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Title:
PIPE HANDLING APPARATUS
Document Type and Number:
WIPO Patent Application WO/2019/002850
Kind Code:
A1
Abstract:
Pipe handling apparatus (1801) comprising a frame (1802), a support element (1803), and a pipe drive mechanism (1804). The pipe drive mechanism (1804) comprises first and second pipe urging elements (1805, 1806) each rotatable relative to the frame (1802). The pipe handling apparatus (1801) is configured to receive a pipe such that a received pipe is supported by the support element (1803) and is gripped between the first and second pipe urging elements (1805, 1806). The pipe drive mechanism (1804) is configured, in response to operation thereof, to urge a received pipe in a drive direction. The pipe drive mechanism (1804) further comprises first and second pipe urging element engagement arrangements each operative between the first and second pipe urging elements (1805, 1806) and configured to guide rotation of the first and second pipe urging elements (1805, 1806) during operation of the pipe drive mechanism (1804).

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Inventors:
WANG SUNG-HUA (TW)
Application Number:
PCT/GB2018/051788
Publication Date:
January 03, 2019
Filing Date:
June 27, 2018
Export Citation:
Click for automatic bibliography generation   Help
Assignee:
CATTANO LTD (GB)
International Classes:
B25B27/10; B21D39/04
Foreign References:
GB2481412A2011-12-28
US20160023331A12016-01-28
EP3078457A12016-10-12
JP2007175820A2007-07-12
GB2481412A2011-12-28
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
BRYERS LLP et al. (GB)
Download PDF:
Claims:
CLAIMS

I . Pipe handling apparatus comprising:

a frame,

a support element, and

a pipe drive mechanism;

the pipe drive mechanism comprising a first pipe urging element and a second pipe urging element, the first pipe urging element and the second pipe urging element each rotatable relative to the frame;

said pipe handling apparatus configured to receive a pipe such that a received pipe is supported by the support element and is gripped between the first pipe urging element and the second pipe urging element, and

said pipe drive mechanism configured, in response to operation thereof, to urge a received pipe in a drive direction;

the pipe drive mechanism comprising a first pipe urging element engagement arrangement operative between the first pipe urging element and the second pipe urging element, the first pipe urging element engagement arrangement comprising a first toothed gear portion of the first pipe urging element and a second toothed gear portion of the second pipe urging element, the first pipe urging element and the second pipe urging element arranged such that the first toothed gear portion and the second toothed gear portion mesh together, and

the pipe drive mechanism further comprising a second pipe urging element engagement arrangement operative between the first pipe urging element and the second pipe urging element;

the first pipe urging element engagement arrangement and the second pipe urging element engagement arrangement configured to guide rotation of the first pipe urging element and the second pipe urging element during operation of the pipe drive mechanism. 2. Pipe handling apparatus as claimed in claim I , comprising a first handle that extends from the frame element and a second handle that extends from the frame element, the first handle rotatable relative to the second handle to actuate the pipe drive mechanism to cause rotation of the first pipe urging element and, in turn, the second pipe urging element.

3. Pipe handling apparatus as claimed in claim 2, wherein the second pipe urging element engagement arrangement comprises:

a third toothed gear portion of the second pipe urging element and a fourth toothed gear portion of a head of the first handle, the second pipe urging element and the first handle arranged such that the third toothed gear portion and the fourth toothed gear portion mesh together.

4. Pipe handling apparatus as claimed in claim 3, wherein the first pipe urging element engagement arrangement has a first gear ratio, the second pipe urging element engagement arrangement has a second gear ratio, and the second gear ratio is different from the first gear ratio.

5. Pipe handling apparatus as claimed in claim 2, wherein the second pipe urging element engagement arrangement comprises:

a first guide aperture of a head of the first handle and a first guide projection that extends from the first pipe urging element to locate within the first guide aperture, and a second guide aperture of the head of the first handle and a second guide projection that extends from the first pipe urging element to locate within the second guide aperture.

6. Pipe handling apparatus as claimed in any of claims I to 5, wherein:

the first pipe urging element comprises a first body presenting a first surface having a first profile,

the second pipe urging element comprises a second body presenting a second surface having a second profile, and

the first profile of the first surface and the second profile of the second surface are in mirror image. 7. Pipe handling apparatus as claimed in claim 6, wherein:

the first and second surfaces each comprise a lower region, an intermediate region and an upper region, the first and second surfaces are relatively profiled such that a pipe receiving space is defined between the respective lower regions and the respective upper regions, and

the intermediate regions are relatively profiled to receive a pipe having a substantially circular cross-sectional shape therebetween.

8. Pipe handling apparatus as claimed in claim 7, wherein the first and second surfaces each have a generally concave scalloped profile. 9. Pipe handling apparatus as claimed in claim 7 or claim 8, wherein the upper regions each comprise a respective overhang portion that projects beyond the intermediate region and is configured to move over a received pipe when the pipe urging mechanism is actuated. 1 0. Pipe handling apparatus as claimed in any of claims I to 9, wherein the support element defines a generally 'U'-shaped recess for receiving a pipe with a generally circular cross-sectional shape therein.

I I . Pipe handling apparatus as claimed in any of claims I to 1 0, wherein the pipe urging mechanism is operable to drive a pipe in each of a first drive direction and a second drive direction, the second drive direction opposite the first drive direction.

Description:
PIPE HANDLING APPARATUS

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to pipe handling apparatus, in particular to pipe handling apparatus for use in inserting a pipe into, or releasing a pipe from, a pipe fitting.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Various types of pipes and pipe fittings are known. A secure and reliable connection between a pipe and a pipe fitting is important; however, a problem exists in ensuring that a proper fit between the pipe and the pipe fitting is established during connection. For example, an inability to achieve sufficient grip, awkward access and/or limited manoeuvring space can not only hinder an adequate connection between the pipe and pipe fitting being achieved but can also hamper subsequent expedient disconnection. UK Patent Publication GB 2481412 A discloses a pipe handling tool comprising a shoulder and a pipe drive mechanism. In use, a collar of a pipe connector element is located against the shoulder of the pipe handling tool, and the pipe drive mechanism is operable to urge a received section of pipe towards the shoulder, and in turn towards the received pipe connector element, to insert the pipe into engagement with the received pipe connector element with a positive mechanical fit. UK Patent Publication GB 2481412 A also discloses first and second pipe chamfering tools for removing material from the end of a pipe to provide the pipe with a bevelled edge, this feature serving to facilitate entry of the pipe end into a pipe connector element. The present invention provides improved pipe handling apparatus.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect, there is provided pipe handling apparatus comprising: a frame, a support element, and a pipe drive mechanism; the pipe drive mechanism comprising a first pipe urging element and a second pipe urging element, the first pipe urging element and the second pipe urging element each rotatable relative to the frame; said pipe handling apparatus configured to receive a pipe such that a received pipe is supported by the support element and is gripped between the first pipe urging element and the second pipe urging element, and said pipe drive mechanism configured, in response to operation thereof, to urge a received pipe in a drive direction; the pipe drive mechanism comprising a first pipe urging element engagement arrangement operative between the first pipe urging element and the second pipe urging element, the first pipe urging element engagement arrangement comprising a first toothed gear portion of the first pipe urging element and a second toothed gear portion of the second pipe urging element, the first pipe urging element and the second pipe urging element arranged such that the first toothed gear portion and the second toothed gear portion mesh together, and the pipe drive mechanism further comprising a second pipe urging element engagement arrangement operative between the first pipe urging element and the second pipe urging element; the first pipe urging element engagement arrangement and the second pipe urging element engagement arrangement configured to guide rotation of the first pipe urging element and the second pipe urging element during operation of the pipe drive mechanism. The pipe handling apparatus may comprise a first handle that extends from the frame element and a second handle that extends from the frame element, the first handle rotatable relative to the second handle to actuate the pipe drive mechanism to cause rotation of the first pipe urging element and, in turn, the second pipe urging element. The second pipe urging element engagement arrangement may comprise: a third toothed gear portion of the second pipe urging element and a fourth toothed gear portion of a head of the first handle, the second pipe urging element and the first handle arranged such that the third toothed gear portion and the fourth toothed gear portion mesh together.

The first pipe urging element engagement arrangement may have a first gear ratio, the second pipe urging element engagement arrangement has a second gear ratio, and the second gear ratio is different from the first gear ratio. The first pipe urging element may comprise a first body presenting a first surface having a first profile, the second pipe urging element may comprise a second body presenting a second surface having a second profile, and the first profile of the first surface and the second profile of the second surface may be in mirror image. The first and second surfaces may each comprise a lower region, an intermediate region and an upper region, the first and second surfaces may be relatively profiled such that a pipe receiving space is defined between the respective lower regions and the respective upper regions, and the intermediate regions may be relatively profiled to receive a pipe having a substantially circular cross-sectional shape therebetween.

The first and second surfaces may each have a generally concave scalloped profile.

The upper regions may each comprise a respective overhang portion that projects beyond the intermediate region and is configured to move over a received pipe when the pipe urging mechanism is actuated.

The support element may define a generally 'U'-shaped recess for receiving a pipe with a generally circular cross-sectional shape therein.

The pipe urging mechanism may be operable to drive a pipe in each of a first drive direction and a second drive direction, the second drive direction opposite the first drive direction. Different aspects and embodiments of the invention as disclosed herein may be used separately or together.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will now be more particularly described, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure I shows a schematic of pipe handling apparatus with a pipe drive mechanism thereof in a first condition

Figure 2 shows a schematic of the pipe handling apparatus of Figure I in a second condition;

Figure 3 is a perspective view of the pipe handling apparatus of Figures I & 2 with the pipe drive mechanism thereof in the second condition and with an arrangement of a first pipe section, a second pipe and a pipe fitting; Figure 4 is a perspective view of first and second pipe urging elements of the pipe drive mechanism of the pipe handling apparatus of Figures I & 2;

Figure 5 is a schematic showing features of the first and second pipe urging elements of the pipe drive mechanism of the pipe handling apparatus of Figures I & 2 in further detail;

Figures 6 to 8 illustrate rotation of the first and second pipe urging elements of the pipe drive mechanism of the pipe handling apparatus of Figures I & 2 from the first condition shown in Figure I through to the second condition shown in Figure 2;

Figures 9 to I I illustrate rotation of the first and second pipe urging elements of the pipe drive mechanism of the pipe handling apparatus of Figures I & 2 from the second condition shown in Figure 2 through to the first condition shown in Figure I ;

Figures 1 2 & 1 3 show features of the pipe drive mechanism of the pipe handling apparatus of Figures I & 2, with the drive mechanism in the first condition and in the second condition;

Figure 14 shows further details of the pipe drive mechanism of the pipe handling apparatus of Figures I & 2, in a partially disassembled arrangement;

Figure I 5 shows a disassembled arrangement of the pipe handling apparatus of Figures I & 2; and

Figure 16 shows a plan view of pipe handling apparatus of Figure I with the pipe drive mechanism thereof in the first condition;

Figure 1 7 shows a plan view of the pipe handling apparatus of Figure I with the pipe drive mechanism thereof in the second condition;

Figure 18 shows a plan view of pipe handling apparatus according to a second embodiment with a pipe drive mechanism thereof in a first condition;

Figure 19 is a schematic showing features of the pipe drive mechanism of the pipe handling apparatus of Figure 18 in further detail;

Figure 20 shows a schematic of the pipe handling apparatus of Figures 18 & 19 with the pipe drive mechanism thereof in the first condition; and

Figure 21 shows a plan view of the pipe handling apparatus of Figures 18 to 20 with the pipe drive mechanism thereof in a second condition;

DESCRIPTION Example embodiments and examples are described below in sufficient detail to enable those of ordinary skill in the art to embody and implement the apparatus herein described. It is important to understand that embodiments and examples of the invention can be provided in many alternate forms without departing from the scope of the invention.

Pipe handling apparatus 101 is shown in Figures I & 2. The pipe handling apparatus 101 comprises a frame 102, a support element 103 and a pipe drive mechanism, indicated generally at 104.

The pipe drive mechanism 104, the operation of which will be described in further detail below, comprises a first pipe urging element 105 and a second pipe urging element 106. The first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are each rotatable relative to the frame 102 of the pipe handling apparatus 101. The first pipe urging element 105 comprises a first toothed gear portion 107 and the second pipe urging element 106 comprises a second toothed gear portion 108. The first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are arranged such that the respective first and second toothed gear portions 107, 108 mesh together. As will be described in further detail, the pipe drive mechanism 104 further comprises a pipe urging element drive mechanism, indicated generally at 109. Operation of the pipe urging element drive mechanism 109 causes the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 to rotate about an axis through a respective pivot 1 10, I I I .

As will be described in further detail below, the pipe handling apparatus 101 is configured to receive a pipe such that a received pipe is supported by the support element 103 and is gripped between the first pipe urging element 105 and the second pipe urging element 106, and the pipe drive mechanism 104 is configured, in response to operation thereof, to urge a received pipe in a drive direction. The pipe drive mechanism 104 of the pipe handling apparatus 101 is shown in a first condition in Figure I and is shown in a second condition in Figure 2. When in the first condition, the first and second pipe urging elements 105 and 106 are in a first relative relation and when in the second condition, the first and second pipe urging elements 1 05 and 106 are in a second relative relation. The pipe drive mechanism 104 is repeatedly movable between the first and the second condition, as will be described in further detail below.

In this embodiment, the support element 103 of the pipe handling apparatus 101 comprises a shoulder that defines a generally "U" shaped recess I 12 therein. The shape of the recess is suitable for receiving an item with a generally circular cross- sectional shape therein. However, it is to be appreciated that the recess may have any suitable shape and may have a lower edge at any suitable height relative to the first and second pipe urging elements 105 and 106. Further, it is to be appreciated that the support element 103 may have any suitable arrangement and dimensions. In addition, the support element 103 of the pipe handling apparatus 101 may be fixed to or integral with the frame 102. In an example in which the support element 103 is fixed to the frame 102, the support element 103 may be removably fixed to the frame 102.

In Figure 3, the pipe handling apparatus 101 is shown in the second condition, with a section of a first pipe 301 fitted to a pipe fitting 302. In this illustrated example, the pipe fitting 302 is a pipe connector element. In the shown arrangement, the pipe fitting 302 is also connected to a section of a second pipe 303. It is to be appreciated that a pipe fitting as referred to herein may therefore be a pipe connector element but may be any other type of pipe fitting such as a pipe blanking element.

Pipe fitting 302 defines a waist 304 along the length thereof, the waist 304 being disposed between a first pipe fitting shoulder 305 and a second pipe fitting shoulder 306. The first pipe fitting shoulder 305 is located nearer to a first end 307 of the pipe fitting 302 and the second pipe fitting shoulder 306 is nearer to the second end 308 of the pipe fitting 302.

The pipe fitting 302 is located relative to the pipe handling apparatus 101 such that the waist 304 is aligned with the recess I 12 of the support element 103 of the pipe handling apparatus 101 with the first pipe fitting shoulder 305 closer to the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 and the second pipe fitting shoulder 306 further from the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106. In the illustrated arrangement, the first pipe 301 extends through the first and second pipe urging elements 1 05, 106 and into the pipe fitting 302 in a first direction, indicated by arrow D l , and the second pipe 303 extends into the pipe fitting 302 in a second direction, indicated by arrow D2, opposite to the first direction D l .

The shown arrangement represents a stage following use of the pipe handling apparatus 101 to connect the first pipe 301 with the pipe fitting 302. Thus, a first use of the pipe handling apparatus 101 is to connect a pipe with a pipe fitting. A second, different use of the pipe handling apparatus 101 is to disconnect a pipe from a pipe fitting.

Referring to the same components shown in this Figure, in both uses of the pipe handling apparatus 101 , the pipe fitting 302 would be located relative to the support element 103 as shown. However, in an 'inserting' use, a pushing force could be applied to the pipe fitting 302 in the first direction D l that would cause the first pipe fitting shoulder 305 to abut against the support element 103 of the pipe handling apparatus 101 and in a 'releasing' use, a pulling force could be applied to the pipe fitting 302, in the second direction D2 that could cause the second pipe fitting shoulder 306 to abut against the support element 103 of the pipe handling apparatus 101.

Further details of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are shown in Figures 4 & 5. The first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 each comprise a body 401 , 402 respectively, each body 401 , 402 presenting a respective surface 403, 404. In this illustrated embodiment, the surfaces 403, 404 of the bodies 401 , 402 present a lower region 501 , 502, an intermediate region 503, 504 and an upper region 505, 506. As can be seen in particular in Figure 5, the profiles of the respective surfaces 403, 404 of the bodies 401 , 402 of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are in mirror image. The surfaces 403, 404 are relatively profiled such that a pipe receiving space 407 is defined between the lower regions 501 , 502 and upper regions 505, 506.

In the shown embodiment, and as can be seen in Figure 5, the bodies 401 , 402 of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 present a generally '(' (opening-round- bracket) or ')'(closing-round-bracket) shape profile, with the intermediate regions 503, 504 relatively profiled to receive a pipe having a substantially circular cross-sectional shape therebetween. In addition, the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 may be configured to receive a pipe of a predetermined diameter therebetween, and may be configured to receive pipes of the same or different diameters.

In the shown embodiment, and as can be seen in Figure 4, the surfaces 403, 404 have a generally concave scalloped profile, such that a series of ridges, such as ridges 405 and 406, are presented. The ridges 405, 406 extend in a depth direction DD of the surfaces 403, 404, this being the direction extending between the top and bottom edges thereof, and are spaced in a radial direction R of the surfaces 403, 404, this being the direction extending between side edges thereof. In use, the ridges 405, 406 function to increase the grip on a pipe received between the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 to urge the pipe in a drive direction as will be described below. It is to be appreciated that the surfaces 403, 404 may have any suitable profile, and may have similar or dissimilar profiles. In addition, the surfaces 403, 404 may have any suitable finish, which may be selected to increase frictional engagement with a pipe.

In this illustrated embodiment, the lower regions 501 , 502 of the surfaces 401 , 402 are located above the first and second toothed gear portions 107, 108 of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 respectively.

An important feature of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106, which can be seen in both Figure 4 and in Figure 5, is that the upper regions 505, 506 of the surfaces 403, 404 provide a respective overhang portion 408, 409.

The overhang portions 408, 409 project beyond the intermediate regions 503, 504 of the surfaces 401 , 402. Another important feature of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106, which can also be seen in both Figure 4 and in Figure 5, is the shape of the upper surfaces 410, 41 I thereof. In particular, the upper surfaces 410, 41 1 each have a tip 412, 41 3 respectively. Extending from the tip 412, 41 3 is a first edge 414, 415 and a second edge 416, 417. In this illustrated embodiment, the upper surfaces 410, 41 I of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are generally shaped as an equilateral triangle with truncated corners. In this specific illustrated embodiment, the shape of the upper surfaces 410, 41 I of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are substantially symmetrical about a line drawn from the respective pivot 1 10, I I I and the respective tip 412, 41 3.

Figures 6 to 8 illustrate the relative relations of the first and second pipe urging elements 1 05, 106 during rotation from the first condition to the second condition. In Figure 6, the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are shown in a first relative relation. In the illustrated arrangement, when the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are in the first relative relation, the first edges 414, 415 thereof respectively are substantially parallel to one another. As can also be seen, the respective second edges 416, 417 are substantially aligned with each other and extend substantially normal to the direction in which the first edges 416, 417 extend. In an example, the respective second edges 416, 417 extend at an angle of approximately 80° to the direction in which the first edges 414, 415 extend. With the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 1 06 in the first relative relation, a section of pipe 601 can be located between them, or the pipe handling apparatus can be located around the section of pipe 601 , as shown.

From the first relative relation, the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are rotatable about axes through the respective pivots 1 10, I I I in the directions indicated by arrows RF I and RF2. Rotation of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 in this way represents rotation to urge the received section of pipe 601 in a forward direction F, this being towards the support element of the pipe handling apparatus (not shown in Figures 6 to 8). In turn, the received section of pipe 601 is urged towards a pipe fitting 602 received by the pipe handling apparatus.

As the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are rotated to urge the received section of pipe 601 in the forward direction F, the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are moved from the first relative relation shown in Figure 6 to an intermediate relative relation as shown in Figure 7. From comparison of Figures 6 & 7, it can be seen that as the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 rotate in the respective directions RF I and RF2, the received section of pipe 601 is moved forwards. In addition, according to an important feature of the pipe handling apparatus, the tips 412, 41 3 are moved closer together and the overhang portions 408, 409 are moved over the received section of pipe 601.

From the intermediate relative relation, the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are rotatable further about the axes through the respective pivots 1 10, I I I in the directions indicated by arrows RF I and RF2 into a second relative relation shown in Figure 8. From comparison of Figures 7 & 8, it can be seen that as the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 rotate further in the respective directions RF I and RF2, the received section of pipe 601 is moved further forwards.

In the illustrated arrangement, when the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are in the second relative relation, the second edges 416, 417 thereof respectively are substantially parallel to one another. As can also be seen, the respective first edges 414, 415 are substantially aligned with each other and extend substantially normal to the direction in which the second edges 416, 41 7 extend. In Figure 8, the received section of pipe 601 is shown having been connected to the pipe fitting 602.

With the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 in the second relative relation, the pipe handling apparatus may be conveniently removed from around the section of pipe 601. The first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 may then be rotated back into the first relative relation, in the directions indicated by arrows RB I and RB2, to move the received section of pipe 601 in a backward direction B, which is opposite the forward direction F.

Thus, the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are movable from a first relative relation in which a section of pipe can be inserted between them or the pipe handling apparatus located around the section of pipe, into an intermediate relative relation in which the received section of pipe is retained between the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 and then into a second relative relation in which the received section of pipe can be removed from between the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 or the pipe handling apparatus removed from around the section of pipe. In an embodiment, the first relative relation and the second relative relation represent the end positions of an angle through which the first and second pipe urging elements can be rotated. The provision of the overhang portions 408, 409 of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 advantageously overcomes the problem of a pipe lifting from the pipe handling apparatus as the pipe is being moved by the pipe handling apparatus 101 in the forward or the rearward direction. However, although the shape of the overhang portions 408, 409 and the upper surfaces 410, 41 1 serve to keep the pipe within the pipe handling apparatus 101 when the pipe is being moved under the operation of the pipe handling apparatus 101 , the shape of the overhang portions 408, 409 and the upper surfaces 410, 41 1 also serves to allow the pipe and the pipe handling apparatus 101 to be positioned relative to each other before and after the pipe is moved under the operation of the pipe handling apparatus 101.

Figures 9 to I I illustrate the relative relations of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 during rotation from the second condition to the first condition.

In Figure 9, the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are shown in the second relative relation, in a similar arrangement to that shown in Figure 8. As shown, when the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are in this relative relation, the second edges 416, 417 thereof respectively are substantially parallel to one another, and the respective first edges 414, 415 are substantially aligned with each other and extend substantially normal to the direction in which the second edges 416, 417 extend. The first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are shown located around a section of pipe 601 that has previously been connected to a pipe fitting 602.

From the second relative relation, the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are rotatable about the axes through the respective pivots 1 10, I I I in the directions indicated by arrows RB I and RB2. Rotation of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 in this way represents rotation to urge the received section of pipe 601 in a backward direction B, this being away from the support element of the pipe handling apparatus (not shown in Figures 9 to I I ). In turn, the received section of pipe 601 is urged away from the pipe fitting 602 received by the pipe handling apparatus.

As the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are rotated to urge the received section of pipe 601 in the backward direction B, the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are moved from the second relative relation shown in Figure 9 to an intermediate relative relation as shown in Figure 1 0, in a similar arrangement to that shown in Figure 7. From comparison of Figures 9 & 1 0, it can be seen that as the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 rotate in the respective directions RB I and RB2, the received section of pipe 601 is moved rearwards. As can also be seen, as the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are moved from the second relative relation into the intermediate relative relation, the tips 412, 41 3 are moved closer together and the overhang portions 408, 409 are moved over the received section of pipe 601.

From the intermediate relative relation, the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are rotatable further about the axes through the respective pivots 1 10, I I I in the directions indicated by arrows RB I and RB2 into a first relative relation shown in Figure I I , in a similar arrangement to that shown in Figure 6. From comparison of Figures 1 0 & I I , it can be seen that as the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 rotate further in the respective directions RB I and RB2, the received section of pipe 601 is moved further rearwards.

In Figure I I , the received section of pipe 601 is shown having been disconnected from the pipe fitting 602. The pipe handling apparatus 101 may now be conveniently removed from around the section of pipe 601 or the section of pipe 601 may be removed from the pipe handling apparatus 101 , as appropriate.

Thus, the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are movable from a second relative relation in which a section of pipe can be inserted between them or the pipe handling apparatus located around the section of pipe, into an intermediate relative relation in which the received section of pipe is retained between the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 and then into a first relative relation in which the received section of pipe can be removed from between the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 or the pipe handling apparatus removed from around the section of pipe.

Thus, from Figures 6 to 8 and Figures 9 to I I it can be appreciated that the pipe handling apparatus 101 is usable to connect a pipe with a pipe fitting and is usable to disconnect a pipe from a pipe fitting.

Features of the pipe drive mechanism 104 of the pipe handling apparatus 101 are shown in Figures I 2 & 1 3. As previously mentioned, the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 are each rotatable relative to the frame 102 of the pipe handling apparatus 101 and are each rotatable about an axis through a respective pivot I 10, I I I . The first and second pipe urging elements 105, 1 06 are rotatable between a first relative relation, as shown in Figure 1 2, and a second relative relation, as shown in Figure I 3. According to this embodiment, the first and second toothed gear portions 107, 108 of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 respectively are meshed during rotation between, and when in, the first and second relative relations.

In an embodiment the pipe handling apparatus 101 comprises at least one actuation member operable to actuate the pipe drive mechanism 104 to cause rotation of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106. In a specific embodiment, at least one rotatable actuation member is provided. In an embodiment, at least one rotatable actuation member in the form of a handle is provided.

In this specific illustrated embodiment, the pipe handling apparatus 101 is configured to be operated manually. In this specific illustrated embodiment, the pipe handling apparatus 101 comprises a first handle 1201 and a second handle 1202 for use in operating the pipe drive mechanism 104. In this illustrated embodiment, the first handle 1201 is movable relative to the frame 102 and the second handle 1202 is fixed relative to the frame 102. In particular, the first handle 1201 is rotatable about an axis through pivot I 10 between an open condition, as shown in Figure 1 2, and a closed condition, as shown in Figure I 3, relative to the second handle 1202. Rotation of the first handle 1201 causes rotation of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106.

The handles 1201 , 1202 may have any suitable shape and dimensions. It is to be appreciated that supplementary apparatus may be operatively connected to the pipe handling apparatus 101 to facilitate rotation of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106. For example, in the specific embodiment of a pipe handling apparatus comprising manually operable handles, supplementary apparatus may be operatively connected to the handles to facilitate actuation of the pipe drive mechanism. The supplementary apparatus may comprise a mechanical, electrical, pneumatic or hydraulic system, for example. In an alternative embodiment, the pipe handling apparatus is arranged to urge pipe of relatively larger size than pipes that may be handled by the manually operable pipe handling apparatus of the specific illustrated embodiment, and in such an alternative embodiment, the pipe handling apparatus may be provided with any suitable actuation arrangement in place of handles. The actuation arrangement may comprise a mechanical, electrical, pneumatic or hydraulic system, for example. In an embodiment, the pipe handling apparatus is configured for use in the laying of drains or other service pipes.

In addition, it is to be appreciated that the pipe drive mechanism may be biased towards one of the first and the second conditions. For example, the pipe drive mechanism may be biased towards the first condition, which is particularly applicable when the pipe handling apparatus is to be used mainly for inserting pipes into pipe fittings. Further details of the pipe drive mechanism of the pipe handling apparatus 101 are shown in Figure 1 4, in which components thereof are shown in a disassembled arrangement, and in Figure 1 5, in which components of the pipe handling apparatus 101 in a disassembled arrangement. As will be described in further detail, the pipe drive mechanism comprises a first pipe urging element engagement arrangement and a second pipe urging element engagement arrangement. In this embodiment, the first and second pipe urging element engagement arrangements are linked. In this specific embodiment, the first handle 1201 has a head 1401. It is to be appreciated that the head 1401 may be fixed to or integral with the remainder of the first handle 1201. As illustrated, the head 1401 of the first handle 1201 is disposed between the frame 102 and the first pipe urging element 105 and extends from beneath the first pipe urging element 105 towards and under the second pipe urging element 106. In this example, first pivot I 10 extends from the first pipe urging element 105 and locates within a first pivot aperture 1402 defined within the first handle 1201 and a second pivot aperture 1403 defined within the frame 102 and aligned with the first pivot aperture 1402. In this example also, second pivot I I I extends from the second pipe urging element 106 and locates within a third pivot opening or aperture 1404 defined within a spacer element 1405 and a fourth pivot aperture 1406 defined within the frame 102 and aligned with the third pivot opening or aperture 1404. In this example, the thickness of the spacer element 1405 is substantially the same as the thickness of the head 1401 of the first handle 1201.

In this embodiment, the first pipe urging element engagement arrangement comprises a first guide projection 1407 that extends downwardly from the first pipe urging element 105 to locate within a first guide aperture 1408 of the head 1401 of the first handle 1201. In this illustrated example, the first guide projection 1407 has a generally circular cross-sectional shape and the first guide aperture 1408 defines a generally arcuate edge 1409. In an example, the first guide aperture 1408 defines a path PI of relative movement between the first guide projection 1407 and the first guide aperture 1408, the ends of which represent the end points of the angle through which the first pipe urging element 105 is rotatable.

In this embodiment also, the second pipe urging element engagement arrangement comprises a second guide projection 1410 that extends downwardly from the second pipe urging element 106 and locates within a second guide aperture 141 1 defined within a second projection guide element 1412 that is movably located within a channel 141 3 defined in the head 1401 of the first handle 1201. In this illustrated example, the second guide projection 1410 has a generally circular cross-sectional shape and the second guide aperture 141 1 also has a generally circular shape, the second guide projection 141 0 and the second guide aperture 141 1 relatively shaped and dimensioned such that the second guide projection 141 0 is locatable within the second guide aperture 141 1 with minimal play. In this illustrated example, the second projection guide element 1412 is movable within the channel 141 3 in either of the opposite directions along a travel path P2. In this example, as the second pipe urging element 1 06 rotates around an axis through the second pivot I I I , the second projection guide element 1412 slides within the channel 141 3 towards or away from the second pivot I I I . The first and second pipe urging element engagement arrangements are linked by the head 1401 of the first handle 1201 .

In this embodiment, rotation of the first handle 1201 causes the first and second pipe urging elements 1 05, 1 06 to rotate in either a forward direction of rotation (RF) or a rearward direction of rotation (RB), the directions of rotation being described above with reference to Figures 6 to 8 and Figures 9 to I I .

In this specific embodiment, rotation of the first handle 1201 causes the head 1401 to rotate, in the same direction. Rotation of the head 1401 of the first handle 1201 causes the second guide aperture 141 1 to move, in turn causing the second guide projection 141 0 to move to rotate the second pipe urging element 1 06, in turn causing the first pipe urging element 1 05 to rotate by means of the meshed engagement between the second toothed gear portion 1 08 of the second pipe urging element 1 06 and the first toothed gear portion 1 07 of the first pipe urging element 1 05, causing the first guide projection 1407 to move within the first guide aperture 1408, which is caused to move by rotation of the head 1401 of the first handle 1201 .

It is to be understood that rotation of a rotatable actuation member to effect actuation of the pipe drive mechanism 1 04 may translate to rotation of the first and second pipe urging elements 1 05, 1 06 according to a ratio that is less than, equal to, or greater than, 1 : 1 . In an example, with reference to the present embodiment, rotation of the first handle 1401 through an angle of approximately 45° translates to rotation of the first and second pipe urging elements 1 05, 1 06 through an angle of approximately I 1 0°. According to the described pipe drive mechanism 104, a first operative connection between the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 is provided by the arrangement of the head 1401 , first and second guide projections 1407, 1410 and the second projection guide element 1412, and a second operative connection between the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 is provided by the arrangement of the first and second gear portions 107, 108.

It is to be understood that the pipe drive mechanism 104 of the pipe handling apparatus 101 is configured to effect rotation of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 without relying on the meshing between the first and second toothed gear portions 107, 108. This advantageously overcomes the problem of localised forces acting on the teeth of the meshed gear portions 107, 108 during use of the pipe handling apparatus 101 that can cause wear and distortion and degrade the proper functioning of the first and second pipe urging elements 105, 106 over time. It is to be appreciated that such a pipe drive mechanism may have any suitable configuration.

In an example in which the support element 103 is fixed to the frame 102, the support element 103 may be removably fixed to the frame 102.

Figures 1 6 & 1 7 show the pipe handling apparatus 101 with the pipe drive mechanism 104 in the first condition and in the second condition respectively.

The pipe handling apparatus and parts thereof may be fabricated from any suitable material or combination of materials, and may be manufactured using any suitable method, technique or process or any combination thereof. The pipe handling apparatus may have any suitable dimensions and any desired aesthetic appearance.

For example, the pipe handling apparatus may be manufactured from, or comprise, one or more metal materials, such as aluminium, carbon steel or stainless steel. In an embodiment in which the pipe handling apparatus is configured to be operated manually, one or more actuation members may be provided with a sleeve, which may be fabricated from a plastics material or a rubber material, for enhancing grip on the actuation member. It is to be appreciated that a pipe handling apparatus as described herein may be provided with a pipe chamfering tool. The pipe chamfering tool may provide at least the same functionality as a pipe chamfering tool as described in UK Patent Publication GB 2481412 A. A pipe chamfering tool provided with a pipe handling apparatus as described herein may be separate from or attached to the pipe handling apparatus. In an example in which a pipe chamfering tool is attached to the pipe handling apparatus, the pipe chamfering tool may be removably attached to the pipe handling apparatus. The pipe handling apparatus provides a tool for achieving improved grip on, and movement of, a pipe to be connected with or disconnected from another pipe or a pipe fitting.

The pipe handling apparatus of the invention described herein comprises at least the following features of improvement when compared to the pipe handling apparatus described in UK Patent Publication GB 2481412 A:

- The profile of the pipe urging elements designed to increase frictional engagement with a pipe

- The overhang portions of the pipe urging elements designed to assist retention of a pipe within the pipe handling apparatus during travel of the pipe

- The pipe drive mechanism designed to minimise wear on the meshed geared portions of the pipe urging elements

- The pipe drive mechanism designed to amplify a degree of rotation of an actuation member in effecting rotation of the pipe urging elements

A pipe handling apparatus 1801 according to a second embodiment is illustrated in Figures 1 8 to 21 . Figure 18 shows a schematic of the pipe handling apparatus, Figure 1 9 is a schematic showing features of the pipe drive mechanism of the pipe handling apparatus in further detail, and Figures 20 & 21 show plan views of the pipe handling apparatus with the pipe drive mechanism thereof in a first condition and in a second condition respectively. Similar to the pipe handling apparatus 101 , the pipe handling apparatus 1801 comprises a frame 1802, a support element 1803 and a pipe drive mechanism, indicated generally at 1804, the pipe drive mechanism 1804 comprising a first pipe urging element 1805 and a second pipe urging element 1806, the first and second pipe urging elements 1805, 1806 each rotatable relative to the frame 1802 and the first pipe urging element

1805 comprising a first toothed gear portion 1807 and the second pipe urging element

1806 comprises a second toothed gear portion 1808, the first and second pipe urging elements 1805, 1806 arranged such that the respective first and second toothed gear portions 1807, 1808 can mesh together, and the pipe drive mechanism 1804 further comprising a pipe urging element drive mechanism, indicated generally at 1809. Operation of the pipe urging element drive mechanism 1809 causes the first and second pipe urging elements 1805, 1806 to rotate about an axis through a respective pivot 1810, 181 1. In this example, the pipe urging element drive mechanism 1809 comprises a first handle 1812 that is movable relative to the frame 1 802 and a second handle 181 3 that is fixed relative to the frame 1802.

Similar to the pipe handling apparatus 101 , the pipe handling apparatus 1801 comprises a first pipe urging element engagement arrangement operative between the first pipe urging element 1805 and the second pipe urging element 1806 and a second pipe urging element engagement arrangement between the first pipe urging element 1805 and the second pipe urging element 1806, the first and second pipe urging element engagement arrangements configured to guide rotation of the first pipe urging element and the second pipe urging element during operation of the pipe drive mechanism. In this example, the first pipe urging element engagement arrangement comprises the first toothed gear portion 1807 of the first pipe urging element 1805 and the second toothed gear portion 1808 of the second pipe urging element 1806.

In this embodiment, the second pipe urging element engagement arrangement comprises a third toothed gear portion 1901 of the second pipe urging element 1806 and a fourth toothed gear portion 1902 of a head 1903 of the first handle 1812, the second pipe urging element 1806 and the first handle 1801 arranged such that the third toothed gear portion 1901 and the fourth toothed gear portion 1902 mesh together. In the example, the first pipe urging element engagement arrangement has a first gear ratio and the second pipe urging element engagement arrangement has a second gear ratio and the second gear ratio may be the same as, or different from, the first gear ratio.

Preferably, the pipe drive mechanism 1804 is operable to urge a received pipe in either of a pair of opposite directions. Referring to Figures 20 & 21 , moving the first handle 1812 from the open position shown in Figure 20 to the closed position shown in Figure 21 will cause a received pipe to be moved in a forward direction F and the moving the first handle 1812 from the closed position shown in Figure 21 to the open position shown in Figure 20 will cause a received pipe to be moved in a rearward direction B.

It is to be appreciated that a pipe handling apparatus according to the present invention may incorporate only one of, any combination of some of, or all of, the features disclosed herein.

Although an illustrative embodiment of the invention has been disclosed in detail herein, with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is understood that the invention is not limited to any precise embodiment or example disclosed and that various changes and modifications can be effected therein by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention.