (Sliding support part in closed and open states) As described above, in the sliding support portion 30 of the insertion-side support portion 20, the left sliding support member 32 is connected to the left receiving-side mounting member 12 via the left insertion-side support member 22. Also, the right sliding support member 31 is connected to the right receiving-side mounting member 11 via the right insertion-side support member 21. In other words, the pair of sliding support members 31 and 32 in the sliding support portion 30 are configured to be linked to the open and closed states of the receiving-side mounting portion 10 via the pair of insertion-side support members 21 and 22.

[0081] More specifically, as shown in Figure 3, the pair of sliding support members 31 and 32 are positioned to support the spigot side of the pipe W1 via the pair of spigot-side support members 21 and 22 when the pair of mounting members 11 and 12 are in a closed state gripping the pipe W2 to be joined. On the other hand, as shown in Figure 4, the pair of sliding support members 31 and 32 are positioned away from the spigot side of the pipe W1 via the pair of spigot-side support members 21 and 22 when the pair of mounting members 11 and 12 are in an open state, separated from the pipe W2 to be joined.

[0082] In the following, the state in which the pair of mounting members 11 and 12 are in a closed state and the pair of sliding support members 31 and 32 are positioned to support the insertion side of the pipe W1 via the pair of insertion-side support members 21 and 22 will be simply described as the "closed state," and the state in which the pair of mounting members 11 and 12 are in an open state and the pair of sliding support members 31 and 32 are positioned away from the insertion side of the pipe W1 will be simply described as the "open state."

[0083] As shown in Figure 3, the pair of sliding support members 31 and 32, in the closed state, support the insertion end of the pipe W1 from below so that it can slide in the axial direction, and position the axis L1 of the supported pipe W1 radially with respect to the axis L2 of the pipe to be joined, which is gripped by the pair of mounting members 11 and 12.

[0084] More specifically, the pair of sliding support members 31 and 32 are positioned below the pipe W1 in the closed state, symmetrically with respect to the axis L2 of the pipe W2 to be joined. As described above, the pair of sliding support members 31 and 32 are connected to the pair of slit-side support members 21 and 22 in the closed state such that, when viewing the pipe support device 1 in the axial direction, the outer side is positioned higher than the inner side. In other words, the right sliding support member 31 is tilted to the left so that the right side is positioned higher than the left side. The left sliding support member 32 is tilted to the right so that the left side is positioned higher than the right side. The inclination angle of the pair of sliding support members 31 and 32 is an angle that allows the slit side of the pipe W1 to be supported from below. For example, in the closed state, the inclination angle of the pair of sliding support members 31 and 32 with respect to the horizontal is 10 degrees. Note that the inclination angle may be greater than 10 degrees or less than 45 degrees, as long as the slit side of the pipe can be supported from below.

[0085] In this way, the pair of sliding support members 31 and 32 support both the left and right sides of the insertion end of the pipe W1 from below when in the closed state. That is, the right sliding support member 31 supports the right side of the insertion end of the pipe W1 from below, and the left sliding support member 32 supports the left side of the insertion end of the pipe W1 from below.

[0086] As a result, the insertion end of the pipe W1 is positioned in the left-right center of the pair of sliding support members 31 and 32, as the leftward force from the right-sliding support member 31, which is tilted to the left, and the rightward force from the left-sliding support member 32, which is tilted to the right, cancel each other out.

[0087] Furthermore, when viewing the pipe support device 1 in the axial direction, the vertical positions of the pair of sliding support members 31 and 32 are configured such that the vertical position of the axis L1 of the pipe W1 supported by the insertion-side support portion 20 coincides with the vertical position of the axis L2 of the pipe W2 to be joined.

[0088] As a result, as shown in Figure 2, in the closed state, the position of the axis L1 of the pipe W1 supported by the pair of sliding support members 31 and 32 can be made to coincide with the position of the axis L2 of the pipe W2 to be joined.

[0089] In addition, in the closed state, the insertion end of the pipe W1 is supported by a pair of sliding support members 31 and 32, allowing the insertion end of the supported pipe W1 to slide axially toward the receiving end of the pipe W2 to be joined.

[0090] In this way, the pipe support device 1, in the closed state, can support the pipe W1 so that the insertion side is slidably positioned radially by the insertion-side support portion 20, so that the axis L1 of the pipe W1 aligns with the axis L2 of the pipe W2 to be joined, while simultaneously moving it closer to the receiving side of the pipe W2 to be joined. This allows the insertion W1a of the pipe W1, supported by the insertion-side support portion 20, to be inserted into the receiving end W2a of the pipe W2 by the pipe insertion portion 50, thereby joining the pipe W2 and the pipe W1.

[0091] As shown in Figure 4, after joining the insertion end of pipe W1 to the receiving end of pipe W2, switching from the closed state to the open state causes the pair of mounting members 11, 12 of the receiving end mounting portion 10 and the pair of sliding support members 31, 32 of the insertion end support members 21, 22 to move away from pipe W1 in the left-right direction.

[0092] In the open state, the distance in the left-right direction between the lower part of the right receiving end mounting member 11 and the lower part of the left receiving end mounting member 12 is greater than the left-right diameter of the straight pipe section W2b of the pipe to be joined W2. Also, in the open state, the distance in the left-right direction between the left end of the right sliding support member 31 and the right end of the left sliding support member 32 is greater than the left-right diameter of the insertion end of the pipe W1. Therefore, by moving the pipe support device 1 that supports the pipe W1 and the pipe to be joined W2 upwards, it can be removed from the pipe W1 and the pipe to be joined W2.

[0093] (Pipe support method) Next, a method for supporting and joining pipe W1 and pipe W2 using the pipe support device 1 will be described with reference to Figures 3 to 8. Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the method for supporting and joining pipe W1 and pipe W2 using the pipe support device 1. Figure 6 is a side view showing the attachment of the receiving end mounting part 10 of the pipe support device 1 to pipe W2 using the work machine M. Figure 7 is a side view showing the insertion end of pipe W1 being supported by the insertion end support part 20 of the pipe support device 1. Figure 8 is a side view showing the insertion end W1a of pipe W1 being inserted into the receiving end W2a of pipe W2 using the pipe insertion part 50 of the pipe support device 1. Note that the excavation trench is not shown in Figures 6 to 8.

[0094] When the flow shown in Figure 5 starts (START), in step S1, as shown in Figures 4 and 6, the working machine M is used to grip the operating part 15 of the receiving end mounting part 10 and suspend the pipe support device 1 into the excavation trench. At this time, the pair of mounting members 11 and 12 of the receiving end mounting part 10 are in the open state. Subsequently, the operating part 15 is released from the working machine M so that the pair of mounting members 11 and 12 grip the straight pipe section W2b of the pipe to be joined W2. As a result, the pair of mounting members 11 and 12 are in the closed state as shown in Figure 3.

[0095] Next, as shown by the black arrows in Figure 7, the ends of the pair of gripping parts 51 and 52 of the pipe insertion part 50 on the pipe W2 side are housed inside the receiving opening W2a of the pipe W2. This allows the pipe W1 to be installed in the next step to be lowered close to the pipe W2.

[0096] Next, in step S2 of the flowchart shown in Figure 5, as indicated by the white arrow in Figure 7, the insertion end of pipe W1 is placed on the sliding support part 30 of the insertion end support part 20 using a pipe lifting device (not shown). At this time, the sliding support part 30 positions the insertion end of pipe W1 with a pair of sliding support members 31 and 32 so that the axis L1 of pipe W1 coincides with the axis L2 of the pipe to be joined. The sliding support part 30 also supports the insertion end of the supported pipe W1 so that it can slide axially in a direction that brings it closer to the receiving end W2a of the pipe to be joined.

[0097] Next, the movement mechanism 55 of the pipe insertion section 50 moves the pair of gripping sections 51 and 52 axially toward the pipe W1 until they overcome the insertion port projection W1c. As a result, the pair of gripping sections 51 and 52 grip the outer surface of the insertion port W1a of the pipe W1 from both the left and right sides.

[0098] Next, in step S3 of the flowchart shown in Figure 5, as indicated by the white arrows in Figure 8, the moving mechanism 55 of the pipe insertion section 50 moves the pair of gripping sections 51 and 52 axially toward the pipe to be joined W2. That is, the insertion end of pipe W1 is moved axially toward the receiving end W2a of pipe to be joined while sliding it on the sliding support section 30. Then, the insertion end W1a of pipe W1 is inserted into the receiving end W2a of pipe to be joined W2, and pipe W1 and pipe to be joined W2 are joined.

[0099] Next, in step S4 of the flowchart shown in Figure 5, the working machine M is used to grip the operating part 15 of the receiving end mounting part 10 and lift the pipe support device 1, thereby removing the pipe support device 1 from the pipe W1 and the pipe to be joined W2. After that, the flowchart shown in Figure 5 is completed (END).

[0100] The pipe support device 1 according to the embodiment described above supports the Socket W1a of pipe W1 and the Receptacle W2a of pipe W2 to be joined to pipe W1 in a pipe having a Socket W1a and a Receptacle W2a. The pipe support device 1 has a Receptacle-side mounting portion 10 attached to the Receptacle side of pipe W2, and a Socket-side support portion 20 extending from the Socket-side mounting portion 10 in the axial direction of the Receptacle side of pipe W2 to be joined and supporting the Socket side of pipe W1. The Socket-side support portion 20 has a sliding support portion 30 that supports the Socket side of pipe W1 from below so that it can slide in the axial direction while being positioned radially relative to the Receptacle side of pipe W2 to be joined.

[0101] According to the above configuration, by placing the insertion end of the pipe W1 on the sliding support portion 30 of the insertion end support portion 20 that extends axially from the receiving end mounting portion 10, the insertion end of the pipe W1 can be supported in a state that allows it to slide axially while being positioned radially with respect to the receiving end of the pipe W2 to be joined.

[0102] This makes it easier to position the insertion end of pipe W1 relative to the receiving end of pipe W2 when joining pipe W1 and pipe W2, without requiring the worker to enter the excavated trench.

[0103] Furthermore, the sliding support portion 30 supports the insertion end of the pipe W1 while reducing the frictional resistance generated between the insertion end of the pipe W1 and the insertion end support portion 20. This allows the insertion end of the pipe W1 to move smoothly in the axial direction with a compact configuration.

[0104] Therefore, a pipe support device 1 can be provided that does not require workers to enter the excavated trench and can support pipe W1 so that it can be joined to pipe W2 with a compact configuration.

[0105] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the sliding support portion 30 includes a pair of sliding support members 31 and 32 that support both the left and right sides of the insertion end of the pipe W1 from below, when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe support device 1.

[0106] With the above configuration, the pair of sliding support members 31 and 32 can support both the left and right sides of the insertion end of the pipe W1 from below when viewed in the axial direction. This allows the insertion end of the pipe W1 to be easily positioned and placed, and prevents the insertion end of the pipe W1 from shifting laterally from its positioned location.

[0107] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the pair of sliding support members 31 and 32 are inclined such that, when viewed axially from the pipe support device 1, they move closer to each other as they move downward from the upper end.

[0108] According to the above configuration, when viewing the pipe support device 1 in the axial direction, the pair of sliding support members 31 and 32 are inclined so that they move closer to each other from the upper end downwards. Therefore, even if the insertion end of the pipe W1 to be laid does not need to be precisely positioned in the left-right direction relative to the pipe support device 1, it is possible to precisely position the receiving end W2a of the pipe W2 to be joined.

[0109] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the receiving end mounting portion 10 has a left receiving end mounting member 12 and a right receiving end mounting member 11 that grip the receiving end of the pipe W2 to be joined. The insertion end support portion 20 has a left insertion end support member 22 connected to the left receiving end mounting member 12 and extending in the axial direction, and a right insertion end support member 21 connected to the right receiving end mounting member 11 and extending in the axial direction. The pair of sliding support members 31, 32 has a left sliding support member 32 provided on the left insertion end support member 22 and a right sliding support member 31 provided on the right insertion end support member 21.

[0110] According to the above configuration, the left socket mounting member 12, the left insertion support member 22, and the left sliding support member 32 are located on the left side of the insertion side of the pipe W1, while the right socket mounting member 11, the right insertion support member 21, and the right sliding support member 31 are located on the right side of the insertion side of the pipe W1.

[0111] As a result, the pipe support device 1 is more securely attached to the receiving end of the pipe to be joined W2 by the left receiving end mounting member 12 and the right receiving end mounting member 11, and the insertion end of the pipe to be installed can be more easily and reliably positioned radially relative to the receiving end of the pipe to be joined W2 by the left insertion end support member 22 and the left sliding support member 32, and the right insertion end support member 21 and the right sliding support member 31.

[0112] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the left socket mounting member 12 and the right socket mounting member 11 are configured to be switchable between a closed state in which they grip the socket side of the pipe to be joined W2 and an open state in which they are separated from the socket side of the pipe to be joined W2. The left insertion-side support member 22 and the right insertion-side support member 21 are configured to work in conjunction with the left sliding support member 32 and the right sliding support member 31 so that in the closed state the insertion-side of the pipe W1 is slidably supported, while in the open state they are separated from the insertion-side of the pipe W1.

[0113] According to the above configuration, the socket-side mounting portion 10 can be easily attached to and detached from the socket side of the pipe W2 by switching the left socket-side mounting member 12 and the right socket-side mounting member 11 between a closed state and an open state. The left insertion-side support member 22 and the right insertion-side support member 21, which are linked to the left socket-side mounting member 12 and the right socket-side mounting member 11, cause the left sliding support member 32 and the right sliding support member 31 to slidably support the insertion side of the pipe W1 in the closed state, while moving away from the insertion side of the pipe W1 in the open state.

[0114] As a result, when joining the socket end of pipe W1 to the socket end of pipe W2, the left socket side mounting member 12 and the right socket side mounting member 11 can be closed to allow the socket end of pipe W1 to be slidably supported while being aligned with the socket end of pipe W2. After joining the socket end of pipe W1 to the socket end of pipe W2, the pipe support device 1 can be easily removed from pipe W2 and pipe W1 by opening the left socket side mounting member 12 and the right socket side mounting member 11. Therefore, a pipe support device 1 can be provided that allows for more efficient joining of pipe W1 and pipe W2.

[0115] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the sliding support portion 30 is provided on the axial end side of the insertion-side support portion 20.

[0116] With the above configuration, even if the insertion end of the pipe W1 to be laid is not precisely positioned axially with respect to the pipe support device 1, the insertion end of the pipe W1 can be supported by the sliding support part 30 located at the tip of the insertion end support part 20. Therefore, the workability of installing the insertion end of the pipe W1 on the insertion end support part 20 can be improved.

[0117] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the sliding support portion 30 includes roller members R1 and R2 that support the insertion end of the pipe W1 and rotate in one direction as the insertion end of the pipe W1 approaches the receiving end of the pipe W2 in the axial direction, and a reverse rotation prevention mechanism S that prevents the roller members R1 and R2 from rotating in the opposite direction to the one direction.

[0118] With the above configuration, when the insertion end of pipe W1 is slid axially by the roller members R1 and R2, the outer surface of the insertion end of pipe W1 is less likely to be scratched. Furthermore, since the sliding support part 30 has a reverse rotation prevention mechanism S that prevents the roller members R1 and R2 from rotating in the opposite direction, it is possible to prevent pipe W1 from separating from pipe W2 due to the reaction force when inserting the insertion end of pipe W1 into the receiving end of pipe W2. Therefore, when joining pipe W1 and pipe W2, it is possible to prevent pipe W1 from coming out of pipe W2. Thus, pipe W1 and pipe W2 can be joined more easily.

[0119] (Embodiment 2) Next, the pipe support device 101 according to Embodiment 2 will be described with reference to Figures 9 to 12. Figure 9 is a side view showing the schematic configuration of the pipe support device 101. Figure 10 is a top view showing the schematic configuration of the pipe support device 101. As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the pipe support device 101 has a receiving-side mounting portion 10, a insertion-side support portion 120, and a pipe insertion portion 50.

[0120] The socket-side support portion 120 supports the socket side of the pipe W1. The socket-side support portion 120 includes a right socket-side support member 21, a left socket-side support member 22, and a sliding support portion 130.

[0121] The sliding support portion 130 includes a right sliding support member 131 and a left sliding support member 132. The sliding support portion 130 may also have a reverse rotation prevention mechanism S, similar to the sliding support portion 30 in Embodiment 1.

[0122] The right sliding support member 131 is provided at the end of the right insertion side support member 21 on the pipe W1 side. The left sliding support member 132 is provided at the end of the left insertion side support member 22 on the pipe W1 side.

[0123] The right sliding support member 131 extends horizontally to the right of the axis L2 of the pipe W2 to be joined, when the receiving end mounting portion 10 is closed and the pipe support device 101 is viewed from above. The right sliding support member 131 slidably supports the right and lower side of the pipe W1.

[0124] The right sliding support member 131 includes, for example, a plurality of right roller members R1 and a right case 133. The rotation axes X1 of the plurality of right roller members R1 extend in the left-right direction to the right of the axis L2 of the pipe W2 to be joined, when viewed from above in the closed state. Also, when viewed in the axial direction in the closed state, the rotation axes X1 of the plurality of right roller members R1 are inclined such that the right side is positioned higher than the left side. The right case 133 rotatably houses the plurality of right roller members R1.

[0125] The left sliding support member 132 extends horizontally to the left of the axis L2 of the pipe W2 to be joined, when the receiving end mounting portion 10 is closed and the pipe support device 101 is viewed from above. The left sliding support member 132 slidably supports the left and lower sides of the pipe W1.

[0126] The left sliding support member 132 includes, for example, a plurality of left roller members R2 and a left case 134. The rotation axes X2 of the plurality of left roller members R2 extend in the left-right direction to the left of the axis L2 of the joined pipe W2 when viewed from above in the closed state. Also, the rotation axes X2 of the plurality of left roller members R2 are inclined when viewed in the axial direction in the closed state such that the left side is positioned higher than the right side. The left case 134 rotatably houses the plurality of left roller members R2.

[0127] In this embodiment, the right sliding support member 131 and the left sliding support member 132 have a greater length in the axial direction than their length in the left-right direction.

[0128] As a result, at least a portion of the left sliding support member 132 supports the left side of the pipe W1 on the insertion side from below, and at least a portion of the right sliding support member 131 supports the right side of the pipe W1 on the insertion side from below. Therefore, even if the position of the right sliding support member 131, which supports the right and lower side of the pipe W1, and the position of the left sliding support member 132, which supports the left and lower side of the pipe W1, are different in the axial direction, the pipe support device 101 can support the pipe W1. In other words, the pipe support device 101 can support a pipe W1 whose axis L1 does not coincide with the axis L2 of the pipe W2 to be joined.

[0129] Therefore, even if the axis L1 of pipe W1 and the axis L2 of pipe W2 to be joined do not coincide, the insertion end of pipe W1 can be supported from below in a state that allows it to slide in the direction of the axis L1 of pipe W1 while being positioned radially relative to the receiving end of pipe W2 to be joined.

[0130] In this embodiment, the left sliding support member 132 and the right sliding support member 131 are inclined with respect to the axial direction such that they move away from the axis of the pipe W2 to be joined as they move from the end closer to the receiving end mounting portion 10 in the axial direction to the opposite end.

[0131] As a result, even when the axis L1 of pipe W1 is inclined with respect to the axis L2 of the receiving end of the pipe W2 to be joined, at least a portion of the left sliding support member 132 and at least a portion of the right sliding support member 131 can support the insertion end of pipe W1 from below in a state that allows it to slide in the axial direction, while positioning the insertion end of pipe W1 radially with respect to the receiving end of pipe W2 to be joined.

[0132] Figure 11 is a side view showing how the Socket-side support part 120 supports pipe W1 when the axis L1 of pipe W1 is inclined vertically with respect to the axis L2 of pipe W2 to be joined. Figure 12 is a top view showing how the Socket-side support part 120 supports pipe W1 when the axis L1 of pipe W1 is inclined horizontally with respect to the axis L2 of pipe W2 to be joined.

[0133] In this embodiment, the left sliding support member 132 and the right sliding support member 131 are inclined with respect to the axis L2 of the pipe W2 to be joined. As a result, as shown in Figure 11, even when the axis L1 of pipe W1 is inclined vertically with respect to the axis L2 of the pipe W2 to be joined, pipe W1 can be supported by the insertion-side support part 120. Also, as shown in Figure 12, even when the axis L1 of pipe W1 is inclined horizontally with respect to the axis L2 of the pipe W2 to be joined, pipe W1 can be supported by the insertion-side support part 120.

[0134] Furthermore, in this state, the insertion end of pipe W1 can be gripped by the pipe insertion part 50 and moved toward the receiving end W2a of the pipe to be joined, thereby inserting the insertion end W1a of pipe W1 into the receiving end W2a of pipe to be joined. This makes it possible to join pipe W1, whose axis L1 is inclined vertically or horizontally with respect to the axis L2 of pipe to be joined, to pipe W2. Thus, a pipe support device 101 capable of bending and joining pipe W1 and pipe to be joined W2 can be provided.

[0135] (Other embodiments) Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the embodiments described above are merely examples for carrying out the present invention. Therefore, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and it is possible to carry out the invention by appropriately modifying the embodiments described above without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0136] In each of the above embodiments, the pipe support device 1 has a receiving-side mounting portion 10, a spigot-side support portion 20, and a pipe insertion portion 50. However, the pipe support device does not have to have a pipe insertion portion. The pipe support device may join the pipe and the pipe to be joined by, for example, a known method for joining a pipe and the pipe to be joined.

[0137] In each of the above embodiments, the receiving end mounting portion 10 includes a pair of mounting members 11 and 12, a support portion 13, an operating portion 15, and a link member 16. However, the receiving end mounting portion may have any configuration as long as it can be attached to the receiving end side of the pipe to be joined.

[0138] For example, the receiving end mounting portion 210 of the pipe support device 201 may have the configuration shown in Figure 13. Figure 13 is a view of the receiving end mounting portion 210 of the pipe support device 201 as seen axially from the pipe W1 side. As shown in Figure 13, the receiving end mounting portion 210 includes a right receiving end mounting member 211, a left receiving end mounting member 212, a support portion 213, an operating portion 215, and a link member 216. The upper ends of the right receiving end mounting member 211 and the left receiving end mounting member 212 are rotatably connected to the support portion 213 so as to switch between an open state that moves away from the pipe W2 to be joined and a closed state that grips the pipe W2 to be joined.

[0139] The support section 213 is rotatably connected to the upper ends of the right socket side mounting member 211 and the left socket side mounting member 212, and also supports the operating section 215 so that it can move in the vertical direction. The support section 213 rotatably supports the base ends of the right socket side mounting member 211 and the left socket side mounting member 212 so that the right socket side mounting member 211 and the left socket side mounting member 212 can switch between an open state and a closed state.

[0140] The operating section 215 is located above the support section 213 and is supported so as to be movable in the vertical direction relative to the support section 213. The link member 216 connects the operating section 215 to the vertical intermediate portion of the right socket side mounting member 211, and also connects the operating section 215 to the vertical intermediate portion of the left socket side mounting member 212. Therefore, when the operating section 215 moves vertically relative to the support section 213, the link member 216 also moves vertically, causing the aforementioned intermediate portions of the right socket side mounting member 211 and the left socket side mounting member 212 to move vertically. As described above, the upper ends of the right socket side mounting member 211 and the left socket side mounting member 212 are rotatably connected to the support section 213. Therefore, when the link member 216 moves vertically, the right socket side mounting member 211 and the left socket side mounting member 212 rotate so that their lower ends move apart or closer together in the left-right direction. As a result, the right-side mounting member 211 and the left-side mounting member 212 switch between a closed state and an open state.

[0141] Furthermore, for example, the pipe insertion section 250 of the pipe support device 201 may have a configuration as shown in Figure 14. Figure 14 is a side view showing a schematic configuration of the pipe insertion section 250 of the pipe support device 201. Figure 15 is a side view showing how the insertion opening W1a of pipe W1 is inserted into the receiving opening W2a of pipe W2 by the pipe insertion section 250 of the pipe support device 201. As shown in Figure 14, the pipe insertion section 250 has a pull-in section 251 and a moving mechanism 255.

[0142] The moving mechanism 255 comprises a moving body 256 and a drive unit that drives the moving body 256. The drive unit is supported by a support portion 213 of the receiving-side mounting portion 210 and drives the moving body 256. The drive of the drive unit causes the tip of the moving body 256 to move away from the receiving-side mounting portion 210 and towards the receiving-side mounting portion 210. The moving body 256 is configured, for example, by a two-bar linkage mechanism. A retractable portion 251 is connected to the tip of the moving body 256 so as to be movable in the vertical direction and rotatable about a rotation axis that extends in the left-right direction.

[0143] The upper end of the retraction section 251 is connected to the movable main body section 256. The retraction section 251 has a plate-like portion that extends axially toward the receiving end mounting section 210. The axial tip of the retraction section 251 is configured to be able to contact the insertion end projection W1c of the pipe W1 in the axial direction. The retraction section 251 moves axially as the movable main body section 256 moves. As described above, the retraction section 251 is connected to the tip of the movable main body section 256 so as to be movable vertically and rotatably. As a result, as shown in Figure 15, even when the axis L1 of pipe W1 does not coincide with the axis L2 of pipe W2, such as when the axis L1 of pipe W1 is inclined vertically with respect to the axis L2 of pipe W2, or when the axis L1 of pipe W1 is inclined horizontally with respect to the axis L2 of pipe W2, the retraction section 251 can be positioned on pipe W1. Therefore, the pipe insertion portion 250 allows the insertion opening W1a of pipe W1, where the axis L1 does not coincide with the axis L2 of the pipe to be joined, to be inserted into the receiving opening W2a of pipe W2.

[0144] In each of the above embodiments, the socket-side mounting portion 10 has a pair of mounting members 11, 12, each having a left socket-side mounting member 12 and a right socket-side mounting member 11. The insertion-side support portions 20, 120 have a pair of insertion-side support members 21, 22, each having a left insertion-side support member 22 extending axially from the lower part of the left socket-side mounting member 12 and a right insertion-side support member 21 extending axially from the lower part of the right socket-side mounting member 11. The sliding support portions 30, 130 have a pair of sliding support members 31, 32, 131, 132, each having a left sliding support member 32, 132 provided on the left insertion-side support member 22 and a right sliding support member 31, 131 provided on the right insertion-side support member 21. However, the socket-side mounting portion may have one mounting member that can be attached to the socket side of the pipe to be joined, rather than a pair of left and right mounting members, or it may have three or more mounting members. The spigot-side support portion may have one spigot-side support member that extends axially from the mounting member of the socket-side mounting portion, rather than a pair of left and right spigot-side support members, or it may have three or more spigot-side support members. The sliding support portion may have one sliding support member that has a shape that can position the spigot side of the pipe radially relative to the socket side of the pipe to be joined, rather than a pair of left and right sliding support members, or it may have three or more sliding support members.

[0145] In each of the above embodiments, the pair of sliding support members 31, 32, 131, and 132 are connected to the pipe W1-side ends of the pair of insertion-side support members 21 and 22, respectively. The pair of sliding support members 31, 32, 131, and 132 are aligned left to right at the same position in the axial direction. However, the pair of sliding support parts may be provided at locations other than the pipe-side ends of the pair of insertion-side support parts. For example, the pair of sliding support parts may be provided in the middle of the axial direction of the pair of insertion-side support parts. Also, the pair of sliding support parts may not be aligned left to right with each other, but may be provided at different positions in the axial direction, for example.

[0146] In each of the above embodiments, the pair of sliding support members 31, 32, 131, and 132 each have roller members R1 and R2. The rotation axes X1 and X2 of the roller members R1 and R2 are inclined to approach each other as they extend downward from the upper end. However, the pair of sliding support members may have other sliding members instead of roller members, as long as they can reduce frictional resistance with the pipe insertion side. The pair of sliding support members do not have to be inclined to approach each other as they extend downward from the upper end, as long as they can support the pipe insertion side and position it radially. For example, the pair of sliding support members may have a pair of spherical members that support both the left and right sides of the pipe insertion side from below.

[0147] In the embodiment 1 described above, the sliding support portion 30 has a reverse rotation prevention mechanism S. As a result, each roller member R1, R2 rotates only in one direction, when the insertion end of pipe W1 approaches the receiving end of pipe W2 in the axial direction, and does not rotate in the direction when the insertion end of pipe W1 moves away from the receiving end of pipe W2 in the axial direction. However, the sliding support portion does not have to have a reverse rotation prevention mechanism. In this case, each roller member rotates in both directions, when the insertion end of pipe approaches and moves away from the receiving end of pipe in the axial direction.

[0148] In each of the embodiments described above, the pair of sliding support members 31, 32, 131, and 132 in the sliding support portions 30 and 130 are configured to be linked to the open and closed states of the receiving-side mounting portion 10 via the pair of insertion-side support members 21 and 22. However, the pair of sliding support members do not necessarily have to be linked to the receiving-side mounting portion. The pair of sliding support members may be configured to be able to open and close independently of the movement of the receiving-side mounting portion, for example. [Industrial applicability]

[0149] The present invention can be used in a pipe support device that supports the spigot of a pipe and the receptacle of a pipe to be joined to the pipe. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0150] 1, 101, 201 Pipe support device 10, 210 Receptacle side mounting part 11, 211 Right-side mounting member 12, 212 Left receiving side mounting member 13, 213 Support part 15, 215 Operation section 16, 216 Link members 20, 120 Insertion port side support part 21 Right insertion side support member 22 Left insertion side support member 30, 130 Sliding support part 31, 131 Right sliding support member 32, 132 Left sliding support member 33, 133 Right case 34, 134 Left case 50, 250 Tube insertion section 51, 52 Grip part 53, 54 Connection part 55, 255 Movement mechanism 56, 256 Mobile main unit 57, 58 Arm section 59 Moving support part 251 Service entrance R1 Right roller member R2 Left Roller Member X1, X2 rotation axes S Reverse rotation prevention mechanism W1 tube W1a socket W1b Straight pipe section (pipe) W1c Socket protrusion W2 Joined pipe W2a socket W2b Straight pipe section (joined pipe) L1, L2 axis M Work equipment

Claims

1. A pipe support device for a pipe having a socket and a receptacle, which supports the socket of the pipe and the receptacle of a pipe to be joined to the pipe, A receiving-side mounting portion attached to the receiving end of the pipe to be joined, An insertion-side support portion extends from the aforementioned receiving-side mounting portion in the axial direction of the receiving-side of the pipe to be joined, and supports the insertion-side of the pipe, It has, The aforementioned insertion-side support portion is, The slit support portion supports the insertion end of the aforementioned pipe from below so as to be slidable in the axial direction, while positioning it radially relative to the receiving end of the pipe to be joined. Tube support device.

2. In the pipe support device according to claim 1, The sliding support portion is, The pipe support device, viewed in the axial direction, includes a pair of sliding support members that support both the left and right sides of the pipe's insertion end from below. Tube support device.

3. In the pipe support device according to claim 2, The pair of sliding support members are inclined such that, when viewed in the axial direction of the pipe support device, they move closer to each other as they move downward from the upper end. Tube support device.

4. In the pipe support device according to claim 2, The aforementioned receiving side mounting portion is, It has a left receiving end mounting member and a right receiving end mounting member that grip the receiving end of the pipe to be joined, The aforementioned insertion-side support portion is, A left insertion-side support member is connected to the left receiving-side mounting member and extends in the axial direction, A right insertion-side support member is connected to the right receiving-side mounting member and extends in the axial direction, It has, The pair of sliding support members are, The left sliding support member provided on the left insertion side support member, The right sliding support member provided on the right insertion side support member, Having, Tube support device.

5. In the pipe support device according to claim 4, The left socket mounting member and the right socket mounting member are configured to be switchable between a closed state that grips the socket side of the pipe to be joined and an open state that is separated from the socket side of the pipe to be joined. The left insertion side support member and the right insertion side support member are, The left sliding support member and the right sliding support member slidably support the insertion side of the pipe in the closed state, while moving away from the insertion side of the pipe in the open state, in conjunction with the left receiving end mounting member and the right receiving end mounting member. Tube support device.

6. In the pipe support device according to claim 4, The left sliding support member and the right sliding support member are each such that their length in the axial direction is greater than their length in the left-right direction. Tube support device.

7. In the pipe support device according to claim 6, The left sliding support member and the right sliding support member are inclined with respect to the axial direction such that they move away from the axis of the pipe to be joined as they move from the end closer to the receiving end mounting portion in the axial direction to the opposite end. Tube support device.

8. In the pipe support device according to claim 1, The sliding support portion is, The aforementioned insertion-side support portion is provided on the axial end side, Tube support device.

9. In a pipe support device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, The sliding support portion is, A roller member that supports the insertion end of the pipe and rotates in one direction as the insertion end of the pipe approaches the receiving end of the pipe to be joined in the axial direction, A reverse rotation prevention mechanism that prevents the roller member from rotating in the opposite direction to the aforementioned one direction, Having, Tube support device.

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