GB2609604A

GB2609604A - Removable insert for a pipe inspection chamber

Info

Publication number: GB2609604A
Application number: GB2110220.7A
Authority: GB
Inventors: James Nigel; James Peter
Original assignee: Drainfast Ltd
Current assignee: Drainfast Ltd
Priority date: 2021-07-15
Filing date: 2021-07-15
Publication date: 2023-02-15
Also published as: WO2023285835A1; GB202110220D0

Abstract

A removable insert 1 for a pipe inspection chamber comprising a bucket 20 defining a receptacle 21 for collecting debris falling into the inspection chamber, the receptacle 21 comprising an opening at a top end of the bucket 20. The removable insert 1 further comprises at least one sealing portion 30, 40 circumscribing the bucket 20 and extending radially outwards from the bucket 20. The insert is configured to fit in the shaft of the pipe inspection chamber. The at least one sealing portion effectively creates a seal between the bucket and the inner wall of the pipe inspection chamber shaft to prevent debris from falling between the bucket and the inner wall of the pipe inspection chamber shaft. Aspects of the invention include a removal assembly which comprises a coupling 51, and optionally wherein the coupling comprises at least one of a hook, a lifting eye, and a carabiner. The removal assembly may comprise a shaft 53 movably coupled to the bucket, and wherein the coupling is located at one end of the shaft.

Description

REMOVABLE INSERT FOR A PIPE INSPECTION CHAMBER

The present invention relates to a removable insert for insertion into a pipe inspection chamber. In particular, the present invention relates to a removable insert adapted to be inserted in a pipe inspection chamber to prevent debris from reaching the base of the inspection chamber and adjacent pipework.

Inspection chambers are access points to underground pipework, such as drainage pipes, which allow maintenance and removal of blockages. Inspection chambers commonly include a base, a shaft extending from the base to an opening, and optionally a cover for closing the opening of the shaft. The base and a shaft of the inspection chamber are located below the surface of the ground. The length of the shaft is such that the opening of the shaft, and the cover, sit at the surface. When a drainage system is installed on a construction site, a temporary cover is often installed. During the construction work, the temporary cover can sometimes be dislodged or broken or the shaft can be damaged, leaving the opening of the shaft open. In such cases, debris is able to enter the open inspection chambers while construction work is ongoing, which then needs to be cleaned out of the drainage system once construction is completed. This cleaning can be a costly and time consuming process, particularly when the drainage system comprises a large number of inspection chambers.

There is an opportunity to reduce, if not eliminate entirely, the need to clean inspection chambers after construction work is completed.

According to the disclosure, there is provided a removable insert for a pipe inspection chamber. The removable insert comprises a bucket defining a receptacle for collecting debris falling into the inspection chamber. The receptacle comprises an opening at a top end of the bucket. The insert further comprises at least one sealing portion circumscribing the bucket and extending radially outwards from the bucket.

As briefly described above, when drainage systems are installed on a construction site, the openings of the shafts of the pipe inspection chambers are vulnerable to the ingress of rubble and other debris into the pipe inspection chambers and adjacent pipework, particularly when the ground nearby is excavated or disrupted. The pipe inspection chambers and adjacent pipework then require cleaning to remove the debris, which can be a costly and time consuming process.

The removable insert of the present disclosure is configured to be inserted into the shaft of a pipe inspection chamber to collect any debris that falls into the inspection chamber while construction work is ongoing. The insert is configured to fit in the shaft of a pipe inspection chamber. Advantageously, insert comprises a bucket defining a receptacle that is configured to collect the majority of the debris, and particularly any large debris, that falls into the inspection chamber. The at least one sealing portion extending radially outwards from the bucket is configured to extend between the outer surface of the bucket and the inner surface of the pipe inspection chamber shaft. Advantageously, the at least one sealing portion effectively creates a seal between the bucket and the inner wall of the pipe inspection chamber shaft to prevent debris from falling between the bucket and the inner wall of the pipe inspection chamber shaft. When the removable insert is lifted out of the pipe inspection chamber once construction work is finished, debris collected in the receptacle is lifted out in the receptacle, and debris collected by the at least one sealing portion is swept out of the pipe inspection chamber shaft by the at least one sealing portion, between the outer surface of the bucket and the inner wall of the pipe inspection chamber shaft.

As used herein, the term "pipe inspection chamber' refers to an access point to underground pipework, such as drainage pipes, which allows maintenance and removal of blockages. Pipe inspection chambers typically comprise a base and a shaft extending from the base to an opening. As used herein, a pipe inspection chamber may include additional shafts, sometimes referred to as risers, which elongate the shaft of the pipe inspection chamber so that the opening may be located at ground level when the pipe inspection chamber is installed.

As used herein, the terms "top" and "bottom" refer to the relative positions of components or portions of the insert when the insert in an upright orientation, ready for use, with the opening of the receptacle at the top such that debris falling into a pipe inspection chamber may fall into the receptacle through the opening.

The bucket has a top end and a bottom end, opposite the top end. As used herein, the length of the bucket is the maximum distance between the top end of the bucket and the bottom end of the bucket. The length of the bucket is measured in a longitudinal direction of the bucket. The longitudinal direction of the bucket may define a longitudinal axis of the bucket. As used herein, the longitudinal axis of the bucket is also the longitudinal axis of the insert. A central longitudinal axis of the bucket may extend through the centre of gravity of the bucket in the longitudinal direction. The centre of gravity of the insert may also be on the central longitudinal axis of the bucket.

As used herein, the width of the bucket is the maximum distance between opposite sides of the bucket. The width is measured in a transverse direction of the bucket, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

As used herein, the term "inner" refers to an edge or surface of a component or portion of the insert that faces towards the central longitudinal axis of the bucket. As used herein, the term "outer" refers to an edge or surface of a component or portion of the insert that faces away from the central longitudinal axis of the bucket.

As used herein, the term "radially outwards" refers to a direction away from the central longitudinal axis of the bucket. The term "radially outwards" includes both directions perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis of the bucket, and directions that are neither perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis of the bucket nor parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the bucket.

The removable insert comprises a bucket. As used herein, the term "bucket" refers to a device having a generally tubular body with a closed end and an open end. The bucket defines a receptacle. The bucket has an opening at a top end. The opening provides access to the receptacle. Preferably, the bucket has a base at a bottom end, opposite the top end. The base may close the bottom end of the bucket. Preferably a sidewall extends between the base and the opening at the top end. The sidewall may circumscribe the base. The edge of the sidewall at the top end of the bucket may define the opening Preferably the base and the sidewall of the bucket define the receptacle.

The receptacle is configured to collect debris falling into a pipe inspection chamber. The receptacle may be configured to retain solids. The receptacle may be configured to retain liquid. In other words, the receptacle may be impermeable to liquids. Preferably the receptacle is configured to allow drainage of liquids. In other words, the receptacle may be permeable to liquids. Preferably, the receptacle is configured to retain solids and allow drainage of liquids.

The bucket may be provided with one or more drainage holes in the base of the bucket to allow drainage of liquids there through.

The bucket may be formed from any suitable materials. Suitable materials may include plastics, metals, or a combination of plastics and metals. In some preferred embodiments, the bucket is formed from a moulded plastic material.

The bucket may have any suitable shape and size to enable the bucket to be inserted into a pipe inspection chamber and collect debris falling into the chamber.

The bucket may have any suitable cross-sectional shape. As used herein, the cross-sectional shape of the bucket refers to a cross-section of the bucket taken along a plane perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis of the bucket. For example, the bucket may have a circular, square, pentagonal or hexagonal cross-sectional shape. Preferably the bucket has a substantially circular cross-sectional shape.

The bucket may have an outer width defined by an outer surface of the bucket. Where the bucket has a circular cross-sectional shape, the outer width may be an outer diameter. The outer width of the bucket may be substantially constant along the length of the bucket. Where the bucket has a substantially circular cross-sectional shape, the bucket may be substantially circularly cylindrical.

The outer width of the bucket may vary along the length of the bucket. Preferably, the outer width of the bucket may be larger towards the top end of the bucket than at the bottom end. In other words, the bucket may be tapered from the top end to the bottom end.

Advantageously, providing a tapered bucket that is wider at the top end than at the bottom end may facilitate insertion of the bucket into a pipe inspection chamber. In some preferred embodiments, the bucket has an outer profile with the shape of a conical frustum. A conical frustum refers to a portion of a cone that lies between two parallel planes that are perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis of the cone.

The bucket may have any suitable outer width. The maximum outer width of the bucket needs to be smaller than the inner width of a pipe inspection chamber shaft for the insert to be able to be inserted into the pipe inspection chamber shaft. Pipe inspection chambers with a variety of inner widths are available for different applications. Typical pipe inspection chambers may have an inner width of between 200 millimetres and 650 millimetres.

Some standard sized pipe inspection chambers have an inner width of 250 millimetres, 315 millimetres, 450 millimetres, and 600 millimetres. The maximum outer width of the bucket may be between 150 millimetres and 640 millimetres, preferably between 190 millimetres and 625 millimetres, and more preferably between 230 millimetres and 590 millimetres. For example, the outer width of the bucket may be 240 millimetres for an insert that is configured for use in a pipe inspection chamber with an inner width of 250 millimetres. For example, the outer width of the bucket may be 425 millimetres for an insert that is configured for use in a pipe inspection chamber with an inner width of 450 millimetres. For example, the outer width of the bucket may be 580 millimetres for an insert that is configured for use in a pipe inspection chamber with an inner width of 600 millimetres.

The bucket may have an inner width defined by an inner surface of the bucket. Where the bucket has a circular cross-sectional shape, the inner width may be an inner diameter. The inner width of the bucket may be substantially constant along the length of the bucket. The inner width of the bucket may vary along the length of the bucket. Preferably, the inner width of the bucket may be larger towards the top end of the bucket than at the bottom end.

In other words, the bucket may be tapered from the top end to the bottom end.

The bucket may have any suitable length to fit within a pipe inspection chamber. The length of the bucket may be between 150 millimetres and 400 millimetres. In some preferred embodiments, the length of the bucket may be about 200 millimetres, about 250 millimetres, or about 300 millimetres.

The bucket may comprise at least one rim. Preferably the at least one rim circumscribes the top end of the bucket. The at least one rim may circumscribe a bottom end of the bucket. Preferably, the at least one rim extends radially outwards from the bucket. In some embodiments, the at least one sealing portion may extend from the at least one rim.

Advantageously, the at least one rim may provide an additional guard against ingress of debris into the pipe inspection chamber. The at least one rim may be in the shape of a ring.

Preferably, at least a portion of the at least one rim is inclined. At least a portion of the at least one rim may be inclined relative to the central longitudinal axis of the bucket. The at least one rim may be inclined away from the bottom end of the bucket. In other words, the at least one rim may be inclined such that an inner portion of the at least one rim is located closer to the bottom end of the bucket than an outer portion of the at least one rim.

Advantageously, providing a rim with an inclined portion may help to guide debris into the receptacle. Where the at least one rim is located at the top end of the bucket, the at least one rim may be configured to guide debris into the receptacle.

The at least one rim may further comprise a lip at an outer edge. The lip may be inclined towards the bottom end of the bucket. In other words, an outer portion of the lip may be located closer to the bottom end of the bucket than an inner portion of the lip. The inclined lip may help to prevent the bucket from snagging on the inner surface of a pipe inspection chamber shaft when the insert is being lifted out of the pipe inspection chamber shaft.

Where the bucket comprises at least one rim, the outer width of the rim may define the maximum outer diameter of the bucket. In some embodiments, the outer edge of the at least one rim may be the outer edge of the bucket. In these embodiments, the maximum outer width of the at least one rim is equivalent to the maximum outer width of the bucket.

In some embodiments, the at least one rim may define a receptacle. In these embodiments, the receptacle of the bucket is a first receptacle, and the receptacle of the at least one rim is a second receptacle. The receptacle of the rim may further improve collection of debris falling into a pipe inspection chamber shaft by the insert.

The removable insert may comprise a plurality of rims. Preferably, the plurality of rims have the same outer widths. In some embodiments, the plurality of rims may have different outer widths.

The plurality of rims may comprise a first rim at or towards the top end of the bucket and a second rim at or towards a bottom end of the bucket, opposite the top end. The second rim may define a second receptacle towards the bottom end of the bucket. Advantageously, the second receptacle may help to collect any debris that manages to pass through the first sealing portion.

The bucket may also comprise a plurality of ribs. Advantageously, the ribs may provide additional structural support to the bucket, increasing the amount of debris that the insert can safely collect. Each rib may extend in a longitudinal direction of the bucket. Each rib may extend from the base to the opening of the bucket. Each rib may include a mounting point at the top end for connection to a removal assembly and/or a support for the at least one sealing portion. Each rib may include a mounting point at the bottom end for connection to a support for the at least one sealing portion. The ribs may be spaced evenly around the bucket.

The bucket may be provided with and suitable number of ribs. For example, the bucket may be provided with one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, or nine ribs.

The insert comprises at least one sealing portion. The at least one sealing portion circumscribes the bucket and extends radially outwards from the bucket. Advantageously, the at least one sealing portion seals the gap between the outer surface of the bucket and the inner surface of a pipe inspection chamber shaft to prevent debris falling between the bucket and the inner wall of the pipe inspection chamber shaft.

As used herein, the term "seal" is used to describe a closure of an opening that is suitable for preventing debris from passing through the opening. A seal of the present disclosure is not limited to an airtight closure or a liquid fight closure, and as such it is envisaged that in some embodiments the at least one sealing portion may enable liquids and air to pass through the at least one sealing portion.

Preferably, the at least one sealing portion is resilient. The at least one sealing portion may comprise a resilient material. The at least one sealing portion may be configured to deform against the inner surface of a pipe inspection chamber when the insert is inserted into the pipe inspection chamber. Advantageously, such resilience and deformability may improve the seal between the insert and the inner surface of the pipe inspection chamber. Advantageously, such deformation of the at least one sealing portion may enable the insert to be used in pipe inspection chambers of different sizes, as the at least one seal is able to conform to the inner width of the pipe inspection chamber. Moreover, where the inner width of a pipe inspection chamber varies along its length, or is deformed after installation due to compression, the resilience of the at least one sealing portion may enable the sealing portion to conform to the inner profile of the inspection chamber shaft as it varies, maintaining the seal with the inner surface of the pipe inspection chamber. In addition, as the insert is inserted into a pipe inspection chamber shaft, the at least one sealing portion may curve upwards, such that an outer portion of the at least one sealing portion is higher than an inner portion of the at least one sealing portion. Advantageously, this curvature of the at least one sealing portion may help to guide debris towards the bucket, and in some cases into the receptacle.

The resilience of the material of the at least one sealing portion may be sufficient to enable the at least one sealing portion to confirm to the shape of the inner surface of a pipe inspection chamber shaft and form a seal. However, in some embodiments the at least one sealing portion may be movably connected to the bucket. For example, the at least one sealing portion may connected to the bucket by a hinge. The hinge may be biased. For example, the hinge may be biased by a spring. The hinge may be biased to return the at least one sealing portion to a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bucket. Advantageously, such a biased hinge may urge the at least one sealing portion against the inner surface of a pipe inspection chamber, improving the seal between the bucket and the inner surface of the pipe inspection chamber.

The outer width of the at least one sealing portion may be any suitable size. Preferably, the at least one sealing portion has an outer width which is greater than the inner width of the pipe inspection chamber shaft. The outer width of the at least one sealing portion may be between 300 millimetres and 700 millimetres. For example, the outer width of the at least one sealing portion may be about 330 millimetres for an insert that is configured for use in a pipe inspection chamber with an inner width of about 315 millimetres. For example, the outer width of the at least one sealing portion may be about 500 millimetres for an insert that is configured for use in a pipe inspection chamber with an inner width of about 450 millimetres.

For example, the outer width of the at least one sealing portion may be about 650 millimetres for an insert that is configured for use in a pipe inspection chamber with an inner width of about 600 millimetres. Advantageously, providing the at least one sealing portion with an outer width that is greater than the inner width of a pipe inspection chamber shaft may enable the at least one sealing portion to form a seal between the outer surface of the bucket and the inner surface of the pipe inspection chamber shaft to prevent debris from falling between the bucket and the inner surface of the pipe inspection chamber shaft.

Preferably, the at least one sealing portion extends from at or towards the top end of the bucket. The at least one sealing portion may extend from at or towards the bottom end of the bucket. Where the bucket comprises a rim, the at least one sealing portion may extend from the rim. Preferably, the at least one sealing portion is arranged below the at least one rim.

In some embodiments, the at least one sealing portion may comprise a ring of resilient material, such as rubber, a thermoplastic elastomer or polypropylene.

Preferably, the at least one sealing portion comprises a brush. The brush may comprise a plurality of resilient bristles. The bristles of the brush may be made of any suitable material. Suitable materials include polypropylene, nylon or other polyamide derivatives. The bristles may be arranged in a single coil around the circumference of the bucket. The bristles may be arranged in a plurality of coils around the circumference of the bucket.

Advantageously, when the insert is being lowered into the shaft of a pipe inspection chamber and removed from the shaft of the inspection chamber, the bristles may deform to enable the insert to pass any internal ribs in the shaft without snagging. Advantageously, the bristles may maintain a seal between the outer surface of the bucket and the inner surface of the shaft of the pipe inspection chamber. Advantageously, a brush may enable liquids to pass through the at least one sealing portion while preventing debris from passing through the at least one sealing portion.

The sealing portion may comprise a plurality of sealing portions. Advantageously, providing a plurality of sealing portions may reduce the amount of debris that is able to pass between the insert and the inner surface of a pipe inspection chamber. Advantageously, providing a plurality of sealing portions may also improve stability of the insert as the insert is being inserted into a pipe inspection chamber and removed from a pipe inspection chamber.

A first sealing portion may be located at or towards the top end of the bucket. A second sealing portion may be located at or towards a bottom end of the bucket. Where the bucket also includes a first rim and a second rim: the first sealing portion may extend from the first rim, or extend from the bucket below the first rim; and the second sealing portion may extend from the second rim, or from the bucket below the second rim.

The at least one sealing portion may be held in place and/or fixed to the bucket by a support. The support may circumscribe the bucket. The support may comprise a ring circumscribing the bucket. Where the bucket comprises a plurality of ribs, the support may be fixed to the bucket at the ribs. Where the ribs have mounting portions, the support may be fixed to the bucket at the mounting portions of the ribs. Where the at least one sealing portion comprises a first sealing portion located at or towards a top end of the bucket and a second sealing portion at or towards the bottom end of the bucket, the first sealing portion may be fixed to the bucket by a first support at or towards a top end of the bucket, and the second sealing portion may be fixed to the bucket by a second support at or towards the bottom end of the bucket.

In a preferred embodiment, the bucket may comprise a first rim located at a top end of the bucket, a second rim located at a bottom end of the bucket, a first sealing portion located at the top end of the bucket, below the first rim, and a second sealing portion located at the bottom end of the bucket, below the second rim.

Preferably, the insert further comprises a removal assembly. The removal assembly may facilitate removal of the insert from the pipe inspection chamber.

Preferably, the removal assembly comprises a coupling. The coupling may be configured to connect the insert to an external removal device, such as a rope connected to the arm of an excavator. In some embodiments, the coupling may be configured for a user to be able to hold the coupling with a hand and to lift the insert out of a pipe inspection chamber shaft. The coupling may be any suitable coupling. Suitable couplings include: a hook, a lifting eye, and a carabiner.

The coupling may be movably coupled to the bucket. The coupling may be movable between a first position and a second position. The first position and the second position may be on the central longitudinal axis of the bucket. The coupling may generally be in the first position when the insert is positioned for use in the shaft of the pipe inspection chamber. In some embodiments, the first position is located in the receptacle. Preferably, the first position is located at the opening of the bucket or above the opening of the bucket. Advantageously, this may prevent the coupling becoming buried in debris collected in the receptacle. The second position may be located further away from the bucket than the first position. Advantageously, providing a coupling that is movably coupled to the bucket may enable the coupling to be located away from the bucket when the insert is being lifted, which extends the distance between the centre of gravity of the insert and the coupling and improves the stability of the bucket as it is lifted out of the pipe inspection chamber. This may, in turn, avoid spillage of debris into the inspection chamber during removal of the insert.

The removal assembly may further comprises a shaft. The coupling may be located at one end of the shaft. The shaft may be movably coupled to the bucket. The shaft may be slidably coupled to the bucket. The shaft may be slidable along the central longitudinal axis of the bucket. The shaft may guide the coupling when it is moved from the first position to the second position.

In some embodiments, the bucket comprises a protrusion extending into the receptacle. The protrusion may extend from the base of the bucket. The protrusion may extend towards the top end of the bucket. The protrusion may extend to the opening of the bucket. The protrusion may extend along the central longitudinal axis of the bucket. The protrusion may extend substantially the length of the bucket.

The shaft may be slidably coupled to the protrusion. Where the coupling is movable between a first position and the second position, the shaft may be substantially received in the protrusion, or entirely received in the protrusion, when the coupling is in the first position. The protrusion may comprise an opening for receiving the shaft. The coupling may cover the opening of the protrusion when the coupling is in the first position. Advantageously, this may prevent ingress of debris into the opening of the protrusion. The coupling may rest on the top end of the protrusion when the coupling is in the first position.

The removal assembly may further comprise a plurality of lines extending between the coupling and the bucket. Advantageously, the lines may spread the load of the insert and any debris collected by the insert between different points on the bucket when the insert is lifted out of a pipe inspection chamber by the coupling. The lines may extend between the coupling and the top end of the side wall of the bucket. Where the side wall of the bucket comprises a plurality of ribs, each line may be attached to one of the ribs. Each line may be attached to the top end of one of the ribs.

The removal assembly may comprise any suitable number of lines. The removal assembly may comprise three or more lines. The plurality of lines may be chains or ropes, or wires. In a preferred embodiment, the removal assembly may comprise three chains. The lines may be evenly spaced around the bucket. This may further help to distribute the load around the rim of the insert and ensure a more stable and secure lift when the insert is being removed from the shaft of the pipe inspection chamber.

The plurality of lines may be slack when the coupling is in the first position. The slack in the plurality of lines may be removed when the insert is moved from the first position to the second position. The coupling may be moved from the first position to the second position when the insert is being lifted from the shaft of a pipe inspection chamber by the coupling. The plurality of lines may be taut when the coupling is in the second position.

Embodiments of the invention will now be described in detail, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a removable insert according to an embodiment

of the disclosure;

Figure 2 shows a top view of the removable insert of Figure 1; and Figure 3 shows a side cross-sectional view along line A-A of the removable insert of Figure 1 inserted in the shaft of an inspection chamber.

Figure 1 shows a schematic illustration of a removable insert 1 according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The insert 1 generally comprises a bucket 20, a first sealing portion 30, a second sealing portion 40 and a removal assembly 50.

The bucket 20 comprises a substantially circular base at a bottom end, and a cylindrical side wall circumscribing the base and extending upwards from the base to a top end. The base and the side wall of the bucket 20 define a receptacle 21 having an opening at the top end. The receptacle 21 is configured to receive and collect debris falling into a pipe inspection chamber. In this embodiment, the bucket 20 is formed from a plastic material, as a single injection moulded unit.

The bucket 20 is sized to fit inside most pipe inspection chamber shafts.

The bucket 20 is tapered from the top end to the bottom end, such that the outer diameter of the bucket 20 at the top end is greater than the outer diameter of the bucket 20 at the bottom end.

The bucket 20 has six ribs 25 protruding radially inwards from the cylindrical sidewall, and extending from the base to the top end of the side wall of the bucket 20. The ribs 25 are evenly spaced around the bucket 20, and provide structural reinforcement to the bucket 20.

Each rib 25 has a mounting point 27 located at the top end, which will be described in more detail later on.

The bucket 20 also comprises a protrusion 26 extending into the receptacle 21 from the centre of the base, towards the top end of the bucket. The protrusion extends almost to the opening of the bucket 20. The protrusion 26 is provided to support the removal assembly of the bucket, which will also be described in more detail later on.

The bucket further comprises drainage holes 28 in the base of the bucket to allow liquids to drain through.

The bucket 20 comprises a first rim 22 at the top end of the bucket 20, and a second rim 23 at the bottom end of the bucket 20. The first rim 22 circumscribes the top end of the S side wall of the bucket 20, and extends radially outwards from the side wall. The second rim 23 circumscribes the base of the bucket 20, and extends radially outwards from the base.

In this embodiment, the first rim 22 and the second rim 23 have the same maximum outer diameter of about 425 millimetres. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments the first rim and the second rim may have different outer diameters.

In this embodiment, the first and second rims 22, 23 define the maximum outer diameter of the bucket. The outer diameter of the bucket 20 defines the smallest pipe inspection chamber shaft into which the insert 1 can be inserted. In this embodiment, the insert 1 is particularly suitable for insertion into pipe inspection chamber shafts having an inner diameter of about 450 millimetres.

The second rim 23 defines a second receptacle 24, which is configured to receive debris that falls between the bucket and the inner surface of a pipe inspection chamber shaft. The first rim 22 and the second rim 23 are both flared or inclined such that an inner portion of the rim is located closer to the bottom end of the bucket than an outer portion of the rim. This flaring or inclination helps to guide debris into the receptacle 21 of the bucket 20 and the second receptacle of the second rim 22 respectively. An outer edge of both the first rim 22 and the second rim 23 is provided with a lip that is inclined or flared in an opposition direction, such that the outer edge of the lip is located closer to the bottom end of the bucket than the inner edge of the lip. This lip helps to prevent the bucket from snagging on the inner surface of a pipe inspection chamber shaft when the insert 1 is lifted out of the pipe inspection chamber shaft.

The first sealing portion 30 is located towards the top end of the bucket 20, directly below the first rim 22. The second sealing portion 40 is located at the bottom end of the bucket 20, directly below the second rim 23. The first sealing portion 30 and the second sealing portion 40 are substantially identical.

Each of the first sealing portion 30 and the second sealing portion 40 comprises a brush having a plurality of resilient bristles. In this embodiment, the bristles are formed from polypropylene. The first and second sealing portions 30, 40 have an outer diameter of 500 millimetres. The first and second sealing portions 30, 40 are configured to contact the inner surface of a pipe inspection chamber shaft when the insert 1 is inserted into a pipe inspection chamber shaft, and deform to provide a seal for preventing debris from falling between the bucket 20 and the inner surface of the pipe inspection chamber shaft.

The first sealing portion 30 is fixed to the bucket 20 by a first retaining ring 32. The first retaining ring 32 is secured to the bucket 20 at three of the mounting points 27 of the ribs 25. The second sealing portion 40 is fixed to the bucket 20 by a second retaining ring 42. The second retaining ring 42 is secured to the base of the bucket 20 at further mounting points, not shown in the drawings, in the base of the bucket 20. It will be appreciated that in some embodiments the ribs 25 may comprise further mounting points at the bottom end, which may be used to fix the retaining ring 42 to the bucket 20.

The insert 1 further comprises a removal assembly 50 comprising a coupling 51. In this embodiment, the coupling 51 is a hook.

The removal assembly 50 also includes three lines 52 extending between the coupling 51 and the top end of the bucket 20. As shown in Figure 2, the top of each of the six ribs 25 of the bucket 20 provides a mounting point for the line 52 of the removal assembly. Accordingly, the insert comprises six mounting points 27 evenly spaced around the bucket 20. In this embodiment, only three of the mounting points 27 are provided with eye bolts 56 for attachment to the three lines 52.

The removal assembly 50 further comprises a shaft 53. The coupling 51 is secured to an end of the shaft 53. The shaft 53 is slidably mounted to the protrusion 26 in the receptacle 21. The shaft 53 is received through an opening 54 at the top end of the protrusion 26, into a chamber 55 in the protrusion 26. The shaft 53 has a length that is substantially the same as the length of the protrusion 26, such that the entire shaft 53 may be received in the chamber of the protrusion 26. The shaft 53 is slidable in the protrusion 26 along the central longitudinal axis the bucket 20, which ensures that the coupling 51 remains on the central longitudinal axis of the bucket 20.

The coupling 51 is movable between a first position, in which the coupling 51 rests on the top end of the protrusion 26, and a second position in which the coupling 51 is lifted away from the bucket, and only an end portion of the shaft 53 remains in the protrusion. An end portion of the shaft opposite the coupling includes a stop to prevent the shaft 53 from being pulled out of the opening 54 in the protrusion 26.

In the first position, the entire shaft 53 is received in the chamber 55 in the protrusion 26, and the coupling 51 rests on the top end of the protrusion 26, covering the opening 54 to prevent debris from falling into the opening 54.

In the second position, the coupling 51 is spaced away from the bucket 20. The lines 52 are sized such that when the coupling 51 is in the second position, the lines 52 are taught. As such, when the coupling is in the second position, the three lines 52 spread the load of the insert from the coupling 51 to the side wall of the bucket 20, such that the protrusion 26 is not required to support the entire load of the insert 1 and any debris collected by the insert when the insert is lifted out of a pipe inspection chamber by the removal assembly 50.

In Figure 3, the coupling 51 is shown in the second position in which the coupling 51 is spaced away from the bucket 20 as the insert 1 is being lifted out of a pipe inspection chamber shaft 100. When the coupling 51 is in the second position, the shaft 53 is almost fully removed from the chamber 55 in the protrusion 26, and the lines 52 are taut. This results in the coupling 51 being raised out of the receptacle 21, such that it is clear of any debris collected in the receptacle 21. Raising the coupling 21 out of the receptacle 21 also improves the stability of the insert 1 as it is raised out of the inspection chamber shaft 100, reducing the likelihood of the insert 1 tipping during lifting, and spilling debris collected in the receptacle 21.

It is shown in Figure 3 that the outer diameter of the first and second sealing portions 30, 40 is greater than the inner diameter of the inner surface of the pipe inspection chamber shaft 100. In this embodiment, the inner diameter of the pipe inspection chamber shaft 100 is about 450 millimetres, and the outer diameter of the first and second sealing portions is about 500 millimetres, which is greater than the inner diameter of the pipe inspection chamber shaft 100. Although in Figure 3 it is shown that the first and second sealing portions 30, 40 are extending perpendicularly to the central longitudinal axis of the bucket 20, in reality when the insert 1 is inserted into the pipe inspection chamber shaft 100 the first and second sealing portions 30, 40 would curl upwards during insertion, along the inner surface of the pipe inspection chamber 100. This deformation helps to direct debris into the two receptacles 21, 24.

The pipe inspection chamber shaft 100 shown in Figure 3 is comprised of two sections, which are connected together at an internal rib 110 that protrudes inwardly towards the central longitudinal axis of the shaft. The sealing portions 30, 40 of the insert 1 are resilient, and as such can deform around the rib 110 as the insert is raised or lowered past the rib 110 while maintaining a seal between the outer surface of the bucket and the inner surface of the shaft 100.

It will be appreciated that in other embodiments the insert may have different numbers of rims, sealing portions, ribs, and lines.

Claims

Claims 1. A removable insert for a pipe inspection chamber, the removable insert comprising: a bucket defining a receptacle for collecting debris falling into the inspection chamber, the receptacle comprising an opening at a top end of the bucket; and at least one sealing portion circumscribing the bucket and extending radially outwards from the bucket.
2. A removable insert according to claim 1, wherein the at least one sealing portion is positioned at or towards the top end of the bucket.
3. A removable insert according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the at least one sealing portion is resilient.
4. A removable insert according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one sealing portion comprises a brush.
5. A removable insert according to claim 4, wherein the brush comprises a plurality of resilient bristles.
6. A removable insert according to any preceding claim, wherein the bucket has an outer width, the pipe inspection chamber has an inner width, and the outer width of the bucket is less than the inner width of the pipe inspection chamber.
7. A removable insert according to any preceding claim, wherein the bucket has an outer width, and wherein the outer width of the bucket is between 150 millimetres and 640 millimetres.
8. A removable insert according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one sealing portion has an outer width, the pipe inspection chamber has an inner width, and the outer width of the at least one sealing portion is greater than the inner width of the pipe inspection chamber.
9. A removable insert according to any preceding claim, wherein the bucket has an outer width, and wherein the outer width of the at least one sealing portion is between 300 millimetres and 700 millimetres.
10. A removable insert according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one sealing portion comprises a plurality of sealing portions.
11. A removable insert according to claim 10, wherein the plurality of sealing portions comprises a first sealing portion at or towards the top end of the bucket and a second sealing portion at or towards a bottom end of the bucket.
12. A removable insert according to any preceding claim, wherein the bucket comprises at least one rim circumscribing the bucket and extending radially outwards from the bucket.
13. A removable insert according to claim 12, wherein the at least one sealing portion extends from the at least one rim of the bucket.
14. A removable insert according to claims 12 or 13, wherein the bucket has a bottom end opposite the top end, and wherein the at least one rim is inclined such that an inner portion of the at least one rim is located closer to the bottom end of the bucket than an outer portion of the at least one rim
15. A removable insert according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the bucket comprises a plurality of rims.
16. A removable insert according to claim 15, wherein the plurality of rims comprises a first rim at or towards the top end of the bucket and a second rim at or towards a bottom end of the bucket, opposite the top end
17. A removable insert according to claim 16, wherein the receptacle defined by the bucket is a first receptacle, and wherein the second rim defines a second receptacle.
18. A removable insert according to any preceding claim, further comprising a removal assembly.
19. A removable insert according to claim 18, wherein the removal assembly comprises a coupling, and optionally wherein the coupling comprises at least one of a hook, a lifting eye, and a carabiner.
20. A removable insert according to claim 19, wherein the removal assembly comprises a shaft movably coupled to the bucket, and wherein the coupling is located at one end of the shaft.
21. A removable insert according to claim 20, wherein the coupling is movable between a first position and a second position, the second position being further away from the bucket than the first position.
22. A removable insert according to claims 20 or 21, wherein the shaft is slidably coupled to the bucket.
23. A removable insert according to claim 22, wherein the bucket comprises a protrusion extending into the receptacle from a base of the bucket, and wherein the shaft is slidably coupled to the protrusion.
24. A removable insert according to any one of claims 19 to 23, wherein the removal assembly further comprises a plurality of lines extending between the coupling and the top end of the bucket, and optionally wherein each of the plurality of lines is a chain.
25. A removable insert according to claim 24, wherein the plurality of lines are spaced evenly around the top end of the bucket.