Pipe frame

Abstract

Disclosed herein are pipe frames, pipe crates, and methods of use for holding multiple pipes together for storage, handling, and transport. In one aspect, a pipe frame is provided that includes at least two frame members connectable to one another to form a pipe frame, at least one cross leg formation operatively associated with an end of a first frame member, at least one receiving opening defined in an end of a second frame member and configured to at least partially receive the at least one cross leg formation for mounting and orienting the first frame member relative to the second frame member, a locking catch operatively associated with the receiving opening, and a locking element operatively associated with the cross leg formation and releasably connectable to the locking catch to lock the first frame member relative to the second frame member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a pipe frame, a pipe crate for collectively holding a plurality of pipes for storage, handling, and transportation, and a method of using the same.

Background Art

[0002] For example, pipes such as tubular rigid sections of polymer pipes are usually manufactured by an extrusion process and are bundled or packaged together for efficient storage when shipped from the factory line.

[0003] When transporting pipes to remote locations such as construction sites and / or places of distribution and sales, it is common practice to tie the pipes to a pipe frame or a pipe crate. Such pipe frames or pipe crates are usually configured to accommodate any number of pipes between 3 and 90, and it is possible to store and handle the pipes more efficiently as a single unit with a smaller footprint than when handling the pipes individually or spreading them out on the ground.

[0004] Typically, such pipe frames or pipe crates comprise a square wooden frame formed from four wooden thin plates or frame members that are nailed together so as to extend circumferentially around the bundle of pipes. Since the thin plates or frame members are usually nailed together end-to-end in an array, the strength of the joints is not guaranteed. Therefore, it is common practice to further reinforce the pipe frame or crate with a circumferentially extending plastic banding or plastic wrapping around the wooden frame.

[0005] In addition to the lack of strength and the need for additional plastic banding or plastic wrapping, other common problems with such conventional pipe frames and pipe crates include that the wooden thin plates or frame members have no engineering properties and are generally discarded after one use.

[0006] Therefore, conventional pipe frames or pipe crates are poorly constructed and prone to defects. In fact, the applicant is aware of several instances where one or more pipe frames or pipe crates have been damaged during transport by truck. In such situations, the pipes are typically held together only by one or more cargo restraint bands, which are not intended to securely tie the assembled load to the truck trailer, but certainly not to hold the bundle of pipes together. Such defects make it easy for the bundle of pipes to fall onto the road during transport, causing damage to other vehicles on the road, and potentially resulting in injury or death to the drivers of those vehicles.

[0007] For example, packaging and lifting assemblies have long been developed for the transportation of long items such as pipes. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a packaging system for long products comprising four molded frame members configured to interconnect and form a frame extending circumferentially around a long product. However, this frame is complex to assemble and requires plastic banding or plastic packaging to extend around the frame and hold the frame members together in place.

[0008] Patent Document 2 discloses another packaging system for transporting long products, comprising a lower horizontal frame member and an opposing upper horizontal frame member, configured to interconnect with opposing side frame members to form a frame extending circumferentially around the long product. However, this frame is not suitable for packaging cylindrical long products such as bundles of pipes, and the connectors connecting each horizontal frame member to the vertical frame member are too complex and weak, and would likely be prone to malfunctions when used with pipes during transport.

[0009] Patent Document 3 discloses a lifting system for lifting long products. This system includes a plurality of horizontal frame members configured to extend parallel to each other between a pair of opposing side frame members and to interconnect with them. However, this frame is suitable for individually packaging long products that are neatly arranged, such as pipes, but would not be suitable for packaging bundles of pipes. Furthermore, the connection between the horizontal frame members and the opposing side frame members is over-designed, which would result in longer assembly times and the need for additional tooling.

[0010] Where prior art documents are referenced herein, it will be clearly understood that this reference does not constitute an admission that such documents form part of the ordinary general knowledge of the art in Australia or any other country. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0011] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0322444 [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 2012 / 155191 [Patent Document 3] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2003 / 0205907 Specification [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0012] Embodiments of the present invention provide a pipe frame, a pipe crate, and a method of using the same that can at least partially address one or more of the problems or drawbacks described above, or that can provide a useful or commercially viable option for the public. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a pipe frame for holding a plurality of pipes together, wherein the pipe frame is A pipe frame comprising at least two frame members, including a first frame member and a second frame member, which are connectable to each other and each frame member includes a pair of opposing ends, The first frame member is to be selectively attached to and detached from the second frame member, and the first frame member is to be selectively locked and unlocked from the second frame member, and includes at least one pair of locking devices for fixing the frame members to adjacent ends in a manner that allows them to be releasably fixed to each other, wherein each locking device is A lateral leg formation operably associated with the end of the first frame member, A receiving opening is defined at the end of the second frame member and is configured to at least partially receive a lateral leg formation for mounting and aligning the first frame member with respect to the second frame member, A lock catch that is operationally associated with the inlet, A pipe frame is provided, which includes a locking element that is operationally associated with a lateral leg formation and is releasably connectable to a locking catch when the lateral leg formation is received into the inlet, for fixing or locking the first frame member to a second frame member.

[0014] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a pipe frame for holding a plurality of pipes together, wherein the pipe frame is A pipe frame comprising at least two frame members, including a first frame member and a second frame member, which are connectable to each other and each frame member includes a pair of opposing ends, At least one transverse leg formation operably associated with the end of the first frame member, A second frame member has at least one receiving opening defined at the end of the second frame member and configured to at least partially receive at least one transverse leg formation for mounting and aligning the first frame member to the second frame member, A lock catch that is operationally associated with the inlet, A pipe frame is provided, which includes a locking element that is operationally associated with a lateral leg formation and is releasably connectable to a locking catch when the lateral leg formation is received into the inlet, for fixing or locking the first frame to the second frame.

[0015] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a pipe frame for holding a plurality of pipes together, wherein the pipe frame is An upper frame member and an opposing lower frame member, each extending substantially horizontally, and a pair of opposing side frame members extending between the upper frame member and the lower frame member to form a pipe frame, wherein each frame member includes a pair of opposing ends, the upper frame member and the opposing lower frame member, and the pair of opposing side frame members, At least one lateral leg formation operably associated with each end of the upper frame member and the lower frame member, At least one receiving opening defined at each end of an opposing side frame member, each of the at least one receiving opening configured to at least partially receive the at least one lateral leg formation for mounting and aligning the upper and lower frame members to the side frame member, Each of the aforementioned receiving ports is operably associated with a lock catch, A pipe frame is provided, which includes a locking element that is operationally associated with each of the lateral leg formations and is releasably connected to a corresponding locking catch when the lateral leg formation is received into an inlet, for fixing or locking the upper and lower frame members to opposing side frame members.

[0016] Advantageously, the pipe frame of the present invention provides a safe and reusable means for holding a plurality of pipes together not only during storage but also during transportation. The side rail formation provides a strong corner connection between adjacent frame members that maintains a linear orientation of each frame member for easy assembly while being lightweight. Further, the side rail formation provides a much stronger and structurally superior joint between adjacent frame members than conventional corner joints. Also, in addition to engaging with a lock catch that secures the frame members to each other, the locking element provides both audible and visual feedback to the operator as it biases towards engagement with the lock catch, thereby shortening the assembly time and ensuring safety once assembled.

[0017] As pointed out, the pipe frame is configured to extend circumferentially around a bundle of pipes to hold the pipes together and assist in the storage, handling, and transportation of the bundle of pipes, particularly over-the-road transportation on a truck trailer.

[0018] The pipe frame can be of any suitable size, shape, and structure and can be made from any suitable one or more materials. Generally, the pipe frame can be made from one or more metal and / or plastic materials, preferably the latter, more preferably a curable polymer material.

[0019] The pipe frame can be square, circular, triangular, pentagonal, or any variant or combination thereof, preferably square. Typically, the pipe frame can be formed by joining two or more frame members together.

[0020] For example, in some embodiments, the pipe frame can include two frame members including a substantially U-shaped frame member corresponding to a second frame member and an upper frame member or a first frame member extending between the ends of the U-shaped frame member.

[0021] In other embodiments, the pipe frame may include two L-shaped frame members configured to join their ends together to form the pipe frame. In such embodiments, one L-shaped frame member may correspond to a first frame member, and the other may correspond to a second frame member.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, the pipe frame may include four frame members, including an upper frame member, an opposing lower frame member, and opposing side frame members extending between them. The upper and lower frame members may extend substantially horizontally, preferably substantially parallel to each other. The side frame members may extend perpendicularly between the ends of the upper and lower frame members to form the pipe frame. In such embodiments, the upper and lower frame members may generally correspond to first frame members, and each side frame member may correspond to a second frame member.

[0023] The frame members can be tubular or solid in shape, preferably the former. Each frame member can have a substantially circular, elliptical, or square cross-section, preferably square.

[0024] Each frame member may include a pair of opposing ends and an elongated body having at least one side wall between them, preferably extending in the linear direction. The elongated body may preferably be defined by four side walls, including an inner wall, an opposing outer wall, and an opposing side wall.

[0025] Frame members can be constructed in any suitable way. For example, frame members can be mechanically bent, extruded, or molded. In a preferred embodiment, the frame members can preferably be formed from a polymer material such as polyethylene or polypropylene by extrusion molding and / or injection molding. For example, the upper and lower frame members may be formed by injection molding, and the side frame members may be formed by extrusion molding.

[0026] Each frame member can have a tubular structure. In some embodiments, the frame members may include one or more inner walls and / or ribs that provide adequate mechanical strength while keeping the frame members lightweight, so that they can be easily handled and carried by workers without the need for special equipment such as hoists and cranes.

[0027] Various frame components can be made to any appropriate length and can have a width of approximately 30-80 mm and a height of approximately 30-50 mm. The frame members can have different wall thicknesses. For example, the wall thickness can be in the range of 3 to 20 mm, preferably 8 to 15 mm.

[0028] As noted, the pipe frame further includes at least one locking device for joining various frame members together in an end-to-end arrangement to form the pipe frame.

[0029] At least one locking device can be of any suitable size, shape, and structure that allows the end of a frame member of a pipe frame to be detached from other frame members.

[0030] Generally, a single locking device can enable a pair of frame members to be releasably joined together. Therefore, a pair of locking devices located at adjacent ends can be provided to join at least two frame members together to form a pipe frame. Conversely, four locking devices located at adjacent ends can be provided to join four frame members together to form a pipe frame.

[0031] In some embodiments, at least one locking device may allow a selected frame member to be manually detached from other frame members by a quick-release mechanism. Preferably, the quick-release mechanism may allow the first frame member to be detached at its first end from the second frame member.

[0032] Typically, at least one locking device may include complementary engagement formations associated with the ends of the first and second frame members, respectively, configured to engage with each other for mounting the first frame member to the second frame member.

[0033] The complementary engagement component may be formed integrally with the end of the frame member, or it may be another structure joined to the end of the frame member, preferably formed integrally. The complementary engagement structure may include a first structure associated with the end of a first frame member, and a second structure that is connectable to the first structure and associated with the end of a second frame member, in order to attach the frame parts together in an end-to-end arrangement.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment, the complementary engagement formation may include at least one transverse leg formation and at least one corresponding inlet for at least partially receiving the transverse leg formation to join frame members together.

[0035] At least one lateral leg structure can be provided at at least one end of the first frame member, preferably at both ends. In a preferred embodiment, at least one lateral leg structure can be provided at each of the opposing ends of the upper and lower frame members.

[0036] The lateral leg structures may include leg structures that project laterally from the ends of the frame members, preferably in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the frame members. Preferably, the lateral leg structures can project in the same direction from each end of the frame members, allowing the frame members to join with other frame members to form a pipe frame.

[0037] The leg structures can be made to any appropriate length to securely join the frame members. For example, the leg structures can be defined between the inner wall of the frame member and the distal tip of the leg, such as approximately 100mm, 110mm, 120mm, 130mm, 140mm, 150mm, 160mm, 170mm, 180mm, 190mm, 200mm, 210mm, 220mm, 230mm, 240mm, 250mm, 260mm, 270mm, 280mm, and 2 They can have lengths of 90mm, approximately 300mm, approximately 310mm, approximately 320mm, approximately 330mm, approximately 340mm, approximately 350mm, approximately 360mm, approximately 370mm, approximately 380mm, approximately 390mm, approximately 400mm, approximately 410mm, approximately 420mm, approximately 430mm, approximately 440mm, approximately 450mm, approximately 460mm, approximately 470mm, approximately 480mm, approximately 490mm, or even approximately 500mm or more.

[0038] At least one lateral leg structure may include one or more fillet and curve elements to maintain a high strength-to-weight ratio. One or more fillets and curves may be defined on the opposing side walls of the leg structure. Advantageously, one or more fillet and curve elements can reduce peak load stress and maximize corner strength while maintaining minimum mass.

[0039] Preferably, the first frame member, or each of the opposing ends of the upper and lower frame members, can be curved to some extent to provide and at least partially define a smooth transition to the lateral leg formation at each end.

[0040] The receiving opening is defined at or can be formed at the open end of a second frame member, preferably an opposing side frame member. The receiving opening can be sized and shaped to be suitable for snugly receiving the leg forming.

[0041] In some embodiments, the four side walls of the second frame member or the opposing side frame member can define an opening at each end. In other embodiments, the receiving port can be defined as an insert configured to be received at each end of a second frame member or an opposing side frame member.

[0042] Advantageously, the engagement of each leg formation with its corresponding inlet orients the first frame member, or the upper and lower frame members, to be mounted on the opposing side frame members to form the pipe frame. This simplifies and speeds up the assembly of the pipe frame, especially compared to conventional pipe frames that include complex connectors, which often require additional tooling.

[0043] Furthermore, by fitting snugly into the inlet, the lateral leg formations advantageously provide a degree of rigidity to the partially assembled pipe frame, ensuring that the opposing side frames automatically extend perpendicularly to the lower frame members without external input, for example, to achieve a linear orientation suitable for mounting the upper frame members to it.

[0044] In some embodiments, at least one locking device can be configured to automatically fix or lock the first frame member relative to the second frame member when a transverse molding associated with an end of the first frame member is at least partially received in a receiving port associated with an adjacent end of the second frame member.

[0045] As noted, the locking device further includes a lock catch operatively associated with the inlet, and a locking element operatively associated with the lateral leg formation and configured to be releasably connected to the lock catch when the lateral leg formation is received in the inlet.

[0046] During use, the engagement between the lock catch and the locking element is advantageous in that it prevents the lateral leg formation from axially disengaging from the receiving opening, thereby fixing or locking the first frame member, or the upper or lower frame member, to the second frame member, or the opposing side frame member.

[0047] Each of the lock catch and lock element can be of any suitable size, shape, and structure to engage with each other in order to releasably secure the lateral leg formation to the inlet. For example, in some embodiments, the lock catch may include a female component configured to at least partially receive or engage with a male component of a locking element. The mating male and female components can be connected to each other in any suitable way, such as a snap-fit ​​connection or a friction fit connection.

[0048] In other embodiments, the lock catch may include a projection or recess defined on the outer side wall adjacent to the inlet, and the locking element may include a locking tongue associated with at least one transverse leg formation, which is sized and shaped to engage with the projection or recess when at least one transverse leg formation is inserted into the inlet.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment, the lock catch includes a lock hole defined in or near the receiving opening in the side wall of a second frame member or an opposing side frame member, and the lock element is configured to protrude through the lock hole when the lateral leg formation is inserted into the receiving opening, and is preferably biased to move outward into the lock hole.

[0050] The locking element can be of any appropriate size, shape, and structure. For example, in some embodiments, the locking element may be spring-pressed against or spring-mounted on the lateral leg formation and configured to spring outward from the lateral leg formation when aligned with the locking hole.

[0051] In other embodiments, the locking element may be integrally formed with the lateral leg formation and may include an elastic finger that is biased to engage with a locking hole away from the lateral leg formation when the lateral leg formation is inserted into the receiving port, thereby automatically securing the first frame or upper or lower frame member against the second frame member or opposing side frame member when the lateral leg formation is inserted into the receiving port.

[0052] In some embodiments, the locking element may further include a locking tab on its distal end, which is configured to extend outward beyond the outer side wall of the frame member, preferably through the locking hole, so as to move outward into the locking hole, and more preferably through the locking hole, so as to be received in the locking hole.

[0053] In some such embodiments, the locking tab may include a visual indicator to easily indicate when the first frame member or the upper or lower frame member is fixed or locked to the second frame member or the opposing side frame member. The visual indicator may include a bright color or color combination that is easily visible, such as fluorescent orange, yellow, or green.

[0054] Advantageously, in such embodiments, the visual indicator can provide workers assembling the pipe frame and / or drivers with quick visual feedback that the pipe frame components are secured to one another before the bundle of pipes is transported.

[0055] In other such embodiments, the locking tabs may also provide an audible indicator by having at least one locking tab click into a locking hole to facilitate indicating when the first frame member or the upper or lower frame member is fixed or locked to the second frame member or the opposing side frame member.

[0056] During use, the locking element can be disengaged from the locking catch by pushing down the elastic tab of the locking element against its biasing force, thereby disengaging it from the locking catch, preferably the locking hole. In a preferred embodiment, the protruding locking tab can be pushed down against the biasing force of the elastic tab, disengaging it from the locking hole, so that the lateral leg formation can be further disengaged axially from the receiving opening, thereby separating the end of the first frame member or the upper or lower frame member from the second frame member or the opposing side frame member.

[0057] Advantageously, the lock catches and locking elements secure the frame members to each other, providing a sturdy pipe frame, while also allowing the frame members to be quickly and easily separated manually from each other without additional tools.

[0058] In some embodiments, at least one of the frame members forming the pipe frame may have an outer wall surface, preferably the outer wall surface of the upper and / or lower frame member, that has been modified to increase its coefficient of friction.

[0059] The surface can be modified in any suitable way to increase its coefficient of friction. For example, the surface may have scales, ribbing, grooves, or knurling defined thereon.

[0060] In some embodiments, the surface may have a plurality of grooves or protrusions defined thereon. The grooves or protrusions may extend laterally or longitudinally with respect to the length of the frame member.

[0061] In such embodiments, the coefficient of friction can be increased to at least 0.5, preferably to about 0.55 to about 0.58. For comparison, conventional pipe frames made from wooden slabs or frame members have a coefficient of friction of about 0.4.

[0062] Advantageously, by increasing the coefficient of friction through multiple grooves defined on the outer surfaces of the outer walls of the upper and lower frame members, the grip of the pipe frame on the trailer bed and / or when arranged in a stacked configuration with other similar pipe frames is increased, thereby making the cargo more stable during transport.

[0063] In some embodiments, at least one inner wall of a frame member may include a plurality of grooves defined thereon and extending laterally with respect to the longitudinal axis of the frame member, preferably at least one inner wall of the upper and lower frame members.

[0064] Each groove can be configured to at least partially receive at least a portion of one of several pipes. Advantageously, the multiple grooves defined in the inner wall of the frame members stabilize and / or secure the pipe frame to the multiple pipes surrounded by them, thereby further stabilizing the load during transport.

[0065] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, a pipe crate, A densely packed array of pipes, A pipe crate is provided, comprising at least two pipe frames in any one of the first, second, and third embodiments, extending circumferentially around a densely packed group of pipes for holding the pipes together, wherein the pipe frames are spaced apart from each other along the length of the pipes so as to form a single entity together with the pipes.

[0066] At least two pipe frames can be positioned at any suitable location along the length of the pipe group. For example, in some embodiments, at least two pipe frames can be positioned at or near opposing ends of the pipe group.

[0067] In some embodiments, the pipe crate may further include one or more intermediate pipe frames for at least two pipe frames. For example, the pipe crate may further include a third pipe frame positioned between at least two pipe frames, preferably in the middle along the length of the pipe group.

[0068] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, a method for bundling multiple pipes together, wherein the method is At least one lower frame member having a pair of pre-installed side frame members is placed on the support surface to form an upward-facing support base, Placing the pipe on the support stand, A method is provided which includes fixing an upper frame member to each side frame member in a releasable manner using a pair of locking devices so as to form a pipe frame, each of which locking devices is configured to allow the upper frame member to be locked and unlocked to a support so as to be selectively detached from there.

[0069] The method may include one or more characteristics or features of the pipe frame and pipe crate described above. Any of the features described herein may be combined in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein, within the scope of the present invention.

[0070] No prior art reference in this specification constitutes, and should not be construed as, an acknowledgment of, or any suggestion of, that such prior art forms part of ordinary general knowledge.

[0071] Preferred features, embodiments, and variations of the present invention will be understood from the following detailed description, which will provide sufficient information for those skilled in the art to carry out the invention. The detailed description should not be considered to limit the scope of the abstract of the invention described above. The detailed description will be referenced to numerous drawings as follows. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0072] [Figure 1] This is a top perspective view of a pipe frame according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is an upper perspective view of the pipe frame in Figure 1, with the upper frame members removed. [Figure 3] Figures 1 and 2 show an upper perspective view of the upper portion of the side frame member of the pipe frame. [Figure 4] Figure 3 is an upper perspective view showing further details of the upper corner of the pipe frame. [Figure 5] Figure 3 is an upper perspective view showing further details of the upper corner of the pipe frame. [Figure 6] This is a top perspective view of a partially assembled pipe crate for receiving pipes, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is a top perspective view of a fully assembled pipe crate according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8A] Figure 7 shows a schematic plan view of the pipe crate, which is being lifted by the forks of a forklift truck. [Figure 8B] Figure 7 shows a schematic plan view of the pipe crate, which is being loaded onto a truck trailer by a forklift truck along with other similar pipe crates. [Figure 9] Figure 7 is a side view of a truck trailer showing a pile of pipe crates secured to the trailer by cargo restraint straps. [Figure 10]Figure 9 is a rear view of a trailer loaded with stacked pipe crates. [Figure 11] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the steps involved in disassembling the pipe frame shown. [Figure 12A] A perspective view of a portion of a pipe frame according to various embodiments of the present invention is shown. [Figure 12B] A perspective view of a portion of a pipe frame according to various embodiments of the present invention is shown. [Figure 13A] To increase the surface friction coefficient, Figure 3 shows an enlarged plan view of the protrusions defined on the outer surface of the frame members of the pipe frame. [Figure 13B] To increase the surface friction coefficient, Figure 3 shows a side view of the protrusions defined on the outer surface of the frame members of the pipe frame. [Figure 14] Figure 1 is an enlarged view of a portion of the pipe frame shown. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0073] Figures 1 to 14 show a pipe frame (100), a pipe crate (200), and their components and applications according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to Figure 1, the pipe frame (100) includes an upper frame member (102), an opposing lower frame member (104), and a pair of opposing side frame members (106) that extend between the opposing ends (105) of the upper frame member (102) and the lower frame member (104) to form the pipe frame (100).

[0074] Each end (105) of the upper and lower frame members (102, 104) includes a lateral leg formation (110). Each end (105) of the opposing side frame member (106) defines an opening (120) configured to at least partially receive each lateral leg formation (110) for mounting and aligning the upper and lower frame members (102, 104) to the side frame member (106).

[0075] Each receiving port (120) further includes a locking hole (130; i.e., a locking catch), and each lateral leg formation (110) further includes a locking element (140) configured to be releasably connected to the locking hole (130) when the lateral leg formation (110) is received into the receiving port (120) in order to fix or lock an upper or lower frame member (102, 104) to a connected side frame member (106).

[0076] As shown in the figure, the pipe frame (100) has a roughly rectangular shape with elongated frames along the longitudinal axes of the upper and lower frame members (102, 104). The frame members (102, 104, 106) are made from a curable polymer material. The upper and lower frame members (102, 104) are integrally formed with the lateral leg structure (110) by injection molding. The opposing side frame member (106) is an extruded product.

[0077] Each frame member (102, 104, 106) is a tubular structure having a rectangular cross-section. As shown in the figure, the upper and lower frame members (102, 104) include one or more inner walls and ribs to provide adequate mechanical strength while keeping the frame members lightweight so that workers can easily handle and carry them without special equipment such as hoists and cranes.

[0078] Each frame member (102, 104, 106) includes a pair of opposing ends (105) and a long body extending substantially linearly between them. The long body is defined by four walls, including an inner wall, opposing outer walls, and opposing side walls.

[0079] Referring to Figure 4, the lateral leg structures (110) are formed at each end of the upper end lower frame members (102, 104 (not shown)). The lateral leg formation (110) includes a leg formation (112) that extends laterally from the end (105) of the frame member (102) in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the frame member (102). The lateral leg formations (110) extend in the same direction from each end (105) of the frame member (102) so that the frame member (102) can be joined to the side frame member (106) to form a pipe frame (100).

[0080] In particular, referring to Figures 2 and 3 for a while, the receiving openings (120) defined at each end (105) of the opposing side frame members (106) are defined by the open ends (105) of the frame members (106) and are configured to snugly receive the lateral leg formations (110; shown only in Figure 2).

[0081] Referring to Figure 2, the engagement of each leg formation (110) with the corresponding inlet (120) orients the upper and lower frame members (102 (not shown), 104) to be suitable for mounting onto the opposing side frame members (106) to form the pipe frame (100). This simplifies and speeds up the assembly of the pipe frame (100), especially compared to conventional pipe frames that include complex connectors, which often require additional tooling.

[0082] Furthermore, by being tightly received in the inlet (120), the lateral leg formation (110) advantageously provides rigidity to the partially assembled pipe frame (100), as shown in the figure, and ensures that the opposing side frame (106) automatically extends perpendicular to the lower frame member (104) without external input to achieve a linear orientation suitable for mounting an upper frame member (102; not shown) thereto.

[0083] Referring to Figures 4 and 5, as noted, each lateral leg formation (110) further includes a locking element (140) for engaging with a corresponding locking hole (130; shown only in Figure 5) when the lateral leg formation (110) is inserted into the corresponding receiving (120) in order to fix or lock the lateral leg formation (110) and the upper or lower frame members (102, 104 (not shown)) to the receiving of the side frame member (106).

[0084] Referring to Figure 5, the locking holes (130) are defined on the side walls of each side frame member (106) near the end (105) and have a substantially circular shape. Referring to Figure 4, the locking element (140) is integrally formed with the lateral leg formation (110) and includes an elastic finger (142) configured to move outward from the lateral leg formation (110) and engage with the corresponding locking hole (130; shown in Figure 5) when the lateral leg formation (110) is inserted into the receiving opening (120) to automatically secure the upper or lower frame member (102, 104 (not shown)) to the side frame member (106).

[0085] As shown in the figure, the elastic finger (142) further includes a locking tab (144) at its distal end, configured to extend outward through a locking hole (130; shown only in Figure 5) and over the outer side wall of the frame member (106).

[0086] Advantageously, the lock tabs (144) function as visual indicators, providing workers assembling the pipe frame (100) and / or drivers transporting the bundle of pipes with quick visual feedback that the pipe frame (100) components are secured to one another.

[0087] During use, the locking element (140) can be disengaged from the locking hole (130; shown only in Figure 5) by pushing down the locking tab (144) against the biasing force of the elastic finger (142), thereby detaching the end of the upper or lower frame member (102, 104 (not shown)) from the side frame member (106) by further axially disengaging the lateral leg formation (110) from the receiving opening (120).

[0088] Advantageously, the locking holes and locking elements (130, 140) secure the frame members (102, 106) to each other, and provide a robust pipe frame (100) that also allows the frame members (102, 106) to be quickly and easily separated from each other manually without additional tools.

[0089] Figures 12A and 12B show alternative embodiments of the lateral leg structure (110). For example, Figure 12B corresponds to a typical lateral leg formation (110) defined by four side walls and defining a hollow interior by an injection molding process.

[0090] In contrast, Figure 12A shows a lateral leg structure (110) for use in a larger pipe frame (100) where greater strength and rigidity are required. Specifically, the lateral leg structure (110) further includes an inner wall (70) extending inward between opposing side walls and longitudinally along the entire length of the leg structure (110). Advantageously, the inner wall (70) reinforces the leg structure (110), which is advantageous when the pipe frame (100) is larger and / or when the pipe bundle is larger or heavier.

[0091] Referring to Figures 13A and 13B, in some embodiments, the outer surface of the upper and / or lower frame members (102, 104 (not shown)) is modified to increase its coefficient of friction.

[0092] Specifically, as shown in Figure 13A, the surface has a plurality of grooves (210) defined therein. Referring to Figure 13B, the groove (210) extends laterally with respect to the length of the frame members (102, 104 (not shown)), resulting in a coefficient of friction of at least 0.58. For comparison, conventional pipe frames made from wooden slabs or frame members have a coefficient of friction of approximately 0.4.

[0093] Advantageously, by increasing the coefficient of friction through multiple grooves (210) defined on the outer surface of the upper and lower frame members (102, 104 (not shown)), the grip of the pipe frame (100) on the trailer bed and / or arranged in a stacked configuration with other similar pipe frames is increased, thereby making the cargo more stable during transport.

[0094] Referring to Figure 13, each lateral leg formation (110) includes a plurality of fillets and curved elements (114) defined on the opposing side walls in order to maintain a high strength-to-weight ratio and reduce peak load stress.

[0095] Here, a method for assembling and stacking three pipe frames (100) to form a pipe crate (1,000) for bundling together groups of pipes (900) will be explained with reference to Figures 6 to 10.

[0096] Referring to Figure 6, two opposing side frame members (106) are attached to each lower frame member (104) which is placed on the support surface. As shown in the figure, there are three such assemblies arranged side by side on the support surface, arranged longitudinally and spaced apart from one another. Together, the assemblies form an upward-facing support base (1,010) suitable for receiving a pipe (900).

[0097] After that, the pipes (900) can be loaded onto the support (1,010) until the bundles of pipes (900) are gathered as shown in Figure 7. Referring to Figure 7, once the support base is fully loaded with pipes (900), the upper frame members (102) of each pipe frame (100) are attached to the open ends (105) of each side frame member (106) to complete the assembly of the pipe frame (100), and together with this, the assembly of the pipe crate (1,000) is completed.

[0098] Advantageously, by snapping the locking element (140) into each locking hole (130) of each side frame member (106), the worker is given both audible and visual feedback that the upper frame member (102) of each pipe frame (100) is fixed or locked to the rest of the pipe frame (100).

[0099] Referring to Figure 8B, when it is necessary to transport the pipe crates (1,000) to another location, a forklift truck (800) can be used to lift each pipe crate (1,000) and load it onto a transport truck trailer, or onto other similar pipe crates (1,000) loaded on the trailer in a stacking arrangement.

[0100] Referring to Figure 8A, advantageously, the lower frame members (104; not shown) of each pipe frame (100) of the pipe crate (1,000) are spaced well above the support surface so that the forks (810) of a forklift truck (800; not shown) can be inserted between them to lift the pipe crate (1,000). The spacing is equal to approximately 40 mm, the thickness of the lower frame members (104).

[0101] Referring to Figures 9 and 10, once the pipe crate (1,000) is loaded onto the trailer, the pipe crate (1,000) is securely fastened with tie-down straps. When transporting pipe crates (1,000) to a distribution or supply point, it is clearly economically essential to load as many pipes (900) as possible onto the truck in order to keep transportation costs as low as possible.

[0102] During the transport of a pipe crate (1,000) from one point to another, the pipe crate (1,000) is subjected to various stresses and forces. For example, on uneven roads, the crate (1,000) and pipes (900) move up and down, which places a significant load on each pipe frame (100). However, the pipe frame (100) of the present invention is designed to withstand such loads that are normally encountered during transport, and will not malfunction. Furthermore, the attachment and fastening of the upper and lower frame members (102, 104; not clearly shown) to the side members (106; not clearly shown) by the disclosed locking device is robust and secure, and will withstand detachment or separation during road transport.

[0103] When the pipe crates (1,000) arrive at their destination, each pipe crate (1,000) can be lowered from the trailer and onto the support surface using a forklift truck (800; not shown) again, in the reverse order of loading as disclosed.

[0104] Once the pipe crate (1,000) is placed on the support surface, it may be desirable at some point to remove one or more of the pipe frames (100) from the pipe crate (1,000) so that the pipe frames (100) can be reused.

[0105] With the above in mind, the method for disassembling the pipe frame (100) will be explained with reference to Figure 11. First, the upper frame (102) is separated from the side frame members (106) by pressing down the lock tabs (144) that protrude through lock holes (130) at or near the upper end (105) of each side frame member (106). The lateral leg formations (110) are axially removed from the receiving openings (120) while manually pressing down each lock (144). This process is repeated for each end (105) of the upper frame member (102).

[0106] Once the upper frame member (102) is removed, the pipe (900) can be removed from the opened pipe frame (100). Once empty, the opposing side frame members (106) can be separated again from the lower frame member (104) by pressing down the lock tab (144) that protrudes through the lock hole (130) at or near the lower end (105) of each side frame member (106), thereby separating each side frame member (106) axially from the lateral leg formation (110) of the lower frame member (104).

[0107] Next, the separated frame members (102, 104, 106) can be collected and returned to the pool for recycling, in order to be reused in bundles of other pipes (900). In this specification and in the claims (if any), the terms “comprising” and “comprises” and their derivatives include, but do not exclude, each of the integers described, one or more other integers.

[0108] Throughout this specification, any reference to “one embodiment” or “a certain embodiment” means that certain features, structures, or characteristics described in relation to that embodiment are included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Therefore, the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in a certain embodiment” appearing in various places throughout this specification do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, those particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in one or more combinations in any suitable manner.

[0109] In compliance with the law, the present invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodological features. Since the means described herein constitute a suitable mode for carrying out the invention, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the specific features illustrated or described. Therefore, the present invention is claimed in any form or variation thereof within the appropriate scope of any appended claims, which can be appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A pipe frame for holding multiple pipes together, wherein the pipe frame is Each of the upper frame members and the opposing lower frame members extends in a substantially horizontal direction, A pair of opposing side frame members extending between the upper frame member and the lower frame member to form the pipe frame, wherein each frame member includes a pair of opposing ends, A lateral leg formation is provided at each end of the upper frame member and the lower frame member, and is operably associated with them, A receiving opening defined at each end of each of the opposing side frame members, each of which is configured to at least partially receive the lateral leg formation for mounting and aligning the upper frame member and the lower frame member to the side frame member, A lock catch that is operationally associated with the aforementioned inlet, A pipe frame comprising: a locking element that is operably associated with the lateral leg formation and is releasably connected to the locking catch when the lateral leg formation is received into the receiving port, for fixing or locking the upper frame member and the lower frame member against the opposing side frame member.

2. The pipe frame according to claim 1, wherein the lock catch includes a lock hole defined in the side wall of the side frame member at or near the receiving opening, and the lock element is biased to move outward into the lock hole when the lateral leg forming is inserted into the receiving opening.

3. The pipe frame according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the locking element further includes an elastic finger piece formed integrally with the lateral leg formation and configured to be biased away from the lateral leg formation.

4. The pipe frame according to claim 3, dependent on claim 2, further comprising a lock tab at its distal end, which is configured to provide a visual indicator when the upper frame member and the lower frame member are fixed to the opposing side frame member.

5. The pipe frame according to claim 4, wherein the lock tabs are colored in a light color to provide a visual indicator to a worker assembling the pipe frame and to provide visual feedback that the upper frame member and the lower frame member are fixed to the opposing side frame member.

6. The pipe frame according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the lateral leg formation includes leg formations that extend laterally from the respective ends of the upper frame member and the lower frame member, in directions perpendicular to the respective longitudinal axes of the upper frame member and the lower frame member.

7. The pipe frame according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the lateral leg formations provided at each end of the upper frame member are oriented in the same direction, and the lateral leg formations provided at each end of the lower frame member are oriented in the same direction.

8. The pipe frame according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the lateral leg formation further includes an inner wall extending between opposing side walls and extending longitudinally along the entire length of the lateral leg formation, the inner wall being configured to reinforce the lateral leg formation and withstand outward bending when a bundle of pipes is stacked on the pipe frame.

9. The pipe frame according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the lateral leg formation further comprises one or more fillets and curves defined on the opposing side walls of the lateral leg formation.

10. The pipe frame according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the locking element is configured to engage with the lock catch when the lateral leg forming is inserted into the receiving port and fixes the upper frame member and the lower frame member to the opposing side frame members.

11. The pipe frame according to any one of claims 3 to 5 and claims 6 to 10 dependent on claim 3, wherein the locking element is manually detached from the lock catch by pushing down the locking element against its biasing force to disengage it from the lock catch.

12. The pipe frame according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein at least one of the upper and lower frame members includes a plurality of grooves defined on the outer surface of the outer wall to increase its coefficient of friction and provide grip when placed on a support surface.

13. The pipe frame according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein at least one of the upper and lower frame members may include a plurality of grooves defined on the inner surface of the inner wall, each groove may be configured to receive at least a portion of a pipe therein.

14. It is a pipe crate, A densely packed array of pipes, A pipe crate comprising at least two pipe frames according to any one of claims 1 to 13, which extend circumferentially around the densely packed group of pipes and hold the pipes together, wherein the pipe frames are spaced apart from each other along the length of the pipes so as to form a single body together with the pipes.

15. The pipe crate according to claim 14, wherein the at least two pipe frames are arranged at or near the opposing ends of the densely packed pipe group.

16. The pipe crate according to claim 14 or 15, further comprising a third pipe frame positioned at an intermediate position relative to the at least two pipe frames.

17. A method for bundling multiple pipes together, wherein the method is To provide the pipe frame according to claim 1, The lower frame member is placed on the support surface, By attaching side frame members to each end of the lower frame member, an upward-facing support base is formed. Loading the pipes onto the aforementioned support stand, A method comprising: fixing an upper frame member to each side frame member in a releasable manner so as to form a pipe frame that extends circumferentially around the pipe.

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