Pipe conveying equipment, piping methods
The pipe transport device and method stabilize and efficiently convey flexible pipe members within pipelines using a rod-shaped support and detachable transport system, addressing deformation and construction inefficiencies in the PIP method.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- KUBOTA CORP
- Filing Date
- 2022-12-27
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-04
Smart Images
Figure 0007870245000001 
Figure 0007870245000002 
Figure 0007870245000003
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to, for example, a pipe conveying device for conveying a pipe member to be laid in an existing pipeline and a piping method for laying a pipe member in an existing pipeline.
Background Art
[0002] As a trenchless renewal method for an aging existing pipeline, for example, a pipe-in-pipe method (hereinafter referred to as "PIP method") is known. The PIP method is a method of constructing shafts at each of one end and the other end of an existing pipeline, conveying a new pipe from the constructed shafts into the existing pipeline, and joining the conveyed new pipe in the existing pipeline.
[0003] The PIP method can achieve efficient and economical piping work in that there is no need to provide a space for pipe connection work in the existing pipeline. Regarding such a PIP method, various proposals have been made.
[0004] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for renewing a pipeline using a bellows pipe having stretchability and flexibility in the PIP method. More specifically, Patent Document 1 discloses using a connecting pipe in which a plurality of bendable bellows pipes are sequentially connected in the PIP method. The connecting pipe is carried into the work site in a state of being wound around a winding device located on the starting end side in advance. Also, a wire is attached to one end of the connecting pipe. The wire is connected to a winding device located on the terminal end side through an existing pipeline located between two shafts. By winding the wire by the winding device located on the terminal end side, the connecting pipe is piped in the existing pipeline.
Prior Art Documents
Patent Documents
[0005]
Patent Document 1
Summary of the Invention
[0006] In the PIP method described in Patent Document 1, the connecting pipe, which is made of a flexible bellows pipe, is pulled by a wire. Therefore, there is a possibility that the connecting pipe may come into contact with the inner wall of the existing pipeline or the like while it is being fed out from the winding device located at the starting end and placed in the existing pipeline. When the connecting pipe comes into contact with the inner wall of the existing pipeline or the like in this way, an unexpected force may be applied to the connecting pipe, potentially causing it to deform.
[0007] Furthermore, it is difficult to transport the connecting pipes by pulling them with wires within the existing pipelines without contacting the inner walls or other surfaces. A technology is needed to transport flexible pipe components in a stable position to the installation location. Moreover, efficiency is required in pipeline construction, so the ability to efficiently transport the pipe components is desirable.
[0008] The objective of the present invention is to realize a pipe transport device that can transport flexible pipe members in a stable posture and efficiently within a pipeline. [Means for solving the problem]
[0009] A pipe transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention is a device for transporting pipe members to be laid in an existing pipeline. The pipe transport device has a pipe support member, which is a rod-shaped member that penetrates and supports a flexible pipe member, and a pipe transport member that detachably supports the pipe support member and is capable of transporting the supported pipe support member. The pipe transport member transports the pipe member supported by the pipe support member along the axial direction of the pipeline while supporting the pipe support member within the existing pipeline (first configuration).
[0010] In the above configuration, the pipe transport member detachably supports the pipe support member. Therefore, the pipe support member can be inserted into the pipe member even when it is detached from the pipe transport member. Furthermore, the pipe transport member can support the pipe support member even when the pipe support member is passing through and supporting the pipe member. In this way, since the flexible pipe member is supported by the pipe support member while being passed through it, the posture of the pipe member during transport can be stabilized. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the pipe member from coming into contact with an existing pipeline during transport.
[0011] Furthermore, since the pipe support member simply penetrates the pipe member, after transporting the pipe member to a predetermined position within the existing pipeline, the pipe support member can be easily pulled out from inside the pipe member while it is detached from the pipe transport member.
[0012] As described above, in the above configuration, the flexible pipe member is supported by the pipe support member while being passed through it, thus stabilizing the orientation of the pipe member during transport. Moreover, in the above configuration, the pipe support member can be easily pulled out from inside the pipe member when the pipe support member is removed from the pipe transport member, resulting in good workability.
[0013] Therefore, the flexible pipe member can be transported in a stable position within the pipeline and efficiently.
[0014] In the first configuration described above, the pipe support member has a rod-shaped portion extending in one direction and a protruding portion that protrudes from the rod-shaped portion in a direction intersecting the one direction and supports the connecting portion in the pipe member having a plurality of displacement portions and connecting portions that connect the displacement portions to each other (second configuration).
[0015] In the above configuration, the connecting portion of the pipe member is supported by a protruding portion of the pipe support member that penetrates the pipe member. As a result, the pipe support member can support the connecting portion, which is less prone to displacement, by its protruding portion, while avoiding the easily displaceable portion of the pipe member. Therefore, deformation of the pipe member can be suppressed when transported by the pipe support member.
[0016] In the second configuration described above, the protruding portion is provided so as to be able to adjust its position in one direction relative to the rod-shaped portion (third configuration).
[0017] In the above configuration, the position of the protrusion on the rod-shaped portion of the pipe support member can be adjusted according to the position of the connecting portion of the pipe member. Therefore, the versatility of the pipe conveying device can be improved.
[0018] A piping method according to one embodiment of the present invention is a method for laying a pipe member in an existing pipeline. The piping method comprises a pipe support member insertion step of inserting a pipe support member into a flexible pipe member; a pipe support member support step of supporting the pipe support member with a pipe transport member; and a pipe member transport step of transporting the pipe member supported by the pipe support member in the existing pipeline along the axial direction of the pipeline using the pipe transport member (fourth configuration).
[0019] In the above configuration, the pipe support member can be moved by the pipe transport member while the pipe support member is supporting the pipe member by passing through it. This stabilizes the orientation of the pipe member during transport. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the pipe member from coming into contact with an existing pipeline during transport.
[0020] Furthermore, since the pipe support member simply penetrates the pipe member, after transporting the pipe member to a predetermined position within the existing pipeline, the pipe support member can be easily pulled out from inside the pipe member while it is detached from the pipe transport member.
[0021] As described above, in the above-described configuration, since the flexible pipe member is supported in a state of being penetrated by the pipe support member, the posture of the pipe member during transfer can be stabilized. Moreover, in the above-described configuration, since the pipe support member can be easily pulled out from the inside of the pipe member with the pipe support member removed from the pipe transfer member, the workability is good.
[0022] Therefore, in the pipeline, the flexible pipe member can be transferred in a stable posture and efficiently.
[0023] In the fourth configuration, after the pipe member transfer step, with the pipe support member removed from the pipe transfer member, a pipe support member pulling step of pulling out the pipe support member from the pipe member, a first straight pipe portion having an opening at one end, a curved pipe portion having one end connected at the other end of the first straight pipe portion, and a second straight pipe portion having one end connected at the other end of the curved pipe portion. From the second straight pipe portion side of the pipeline, by pulling the pipe member, the pipe member is moved to the other end side of the curved pipe portion while being bent along the curve of the curved pipe portion (fifth configuration).
[0024] In the above-described configuration, in a pipeline having a curved pipe portion, by pulling the pipe member from the second straight pipe portion side of the pipeline, the pipe member is moved to the other end side of the curved pipe portion while being bent along the curve of the curved pipe portion. For this reason, a flexible pipe member can be bent and piped in the curved pipe portion. As a result, not only the straight pipe portion but also the curved pipe portion can be bent and arranged with the pipe member, so that a piping method capable of piping the pipe member for various existing pipelines can be realized. In addition, conventionally, the renewal of a pipeline including a curved pipe portion that was difficult to construct without building a shaft becomes easy. That is, according to the above-described configuration, construction is possible even for a curved pipe portion where a shaft cannot be built due to conditions such as traffic conditions.
[0025] In the fifth configuration, the moving process includes a support ring installation process of installing a support ring in the second straight pipe portion, a winding device arrangement process of arranging a winding device on the support ring, a connection process of connecting the pipe member and the winding device with a wire, and a tensioning process of pulling the pipe member toward the support ring by winding the wire with the winding device (sixth configuration).
[0026] In the above configuration, by using a support ring, a reaction force can be obtained inside the pipeline. Therefore, it is not necessary to supply a force for pulling the pipe member from the outside of the shaft. Thus, in the moving process, the pipe member can be moved to the curved pipe portion more efficiently.
[0027] In the fifth or sixth configuration, in the pipe support member extraction process, a pipe lifting jig is installed in the first straight pipe portion, and the pipe support member is lifted relative to the pipe transfer member by the pipe lifting jig, so that the pipe support member is separated from the pipe transfer member, and the pipe support member is pulled out of the pipe member (seventh configuration).
[0028] In the above configuration, while the pipe support member is lifted relative to the pipe transfer member by using the pipe lifting jig, the operation of pulling out the pipe support member from the pipe member can be performed. Also, after the pipe support member is pulled out from the pipe member, the pipe member can be lowered by the pipe lifting jig. In this way, by using the pipe lifting jig, the operation of pulling out the pipe support member and the operation of arranging the pipe member can be efficiently performed. Thereby, the operation of pulling out the pipe support member can be performed more efficiently.
[0029] In the seventh configuration, in the pipe support member extraction process, with the pipe support member separated from the pipe transfer member, the pipe transfer member is retracted relative to the pipe member (eighth configuration).
[0030] In the above configuration, the retracted pipe transfer member can be recovered. Therefore, the recovered pipe transfer member can be reused.
[0031] In the eighth configuration described above, the ninth configuration further includes a caster member attachment step, in which a caster member is attached to the outer surface of the pipe member so that the pipe member can be moved within the existing pipeline, before the movement step.
[0032] In the above configuration, by attaching caster members to the outer surface of the pipe member, the pipe member can be easily moved within the existing pipeline. Therefore, the force required to push the pipe member into the curved section during the movement process after retracting the pipe transport member can be reduced. [Effects of the Invention]
[0033] A pipe transport device according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a pipe support member, which is a rod-shaped member that penetrates and supports a flexible pipe member, and a pipe transport member that detachably supports the pipe support member and is capable of transporting the supported pipe support member. The pipe transport member transports the pipe member supported by the pipe support member along the axial direction of the pipeline while supporting the pipe support member within the existing pipeline.
[0034] As a result, the flexible pipe member is supported by the pipe support member while being passed through it. At the transfer position of the pipe member, the pipe support member can be easily removed from the pipe member. Therefore, the flexible pipe member can be efficiently transported in a stable position within the pipeline. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0035] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a side view showing a schematic configuration of a pipe transport device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is an enlarged side view showing the schematic configuration of the pipe transport member of the pipe transport device. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is an enlarged front view showing the schematic configuration of the pipe transport member of the pipe transport device. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the steps of the piping method according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 5] Figure 5 illustrates the operation of attaching a pipe member suspended by a wire rope to a pipe transport member. [Figure 6] Figure 6 illustrates the state in which the pipe support member is loaded onto the pipe transport member. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a side view showing a schematic configuration of the pipe conveying device according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a side view showing the schematic configuration of the pipe member according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 9A] Figure 9A is a schematic diagram showing the pipe member transfer process of the piping method according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 9B] Figure 9B is a schematic diagram showing the support ring installation process, winding device arrangement process, and connection process of the piping method according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 9C] Figure 9C is a schematic diagram showing the tensioning process of the piping method according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 9D] Figure 9D is a schematic diagram showing the piping process for connecting rings and straight pipes in the piping method according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the steps of the piping method according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 11] Figure 11 illustrates the operation of attaching a pipe member suspended by a wire rope to a pipe transport member. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a diagram showing the pipe member in a vertical cross-section as shown in Figure 11. [Figure 13] Figure 13 illustrates the state in which the pipe support member is loaded onto the pipe transport member. [Figure 14A] Figure 14A shows a part of the pipe member transfer process. [Figure 14B] Figure 14B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of Figure 14A along the line XIVB-XIVB. [Figure 15A] Figure 15A shows another part of the pipe member transfer process. [Figure 15B] Figure 15B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of Figure 15A along the line XVB-XVB. [Figure 16A]Figure 16A illustrates the installation operation of the pipe lifting jig during the pipe support member extraction process. [Figure 16B] Figure 16B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of Figure 16A along the line XVIB-XVIB. [Figure 17A] Figure 17A is a diagram illustrating the pipe lifting operation during the pipe support member extraction process. [Figure 17B] Figure 17B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of Figure 17A along the line XVIIB-XVIIB. [Figure 18A] Figure 18A is a diagram illustrating the withdrawal operation of the transfer member in the pipe support member withdrawal process. [Figure 18B] Figure 18B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of Figure 18A along the line XVIIIB-XVIIIB. [Figure 19A] Figure 19A illustrates the installation operation of the pipe member during the pipe support member extraction process. [Figure 19B] Figure 19B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of Figure 19A along the line XIXB-XIXB. [Figure 20A] Figure 20A is a diagram illustrating the extraction operation in the pipe support member extraction process. [Figure 20B] Figure 20B is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along the line XXB-XXB in Figure 20A. [Figure 21A] Figure 21A is a piping diagram illustrating the transfer process. [Figure 21B] Figure 21B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of Figure 21A along the line XXIB-XXIB. [Figure 22] Figure 22 is a piping diagram showing the state of the pipe members after being stretched. [Figure 23A] Figure 23A is a piping diagram showing the setup of the lifting jig. [Figure 23B] Figure 23B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of Figure 23A along the line XXIIIB-XXIIIB. [Figure 23C] Figure 23C is a corresponding diagram to Figure 23B, which shows the state when the sleepers are installed. [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 diagram below, the arrow UP indicates the upward direction of the pipe conveying device 1. The arrow DW indicates the downward direction of the pipe conveying device 1. The arrow FR indicates the forward direction of the pipe conveying device 1. The arrow RR indicates the backward direction of the pipe conveying device 1.
[0038] In the diagram below, arrow PUP indicates the upward direction of the existing pipeline PL. Arrow PDW indicates the downward direction of the existing pipeline PL.
[0039] In the diagram below, arrow DUP indicates the upward direction of pipe transfer members 12A and 12B. Arrow DDW indicates the downward direction of pipe transfer members 12A and 12B. Arrow DFR indicates the forward direction of pipe transfer members 12A and 12B. Arrow DRR indicates the backward direction of pipe transfer members 12A and 12B. Arrow DRG indicates the rightward direction of pipe transfer members 12A and 12B. Arrow DLF indicates the leftward direction of pipe transfer members 12A and 12B.
[0040] Furthermore, in the following explanation, "same" includes not only cases where they are strictly identical, but also cases where they can be considered substantially the same, and it is sufficient if they are similar enough to achieve the effects of the invention.
[0041] Furthermore, in the following explanation, expressions such as “fixed,” “connected,” and “attached” 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, expressions such as “fixed” include both direct and indirect fixing of components to each other.
[0042] [Embodiment 1]
[0043] (Pipe conveying device) Figure 1 is a side view showing the schematic configuration of the pipe conveying device 1 according to Embodiment 1. As shown in Figure 1, the pipe conveying device 1 conveys pipe members 50 to be laid in an existing pipeline. The pipe conveying device 1 includes a pipe support member 11 and pipe transport members 12A and 12B.
[0044] The pipe support member 11 is a rod-shaped member that extends in one direction, which is the front-rear direction of the pipe conveying device 1, and passes through and supports the flexible pipe member 50. The pipe member 50 is, for example, a SUS bellows pipe (bellows-type expandable flexible pipe). The pipe support member 11 has a rod-shaped portion 111 and fasteners 112A and 112B.
[0045] The rod-shaped portion 111 is a rod-shaped member that extends in the aforementioned one direction. The length of the rod-shaped portion 111 in the aforementioned one direction is longer than that of the pipe member 50.
[0046] The fasteners 112A and 112B are located at the one-way end 111A and the other-way end 111B, which are the two ends of the rod-shaped portion 111 in one direction.
[0047] As shown in Figure 1, the pipe transfer members 12A and 12B are a pair of trolleys that detachably support the pipe support member 11 and are capable of transporting the supported pipe support member 11. The pipe transfer member 12A is located at one end 111A of the rod-shaped portion 111 of the pipe support member 11, and the pipe transfer member 12B is located at the other end 111B of the rod-shaped portion 111 of the pipe support member 11. That is, the pipe transfer member 12A is located at the front end FR of the pipe transport device 1, and the pipe transfer member 12B is located at the rear end RR of the pipe transport device 1. The pipe transfer members 12A and 12B are connected by a connecting member 120. The pipe transfer members 12A and 12B have the same configuration except for their connection position to the connecting member 120.
[0048] Furthermore, using Figures 2 and 3, the specific configuration of the pipe transfer member 12A located at the front end of the pipe transport device 1 will be described below as an example. Figure 2 is an enlarged side view showing the schematic configuration of the pipe transfer member 12A of the pipe transport device 1. Figure 3 is an enlarged front view showing the schematic configuration of the pipe transfer member 12A of the pipe transport device 1.
[0049] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the pipe transport member 12A has a body 121, front wheels 122, rear wheels 123, a connecting part 124, a support part 125, and a receiving part 126.
[0050] The front wheels 122 are located at the front of the vehicle body 121. The rear wheels 123 are located at the rear of the vehicle body 121, further back in the longitudinal direction of the pipe transport member 12A than the front wheels 122, in the DRR direction. The pipe transport member 12A can travel on rails R laid on the ground by the front wheels 122 and the rear wheels 123.
[0051] The connecting portion 124 is located at the rear of the vehicle body 121 in the front-rear direction of the pipe transport member 12A, and is fixed to the connecting member 120 by fastening means such as bolts and nuts.
[0052] The support portion 125 is detachably supported on the vehicle body 121 and extends upward DUP of the pipe transport member 12A.
[0053] The receiving portion 126 is located at the upper end of the support portion 125. The receiving portion 126 is configured to be fixed in a state where the pipe support member 11 is inserted from above the pipe transport member 12A.
[0054] Furthermore, the pipe transfer member 12B is the same as the pipe transfer member 12A except that the connecting portion 124 is located at the front of the vehicle body 121 in the longitudinal direction of the pipe transfer member 12B.
[0055] The pipe transport members 12A and 12B, while supporting the pipe support member 11 within the existing pipeline, transport the pipe member 50 supported by the pipe support member 11 along the axial direction of the pipeline, as indicated by the white arrows in Figure 1.
[0056] As described above, the pipe transport device 1 is a device for transporting pipe members 50 to be laid in an existing pipeline. The pipe transport device 1 is a rod-shaped member and includes a pipe support member 11 that penetrates and supports the flexible pipe member, and pipe transport members 12A and 12B that detachably support the pipe support member 11 and are capable of transporting the supported pipe support member 11. The pipe transport members 12A and 12B transport the pipe member 50 supported by the pipe support member 11 along the axial direction of the pipeline while supporting the pipe support member 11 within the existing pipeline.
[0057] In the above configuration, the pipe transport members 12A and 12B detachably support the pipe support member 11. Therefore, the pipe support member 11 can be inserted into the pipe member 50 even when it is detached from the pipe transport members 12A and 12B. Furthermore, the pipe transport members 12A and 12B can support the pipe support member 11 while it is passing through and supporting the pipe member 50. In this way, since the flexible pipe member 50 is supported by the pipe support member 11 while it is passing through it, the posture of the pipe member 50 during transport can be stabilized. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the pipe member 50 from coming into contact with an existing pipeline during transport.
[0058] Furthermore, since the pipe support member 11 only penetrates the pipe member 50, after transporting the pipe member 50 to a predetermined position within the existing pipeline, the pipe support member 11 can be easily pulled out from inside the pipe member 50 with the pipe support member 11 detached from the pipe transport members 12A and 12B.
[0059] As described above, in the above configuration, the flexible pipe member 50 is supported by the pipe support member 11 while it is passing through it, so the posture of the pipe member 50 during transport can be stabilized. Moreover, in the above configuration, the pipe support member 11 can be easily pulled out from inside the pipe member 50 when it is detached from the pipe transport members 12A and 12B, resulting in good workability.
[0060] Therefore, the flexible pipe member 50 can be transported in a stable position within the pipeline and can be transported efficiently.
[0061] (Piping method) Figures 4 to 6 will be used to explain a piping method for laying pipe members within an existing pipeline. Figure 4 is a flow chart showing the steps of piping method S10 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating the operation of attaching the pipe member 50, suspended by a wire rope, to the pipe transfer members 12A and 12B. Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the state in which the pipe support members 11 are loaded onto the pipe transfer members 12A and 12B.
[0062] As shown in Figure 4, the piping method S10 includes a preparation step S1, a pipe support member insertion step S2, a pipe support member support step S3, and a pipe member transfer step S4.
[0063] First, in preparation step S1, pipe transport members 12A and 12B, connected by a connecting member 120, are prepared on rails R laid at the bottom G of the shaft T.
[0064] Next, in the pipe support member insertion step S2, the pipe support member 11 is inserted into the flexible pipe member 50. Also in the pipe support member insertion step S2, as shown in Figure 5, with the pipe support member 11 inserted into the pipe member 50, a wire rope W is stretched across the fasteners 112A and 112B located at both ends of the rod-shaped portion 111 of the pipe support member 11. Then, the wire rope W is attached to the hook of a crane (not shown). The pipe member 50, which has been attached in this manner, is lowered into the shaft T by the crane.
[0065] In the pipe support member support process S3, the pipe member 50 is further lowered downwards in the shaft T, as indicated by the white arrow in Figure 5, and the pipe support member 11 is loaded onto the pipe transfer members 12A and 12B as shown in Figure 6. More specifically, the pipe support member 11 is inserted into the receiving portion 126 of the pipe transfer members 12A and 12B from above. In this way, the pipe support member 11 is supported by the pipe transfer members 12A and 12B.
[0066] In the pipe member transfer process S4, the pipe transport device 1 is advanced into the existing pipeline from the opening E1 of the existing pipeline located at the bottom G of the shaft T. That is, in the pipe member transfer process S4, the pipe member 50 supported by the pipe support member 11 is transported by the pipe transport members 12A and 12B within the existing pipeline along the axial direction of the pipeline, as shown by the white arrows in Figure 6.
[0067] As described above, piping method S10 is a method of laying a pipe member 50 in an existing pipeline. Piping method S10 includes a pipe support member insertion step S2 in which a pipe support member 11 is inserted into a flexible pipe member 50, a pipe support member support step S3 in which the pipe support member 11 is supported by pipe transport members 12A and 12B, and a pipe member transport step S4 in which the pipe member 50 supported by the pipe support member 11 is transported in the existing pipeline along the axial direction of the pipeline by the pipe transport members 12A and 12B.
[0068] In the above configuration, the pipe support member 11 can be moved by the pipe transport members 12A and 12B while the pipe support member 11 is supporting the pipe member 50 by passing through it. This stabilizes the position of the pipe member 50 during transport. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the pipe member 50 from coming into contact with an existing pipeline during transport.
[0069] Furthermore, since the pipe support member 11 only penetrates the pipe member 50, after transporting the pipe member 50 to a predetermined position within the existing pipeline, the pipe support member 11 can be easily pulled out from inside the pipe member 50 with the pipe support member 11 detached from the pipe transport members 12A and 12B.
[0070] As described above, in the above configuration, the flexible pipe member 50 is supported by the pipe support member 11 while it is passing through it, so the posture of the pipe member 50 during transport can be stabilized. Moreover, in the above configuration, the pipe support member 11 can be easily pulled out from inside the pipe member 50 when it is detached from the pipe transport members 12A and 12B, resulting in good workability.
[0071] Therefore, the flexible pipe member 50 can be transported in a stable position within the pipeline and can be transported efficiently.
[0072] [Embodiment 2]
[0073] (Pipe conveying device) Figure 7 is a side view showing the schematic configuration of the pipe conveying device 2 according to Embodiment 2. Figure 8 is a side view showing the schematic configuration of the pipe member 50 according to Embodiment 2. The pipe conveying device 2 according to Embodiment 2 differs from the pipe conveying device 1 according to Embodiment 1 in that it supports the connecting portion 508 of the pipe member 50. In the following description, components similar to those in Embodiment 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted, and only the parts that differ from Embodiment 1 will be described.
[0074] As shown in Figure 8, the pipe member 50 more specifically comprises a connecting body 51 composed of a plurality of bellows pipe members 501a to 501d connected in sequence, an end member 505 located at one end of the connecting body 51 in the axial direction P1 of the pipe member 50, and an end member 506 located at the other end.
[0075] Each of the multiple bellows-type pipe members 501a to 501d has a displacement section 502, a joint section 503 located at one end of the displacement section 502 in the axial direction P1 of the pipe member 50, and a joint section 504 located at the other end. The displacement section 502 has a bellows structure. As a result, the displacement section 502 has elasticity and flexibility.
[0076] An end member 505 is attached to the joint 503 of the bellows pipe 501a located at one end of the connecting body 51. An end member 506 is attached to the joint 504 of the bellows pipe 501d located at the other end of the connecting body 51.
[0077] Adjacent pipes are connected by a joint in one pipe and a joint in the other pipe. For example, a connecting portion 508 is formed by a joint 504 of bellows pipe material 501a and a joint 503 of bellows pipe material 501b.
[0078] Thus, the pipe member 50 has a plurality of displacement portions 502 and a plurality of connecting portions 508. The outer diameter of the displacement portion 502 is larger than the outer diameter of the connecting portion 508.
[0079] As shown in Figure 7, the pipe transport device 2 has a pipe support member 110.
[0080] The pipe support member 110 has a rod-shaped portion 111, a plurality of protrusions 113a to 113e, and fasteners 112A and 112B.
[0081] The rod-shaped portion 111 and the fasteners 112A and 112B are as described in Embodiment 1, so that description will not be repeated here.
[0082] As shown in Figure 7, the multiple protrusions 113a to 113e each protrude in a direction intersecting the aforementioned one direction relative to the rod-shaped portion 111.
[0083] In the state where the pipe support member 110 penetrates and supports the pipe member 50, the multiple protrusions 113b to 113d support the connecting portion 508 of the pipe member 50. In addition, protrusion 113a supports the end member 505 of the pipe member 50. Protrusion 113e supports the end member 506 of the pipe member 50.
[0084] As described above, the pipe support member 110 has a rod-shaped portion 111 extending in one direction, and protruding portions 113b to 113d that project in a direction intersecting the aforementioned one direction relative to the rod-shaped portion 111 and support the connecting portion 508 of the pipe member 50. The pipe support member 110 also has protruding portions 113a and 113e that support the end members 505 and 506 of the pipe member 50.
[0085] In the above configuration, the protrusions 113a to 113e support the connecting portion 508 of the pipe member 50. As a result, the pipe support member 110 can support the less displaceable connecting portion 508, etc., with the protrusions 113b to 113d, while avoiding the easily displaceable displaceable portion 502 of the pipe member 50. Therefore, deformation of the pipe member 50 can be prevented when the pipe member 50 is transported while the pipe support member 110 is passing through and supporting the pipe member 50.
[0086] In the above configuration, the protrusions 113a to 113e may be provided so as to be adjustable in one direction relative to the rod-shaped portion 111. This allows the positions of the protrusions 113a to 113e to be adjusted according to the position of the connecting portion 508 of the pipe member 50, etc. Thus, the versatility of the pipe conveying device 2 can be improved.
[0087] (Outline of piping method) Figures 9A to 9D illustrate the general outline of a piping method for laying pipe members within an existing pipeline. Figure 9A schematically shows the pipe member transfer process of the piping method according to Embodiment 2. Figure 9B schematically shows the support ring installation process, winding device arrangement process, and connection process of the piping method according to Embodiment 2. Figure 9C schematically shows the tensioning process of the piping method according to Embodiment 2. Figure 9D schematically shows the piping process for connecting rings and straight pipes of the piping method according to Embodiment 2.
[0088] The piping method S20 according to Embodiment 2 differs from the piping method S10 according to Embodiment 1 in that the pipe member 50 is placed inside a pipeline having a curved section. In the following description, components similar to those in Embodiment 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted, and only the parts that differ from Embodiment 1 will be described.
[0089] As shown in Figure 9A, the existing pipeline PL to be constructed has a first straight section K1, a curved section K2, and a second straight section K3. The first straight section K1 has an opening E1 at one end that connects to the shaft T1. The other end of the first straight section K1 connects to one end of the curved section K2. The other end of the curved section K2 connects to one end of the second straight section K3. The curved section K2 connects the first straight section K1 and the second straight section K3 at a 90° angle. The second straight section K3 has an opening E2 at the other end that connects to the shaft T2.
[0090] In piping method S20, as shown in Figure 9A, first, in the shaft T1, a pipe support member 110 that supports the pipe member 50 is supported by pipe transport members 12A and 12B. Subsequently, the pipe member 50 supported by the pipe support member 110 is advanced by the pipe transport members 12A and 12B to the opening E1 of the first straight pipe section K1 connected to the shaft T1. The pipe transport members 12A and 12B are transported in the direction of travel by a self-propelled vehicle, such as a battery-powered car (not shown), connected to the rear of the pipe transport member 12B. The pipe member 50 that has entered the first straight pipe section K1 from the opening E1 is transported along the axial direction of the first straight pipe section K1 (the axial direction of the pipeline), as shown by the dashed line in Figure 9A, to just before the curved pipe section K2.
[0091] Next, as shown in Figure 9B, the pipe support member 110 is removed from the pipe member 50, and the pipe transfer members 12A and 12B are removed. A support ring 65 is installed inside the second straight pipe section K3, and the pipe member 50 and the support ring 65 are connected by a wire 63. At this point, the wire 63 is wound up using a winding device or the like, pulling the pipe member 50 toward the support ring 65.
[0092] As a result, as shown in Figure 9C, the pipe member 50 moves along the curve of the bent pipe section K2 to the other end of the bent pipe section K2. After that, the support ring 65 and wire 63 are removed.
[0093] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 9D, the connecting ring 71 and the straight PN-type pipes 81A, 81B, and 81C are sequentially transported from the shaft T1 and connected to one end of the positioned pipe member 50. The connecting ring 72 and the PN-type pipes 82A and 82B are sequentially transported from the shaft T2 and connected to the other end of the positioned pipe member 50. This allows the pipe member 50, connecting rings 71, 72, and PN-type pipes 81A, 81B, 81C, 82A, and 82B to be connected within the existing pipeline PL. Note that the types of piping connected to the pipe member 50 described above are illustrative examples and are not limited to these. Any pipe can be connected to the pipe member 50 depending on the shape of the pipeline PL, etc.
[0094] (Details of piping method) Figures 10 to 24 will be used to explain the details of the piping method S20. Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the steps of the piping method S20 according to Embodiment 2. The steps of the piping method S20 will be explained in order below.
[0095] (preparation process) In preparation step S11, pipe transfer members 12A and 12B, connected by a connecting member 120, are prepared on rails R1 laid at the bottom G of the shaft T1.
[0096] (Pipe support member insertion process) Figure 11 illustrates the operation of attaching the pipe member 50, suspended by a wire rope, to the pipe transport members 12A and 12B. Figure 12 shows the pipe member 50 in a vertical cross-section in Figure 11.
[0097] In the pipe support member insertion step S12, as shown in Figures 11 and 12, the pipe support member 110 is inserted into the pipe member 50 to which the caster band 21 is attached. The caster band 21 is attached radially outward from the connecting portion 508 and the end members 505 and 506. The caster band 21 has an annular body 211 and a pair of casters 212. The central axis of the annular body 211 coincides with the axial direction P1 of the pipe member 50. Details of the caster band 21 will be described later. Furthermore, the pipe support member 110 is positioned inside the pipe member 50 such that its protrusions 113b to 113d support the connecting portion 508 of the pipe member 50. Furthermore, the pipe support member 110 is positioned inside the pipe member 50 such that its protrusions 113a and 113e support the end members 505 and 506 of the pipe member 50.
[0098] Furthermore, in the pipe support member insertion step S2, as shown in Figures 11 and 12, with the pipe support member 110 inserted into the pipe member 50, the wire rope W is stretched across the fasteners 112A and 112B located at both ends of the rod-shaped portion 111 of the pipe support member 110. Then, the wire rope W is attached to the hook of a crane (not shown). The pipe member 50, which has been attached in this manner, is lowered into the shaft T1 by the crane.
[0099] (Pipe support member support process) Figure 13 illustrates the state in which the pipe support members 110 are loaded onto the pipe transport members 12A and 12B.
[0100] In the pipe support member support step S13, the pipe support member 110 is supported by the pipe transfer members 12A and 12B. The pipe transfer members 12A and 12B support the pipe support member 110 when the pipe member is passed through it. Also, when the pipe support member 110 is passed through the pipe member, the protruding portions 113b to 113d of the pipe support member 110 support the connecting portion 508 of the pipe member 50. Except as described above, the pipe support member support step S13 is the same as the pipe support member support step S3 described above. Therefore, a detailed explanation of the pipe support member support step S13 will not be repeated here.
[0101] (Pipe component transfer process) Figure 14A shows a part of the pipe member transfer process S14. Figure 14B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of Figure 14A along the line XIVB-XIVB. Figure 15A shows another part of the pipe member transfer process S14. Figure 15B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of Figure 15A along the line XVB-XVB.
[0102] In the pipe member transfer process S14, the pipe member 50 supported by the pipe support member 110 is transferred within the first straight pipe section K1 along the axial direction of the first straight pipe section K1, as indicated by the dashed-dotted arrow in Figure 14A, by the pipe transport device 2 having pipe transfer members 12A and 12B. As described above, the pipe transport device 2 is moved in the front-rear direction by a self-propelled vehicle (not shown) connected to the rear of the pipe transfer member 12B. Now, using Figure 9A again, the pipe transfer section B1 and the pipe installation section B2 will be explained.
[0103] As shown in Figures 9A, 14A, and 14B, a rail R1 with a height of H1 is laid in the pipe transport section B1 within the first straight pipe section K1 from the shaft T1. At this time, the clearance between the inner wall of the first straight pipe section K1 and the upper end of the pipe member 50 to be transported by the pipe transport device 2 is C1.
[0104] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 9A, 15A, and 15B, a rail R2 with a height of H2 is laid in the pipe installation section B2 located beyond the pipe transport section B1 within the first straight pipe section K1. The height H2 of rail R2 is lower than the height H1 of rail R1. At this time, the clearance between the inner wall of the first straight pipe section K1 and the upper end of the pipe member 50 to be transported to the pipe transport device 2 is C2. Clearance C2 is greater than clearance C1. As will be described in more detail later, in the pipe installation section B2, the transported pipe member 50 is lowered from the pipe transport device 2. It is preferable that the length of the pipe installation section B2 is greater than or equal to the total length of the pipe transport device 2 in the front-rear direction.
[0105] As shown in Figure 14B, the caster band 21 is attached radially outward from the end member 505. The caster band 21 has an annular body 211 and a pair of casters 212. The annular body 211 is located around the entire circumference of the outer surface of the end member 505. As shown in Figure 14B, the pair of casters 212 are located below the annular body 211 in a front view of the pipe conveying device 2, and are at the same angular position with respect to the vertical axis P21 passing through the center of the annular body 211. The pair of casters 212 are also located radially outward from the annular body 211.
[0106] (Pipe support member extraction process) The pipe support member withdrawal process S15 will be explained using Figures 16A to 20B. In the pipe support member withdrawal process S15, the pipe support member 110 is withdrawn from the pipe member 50 with the pipe support member 110 detached from the pipe transport members 12A and 12B. The pipe support member withdrawal process S15 includes the installation operation of the pipe lifting jigs 30A and 30B, the pipe lifting operation, the withdrawal operation of the pipe transport members 12A and 12B, the installation operation of the pipe member 50, and the withdrawal operation. Each of these will be explained in detail below.
[0107] (Installation of pipe lifting jig) Figure 16A illustrates the installation operation of the pipe lifting jigs 30A and 30B in the pipe support member extraction process S15. Figure 16B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of Figure 16A along the line XVIB-XVIB.
[0108] As shown in Figures 16A and 16B, pipe lifting jigs 30A and 30B are installed in the first straight pipe section K1. The pipe lifting jigs 30A and 30B can be implemented, for example, by hydraulic jacks. Pipe lifting jig 30A is installed at the front end of the pipe support member 110 in the front-rear direction of the pipe conveying device 2. Pipe lifting jig 30B is installed at the rear end of the pipe support member 110 in the front-rear direction of the pipe conveying device 2. Since pipe lifting jigs 30A and 30B have basically the same configuration, the schematic configuration of pipe lifting jig 30A will be described as an example.
[0109] The pipe lifting jig 30A has a base 31, a lifting section 32, and a support base 33. The base 31 is installed on both sides below the first straight pipe section K1. The base 31 supports the lifting section 32. The lifting section 32 supports the support base 33 so that it can move up and down in the vertical direction of the existing pipeline PL. The support base 33 supports the pipe support member 110.
[0110] (Pipe lifting action) Figure 17A is a diagram illustrating the pipe lifting operation in the pipe support member extraction process S15. Figure 17B is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along the line XVIIB-XVIIB in Figure 17A.
[0111] As shown in Figures 17A and 17B, the pipe lifting jigs 30A and 30B lift the pipe support member 110 relative to the pipe transport members 12A and 12B. Specifically, the lifting and lowering parts 32 of the pipe lifting jigs 30A and 30B raise the support base 33 that supports the pipe support member 110. As a result, the pipe support member 110 is separated from the pipe transport members 12A and 12B. Also, as shown by the white arrow in Figure 17B, the pipe member 50 is lifted upward in the vertical direction of the pipe transport device 2. At this time, the clearance between the inner wall of the first straight pipe section K1 and the upper end of the pipe member 50 being transported to the pipe transport device 2 is C3.
[0112] Thus, in the pipe installation section B2, rail R2 is laid at a lower height than rail R1, which allows for a larger clearance to lift the pipe member 50. This makes it possible to maintain the clearance C3 even when lifting the pipe member 50.
[0113] (Removal of the transfer member) Figure 18A is a diagram illustrating the withdrawal operation of the pipe transfer members 12A and 12B in the pipe support member withdrawal process S15. Figure 18B is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along the line XVIIIB-XVIIIB in Figure 18A.
[0114] As shown in Figures 18A and 18B, with the pipe support member 110 separated from the pipe transport members 12A and 12B, the pipe transport members 12A and 12B are moved backward relative to the pipe member 50. Specifically, the support part 125 is detached from the pipe transport members 12A and 12B and removed. Subsequently, by moving a self-propelled vehicle (not shown) backward, the pipe transport members 12A and 12B are moved in the direction toward the shaft T1, indicated by the white arrow in Figure 18A.
[0115] In the above configuration, the retracted pipe transfer members 12A and 12B can be recovered. Therefore, the recovered pipe transfer members 12A and 12B can be reused.
[0116] (Installation operation of pipe components) Figure 19A is a diagram illustrating the installation operation of the pipe member 50 in the pipe support member withdrawal process S15. Figure 19B is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along the line XIXB-XIXB of Figure 19A.
[0117] As shown in Figures 19A and 19B, the pipe lifting jigs 30A and 30B lower the support base 33 that supports the pipe support member 110. Specifically, the lifting section 32 of the pipe lifting jigs 30A and 30B lowers the support base 33 that supports the pipe support member 110. As a result, the pipe member 50 moves downward towards the existing pipeline PL, as indicated by the white arrow in Figure 19B. The lifting section 32 of the pipe lifting jigs 30A and 30B lowers the pipe member 50 until the caster 212 of the caster band 21 touches the lower part of the inner wall of the first straight pipe section K1, as shown in Figure 19B.
[0118] (Pulling action) Figure 20A is a diagram illustrating the extraction operation in the pipe support member extraction process S15. Figure 20B is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along the line XXB-XXB in Figure 20A.
[0119] As shown in Figures 20A and 20B, with the pipe member 50 installed in the existing pipeline PL as described above, the pipe support member 110 is pulled out from the pipe member 50 and the pipe lifting jigs 30A and 30B are removed.
[0120] In the above configuration, the pipe support member 110 can be lifted relative to the pipe transfer members 12A and 12B using the pipe lifting jigs 30A and 30B, while the pipe support member 110 is being pulled out. After the pipe support member 110 has been pulled out from the pipe member 50, the pipe support member 50 can be lowered using the pipe lifting jigs 30A and 30B. In this way, the pipe lifting jigs 30A and 30B can be used to efficiently pull out the pipe support member 110 and position the pipe member 50. This makes the pull-out operation of the pipe support member 110 more efficient.
[0121] (Installation process for horizontal casters on pipes) The pipe-side caster installation process (caster member installation process) S16 will be explained using Figures 20A and 20B. In the pipe-side caster installation process S16, as shown in Figures 20A and 20B, pipe-side casters (caster members) 23 that allow the pipe member 50 to move within the existing pipeline PL are attached to the outer surface of the pipe member 50. A pair of pipe-side casters 23 are attached to a caster band 21 attached to the end member 505. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 20B, the pair of pipe-side casters 23 are positioned in the direction in which the left-right axis P23 of the annular body 211 extends, which is perpendicular to the vertical axis P21 passing through the center of the annular body 211 and the axial direction P1 of the pipe member 50 (i.e., the central axis of the annular body 211) in a front view of the pipe conveying device 2. The pair of pipe-side casters 23 are positioned radially outward from the annular body 211.
[0122] In the above configuration, by attaching the horizontal pipe caster 23 to the outer surface of the pipe member 50, the pipe member 50 can be easily moved within the existing pipeline PL. Therefore, the force required to push the pipe member 50 into the curved pipe section K2 in the moving process described later can be reduced.
[0123] (Moving process) The movement process S17 will be explained using Figures 21A to 23C.
[0124] Figure 21A is a piping diagram illustrating the movement process S17. Figure 21B is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along the line XXIB-XXIB in Figure 20A. Figure 22 is a piping diagram showing the state of the pipe members after tensioning. Figure 23A is a piping diagram showing the state when the lifting jig is installed. Figure 23B is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along the line XXIIIB-XXIIIB in Figure 23A. Figure 23C is a corresponding diagram to Figure 23B showing the state when the sleepers are installed.
[0125] In the moving process S17, the pipe member 50 is pulled from the second straight pipe section K3 side, bending the pipe member 50 along the curve of the curved pipe section K2 and moving it to the other end of the curved pipe section K2. Specifically, the moving process S17 includes the following operations: Installing a support ring 65 inside the second straight pipe section K3 (support ring installation process). For example, the technology described in Patent Document No. 2021-092291 can be used as the support ring 65. Subsequently, a winding device 67 such as a lever hoist or winch is placed on the support ring 65 (winding device placement process). A reaction plate 61 is attached inside the end member 505 of the pipe member 50, and the reaction plate 61 of the pipe member 50 and the winding device 67 are connected by a wire 63 (connecting process).
[0126] Subsequently, the winding device 67 winds up the wire 63, pulling the pipe member 50 toward the support ring 65 as indicated by the white arrow in Figure 21A. This causes the pipe member 50 to move along the axial direction of the existing pipeline PL, as shown by the dashed line in Figure 21A. As a result, as shown in Figure 22, the pipe member 50 moves to the other end of the curved pipe section K2. That is, the end member 505 of the pipe member 50 reaches the other end of the curved pipe section K2. By using the reaction plate 61 and the support ring 65, a reaction force can be obtained within the pipeline PL, eliminating the need to supply a pulling force to the pipe member 50 from outside the shaft.
[0127] As described above, after the pipe member 50 is pulled in, the reaction plate 61, wire 63, support ring 65, and winding device 67 are removed. Also, the pipe-side caster 23 is removed from the caster band 21.
[0128] Furthermore, the pipe member 50 is installed as described below. First, as shown in Figures 23A and 23B, the pipe lifting jig 70A is installed in the second straight pipe section K3, and the pipe lifting jig 70B is installed in the first straight pipe section K1. That is, the pipe lifting jig 70A is installed on the end member 505 located at one end of the pipe member 50, and the pipe lifting jig 70B is installed on the end member 506 located at the other end of the pipe member 50. Since the pipe lifting jig 70A and 70B have basically the same configuration, the pipe lifting jig 70A will be described here as an example.
[0129] Next, the pipe member 50 is lifted upward using the pipe lifting jigs 70A and 70B, as indicated by the white arrows in Figure 23B. Figure 23B shows the state in which the pipe member 50 is lifted by the pipe lifting jig 70A. In this state, the pair of casters 212 are removed from the annular body 211 of the caster band 21. Also, the steel sleeper 69 is installed at the steel sleeper installation position J1. The pipe member 50, which has been lifted by the pipe lifting jigs 70A and 70B, is lowered downward as indicated by the white arrows in Figure 23C, thereby installing the pipe member 50 above the steel sleeper 69.
[0130] With the above steps completed, the installation of the pipe component 50 is finished.
[0131] (Piping process using joints and straight pipes) In the piping process S18 for connecting rings and straight pipes, the connecting rings and straight pipes are installed as explained using Figure 9D.
[0132] As described above, the piping method S20 includes a pipe support member withdrawal step S15 and a moving step S17 after the pipe member transfer step S14. In the pipe support member withdrawal step S15, the pipe support member 110 is withdrawn from the pipe member 50 while the pipe support member 110 is detached from the pipe transfer members 12A and 12B. The pipeline PL has a first straight pipe section K1 with an opening at one end, a curved pipe section K2 to which one end is connected at the other end of the first straight pipe section K1, and a second straight pipe section K3 to which one end is connected at the other end of the curved pipe section K2. In the moving step S17, the pipe member 50 is pulled from the second straight pipe section K3 side of the pipeline PL, bending the pipe member 50 along the curve of the curved pipe section K2 and moving it to the other end of the curved pipe section K2.
[0133] In the above configuration, in the case of pipeline PL having a curved pipe section K2, the pipe member 50 is pulled from the second straight pipe section K3 side of pipeline PL, causing the pipe member 50 to move along the curve of the curved pipe section, bending as it goes, to the other end of the curved pipe section.
[0134] With the above configuration, flexible pipe members can be bent and installed in curved sections. This allows pipe members to be bent and installed not only in straight sections but also in curved sections, thus enabling a piping method that can be used for various existing pipelines. Furthermore, it makes it easier to replace pipelines including curved sections K2, which were previously difficult to do without constructing a shaft. In other words, with the above configuration, construction is possible even for curved sections K2 where it is not possible to construct a shaft due to traffic conditions or other factors.
[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 embodiments described above, the pipe transport members 12A and 12B of the pipe transport devices 1 and 2 are trolleys having front wheels 122 and rear wheels 123 for moving on rails. However, the pipe transport members may have a moving mechanism other than wheels, such as a sled. The pipe transport members may also have a moving mechanism such as tires that can travel without rails. Furthermore, the pipe transport members may have a moving mechanism that can travel on flooring material laid inside the pipeline or on the bottom of the inner wall of the pipeline. In addition, the pipe transport members may be self-propelled.
[0137] In each of the above embodiments, the pipe support members 11 and 110 are rod-shaped members. However, the pipe support members may have other shapes. For example, the pipe support members may be plate-shaped, frame-shaped, or wire-shaped.
[0138] In each of the above embodiments, the so-called pipe-in-pipe method is employed. However, the present invention may be applied to other construction methods. For example, the present invention is also applicable to shield tunneling.
[0139] In the second embodiment described above, the curved pipe section K2 connects the first straight pipe section K1 and the second straight pipe section K3 at a 90° angle. However, the connection angle by the curved pipe section may be greater or less than 90°. Generally, a curve with a connection angle greater than 22.5° is considered a sharp curve. The present invention is suitably applicable to such sharp curves as well. Furthermore, as the diameter of the pipe increases, a greater pulling force or insertion force is required. According to the present invention, the insertion force in the curved pipe section can be reduced, and therefore it can be applied when so-called large-diameter pipes are used to replace existing pipelines.
[0140] In the second embodiment described above, the support ring 65 installed in the second straight pipe section K3 is used as a reaction force to pull the pipe member 50. However, a method of obtaining a reaction force without using a support ring can be employed. For example, a reaction force may be obtained by fixing a reaction force plate to the inner wall of the existing pipeline by welding or the like. Alternatively, a reaction force may be obtained by fixing a reaction force plate to the inner wall of the existing pipeline by inserting it into the gap of the joint at the connection point between existing pipes.
[0141] In the above embodiment 2, the displacement portion 502 of the pipe member 50 has a bellows structure. However, the displacement portion of the pipe member may be displaceable by a structure other than a bellows structure. For example, the displacement portion of the pipe member may have a ball joint structure.
[0142] In the second embodiment described above, a rail R1 with a height of H1 is laid in the pipe transport section B1 of the first straight pipe section K1, while a rail R2 with a height of H2 is laid in the pipe installation section B2. However, it is not necessary to lay rails of different heights in the first straight pipe section.
[0143] In the above embodiment 2, a pair of casters 212 are positioned at specific locations relative to the annular body 211 of the caster band 21. However, the positions of the casters can be changed as appropriate. Furthermore, the number of casters is not limited to one pair per caster band; there may be one or two or more casters per caster band.
[0144] In the above embodiment 2, a specific number of caster bands 21 are attached to the pipe member 50. However, it is possible to attach any number of caster bands to the pipe member.
[0145] In the second embodiment described above, the pipe support member removal process S15 is followed by the pipe lateral caster installation process S16, which is a caster member installation process. However, the caster member installation process only needs to be performed up to the moving process. If possible given the clearance between the inner wall of the existing conduit and the upper end of the pipe member, the pipe lateral caster may be attached to the caster band in advance.
[0146] In the above embodiment 2, during the withdrawal operation of the transfer member, the pipe transfer members 12A and 12B are moved backward relative to the pipe member 50. However, it is not necessary to move the pipe transfer members 12A and 12B backward relative to the pipe member 50 during the withdrawal operation of the transfer member.
[0147] In the second embodiment described above, after the pipe member 50 is pulled in, the pipe lateral caster 23 is removed from the caster band 21 before the pipe lifting jig 70A is installed inside the second straight pipe section K3. However, if possible given the clearance between the inner wall of the existing pipeline and the upper end of the pipe member, both the pair of casters 212 and the pipe lateral caster may be removed from the annular body 211 of the caster band 21 while the pipe member is lifted by the pipe lifting jig. [Industrial applicability]
[0148] The present invention can be used in a pipe transport device for transporting pipe members to be laid in an existing pipeline, and in a piping method for laying pipe members in an existing pipeline. [Explanation of symbols]
[0149] 1, 2 Pipe conveying device 11, 110 Pipe support member 111 Rod-shaped part 112A, 112B Fasteners 113a~113e Protrusion 120 Connecting member 121 Car body 122, 123 wheels 124 Connection section 125 Support part 126 Receiving part 12A, 12B Pipe transfer member 21 Caster Band 211 Ring-shaped body 212 Caster 23 Pipe horizontal caster 30A, 30B, 70A, 70B pipe lifting jig 31 Base 32 Lifting section 33 Support stand 50 Pipe members 502 Displacement section 503 Joint 504 Joint 505, 506 End member 508 Connection section 51 Concatenation 61 Reaction plate 63 Wire 65 Support ring 67 Equipment 69 Steel sleepers 71 Joint ring 72 connecting rings 81A~81C, 82A, 82B PN type pipe E1, E2 opening K1 1st straight pipe section K2 bent pipe section K3 2nd straight pipe section PL conduit R, R1, R2 rails T, T1, T2 shafts
Claims
1. A pipe transport device for transporting pipe components to be laid within an existing pipeline, A rod-shaped member, a pipe support member that penetrates and supports a flexible pipe member, A pipe transfer member that detachably supports the pipe support member and is capable of transferring the supported pipe support member, It has, The aforementioned pipe support member is A rod-shaped portion extending in one direction, At least one of the pipe members has multiple displacement parts and connecting parts that connect the displacement parts, and supports the connecting part located in the central part of the pipe member, with multiple protrusions arranged in one direction and projecting in a direction intersecting the one direction relative to the rod-shaped part, It has, The aforementioned pipe transfer member is Within the existing pipeline, with the pipe support member in place, the pipe member supported by the pipe support member is moved along the axial direction of the pipeline. Pipe conveying device.
2. In the pipe conveying device according to Claim 1, The aforementioned pipe support member is The rod-shaped portion is located at both ends and further has fasteners through which a wire rope can be stretched, Pipe conveying device.
3. In the pipe conveying device according to claim 1, The aforementioned protrusion is provided so as to be able to adjust its position in one direction relative to the rod-shaped portion. Pipe conveying device.
4. A piping method for laying pipe components within an existing pipeline, A pipe support member insertion step involves inserting a pipe support member into a flexible pipe member, A step of supporting the central portion of the pipe member, which has a plurality of displacement portions and a connecting portion that connects the displacement portions, by at least one of a plurality of protrusions that are aligned in one direction on the pipe support member and protrude in a direction intersecting the one direction relative to the rod-shaped portion, The pipe support member is supported by a pipe transfer member in a pipe support member support step, A pipe member transfer step, in which the pipe member supported by the pipe support member is transferred by the pipe transfer member within the existing pipeline along the axial direction of the pipeline, Having, Piping method.
5. The piping method according to claim 4, The step of supporting the pipe member with the protruding portion of the pipe support member is: The process further includes the step of stretching a wire rope across the fasteners of the pipe support member and suspending the pipe support member by the wire rope. Piping method.
6. A piping method for laying pipe members within an existing pipeline, A pipe support member insertion step involves inserting a pipe support member into a flexible pipe member, The pipe support member is supported by a pipe transfer member in a pipe support member support step, A pipe member transfer step, in which the pipe member supported by the pipe support member is transferred by the pipe transfer member within the existing pipeline along the axial direction of the pipeline, After the pipe member transfer step, the pipe support member is removed from the pipe transfer member and the pipe support member is pulled out from the pipe member in a pipe support member withdrawal step, A moving step of moving a pipe member from the side of the second straight pipe section of a pipeline having a first straight pipe section with an opening at one end, a curved pipe section to which one end is connected at the other end of the first straight pipe section, and a second straight pipe section to which one end is connected at the other end of the curved pipe section, by pulling the pipe member, thereby bending the pipe member along the curve of the curved pipe section and moving it to the other end of the curved pipe section. Having, Piping method.
7. The piping method according to claim 6, The aforementioned transfer process is, A support ring installation step involves installing a support ring inside the second straight pipe section, The winding device placement step involves arranging the winding device on the support ring, A connecting step of connecting the pipe member and the winding device with a wire, A pulling step in which the wire is wound up by the winding device to pull the pipe member toward the support ring, Having, Piping method.
8. In the piping method according to claim 6 or 7, In the pipe support member extraction step, a pipe lifting jig is installed inside the first straight pipe section, and the pipe support member is lifted relative to the pipe transfer member by the pipe lifting jig, thereby separating the pipe support member from the pipe transfer member, and the pipe support member is extracted from the pipe member. Piping method.
9. In the piping method described in claim 8, In the pipe support member withdrawal step, with the pipe support member separated from the pipe transfer member, the pipe transfer member is moved backward relative to the pipe member. Piping method.
10. In the piping method described in claim 9, The process further includes a caster member attachment step, in which a caster member is attached to the outer surface of the pipe member so that the pipe member can be moved within the existing pipeline, before the aforementioned movement step. Piping method.