MXPA06003964A - Remote tapping method and system for internally tapping a conduit - Google Patents

Abstract

Disclosed is a method, system and apparatus for use in remotely and internally tapping a conduit (102). The method is performed, at least partially, by an automatic mechanism (10) or robot configured to effectively perform the tasks and various steps of the method. The method includes the steps of:(a) lining a conduit (102) with a liner (116);and (b) inserting an automatic mechanism (10) into an internal portion (114) of the liner (116), wherein the automatic mechanism (10) (i) locates a service tap connection point (100);and (ii) at least partially engages a fitting device (12) within an internal surface (120) of the service tap entry portion (106), thereby providing fluid communication between a service tap internal passageway (110) andan internal portion (114) of the liner (116). An automatic mechanism (10), a fitting device (12) and an insert element (14) are also disclosed.

Description

REMOTE DERIVATION METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR INTERNALLY DERIVING A DUCT BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the invention The present invention relates generally to methods and systems for deriving or connecting a service outlet to a conduit, such as a main water conduit, a liner or the like and, in particular, to a method and remote derivation system for internally deriving or reestablishing a point of intake for a conduit, such as a host conduit lined with a liner. 2. Description of the related art Duct systems are widely used throughout the world to transfer or transport materials, such as water and other fluids, from places to other locations for distribution throughout the system. For example, extensive duct systems are used to distribute water to both residences and businesses for use and additional processes. Typically, these duct or pipe systems are located underground, since ground-level pipes would be both unpleasant and intrusive.

Water conduit systems transport material through pipes, for example, cast iron, ductile iron, reinforced concrete, cement-asbestos, etc., buried underground with branches extending in various directions to reach the end user. Normally, after many years of use, or for some other reason, the pipes fail and begin to leak, thus reducing line pressure and unnecessarily allowing water to leak into the area surrounding the pipe. These leaks not only affect the system, but also increase the supplier's processing costs, which, in turn, increase costs for the end user. Therefore, these leaks should be quickly repaired and preventive measures taken to ensure that future leaks are avoided.

Due to the underground placement of the conduit system, the repair of a leaking pipe is particularly labor intensive and time-consuming. Ditches must be dug along the pipe to locate the leak and effectively repair it before putting the pipe back into service. Various lining systems have been developed according to the prior art in an attempt to seal a leaking pipe or a pipe that has decomposed, either to repair a present crack or to preventively prevent future cracks or breaks. In addition, a much smaller diameter tube has been used within the larger diameter cracked or broken tube. However, this simply replaces the problem of a cracked outer tube with a cracked or otherwise leaky inner tube. Moreover, the use of this tube-in-tube system drastically reduces the flow through the conduit system and evidences undesired and variable pressure parameters.

For that purpose, a tube liner and method of installation have been developed, as described in the U.S. patent. No. 5,794,662 to St. Onge et al., Especially directed to pressurized pipe applications. The St. Onge patent is directed to a method for lining wastewater lines, water lines or gas lines, and uses a segmented liner of reduced size in relation to the pipe being re-lined. However, unlike simply leaving the small diameter liner within the large diameter outer duct, the method of the St. Onge patent uses heat and / or pressure to mold the reduced size tube to the tube shape that is being re-lined In particular, the inner or sheath conduit is a thermoplastic tube, typically a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) tube which, when exposed to heat or pressure, expands and is molded against the inside of an existing conduit to perform the cover of it. This process allows both the lining of the entire tube length or only a portion of it that is damaged, which is typically referred to as "spot repair".

According to the St. Onge patent, once the length of the liner conduit is inserted into the existing conduit or host, the liner conduit is plugged at each end and exposed to steam under pressure to heat the liner conduit to along its length and apply pressure, which causes it to expand and make contact with the interior walls of the surrounding host conduit. Once the liner conduit has been fully expanded to conform to the inner surface of the existing conduit, it is cooled and the plugs are removed. The resulting expanded liner conduit conforms to the walls of the host conduit, thus preventing any further leakage. Also, the St. Onge patent method requires that only ditches be excavated at each end of the section to be repaired.

Although the St. Onge patent represents an advantage in the technique of lining or repair of underground duct systems, there is room in the art for further improvements and advances. When a main water conduit is initially constructed in a trench, the conduit is equipped with several service intakes along its length. These service outlets are used to extract water from the main conduit and provide a controlled flow through a conduit or service line to a residential building, business, place, property, etc. After the service outlets are placed and integrated with the main duct, and the service ducts are attached to them, the exposed main water duct is covered and the ditch is filled.

A disadvantage in the art is presented in turn when, after the host duct is lined with the liner duct, as described above or in any "lining" method and system as known in the art, the liner blocks now the service shots. To re-establish the service entrance to the main water conduit, another trench must be dug to access the service outlet and allow a subsequent intake to be formed through the liner or liner conduit. This represents a major problem since, at any given length of the main water pipe, several service outlets are present, such that large lengths of the main water pipe must be excavated and exposed to re-establish the pick-up points.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a method and remote derivation system for internally deriving a conduit that overcomes the deficiencies of the prior art. Another objective of the present invention is to provide a method and remote derivation system that eliminates the need to excavate a buried conduit to be able to place and re-establish service outlets. A further object of the present invention is to provide a method and remote derivation system that can remotely locate a pre-existing service take-off point to re-establish an input to a take-off point for a service outlet. Still another object of the present invention is to provide an automatic mechanism for remotely deriving one or more service connection connection points on a conduit. A further object of the present invention is to provide an insert element to be used in connection with deriving a service connection connection point in a conduit. A further object of the present invention is to provide an adjustment device to be used in connection with deriving a service connection connection point in a conduit.

The present invention is directed to a remote derivation method, system and apparatus for use in connection with a host duct lining process. The lining process can be an expanded lining process or a non-expanded lining process. The method is carried out, at least partially, by an automatic mechanism, such as a robotic mechanism, which is configured to effectively carry out the tasks and various stages of the method. In particular, the present invention is directed to a method for remotely deriving at least one service connection connection point on a conduit, wherein the connection point includes a service receptacle body with an input portion coupled with a conduit connection hole and an internal passage for service outlets extending through the service intake body to provide fluid communication between an internal portion of the conduit and the internal passage of the service port.

In a preferred and non-limiting embodiment, the method includes the steps of: (a) lining the conduit with a liner and (b) inserting an automatic mechanism into an inner portion of the liner, wherein the automatic mechanism: (i) locates the service connection connection point and (ii) at least partially engages an adjustment device with the inner surface of the serving point entry point portion, thus providing a fluid communication between the intake passage of the intake service and the inner portion of the lining. In a further embodiment, before step (a), the method further comprises the steps of: inserting the automatic mechanism into the internal portion of the conduit; wherein the automatic mechanism: (i) locates the service connection connection point on the conduit and (ii) couples at least a portion of an insert element, which is in operable communication with an objective detection element, with the internal surface of the service entrance entrance portion; and remove an automatic mechanism from the duct. In this mode, the automatic mechanism can locate the service connection connection point using the objective detection element.

The present invention is also directed to an automatic mechanism for remotely deriving a service connection connection point in a conduit. The automatic mechanism is configured to carry out one or more of the following steps: (i) locating the service connection connection point on the conduit; (ii) preparing an internal surface of the service entrance entrance portion of the service entrance body, such that the internal surface is configured for operable engagement; (iii) coupling at least a portion of an insert element, which is in operable communication with a target sensing element, with the inner surface of the entry portion of the service socket; (iv) locating the service connection connection point using the detection target element and (v) at least partially coupling an adjustment device with the internal surface of the service entrance entrance portion, thereby providing communication of Fluids between the passage of the service outlet and the inner portion of the liner.

In a further embodiment, the present invention is also directed to an insert element. The insert element is used in relation to the derivation method. In a preferred and non-limiting embodiment, the insert member is configured to engage with an internal surface of the entry portion of the service socket. The insert element is in operable communication with a target detection element, and the target detection element produces a recognizable signal. In one embodiment, the objective detection element is magnetic, and the recognizable signal produced is a magnetic wave.

The present invention is also directed to an adjustment device. The adjustment device is used in relation to the derivation method. In a preferred and non-limiting embodiment, the adjustment device is configured to at least partially couple an internal surface of the entry portion of the service socket. Accordingly, the adjustment device provides fluid communication between the internal conduit of the service port and the internal portion of the liner. In a preferred and non-limiting embodiment, the adjusting device includes a nipple member having an internal passageway for at least partially coupling the inner surface of the entry portion of the service outlet, and a surrounding packing element. at least a portion of the nipple element and splicing an inner wall of the liner. A locking means is coupled with the nipple element in order to push the packing element towards the inner wall of the liner. The present invention, both in its construction and in its method of operation, together with the additional objects and advantages thereof, will be better understood from the following description of exemplary embodiments when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a schematic view of a first step of a method for remotely and internally deriving a conduit according to the present invention. Figure 2 is a schematic view of a further step of the method for remotely and internally deriving a conduit according to the present invention. Figure 3 is a side sectional view of a pipe-straightening sleeve of an adjustment device according to the present invention.

Figure 4 is a side sectional view of a straightening expander portion of the adjustment device of Figure 3.

Figure 5 is a side sectional view of an adjustment device coupled with a conduit and liner according to the method of the present invention.

Figure 6 is a side view of a nipple member of an adjustment device according to the present invention.

Figure 7 is a top view of the nipple element of Figure 6.

Figures 8 (a) -8 (e) are top and side views of various embodiments of a tool element according to the present invention.

Figure 9 is a sectional view of one more embodiment of an adjustment device attached to a conduit and liner according to the method of the present invention.

Figures 10 (a) -10 (b) are top and side views of one embodiment of an insert member according to the present invention.

Figures ll (a) -ll (b) are top and side views of a packing element of an adjustment device according to the present invention.

Figures 12 (a) -12 (b) are top and side views of a locking nut of an adjustment device according to the present invention.

Figure 13 is a side sectional view of a preferred embodiment of an adjustment device coupled with a conduit and liner according to the method of the present invention.

Fig. 14 is a side sectional view of one more embodiment of an adjustment device coupled with a conduit and liner according to the method of the present invention and Figure 15 is a further embodiment of an adjustment device coupled with a conduit and liner according to the method of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION For the purposes of the description hereinafter, the spatial terms "upper", "lower", "right", "left", "vertical", "horizontal", "upper", "lower", "lateral" and "longitudinal" ", and derivatives thereof should refer to the invention as it is oriented in the figures of the drawing. However, it should be understood that the invention may assume many alternative variations and sequences of steps, except when expressly specified otherwise. It should also be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the accompanying drawings, and described in the following description are simply exemplary embodiments of the invention. Accordingly, the specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments described herein are not to be considered as limiting.

The present invention is a method, system and apparatus for remotely and internally deriving a service connection connection point 100 on a conduit 102. The method, system and apparatus are illustrated in various embodiments, together with various components and subcomponents of the system, in figures 1-15. The present method, system and apparatus is particularly useful in connection with a host duct lining process, wherein a host duct is lined with a liner, e.g., a liner duct, a lining bladder, a lining layer , a lining material, etc. The currently invented method is carried out, at least partially, by an automatic or robotic mechanism configured to effectively carry out the tasks and various steps of the method.

The service connection connection point 100 includes a service take-off body 104 with an inlet portion 106 coupled with a conduit connection hole 108. In addition, the service take-off body 104 has an internal intake passage of intake 106. of service 110 that extends through it. This internal service take passage 110 provides fluid communication between an internal portion 112 of the conduit 102 and the internal service access passage 110.

The present method, system and apparatus, as described hereafter in detail, is used to provide fluid communication in service intakes with an inner portion 114 of a liner 116. As described hereinabove, when an Main duct of water in a trench, duct 102 is equipped with several service outlets 118, and these service outlets 118 are used to draw water from main duct 102 and provide a controlled flow through a duct or service line ( not shown). In the lining process, the liner 16 will block the service outlets 118. In normal operation, the fluid, typically water, is able to flow from the internal portion 112 of the duct 102 through the service connection connection point 100. , specifically through conduit connection hole 108 and internal service outlet passage 110, and into a service line or conduit for distribution.

In a preferred and non-limiting embodiment, the presently invented method includes the steps of lining the conduit 102 with a liner 116 and inserting an automatic mechanism 10 into the inner portion 114 of the liner 116. The automatic mechanism 10 locates the connection connection point. of service 100 and engages an adjustment device 12 with an internal surface 120 of the service entrance entrance portion 106. In this manner, a fluid communication is provided between the internal service access passage 110 and the portion internal 114 of the liner 116.

It is contemplated that, before lining the conduit 102 with a liner 116, the method further comprises the steps of inserting the automatic mechanism 10 into the internal portion 112 of the conduit 102. Then, the automatic mechanism 10 locates the connection point of the receptacle. service 100 and engages at least a portion of an insert element 14, which is in operable communication with a target detection element 16 with the inner surface 120 of the service access entrance portion 106. Finally, the automatic mechanism 10 is removed from the conduit 102 before the lining process. In this embodiment, when the automatic mechanism 10 is reinserted into the lined conduit 102, the automatic mechanism 10 is able to locate the service connection connection point 100 using the detection target element 16.

Before coupling the insert element 14 and the target detection element 16 with the service entrance entry portion 106, the automatic mechanism 10 can also prepare the internal surface 120 of the entry portion 106 for coupling. Specifically, the service take-in entrance portion 106 of service take-off body 104 must be prepared in such a way that the insert member 14 can be engaged therein. This preparation may comprise preparing, cutting or polishing the inner surface 120 of the inlet portion 106, such as by placing ropes, slots, indentations or some mating surface thereon.

The detection target element 16 can be placed on, inside or manufactured integrally with the intern element 14, such that when the insert member 14 is coupled to the service entrance entrance portion 106, the detection target element 16 is aligned with a distal end 124 of the service entrance entrance portion 106. It is contemplated that the detection objective element 16 may be any element whose location can be determined using communication or detection equipment. For example, the target detection element 16 can be a magnet, and the automatic mechanism 10 can include components that can detect magnetic waves. However, the target detection element 16 can be any target that emits signals that can be detected, such as infrared, sonic, isotopic, radio, microwave and the like signals.

After the lining process, and since the service connection connection point 100 will be covered, the automatic mechanism 10 uses the detection target element 16 on the insert element 14 to locate the service access entrance portion 106. In addition, the positioning of the insert element 14 and the detection target element 16 at the service connection connection point 100 can be repeated for each of the service connection connection points 100 along and on the conduit 102 and conduit system. After each service connection connection point 100 is marked by the insert member 14, making it then locatable after the lining process, the automatic mechanism 10 is removed from the internal portion 112 of the conduit 102.

After the liner 116 is properly installed in the conduit 102, the automatic mechanism 10 is reinserted into the internal portion 114 of the liner 116 and locates the service connection connection point 100 using the detection target element 16. In an embodiment Preferred and non-limiting, the insert element 14 and the target sensing element 16 are removed prior to engagement of the adjustment device 12 with the service access input portion 106. Whether or not it is removed, the coupling and uncoupling of the device of adjustment 12, the insert element 14 and / or any of the other components or subcomponents of the system can be achieved by means of the automatic mechanism 10. Accordingly, the automatic mechanism 10 can be a robot, which is configured to travel both inside the inner portion 112 of the conduit 102 as well as the inner portion 114 of the liner 116. The modifications required to an automatic mechanism 10 for movable lock within conduit 102 or liner 116 are known in the art, and may include components such as wheels, rails, running surfaces or other structures or mechanisms that make mobility possible. In addition, the automatic mechanism 10 may include additional components to achieve a variety of different functions and results within the inner portion 112 of the conduit 102 and the inner portion 114 of the liner 116. For example, the automatic mechanism 10 may include a control mechanism 18 for controlling one or more of the components or subcomponents and the operation of the automatic mechanism 10. The automatic mechanism 10 may also include a user interface 20 that is in communication with a remote user control mechanism 22. This communication can be accomplished at through a variety of processors and signals as is known in the art. For example, communication may be wired or wireless, infrared, radio frequency and / or other signal-based technology as is known in the art.

The automatic mechanism 10 may also include one or more sensor mechanisms 24 for detecting an operating parameter of the automatic mechanism 10 and / or a physical characteristic of a surrounding environment. For example, the sensor mechanism 24 may be able to detect the signals emanating from the detection target element 16 for the location of the service connection connection point 100. The sensor mechanism 24 may also detect various system states and environmental states in the liner 116, the conduit 102, the service connection connection point 100 and surrounding areas. Moreover, the sensor mechanism 24 can be used to receive, process and transmit various signals that relate to the operation of the automatic mechanism 10 for maintenance, problem detection, operation and improvements to the efficiency of the system.

The automatic mechanism 10 can also include a camera mechanism 26 to provide visual feedback to the remote user control mechanism 22. In this way, the user can visually inspect the operation process of the automatic mechanism 10 while traveling through and operating within the inner portion 112 of the conduit 102 and the inner portion 114 of the liner 116. In addition, the user may be able to control the automatic mechanism 10 using the visual feedback that comes from the camera mechanism 26. It is also contemplated that the automatic mechanism 10 includes a contact mechanism 28 capable of preparing a surface, drilling a hole, manipulating a component of the system, such as the adjustment device 12, the insert element 14, the target detection element 16, etc. For example, in a preferred and non-limiting embodiment, for effectively removing the insert member 14 and engaging the adjusting device 12 with the service access input portion 106, the automatic mechanism 10 may include suitable components for piercing a hole through the liner 116 and thereby provide a fluid communication between the inner portion 114 of the liner 116 and the service connection connection point 100.

Returning to the method of the present invention, as described above in connection with the automatic mechanism 10, fluid communication must be provided between the service connection connection point 100 and a service line, in such a way that the fluid material flows of the conduit 102 through the connection point of service outlet 100 and inside the service line. After a lining process, a hole must be drilled in the liner 116, typically by the automatic mechanism 10, through a lining wall 126, such that the hole is substantially in line with the internal passageway of the liner. service outlet 110. In this manner, fluid communication is provided between the inner portion 114 of the liner 116 and a service liner conduit via the service connection connection point 100.

As seen in Figure 2, in a preferred and non-limiting embodiment, once the insert element 14 and the objective, detection element 16 are removed from the service connection connection point 100, and after the lining process , the adjusting device 12 is coupled with the service entrance input portion 106. In this embodiment, the adjustment device 12 includes a nipple member 30 having an internal passageway of nipple element 32 extending to through it. Specifically, the nipple element 30 is coupled with the service take-in input portion 106 through a variety of methods, such as those described hereinafter. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, an outer surface of nipple element 34 includes cords capable of engaging a threaded portion of the service entrance intake portion 106 and specifically the internal service entry passage 110. In at this point, the automatic mechanism 10 has already prepared the internal service take-off conduit 110 for its connection, such as by attaching attachable cords thereon. After the nipple element 30 is engaged with the internal service take-off passage 110 in the service take-in entrance portion 106, a packing member 36 is fitted over a distal end of the nipple element 30 for sealing the conduit connection hole 108 with respect to the inner portion 114 of the liner 116 and the nipple element 30 (excluding the desired fluid communication through the internal service take-in conduit 110 of the nipple element 30). In particular, the packing element 36 connects the inner wall 126 in an area immediately adjacent the nipple element 30. The packing element 36 can also be attached to the liner 116 by means of an adhesive, glue, melt, electrofusion, etc.

Finally, a locking means 38 is coupled with the nipple member 30 to urge the packing member 36 against the lining wall 126. Accordingly, the nipple member 30 is coupled with the service socket entrance portion 106 and sealed fluid communication is provided between the inner portion 114 of the liner 116 and the internal service access passage 110. In a preferred and non-limiting embodiment, the locking mechanism 38 is a locking nut capable of being threadedly engaged with the nipple element 30. Specifically, the locking nut 40 includes rope grooves capable of engaging with the cords disposed on the outer surface of nipple member 34.

Another preferred and non-limiting embodiment is illustrated in Figures 3-5. In this embodiment, the adjusting device 12 includes a straightening tube sleeve 42 positioned inside and which splices the inner surface 120 of the service entrance entrance portion 106. The straightening tube sleeve 42 includes an internal passage conduit with straightening sleeves 46 that is extends therethrough and has a tapered ring portion 48. In this embodiment, the nipple member 30 includes an upright expander portion 50 having a neck portion 52 and a tapered ring portion 54 at one end of the same The neck portion 52 is engaged within the inner passageway of straightening sleeves 46, such that the tapered ring portion 54 of the neck portion 52 is engaged with the tapered ring portion 48 of the straightening sleeves 42.

As described above, a packing element 36 is placed on and surrounds the nipple member 30, and the locking means 38, for example, the locking nut 40, is coupled with the nipple element 30. When the nut 40 is engaged with the nipple element 30, the straightening portion 50 is pulled out, thereby urging the outer sleeve surface of the pipe 56 towards the inner surface 120 of the service socket entrance portion 106 by means of the the tapered ring portion 54 of the neck portion 52. In this manner, the nipple member 30 is effectively engaged within and sealed with respect to the service socket entry portion 106.

In order to be able to couple the nipple element 30 with the service take-in entrance portion 106, the nipple member 30 may also include a nipple member coupling cavity 58 and / or an nipple member coupling projection 60. In In a specific form, the nipple coupling nip 58 and / or nipple coupling projection 60 can be placed on the distal end of nipple member 62 and configured for optimal engagement with a tool member 76. Tool element 76 includes one or more tool element coupling cavities 78 and one or more tool member coupling projections 80. Specifically, tool member coupling cavities 78 are sized and configured to engage with coupling projections of nipple member 60, while the tool element coupling projections 80 are configured They are sized and dimensioned to mate with nipple member coupling cavities 58. Various embodiments of tool member 76, together with tool element coupling cavities 78 and tool element coupling projections 80 are illustrated in the figures. 8 (a) -8 (e). Accordingly, when the tool member 76 is coupled with the nipple element 30 by means of the nipple coupling 58 cavity or the nipple member coupling projection 60 and when the tool member 76 is rotated, the nipple element 30 is rotated accordingly. Accordingly, the tool member 76 includes a surface capable of engaging the nipple member coupling cavity 58 and / or the nipple member coupling projection 60. Moreover, the tool member 76 can be placed on the automatic mechanism 10 to thereby allow the automatic mechanism 10 to perform the coupling function. One embodiment of the nipple member 30, including the nipple member coupling cavity 58 and / or nipple member coupling projection 60 is illustrated in Figures 6-7.

Another preferred and non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 9. As seen in this embodiment, although the target detection element 16 is removed after the location of the service connection connection point 100, the detection element 16 is removed. insert 14 remains engaged with and spliced in service entrance portion 106. Specifically, insert element 14 remains in place while adjustment device 12 is coupled with service entrance entrance portion 106 to provide an additional coupling surface and sealing function. This arrangement may be preferable to achieve a better seal between the service entrance entrance portion 106 and the conduit connection hole 108 on the conduit 102.

A preferred embodiment of the insert member 14 is illustrated in Figure 10. As seen in this embodiment, the insert member 14 includes an insert member hole 64 and an insert member ring portion 66. Accordingly, the The detection target element 16 can be placed inside the insert element orifice 64 and splice the insert member ring portion 66. However, as described above, if the insert member 14 is to be left in the engaged relationship while the target sensing element 16 is removed, the insert member hole 64 still permits fluid communication between the inner portion 112 of the conduit 102 and the service connection connection point 100. A preferred embodiment of the packaging element 36 is illustrated in Figure 11. The packaging element 36 includes a rounded face 68 formed to make contact and seal properly against the lining wall 126. , which is also rounded. In addition, a preferred embodiment of the locking nut 40 is illustrated in FIG. 12, in which the locking nut 40 is a hexagonal structure.

Various adjustments, systems and apparatuses contemplated for the adjustment device 12 are illustrated in Figures 13-15. In Figure 13, the threaded nipple member configuration 30 described above is used. In the embodiment of Figure 13, the insert member 14 is left in place, and the packing member 36 is not used. Instead, the locking means 38 surrounds and seals the nipple member 30 with respect to the lining wall 126. For example, the locking means 38 may be a locking nut 40 that is either constructed of or coated with a material that allows a sealing relationship between the nipple member 30 and the lining wall 126. In addition, the locking nut 40 can be sized and configured to engage with the lining wall 126.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 14, the adjustment device 12 includes a nipple member 30 having an expandable portion 70 with a ring portion 72 positioned on the expandable portion 70. Either the locking means 38, such as the locking nut 40, or an element with additional handle engages the nipple element 30. This forces a wall 74 of the expandable portion 70 outwardly and in a contact / coupling relationship with the inner surface 120 of the service take-in port 106, specifically with the ring portion 72 of nipple member 30 engaging against inner surface 120.

A further embodiment of the adjusting device 12 is illustrated in FIG. 15. In this embodiment, the nipple element 30 does not include ropes, and instead is dimensioned and configured to be frictionally engaged within the internal passageway of intake. service 110 in the service entrance entrance portion 106. In particular, the nipple element 30 and the locking means 38 can constitute the same structure, with the internal passage of nipple member 32 extending through both the nipple element 30 as the locking means 38. To provide the coupling, the nipple member 30 and / or locking means 38 can be beveled, tapered, etc. In addition, any of the different components described above in relation to the adjustment device 12 and / or the insert element 14 can be made from or coated with a material that provides a sealing relationship with a coupling surface, eg rubber , a polymer or the like.

The automatic mechanism 10 carries out the vast majority of the functions and steps of the method currently claimed. For example, the automatic mechanism 10 or robot can locate the service connection 100 connection point, calibrate or prepare the service entrance entrance portion 106, perform air turning operations, derive or cut ropes, adjust by force the device, provide visual feedback or some other similar feedback to a user, etc .; Thus, the present invention provides a remote bypass method, system and apparatus for internally deriving a conduit 102 to provide fluid communication between the inner portion 114 of the liner 116, through the service connection connection point 100 and within of a service line. The present invention eliminates the need to excavate a buried conduit 102 for positioning and reestablishing service connection points 100. In addition, the present invention utilizes the automatic mechanism 10 for locating, preparing and reestablishing a service connection point 100 from inside the conduit 102. This invention has been described with reference to the preferred embodiments. Several modifications and obvious alterations will occur to others after reading and understanding the above detailed description. It is intended that the invention be considered as including all these modifications and alterations.

Claims (43)

1. A method for remotely deriving at least one service connection connection point on a conduit, the connection point has a service entrance body with an inlet portion coupled with a conduit connection hole and an internal passageway service take-off extending through the service take-off body to provide fluid communication between an internal portion of the conduit and the internal passage of the service take-off, the method is characterized in that it includes the steps of: (a) line the duct with a liner and (b) inserting an automatic mechanism into an inner portion of the liner, where the automatic mechanism: (i) locate the service connection connection point and (ii) at least partially engages an adjustment device with the inner surface of the service entrance entrance portion, thereby providing a fluid communication between the internal passage of the service port and the internal portion of the liner.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, before step (a), the method further comprises the steps of: insert the automatic mechanism in the inner portion of the duct, where the automatic mechanism: (i) locate the service connection connection point on the conduit and (ii) coupling at least a portion of an insert element, which is in operable communication with a target sensing element, with the internal surface of the service entrance entrance portion; Y Remove the automatic mechanism from the duct.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that the automatic mechanism locates the service connection connection point using the objective detection element.

4. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that the automatic mechanism prepares an internal surface of a service entrance entrance portion of the service entrance body, in such a way that the internal surface is configured for operable coupling.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that the preparation step further comprises placing at least one of ropes, grooves, indentations and a coupling surface on the inner surface of the service entrance entrance portion.

6. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that the detection target element is at least one of placed on, inside and integral with the insert element.

7. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that it further comprises the step of placing the detection target element near a distal end of the service entrance entrance portion.

8. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that the detection target element is magnetic and is configured to project magnetic waves therefrom.

9. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that it further comprises the step of removing at least one of the insert element and the target detection element before step (b) (ii).

10. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises the step of repeating at least one of the steps (b) (i) and (b) (ii) for a subsequent one of a plurality of service connection connection points. .

11. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises the step of removing the automatic mechanism from the inner portion of the liner.

12. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the automatic mechanism is a robot configured to travel within at least one of the internal portion of the conduit and the internal portion of the liner.

13. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the automatic mechanism comprises at least one of: (i) a control mechanism configured to control at least one of a component and the operation of the automatic mechanism; (ii) a user interface configured to communicate with a remote user control mechanism; (iii) at least one sensor mechanism for detecting at least one of an operating parameter of the automatic mechanism and a physical characteristic of a surrounding environment; (iv) a camera mechanism configured to provide visual feedback to a remote user control mechanism and (v) a contact mechanism configured for at least one of preparing a surface for coupling, drilling a hole and manipulating a component.

14. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises the step of providing fluid communication between the service connection connection point and a service line, in such a way that fluid material flows from the conduit to the service line .

15. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises the step of drilling a hole, by the automatic mechanism, through a wall of the lining, in such a way that the hole of the lining is substantially in line with the passageway internal service outlet.

16. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that step (b) (ii) further comprises the steps of: coupling at least partially a nipple element having an internal passageway with the inner surface of the service entrance and intake portion; engaging a locking means with the nipple element, thereby sealing the nipple member with respect to an inner wall of the liner.

17. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that before engaging the locking means, the method further comprises the step of placing a packing element around at least a portion of the nipple element in abutting relationship with an inner wall of the lining, in such a way that the locking means urges the packing element against the inner wall of the lining.

18. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that the locking means is a locking nut configured to screw a distal end of the nipple element in a threaded manner.

19. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that it also comprises the steps of: placing a pipe straightening sleeve inside and splicing the inner surface of at least a portion of the service take-in entrance portion, the pipe straightening sleeve includes an internal passageway extending therethrough and a portion of a tapered ring, wherein the nipple member further includes an upright expander portion having a neck portion with a tapered rim portion at one end thereof; at least partially coupling the neck portion inside the internal passageway of the straightening tube sleeve, in such a way that the tapered ring portion of the neck portion is coupled with the tapered ring portion of the straightening tube sleeve and coupling the locking means with the nipple element; pulling the expander portion straightaway through the engagement of the locking means and the nipple member and using an outer surface of the sleeves straightened towards the inner surface of the service socket entrance portion by the tapered hoop portion of the neck.

20. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that the nipple member further includes at least one of a coupling cavity and a coupling projection positioned on a portion of the nipple member, the at least one coupling and projection cavity of The coupling is configured for an operable coupling with a tool element, whereby, when the tool element is rotated, the nipple element is rotated accordingly.

21. The method according to claim 20, characterized in that it also comprises the step of placing the tool element on the automatic mechanism.

22. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that the nipple element further includes an expandable portion with a ring portion positioned on the expandable portion, the method further includes the steps of: coupling the locking means with the nipple member; forcing the wall of the expandable portion outwardly through the coupling of the coupling means with the nipple member and contacting and engaging the ring portion with the inner surface of the service entrance entry portion.

23. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the adjustment device comprises a nipple element having an internal passage, wherein step (b) (ii) further comprises the step of frictionally coupling the nipple element. with at least a portion of the internal surface of the service entrance entrance portion.

24. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that it further comprises the step of coupling the nipple element with the inner surface of the service take-in entrance portion by a tool element.

25. The method according to claim 24, characterized in that the tool element is placed on the automatic mechanism.

26. An automatic mechanism for remotely deriving at least one service connection connection point on a conduit, the connection point has a service entrance body with an inlet portion coupled with a conduit connection hole and an internal passageway service take-off extending through the service take-off body to provide fluid communication between an internal portion of the conduit and the internal service take-out passage, the automatic mechanism is characterized in that it is configured for at least one from: (i) locating the service connection connection point on the conduit; (ii) preparing an internal surface of a service take-in entrance portion of the service take-off body, such that the internal surface is configured for operable engagement; (iii) coupling at least a portion of an insert element, which is in operable communication with a target sensing element, with the inner surface of the entry portion of the service socket; (iv) locating the service connection connection point using the detection target element and (v) at least partially coupling an adjustment device with the internal surface of the service entrance entrance portion, thereby providing communication of Fluids between the passage of the service outlet and the inner portion of the liner.

27. The automatic mechanism according to claim 26, characterized in that the automatic mechanism is a robot configured to travel inside at least one of the internal portion of the conduit and the internal portion of the liner.

28. The automatic mechanism according to claim 26, characterized in that the automatic mechanism comprises at least one of: (i) a control mechanism configured to control at least one of a component and the operation of the automatic mechanism; (ii) a user interface configured to communicate with a remote user control mechanism; (iii) at least one sensor mechanism for detecting at least one of an operating parameter of the automatic mechanism and a physical characteristic of a surrounding environment; (iv) a camera mechanism configured to provide visual feedback to a remote user control mechanism and (v) a contact mechanism configured for at least one of preparing a surface for coupling, drilling a hole and manipulating a component.

29. An insert member to be used in connection with deriving at least one service connection connection point on a conduit, the connection point has a service entrance body with an inlet portion coupled with a conduit connection hole and a internal service take-off conduit extending through the service take-off body to provide fluid communication between an internal portion of the conduit and the internal service take-in conduit, the insert element is characterized in that it is configured to be coupled with an internal surface of the input portion of the service socket, wherein the insert element is in operable communication with a detection objective element configured to produce a recognizable signal .

30. The insert element according to claim 29, characterized in that the detection target element is at least one of placed on, inside and integral with the insert element.

31. The insert element according to claim 29, characterized in that the detection target element is placed near a distal end of the insert element.

32. The insert element according to claim 29, characterized in that the detection objective element is magnetic and the recognizable signal produced is a magnetic wave.

33. An adjustment device to be used in connection with deriving at least one service connection connection point on a conduit, the connection point has a service take-off body with an inlet portion coupled with a conduit connection hole and a internal service take-off passage extending through the service take-off body to provide fluid communication between an internal portion of the conduit and the internal service take-off passage, the adjustment device is characterized in that it is configured to at least partially couple an internal surface of the intake portion of the service port, thereby providing fluid communication between the service passage passage and the inner portion of the liner.

34. The adjustment device according to claim 33, characterized in that it also comprises: a nipple element having an internal passageway configured to at least partially couple the inner surface of the service entrance entrance portion and a locking means coupled with the nipple element for sealing the nipple member with respect to an inner wall of the liner.

35. The adjusting device according to claim 34, characterized in that it further comprises a packing element placed around at least a portion of the nipple element and in a splice relationship with an inner wall of the liner, in such a way that the means of Locking impels the packing element against the inner wall of the liner.

36. The adjusting device according to claim 34, characterized in that the locking means is a locking nut configured to threadably couple a distal end of the nipple element.

37. The adjusting device according to claim 34, characterized in that the adjustment device further comprises A pipe straightening sleeve positioned within and splicing the inner surface of at least a portion of the service take-in entrance portion, the pipe straightening sleeve includes an internal passageway extending therethrough and a tapered ring portion; wherein the nipple member further includes a straightener expander portion having a neck portion with a tapered hoop portion at one end thereof, the neck portion is configured to be engaged at least partially within the inner passageway of the tube-like sleeve, the tapered ring portion of the neck portion is engaged with the tapered ring portion of the tube-straightening sleeve; wherein, when the locking means is engaged with the nipple member, the straightening portion of the tube-like portion is pulled, with the rim portion of the neck portion ur an outer surface of the sleeves straightening towards the inner surface of the inlet portion. of taking of service.

38. The adjusting device according to claim 34, characterized in that the nipple element further includes at least one of a coupling cavity and a coupling projection placed on a portion of the nipple member, the at least one coupling cavity and The coupling projection is configured for an operable coupling with a tool element, whereby, when the tool element is rotated, the nipple element is rotated accordingly.

39. The adjusting device according to claim 38, characterized in that the tool element is placed on an automatic mechanism.

40. The adjusting device according to claim 34, characterized in that the nipple member further includes an expandable portion with a ring portion positioned on the expandable portion, such that when the locking means is coupled with the nipple member, the wall of the expandable portion is forced outward, whereby the rim portion contacts and engages the inner surface of the service entrance entrance portion.

41. The adjusting device according to claim 33, characterized in that it further comprises a nipple element having an internal passageway configured to frictionally engage at least a portion of the inner surface of the service entrance entrance portion.

42. The adjusting device according to claim 41, characterized in that the nipple element further comprises a coupling surface configured for an operable coupling with a tool element, whereby, when the tool element is driven, the nipple element is coupled with the internal surface of the service entrance entrance portion.

43. The adjusting device according to claim 42, characterized in that the tool element is placed on an automatic mechanism.