INSTALLATION TRAILER FOR COILED FLEXIBLE TUBE AND METHOD OF USE THEREOF

Abstract

One system includes a folding trailer frame and a lifting mechanism attached to the folding trailer frame. The lifting mechanism is configured to raise or lower a coil or reel of tubing. The system also includes a braking mechanism.

Description

INSTALLATION TRAILER FOR COILED FLEXIBLE TUBE AND METHOD OF USE THEREOF FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Flexible tubing is useful in a wide variety of environments, including the oil and gas industry. It is durable and reliable under harsh operating conditions and can withstand high pressures and temperatures. Flexible tubing can be bundled and stored on one or more reels for easy transport and use. The tube coils can be positioned in either a "lateral" or "vertical" orientation. When the flexible tube is coiled and positioned with its inner channel facing upwards, so that the coil is horizontal, the tube coils are referred to as being in a "vertical" orientation. If, on the other hand, the flexible tube is coiled and positioned so that the inner channel is not facing upwards, so that the coil is vertical, then the tube coils are referred to as being in a "lateral" orientation. Flexible tubing can be transported as coils to various sites for deployment (also known as uncoiling or stripping). Currently, different types of devices and vehicles are used to load and transport tubing coils, but additional equipment and manual labor are generally also involved in the loading and unloading process. These tubing coils are often quite large and heavy. Therefore, there is a need for an improved method and apparatus for loading and unloading tubing coils. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts that are further described below in the detailed description. It is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. In one respect, the modalities described herein relate to a system that includes a folding trailer frame and a lifting mechanism coupled to the folding trailer frame. The lifting mechanism is configured to raise or lower a coil of tubing or a reel of tubing. The system also includes a braking mechanism. In another aspect, the modalities described herein relate to a method that includes providing a trailer having a folding trailer frame, a lifting mechanism coupled to the trailer frame, and a braking mechanism. The method also includes coupling a tube coil or tube reel to the lifting mechanism, adjusting the vertical position of the tube coil or tube reel via the lifting mechanism, deploying the tube by rotating the tube coil or tube reel, and applying pressure via the braking mechanism to a drum assembly inserted into the tube coil or applying pressure via the braking mechanism to the tube reel. Other aspects and advantages of the claimed subject matter will become evident from the following description and the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES Figure 1 is a diagram of a foldable installation trailer according to the modalities of the present description. Figure 2 is a perspective view of a coil of rollable tube according to the modalities of the present description. Figure 3 is a perspective view of a rollable tube reel according to the modalities of the present description. Figure 4 is a perspective view of a folding installation trailer according to the modalities of the present description. Figure 5 is a perspective view of a foldable installation trailer in a folded configuration according to the modalities of the present description. Figure 6 is a perspective view of telescopic sides of a folding installation trailer according to the modalities of the present description. Figure 7 is a perspective view of a lifting mechanism and a braking mechanism according to the modalities of the present description. Figure 8 is a perspective view of a lifting mechanism that includes a mechanical lock according to the modalities of the present description. Figure 9 is a side view of a mechanical lock in a coupled position according to the modalities of the present description. Figure 10 is a side view of a mechanical lock in an uncoupled position according to the modalities of the present description. Figure 11 is a perspective view of a drum assembly that can be used to manipulate reels according to the modalities of the present description. Figure 12 is a perspective view of a drum assembly according to the modalities of the present description. Figure 13 is a perspective view of a folding installation trailer and drum assembly according to the modalities of the present description. Figure 14 is a side view of a folding installation trailer and drum assembly according to the modalities of the present description. ocibnn / i ζηζ / E / γ Figure 15 is a rear view of a folding installation trailer and drum assembly according to the modalities of the present description. Figure 16 is a rear view of a folding installation trailer and drum assembly according to the modalities of the present description. Figure 17 is a perspective view of a portion of a folding installation trailer according to the modalities of the present description. Figure 18 is a perspective view of a portion of a folding installation trailer according to the modalities of the present description. Figure 19 is a perspective view of a portion of a folding installation trailer according to the modalities of the present description. Figure 20 is a top view of a folding installation trailer according to the modalities of the present description. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The modalities described herein generally refer to systems used for deploying coils of flexible tubing. The coils of tubing may be self-supporting, for example, using straps to hold them together, or they may be supported around a reel (which may be referred to as a tubing reel). Deployment systems according to the modalities described herein may include a collapsible installation trailer comprising a trailer frame, a lifting mechanism coupled to the trailer frame configured to raise or lower a coil of tubing or a tubing reel, and a braking mechanism. The following will describe variations of the present description with reference to the figures. In one respect, the variations described herein refer to methods for deploying a roll-up tube from a folding trailer. As used herein, the term “coupled” or “coupled to” may indicate establishing a direct or indirect connection and is not limited to either unless expressly referred to as such. The term “assembly” may refer to one or more elements. Where possible, similar or identical reference numbers are used in the figures to identify common or equal elements. The figures are not necessarily to scale, and certain features and views may be shown exaggerated for clarity. Figure 1 illustrates a block diagram of one embodiment of a collapsible installation trailer 10. As described in detail later, the collapsible installation trailer 10 can be used to deploy the coilable tube 12, which can refer to any type of flexible tube or tube capable of being coiled. The coilable tube 12 can be wound onto a roll or reel, or it can be handled as coils without rolls or reels. These reels or coils of the coilable tube 12 can reduce the amount of space occupied by the tube during manufacturing, shipping, transport, and deployment compared to rigid tube that is not capable of being coiled. Coiled tubing, also known as flexible tubing, is a tube used to transport or transfer water, gas, oil, or any other suitable fluid. Coiled tubing can be made from a variety of materials, including plastics, metals, composites (e.g., fiber-reinforced composites), and other suitable materials. It is frequently used in numerous applications, including, but not limited to, onshore and offshore oil and gas applications. Coiled tubing can be flexible tubing, which may include bonded or unbonded flexible tubing, flexible composite tubing (FCP), thermoplastic composite tubing (TCP), or reinforced thermoplastic tubing (RTP). FCP or RTP tubing typically consists of multiple layers. In one or more configurations, flexible tubing may include an internal thermoplastic liner or pressure sleeve with a reinforcing layer and an external thermoplastic cover layer.In one or more configurations, the thermoplastic material can be high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Therefore, flexible tubing can include different layers made from a variety of materials, which can also provide corrosion resistance. For example, in one or more configurations, the tubing used to form a coil of tubing may have an outer corrosion-resistant jacket layer placed over another layer of steel reinforcement. In this configuration, helically wound steel strips can be placed over a liner made of thermoplastic tubing. Flexible tubing can be designed to handle a variety of pressures. Consequently, flexible tubing can offer unique characteristics and benefits compared to steel / carbon steel pipe lines in the areas of corrosion resistance, flexibility, speed of installation, and reusability.Another type of flexible or rollable tube is coiled tubing or coiled pipe, which can be made of steel and have a protective layer against corrosion. The collapsible installation trailer 10 of Figure 1 includes a collapsible trailer frame 14 that provides a base and support for other components of the collapsible installation trailer 10, such as a lifting mechanism 16 coupled to the collapsible trailer frame 14. The collapsible trailer frame 14 can be constructed from one or more structural components, such as, but not limited to, beams, columns, posts, tubes, sheets, etc., joined together by various techniques, such as, but not limited to, bolts, screws, tongue and groove joints, welding, brazing, etc. The collapsible trailer frame 14 can be made of steel, other metal alloys, or composite structural elements. In certain embodiments, the collapsible trailer frame 14 allows the collapsible trailer frame 14 to occupy less space when shipped or transported.The lifting mechanism 16 can be configured to raise or lower a coil of roll tube 12 or a reel of roll tube 12, as described in detail below. The folding installation trailer 10 can also include a braking mechanism 18 configured to apply return tension to the roll tube 12 as the roll tube 12 is deployed by the folding installation trailer 10, as described in detail below. Finally, the folding installation trailer 10 can include a power unit 20 configured to power various components of the installation trailer 10, which can include hydraulic, electrical, or mechanical power. The power unit 20 can be coupled to the folding trailer frame 14 or mounted on a separate skid in certain embodiments. In other embodiments, the power unit 20 can be omitted.For example, a separate electric or hydraulic power skid can be attached to the folding installation trailer 10 when operating the folding installation trailer 10. The folding installation trailer 10 may include two or more wheels 22 to allow it to move. The wheels 22 may be pneumatic or continuous tracks to adapt movement to different types of terrain. In addition, certain models may include suitable wheels 22 to allow the installation trailer 10 to be towed along roads on the wheels 22. In certain embodiments, the collapsible installation trailer 10 may include a rounding mechanism configured to round the retractable roll tube 12. For example, the roll tube 12 may have an oval cross-section when rolled up. In other words, the roll tube 12 may not have a circular cross-section. The rounding mechanism may use rollers or other components with circular or partially circular shapes to reshape the roll tube 12 to have a circular or substantially circular cross-section when the rollers or other components engage or are pressed against the roll tube 12. For example, the rounding mechanism may include one or more pairs of rollers positioned approximately 180 degrees apart that engage with an external surface of the roll tube 12. Other types of rounding mechanisms and rounding techniques may also be used.For example, rounding mechanisms may use a clamp or other device to push against part or all of the outer surface of the roll tube 12. In additional embodiments, the collapsible installation trailer 10 may include one or more web cutters, which may include a cutting portion that is sharpened to cut the webs from the reel. In certain embodiments, the web cutters may be made of multiple components to allow the cutting portion to be removed or replaced without having to remove or replace the entire web cutter. In additional embodiments, the web cutters may be omitted, and other techniques (e.g., manual web cutting) may be used to cut the webs. Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a coil 30 of the rollable tube 12. The coil 30 can be defined by an axial axis or direction 32, a radial axis or direction 34, and a circumferential axis or direction 36. The coil 30 can be formed by wrapping the rollable tube 12 into a coil with an internal channel 38 formed axially 32 through it, where the coil 30 can be moved as a single bundle or bundle of rolled tube, as shown in Figure 2. Each complete turn of rolled tube can be referred to as a tube wrap. Multiple tube wraps on the coil 30 can be configured in columns along the axial direction 32 of the coil 30 and / or configured in layers along the radial direction 34 of the coil 30.For example, multiple columns of wraps can be formed along the axial direction 32 of coil 30, where an axial dimension 40 of coil 30 is based on the diameter of tube 12 and the number and axial position 32 of wraps forming coil 30. Additionally, multiple layers of wraps can be formed along the radial direction 34 of coil 30, where a radial dimension 42 of coil 30 is based on the diameter of the tube and the number and radial position 34 of the wraps forming coil 30. In certain embodiments, a weight of coil 30 can exceed 40,000 pounds (18,144 kilograms), 60,000 pounds (27,216 kilograms), or even 75,000 pounds (34,019 kilograms). As such, the folding trailer frame 14 and other components of the folding installation trailer 10 modes can be configured to handle these coils 30 that other trailers that do not have the features of the folding installation trailer 10 cannot.For example, the structural members of the folding trailer configuration 10 may be larger or heavier than those used in other trailers. In one or more configurations, the coil 30 may be mounted on a reel, which is discussed further in Figure 3. As shown in Figure 2, the coil 30 of the rollable tube 12 may consist of one or more layers (for example, layers 44 and 46) of the tube bundled or bundled into the coil 30. The coil 30 may include at least one or more layers of tube that have been wound into a particular shape or arrangement. As shown in Figure 2, the coil 30 is wound into a substantially cylindrical shape, where the axial dimension 40 of the coil 30 is measured between the outer edges 48 and 50 of the coil 30. As is known to those skilled in the art, the coiled tube 12 used to form the coil 30 shown in Figure 2 can be wound using reels or other winding machines suitable for this purpose. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present description is not limited to any particular form of coiler or other device that can be used to form a tube onto a coil. Winding the tube onto a coil, such as Figure 30, facilitates the transport of the tube, which may be several hundred feet in length in one or more configurations. Furthermore, the coil 30 can be wound to facilitate the deployment of the coiled tube 12. Deployment, as described above and used herein, may refer to the action of unwinding or uncoiling the coiled tube 12 from the coil 30. The coiled tube 12 can be installed underground, above ground, or in water. After being wound onto a reel, the reel 30 shown in Figure 2 may include the inner channel 38 formed axially 32 through the reel 30. The inner channel 38 is a hole usually located in the center of the reel 30. The inner channel 38 may be substantially circular. The reel 30 may have an outer diameter (OD) and an inner diameter (ID), where the inner diameter is defined by the inner channel 38. As shown in Figure 2, one or more bands 52 may be wrapped around the reel 30 to help prevent it from unwinding. When the reel tube 12 is unfurled, the bands 52 may be cut at one or more desired locations using the band cutter described above or a hand-held band cutter. Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a reel 60 of the roll tube 12. In some cases, the coil 30 of the roll tube 12 can be wound around the components of the reel 60, instead of being transported as a separate enclosed package (for example, as shown in Figure 2). The coil 30 can be wound around the reel 60 such that the inner channel of the coil 30 is concentric with a central hole of the reel 60. A reel, as understood by those skilled in the art, can include a cylindrical drum, such as a cylindrical drum 62, around which layers of tube can be wound to form the coil 30. The reel 60 can include two substantially circular reel ends 64 and 66 that are capable of rotating about a shared axis. Accordingly, the reel ends 64 and 66 can be attached to the cylindrical drum 62. As shown in Figure 3, a hole 68 is positioned at each end 64 and 66 in a substantially central position. Furthermore, the holes 68 for each end 64 and 66 are substantially aligned with each other (and may also be aligned with a central axis of the cylindrical drum 62). The coiling tube 12 (e.g., flexible tubing) can be wound around the cylindrical drum 62 using any means known to those skilled in the art. Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of the collapsible installation trailer 10, which may have a front side 70 and a rear side 72. In the illustrated embodiment, the collapsible trailer frame 14 is made of several structural members 80 coupled together so that the collapsible trailer frame 14 can support the other components of the collapsible installation trailer 10 and the weight of the coil or reel 60, which may exceed 40,000 pounds (18,144 kilograms), 60,000 pounds (27,216 kilograms), or 75,000 pounds (34,019 kilograms). For example, the structural members 80 may be made of square steel tubing, steel I-beams, sheet metal, or similar composite structural elements. The folding trailer frame 14 may include a trailer connection point 82, which may be a hitch, such as a drawbar hitch.A drawbar hitch is a type of trailer hitch that includes a ball extending from a bar and configured to secure a hook or socket combination for the purpose of towing or being towed. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other types of trailer hitches and coupling systems can be used to attach another vehicle to the folding-mount trailer 10. In other embodiments, the connection point of the trailer 82 can be configured as a breakaway hitch so that the electric brakes for the folding-mount trailer 10 can be activated if the folding-mount trailer 10 becomes disconnected from the towing vehicle for any reason. Accordingly, a vehicle (not shown) can be equipped with a connector or coupling system known to those skilled in the art for attaching to the folding installation trailer 10. In one or more embodiments, a vehicle used to tow the folding installation trailer 10 may include, without limitation, a backhoe, a front loader, or an excavator, for example, when the folding installation trailer 10 is fully loaded with coil 30 or reel 60, or standard trucks, cars, or other vehicles, for example, when the folding installation trailer 10 is in an unloaded state (i.e., not carrying coil 30 or reel 60). The folding installation trailer 10 can also be designed for off-road use by selecting suitable off-road wheels 22.In some embodiments, the 22 wheels may be wide-base tires (e.g., Super Single tires) mounted on heavy-duty hubs. Therefore, the folding installation trailer 10 can be adapted for use on many types of roads and terrain. In the illustrated embodiment, the two 22 wheels on each side can be mounted on a frame 84 that tilts around a pivot 86 to allow the folding installation trailer 10 to move easily over uneven ground. Although a total of four 22 wheels are shown in Figure 4, other embodiments may include different numbers of 22 wheels (e.g., two, six, or more 22 wheels) or track mechanisms.In certain embodiments, the collapsible installation trailer 10 is capable of deploying the roll-up tube 12 by towing the collapsible installation trailer 10 along a tube path or keeping the collapsible installation trailer 10 stationary and pulling the roll-up tube 12 from the collapsible installation trailer 10. ocibnn / i ζηζ / E / γ As shown in Figure 4, the lifting mechanism 16 can be used to raise and lower the coils 30 or reels 60 with the use of two “J-shaped” hooks 88. The lifting hooks 88 can be raised and lowered by the use of hydraulic cylinders 90 capable of raising or lowering coils 30 or reels 60 that can exceed 40,000 pounds (18,144 kilograms), 60,000 pounds (27,216 kilograms) or 75,000 pounds (34,019 kilograms). In certain embodiments, the hydraulic cylinders 90 can be directly coupled to the lifting hooks 88. In other embodiments, the hydraulic cylinders 90 can be indirectly coupled to the lifting hooks 88. For example, one or more sheaves 92 or pulleys and a belt 94, rope, wire, cable, chain, or other suitable tension support member are used to provide mechanical advantage and / or redirect the direction of movement of the hydraulic cylinders 90.In certain embodiments, the lifting mechanism 16 may have a 2:1, 3:1, or better ratio. As shown in Figure 4, the lifting mechanism 16 is configured to move the lifting hooks 88 and the corresponding coil 30 or reel 60 in a direction perpendicular to the axial axis 32 (e.g., vertically). In other embodiments, the lifting mechanism 16 may be positioned at an angle to the axial axis 32, thereby moving the coil 30 or reel 60 at an angle to the horizontal direction. In further embodiments, the lifting hooks 88 may have shapes other than a J-shape. For example, each lifting hook 88 may have a circular opening to accommodate a shaft used to manipulate the coil 30 or reel 60.In additional embodiments, a rack and pinion gear, geared hand crank or other mechanical or electric device or actuator may be used instead of hydraulic cylinders 90 in the lifting mechanism 16. In certain embodiments, a vertical stop 95 can be used with the lifting hook 88. When a shaft or similar portion of the reel 60 or a device used to handle the coils 30 is positioned on the lifting hook 88, and the lifting hook 88 is raised toward the vertical stop 95 by the lifting mechanism 16, the vertical stop 95 can be used to prevent the shaft from inadvertently coming loose or falling off the lifting hook 88, for example, if the installation trailer 10 were to encounter a protrusion during the movement or deployment of the roll tube 12. The vertical stop 95 thus provides this safety feature without requiring an operator to climb onto the installation trailer 10 or use a ladder to install or move a similar safety retainer in its place.In contrast, the vertical stop 95 provides this feature when the lifting mechanism 16 is in the deployed position (for example, when the lifting hook 88 is in its highest position). In other embodiments, the vertical stop 95 can be attached to the lifting hook 88 and move vertically along with it. In these embodiments, the vertical stop 95 can be attached to the lifting hook 88 by means of a hinge or similar connection to allow the vertical stop 95 to be moved to a position suitable for blocking unwanted movement of the shaft. In the illustrated embodiment, the braking mechanism 18 may include a jaw brake 96 comprising one or more jaws 98 arranged against a rotor 100, which may be coupled to the hoisting mechanism 16. The jaw brake 96 may be used to slow or stop the rotation of the spool 30 or reel 60 during deployment, thereby helping to prevent unwanted unwinding, free-running, or kickback of the winding tube 12. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other types of braking mechanisms, such as, but not limited to, friction brakes, disc brakes, drum brakes, electromagnetic brakes, or hydraulic motors, may be used to provide braking for the spool 30 or reel 60. In some embodiments, the braking mechanism 18 may be configured to provide braking for the reels 60. For example, the braking mechanism 18 may clamp or come into direct contact with the reel 60 to provide the braking force.Therefore, the braking mechanism 18 applies pressure to the reel 60. In additional embodiments, a motor or similar device can be added to the braking mechanism 18 or the installation trailer 10 to provide reversibility capability. In other words, the motor can rotate the coil 30 or reel 60 in a direction opposite to that used during deployment to re-cool part or all of the deployed roll tube 12 back onto the coil 30 or reel 60. In the illustrated embodiment, the hydraulic power unit 20 can be coupled to the trailer frame 14 near the trailer connection point 82. For example, the hydraulic power unit 20 may include an electric-start diesel or gasoline engine, a two-stage hydraulic pump, a hydraulic fluid reservoir, and a gasoline tank configured to provide hydraulic power to the hydraulic components of the installation trailer 10, such as the hydraulic cylinders 90 of the lifting mechanism 14, the breaking mechanism 18, or other hydraulic cylinders described later. In some embodiments, the hydraulic power unit 20 can be replaced by an electric power source, and the hydraulic cylinders can be replaced by various types of electromechanical actuators. In certain embodiments, the installation trailer 10 may include telescopic sides 102 configured to move in the direction of the arrows 104 by means of one or more hydraulic cylinders arranged within the structural members 80 (as shown in Figure 6) or coupled externally to the structural members 80. In other words, the internal structural members 106 may have a smaller dimension (e.g., width, height, or diameter) than the external structural members 108 to allow the internal structural members 106 to slide in or out of the external structural members 108. One end of the hydraulic cylinders may be coupled to the internal structural member 106 and the other end to the external structural member 108 to provide the driving force for moving the internal structural members 106.In other embodiments, the hydraulic cylinders can be omitted, and an operator can manually move the internal structural members 106 into or out of the external structural members 108. In further embodiments, a rack and pinion gear, geared hand crank, or other mechanical or electrical device or actuator can be used to move the internal structural members 106 telescopically. As shown in Figure 4, the installation trailer 10 has an expanded system width 110. In other words, the telescopic sides 102 allow the internal structural members 106 to be moved outward in the direction of the arrows 104 to the expanded system width 110. The installation trailer 10 can accommodate coils 30 or reels 60 when in the expanded position, which would not be possible when the installation trailer 10 is in a folded position, as described later.In additional embodiments, other techniques can be used to expand or contract the installation trailer 10, such as, but not limited to, hinges, joints, disassembly / assembly, folding, expansion joints, accordion joints, etc. In additional embodiments, one or more structural members 80 can be positioned on the rear side 72 between the longitudinal structural members 80 to provide additional structural stability to the installation trailer 10. The additional structural members 80 can be telescopically coupled or swung toward or away from the installation trailer 10 via hinges, like a door. Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of one configuration of the installation trailer 10 in a folded position, such that the folded system width 120 is less than the expanded system width 110 shown in Figure 4. The hydraulic power unit 20 has been removed for clarity. As shown in Figure 5, the internal structural members 106 (not visible in Figure 5) are fully inserted into the external structural members 108 by means of hydraulic cylinders arranged in or coupled to the internal structural members 106. The two lifting mechanisms 16 can be positioned adjacent to each other when the installation trailer 10 is in the folded position, thereby improving the compactness of the folded trailer 10. Thus, when the installation trailer 10 is in the folded position, it can be shipped or transported more easily and economically to the deployment site. Figure 6 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of the telescopic sides 102 of the installation trailer 10, with a left side 126 and a right side 128 (referring to the left and right sides of the installation trailer 10). Portions of two external structural members 108 are shown in Figure 6, i.e., one member A left external structural member 130 (with an opening on the left side 126) and a right external structural member 132 (with an opening on the right side 128) are shown. A left internal structural member 134 is shown removed from the left external structural member 130. A portion of a left hydraulic cylinder 136 is shown inside the left external structural member 130. The left hydraulic cylinder 136 has a first end 138 configured to engage with an internal support (not shown) of the left internal structural member 134. When the left hydraulic cylinder 136 is retracted, it pulls the left internal structural member 134 further into the left external structural member 130. Alternatively, when the left hydraulic cylinder 136 is extended, it pushes the left internal structural member 134 further out of the left external structural member 130.A portion of a right hydraulic cylinder 140 is shown within the right external structural member 132. A cover of the right external structural member 132 was omitted to allow the right hydraulic cylinder 140 to be visible in Figure 6. The right hydraulic cylinder 140 has a second end 142 that is configured to engage with an internal support 144 of the right external structural member 132. The right hydraulic cylinder 140 functions similarly to the left hydraulic cylinder 136 to extend or retract the right internal structural member (not shown) of the right external structural member 132. The left internal structural member 134 moves in the opposite direction to the right internal structural member (not shown) when the installation trailer 10 is expanded or folded.In certain embodiments, the left internal structural member 134 may include one or more pads 146 to reduce friction between the left internal structural member 134 and the left external structural member 130. The pads 146 may be made of a low-friction polymer or similar material. The pads 146 may also be made of steel or another metal or metal alloy and may be configured to be replaced when worn, thereby helping to prevent excessive wear of the internal structural members. Additionally or alternatively, the left external structural member 130 may include similar pads on one or more internal surfaces of the left external structural member 130. The right internal structural member (not shown) and / or the right external structural member 132 may also include one or more pads 146. In other embodiments, the hydraulic cylinders 136 and 140 may be configured differently.For example, hydraulic cylinders 136 and 140 can be positioned outside the left and right external structural members 130 and 132. In additional embodiments, a single hydraulic cylinder can be used instead of two cylinders 136 and 140. Figure 7 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of the lifting mechanism 16 and the braking mechanism 18. Parts of the lifting mechanism 16, such as outer covers, are omitted from Figure 7 to allow the internal components to be visible. As shown in Figure 7, the lifting hook 18 includes a first surface 160 and a second surface 162. The first surface 160 can be curved to correspond, generally, with a shaft diameter or similar portion of the reel 60 or a device used for handling the bobbins 30, as described in more detail later.The first surface 160 may be made of a material that is harder, more durable, or provides a lower coefficient of friction when in sliding contact with the shaft than the material used for the rest of the lifting hook 88 to reduce wear caused by friction when the shaft rotates during the deployment of the coil tube 12. In certain embodiments, an insert may be added to the first surface 160, and the insert may be made of a suitable wear-resistant material, such as, but not limited to, aluminum-bronze, copper-aluminum, aluminum-nickel bronze, manganese bronze, etc. By using an insert for the first surface 160, the insert may be replaced without having to replace the entire lifting hook 88. The second surface 162 may generally be oriented perpendicular to the axial axis 32, thus acting as a stop on the shaft used with coils 30 or reels 60.For example, the installation trailer 10 can be moved toward the coil 30 or reel 60 until the shaft reaches the second surface 162. At that point, the shaft is in the correct position relative to the first surface 160 (i.e., directly above the first surface 160), and the lifting hook 88 can be raised by the lifting mechanism 16 to engage with the shaft. When deployment is complete, the lifting hook 88 can be lowered by the lifting mechanism 16 until the shaft can clear a lip 164 of the lifting hook 88. The lip 164 can help prevent the shaft from inadvertently slipping off the lifting hook 88. In certain embodiments, the lifting hook 88 can be engaged with the belt 94 by a carriage 170 or similar mechanism that moves within a track 172 of the lifting mechanism 16.The trolley 170 may include one or more wheels 174, low friction surfaces, or both to allow free movement of the lifting hook 88. When the shaft is raised by the lifting mechanism 16, it engages with a brake shaft 166 coupled to the rotor 100 of the jaw brake 96. The brake shaft 166 may include a keyed opening 168 configured to engage with or match a corresponding shape of the shaft. For example, both the shaft and the keyed opening 168 may include one or more flat (i.e., non-curved) sides or surfaces to prevent rotation of the shaft within the keyed opening 168. Therefore, rotation of the shaft causes rotation of the brake shaft 166 and the rotor 100. Furthermore, the coupled opening 168 allows the brake shaft 166 to engage with the shaft without having to move the brake shaft. 166 and the rotor 100 axially 32 (i.e., inward or outward with respect to the shaft). Before the shaft is engaged with the braking mechanism 18, the rotor 100 and the brake shaft 166 can be rotated so that the keyed opening 168 faces downward toward the shaft, allowing the shaft to enter the keyed opening 168. When deployment is complete, the rotor 100 can be rotated so that the keyed opening 168 again faces downward toward the shaft, allowing the shaft to exit the keyed opening 168. In other embodiments, different techniques can be used to temporarily engage the shaft with the braking mechanism 18, such as, but not limited to, screws, bolts, pins, threads, etc.Furthermore, although the brake shaft 166 is shown in Figure 7 coupled to the jaw brake 96, the brake shaft 166 and the lifting hook 88 can be used with other types of braking mechanisms 18. In some embodiments, the keyed opening 168 may have a concave or circular shape instead of the open shape shown in Figure 7. In these embodiments, the brake shaft 166, or the shaft used with the spool 30 or reel 60, or both the brake shaft 166 and the shaft are moved axially 32 to engage the shaft with the keyed opening 168. Figure 8 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of the lifting mechanism 16 that includes a mechanical lock 180. As shown in Figure 8, the mechanical lock 180 includes a plunger 182, a lever 184, a handle 186, and a pivot 188. The mechanical lock 180 is configured to mechanically lock the lifting hook 88 in the raised position without relying solely on the hydraulic cylinders 90. Therefore, the mechanical lock 180 improves the safety associated with the operation of the installation trailer 10 by reducing the possibility of the coil 30 or reel 60 falling and reducing the number of compression points.When locking of the lifting hook 88 is desired, an operator pulls handle 186 in an outward direction (i.e., away from the installation trailer 10), causing lever 184 to push plunger 182 inward (i.e., toward the installation trailer 10) through pivot 188, thereby engaging plunger 182 with an opening formed in the lifting hook 88 (not shown). Lever 184 allows the operator to engage plunger 182 from ground level without having to climb onto the installation trailer 10 to reach plunger 182. In certain embodiments, plunger 182 may include a proximity switch (not shown) to indicate that plunger 182 has been properly engaged with the opening in the lifting hook 88. Therefore, the operator may be able to receive a signal from the proximity switch to verify proper engagement of the mechanical lock 180 without having to climb onto the installation trailer 10.In additional modalities, other types of mechanical or electrical locks can be provided on the installation trailer 10 to prevent inadvertent movement of the lifting hook 88. Figure 9 illustrates a side view of one embodiment of the mechanical lock 180 in an engaged position. As shown in Figure 9, the lever 184 has been pushed into the lifting mechanism 16 and rotated about the pivot 188. The plunger 182 attached to the end of the lever 184 has been pushed inward to engage with an opening 200 in the lifting hook 88. Furthermore, the plunger 182 is positioned in a sleeve 202 engaged with the lifting mechanism 16. One or more hinges 204 may be provided on the mechanical lock 180 to achieve a desired range of motion. Figure 10 illustrates a side view of one embodiment of the mechanical lock 180 in an unengaged position. As shown in Figure 10, the lever 184 has been pushed away from the lifting mechanism 16 and rotated about the pivot 188. The plunger 182 attached to the end of the lever 184 has been pulled into the sleeve 202 and no longer engages with the opening 200 in the lifting hook 88. Therefore, the lifting hook 88 can be moved vertically via the hydraulic cylinder 90. In certain embodiments, the lifting hook 88 may not include the opening 200 and may instead include an additional element (e.g., a connector) for the plunger 182 to engage. Figure 11 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a drum assembly 210 that can be used to handle reels 30. The drum assembly 210 may include a support bar 214 having a first end 216 and a second end 218 extending axially 32 through the center of the drum assembly 210. The support bar 214 is used to handle the drum assembly 210, and various components are coupled to the support bar 214, as described in further detail later. In certain embodiments, a first plurality of expandable spokes 220 are coupled to the support bar 214 near the first end 216, and a second plurality of expandable spokes (not shown) are coupled to the support bar 214 near the second end 218.Furthermore, each of a plurality of drum segments 224 is mounted on a distal end 226 of one of the first plurality of expandable spokes 220 and a distal end of one of the second plurality of expandable spokes. The drum segments 224 extend parallel to the support bar 214. The plurality of drum segments 224 are used to support the coil tube 12, and the distal end 226 of the first plurality of expandable spokes 220 and the distal end of the second plurality of expandable spokes can be moved between retracted and extended positions by means of one or more mechanical actuators 240. Thus, the drum assembly 210 is configured to easily insert, expand outward to support, then manipulate the coils 30 and withdraw from the coils 30 of the coil tube 12, and to be used with coils 30 of the coil tube 12 of different internal coil diameters.The mechanical actuators 240 can be connected to the hydraulic power unit 20 when used with the installation trailer 10. In certain modalities, a first cube 300 is placed at the first end 216 and the first cube 300 includes a first cube tree 302, which may have a circular cross-sectional shape. Although not shown in the perspective view of Figure 11, the drum assembly 210 may also include a second hub and a second hub shaft positioned at the second end 218 in a manner similar to the first hub 300 and the first hub shaft 302. In certain embodiments, the first hub 300 and the second hub may be referred to as integrated hubs because they eliminate the need for a hollow, open-ended support bar along the axial axis 32 of the drum assembly 210 to insert a rod or pole for raising and deploying the drum assembly 210. Instead, integrated hubs such as the first hub 300 and the second hub may act together with the support bar 214 as a fixed axis with respect to the drum assembly 210.In addition, the first 302 bucket tree and the second bucket tree can provide fixed locations for an operator to grasp or manipulate the 210 drum assembly, such as with a forklift, without using a rod, pole, or other similar lifting equipment. In particular, the first hub 300 and the second hub can be used to handle and move the drum assembly 210. Furthermore, when the drum assembly 210 is placed on a frame, trailer, or other suitable deployment device, such as the installation trailer 10, the first hub shaft 302 and the second hub shaft can be used to allow rotation of the drum assembly 210. In other words, the first hub shaft 302 and the second hub shaft can fit within a circular or partially circular opening or bearing surface of the frame, trailer, or other deployment device to allow the drum assembly 210 to rotate. An example of such an opening is the lifting hook 88 of the installation trailer 10. Therefore, the first hub shaft 302 and the second hub shaft can contact or engage the first surface 160 of the lifting hook 88 during deployment.Furthermore, the first hub 300 and the second hub can be shaped to match the keyed opening 168 of the brake shaft 166 of the braking mechanism 18. Therefore, the braking mechanism 18 applies pressure to the drum assembly 210 that has the coil 30. In certain embodiments, one or more thimbles 304 can be fitted at the first and second ends 216 and 218 to allow handling of the drum assembly 210. For example, straps, ropes, chains, or similar fastening devices can be attached to the thimbles 304 to facilitate movement of the drum assembly 210. The thimbles 304 can be attached to the support bar 214, expandable spokes 220, spoke frames 290, or other suitable locations on the drum assembly 210. In further embodiments, the drum assembly 210 ocibnn / i ζηζ / E / γ may include at least two fork channels 306 extending axially 32 or radially 34 along the support bar 14.The forks or tines of a forklift, truck, or similar machinery can be inserted into the fork channels 306 to allow lifting and moving the drum assembly 210. For example, the axially extending fork channels 306 32 can be used to insert and remove the drum assembly 210 from the inner channel 38 of the coil 30. The radially extending fork channels 306 34 can be used to lift or adjust the drum assembly 210 from or onto a truck, wagon, or similar transport, or they can be used when access to the axially extending fork channels 306 32 is limited or restricted. The fork channels 306 can be attached to the support bar 214, expandable spokes 220, spoke frames 290, or other suitable locations on the drum assembly 210. In certain embodiments, the drum assembly 210 may include a cage 310 that at least partially covers one or more components of the drum assembly 210. For example, the cage 310 may help protect the components of the drum assembly 210 when the drum assembly 210 is moved or handled through the fork channels 306. The cage 310 may be made of expanded metal or mesh and attached to the support bar 214, expandable spokes 220, spoke frames 290, fork channels 306, or other suitable locations on the drum assembly 210. In additional embodiments, the drum assembly 210 may include a plurality of extension arms, flanges, cages, etc., at the first and second ends 16 and 18 to help contain the reel 30 during the roll-up of the roll tube 12.Although one embodiment of a drum assembly 210 that can be used with the installation trailer 10 is shown in Figure 11, other embodiments of the drum assembly 210 with different, additional, or fewer features can also be used with the installation trailer 10. For example, the drum assembly 210 can have a different number or arrangement of drum segments 224, the cage 310 can be omitted, additional restraint arms or flanges can be located at one or both of the first and second ends 216 and 218, etc. Figure 12 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of drum assembly 210. The elements common to those shown in Figure 11 are labelled with the same reference numbers. As shown in Figure 12, drum assembly 210 includes a retaining flange 320 attached to the support bar 214 or other parts of drum assembly 210 at the second end 218 so that the retaining flange 320 rotates with the drum assembly 210 during the deployment of the reel tube 12. The retaining flange 320 can be used to help contain the reel 30 while it is being placed on the drum assembly 210. In other words, the retaining flange 320 can help prevent the reel tube 12 of the reel 30 from moving or shifting out of the retaining flange 320. ocibnn / i ζηζ / E / γ The open structure provided by the retaining flange 320 can help reduce the overall weight of the drum assembly 210, but in other embodiments, a solid structure can be used for the retaining flange 320. The retaining flange 320 can have a variety of shapes, such as, but not limited to, circles, ovals, rectangles, squares, polygons, etc. In the illustrated embodiment, the drum assembly 210 includes a plurality of folding arms 322 positioned at the first end 216. Although three folding arms 322 are shown in Figure 12, in other embodiments, there can be two, four, five, six, or more folding arms 322. In the illustrated embodiment, the multiple folding arms 322 are shown in a folded configuration such that they are generally parallel to the axial axis 32 of the drum assembly 210.In the collapsed configuration, the drum assembly 210 can be more easily inserted into the inner channel 38 of the coil 30. After the coil 30 has been placed over the multiple drum segments 224, the multiple folding arms 322 can be folded so that they open generally perpendicular to the axial axis 32 of the drum assembly 210 (i.e., an expanded configuration). Therefore, the coil 30 can generally be contained between the retaining flange 320 and the plurality of folding arms 322. Although three drum segments 224 are shown in Figure 12, in other embodiments, there may be two, four, five, six, or more drum segments 224. In Figure 12, the plurality of drum segments 224 are shown without covers to illustrate one or more ribs 225 located within the drum segments 224, which are used to provide structural stability to the drum segments 224.In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of folding arms 322 may include a pad 324 coupled to the folding arm via a spring mechanism 326 to accommodate reels 30 with different axial dimensions 40. In certain embodiments, the retaining flange 320 may be replaced by one or more of the plurality of folding arms 322, which may be installed to be foldable or fixed in a manner similar to the retaining flange 320. Although one embodiment of a drum assembly 210 that can be used with the installation trailer 10 is shown in Figure 12, other embodiments of the drum assembly 210 with different, additional, or fewer features may also be used with the installation trailer 10.For example, the drum assembly 210 may have a different number or arrangement of drum segments 224, a different number or arrangement of folding arms 322, retaining flanges 320 located at the first and second ends 216 and 218, one or two retaining flanges 320 coupled to one or more hydraulic cylinders to allow the one or two retaining flanges 320 to be moved axially 32 toward the coil 30 for retaining purposes, etc. For example, the retaining flange 320 may be replaced with folding arms 322, either fixed or folding. Figure 13 illustrates a perspective view of the configurations of the installation trailer 10 and the drum assembly 210 shown in Figure 12. The coil 30 is represented by a transparent cylinder so that the details of the drum assembly 210 can be seen. In addition, the hydraulic power unit 20 has been removed for clarity. The support bar 214 of the drum assembly 210 is held by the lifting hooks 88 of the installation trailer 10. Therefore, the lifting mechanism 16 can be used to lift the coil 30 positioned on the drum assembly 210 for deployment. When the roll-up tube 12 is fully deployed, the lifting mechanism 16 can be used to lower the drum assembly 210 to the ground and uncouple the support bar 214 from the lifting hooks 88. At this point, the drum assembly 210 can be removed or the installation trailer 10 can be moved away from the drum assembly 210.If an additional roll tube 12 is to be deployed, the same drum assembly 210 or a different one with another coil 30 can be placed on the installation trailer 10, or the installation trailer can be moved to the drum assembly 210. The lifting mechanism 16 can also be used to lower partial coils 30 (i.e., drum assemblies 210 that have some remaining roll tube 12) to the ground. Therefore, the configuration and location of the lifting mechanism 16 on the installation trailer 10 allows various configurations and modes of drum assemblies 210, with or without complete or partial coils 30, to be lifted for deployment and lowered to the ground. Figure 14 illustrates a side view of the installation trailer 10 and drum assembly 210 shown in Figure 12, with the drum assembly 210 and reel 30 in a raised position. The installation trailer 10 is able to lower the empty drum assembly 210 to the ground due to the range of motion provided by the lifting mechanism 16. Figure 15 illustrates a rear view of the installation trailer 10 and drum assembly 210 shown in Figure 12, with the drum assembly 210 shown in a lowered position and without the coil 30. The components common to those shown in the preceding figures are labeled with the same part numbers. As shown in Figure 15, one or more hydraulic cylinders 340 can be used to move the plurality of folding arms 322 between extended and folded configurations. The hydraulic cylinders 340 can be connected to and powered by the hydraulic power unit 20 when used with the installation trailer 10. Figure 16 illustrates a rear view of the installation trailer 10 and drum assembly 210 shown in Figure 12, with the drum assembly 210 in a raised position and with the reel 30. The components common to those shown in the preceding figures are labeled with the same reference numbers. As shown in Figure 16, the lifting mechanism 16 raises the drum assembly 210 to achieve a desired clearance 350 between the bottom of the reel 30 and the floor. Figure 17 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of one embodiment of the installation trailer 10, which includes guide plates 360 coupled to the lifting mechanisms 16. It should be noted that one of the lifting hooks 88 has been omitted from Figure 17 to allow the guide plate 360 ​​to be clearly visible. The guide plate 360 ​​can be a rectangular piece of metal, and the connection to the lifting mechanism 16 can be reinforced by one or more ribs 362. In other embodiments, the guide plate 360 ​​can have other shapes and configurations. The connection between the guide plate 360 ​​and the lifting mechanism 16 can be achieved by welding, brazing, or other mechanical fastening techniques. When the installation trailer 10 is moved toward the drum assembly 210, the guide plates 360 can be used to ensure that the drum assembly 210 is properly positioned relative to the lifting hooks 88.In other words, if the drum assembly 210 is not properly aligned, the 360 ​​guide plates can push the drum assembly 210 into the correct position and / or push the installation trailer 10 into a different position relative to the drum assembly 210. When the installation trailer 10 is used with reels 60, the 360 ​​guide plates can be used similarly with respect to the shaft used with the reel 60. In certain configurations, the shaft may include one or more 366 alignment features (as shown in Figure 15) that coordinate with the 360 ​​guide plates. The installation trailer modality 10 shown in Figure 17 also illustrates further variations of some of the features discussed above. For example, the vertical stop 95 has a different shape than that shown in Figure 4. Specifically, the vertical stop 95 includes a horizontal stop portion 364 for blocking movement of the shaft or similar portion of the reel 60 or a device used for handling coils 30 in the horizontal direction (e.g., usually parallel to the axial axis 32). Figure 18 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of one embodiment of the installation trailer 10, which includes stop plates 380 attached to a support plate 382, ​​which is then attached to the structural member 80 by one or more fasteners 384. Portions of the lifting mechanism 16 have been omitted for clarity. The stop plates 380 prevent excessive movement of the frame 84 around the pivot 86. The stop plates 380 may be rectangular pieces of metal, but they have other shapes in other embodiments. The connection between the stop plates 380 and the support plate 382 can be achieved by welding, brazing, or other mechanical fastening techniques. In certain embodiments, the support plate 382 can be omitted, and the stop plates 380 are attached directly to the structural member 80. ocibnn / i ζηζ / E / γ Figure 19 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of an installation trailer modality 10 that includes one or more telescopic side locking pins 400 inserted through locking pin holes 402 formed in the left outer structural member 130 and the left inner structural member 134. After the left inner structural member 134 has been extended by the left hydraulic cylinder 136, the locking pins 400 can be inserted into the locking pin holes 402 to block movement of the left inner structural member 134, such as after a failure or loss of hydraulic pressure in the left hydraulic cylinder 136.When the installation trailer 10 is to be folded, the locking pins 400 can be removed from the locking pin holes 402 to allow the left inner structural member 134 to be pulled toward the left outer structural member 130 by the left hydraulic cylinder 136. In certain embodiments, the locking pins 400 can be inserted into different locking pin holes 402 when the installation trailer 10 is folded to block the movement of the left inner structural member 134. The locking pins 400 and locking pin holes 402 can also be provided for the right side 128 of the installation trailer 10 and can be used similarly to that described above for the left side 126. Although two locking pins 400 are shown for each side in Figure 19, different numbers of locking pins 400 can be used in other embodiments. Figure 19 also illustrates one or more lifting lugs 404 attached to the installation trailer 10. In certain embodiments, each of the lifting lugs 404 may include a shackle 406 to allow the lifting lugs 404 to be used when lifting the installation trailer 10, such as by means of a crane or other lifting device. In certain embodiments, four lifting lugs 404 may be located around the perimeter of the installation trailer 10 as shown in Figure 20. In some embodiments, one or more hydraulic hose channels 408 may be used to protect the hydraulic hoses of the installation trailer 10 when it is moved between expanded and collapsed configurations. Although the present description has been given with respect to a limited number of embodiments, those skilled in the art who benefit from this description will appreciate that other embodiments can be devised that do not depart from the scope of the description as set forth herein. Accordingly, the scope of the description shall be limited only by the appended claims. ocibnn / i ζηζ / E / γ NOVELTY OF THE INVENTION Having described the present invention, it is considered novel and, therefore, the contents contained in the following are claimed as property:

Claims

1. A system comprising: a folding trailer frame; a lifting mechanism coupled to the folding trailer frame, wherein the lifting mechanism is configured to raise or lower a coil of tube or a reel of tube; and a braking mechanism.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the braking mechanism is configured to apply pressure to a drum assembly inserted into the tube reel or to apply pressure to the tube reel.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the lifting mechanism comprises a hydraulic cylinder.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the hydraulic cylinder is coupled to a pulley or sheave via a tension bearing member.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the braking mechanism comprises at least one of a caliper brake, a drum brake, or a hydraulic motor.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the braking mechanism comprises a brake shaft having a keyed opening configured to engage with a shaft of a drum assembly configured to manipulate the tube coil.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein a power unit is placed on the folding trailer frame or on a skid separate from the folding trailer frame, and wherein the power unit is configured to power the system.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the folding trailer frame comprises a folded system width that is less than an expanded system width.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein two portions of the folding trailer frame are configured to perform telescopic movement towards or away from each other.

10. The system of claim 1, comprising wheels coupled to the folding trailer frame, wherein the wheels are configured to tilt around a pivot.

11. The system of claim 1, comprising a rounding mechanism configured to round the deployable tube. ocibnn / i ζηζ / E / γ 12. The system of claim 1, comprising a strip cutter configured to cut strips from the tube coil during tube unwinding.

13. The system of claim 1, comprising a mechanical lock configured to mechanically lock the lifting mechanism in a raised position.

14. A method comprising: providing a collapsible trailer comprising: a collapsible trailer frame; a lifting mechanism coupled to the trailer frame; and a braking mechanism; coupling a tube coil or tube reel to the lifting mechanism; adjusting a vertical position of the tube coil or tube reel via the lifting mechanism; deploying the tube via rotation of the tube coil or tube reel; and applying pressure via the braking mechanism to a drum assembly inserted in the tube coil or applying pressure via the braking mechanism to the tube reel.

15. The method according to claim 14, comprising mechanically locking the lifting mechanism in a raised position by means of a mechanical lock outside the trailer.

16. The method of claim 14, comprising folding the folding trailer frame to reduce the width of the folding trailer frame.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein folding the folding trailer frame comprises telescopically folding the folding trailer frame.

18. The method of claim 14, comprising supporting the tube coil by means of an expandable drum assembly and coupling the expandable drum assembly to the lifting mechanism.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein coupling the expandable drum assembly to the lifting mechanism comprises coupling a shaft of the expandable drum assembly to a keyed opening of the lifting mechanism or the braking mechanism.

20. The method of claim 14, wherein deploying the tube comprises pulling the tube from the trailer when the trailer is stationary or pulling the trailer.

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