Description

AN APPARATUS FOR POLISHING AN INSIDE DIAMETER OF

A PIPE

Technical Field

[1] The present invention relates to an apparatus for polishing an inner circumferential surface of a pipe, and more particularly, to an apparatus for polishing an inner circumferential surface of a pipe made of stainless steel, which is used for a semiconductor pips, a food and drinks pipe and sanitary pipe, etc. Background Art

[2] Typically, a pipe is manufactured using a plate material in a form of a band with a predetermined width. That is, a method of manufacturing a pipe includes: a first process in which a plate material in a form of a band with a predetermined width is supplied continuously; a second process in which the plate material that is supplied through the first process is rolled up with a plurality of roller to be a circular section; a third process in which a connecting parts of a circular part that is rolled through the second process is welded continuously together by a argon (Are) welding; a fourth process in which welding bead that is formed protrudingly from inner and outer circumferential surfaces of the welding parts through the third process, is pressed; and a fifth process in which a pipe that is fabricated through the fourth process is cut at a predetermined length.

[3] Here, referring to the pipe as fabricated in the above described-manner, the welding bead that is formed on inner and outer circumferential surfaces in welding the pipe, is pressed with a bead processor, however, the treated-surface remains roughly. In particular, a outer circumferential surface of a pipe is exposed to outside and it is polished easily, and thus a welding bead that is formed on the outer circumferential surface is polished smoothly and glossy, however, a inner circumferential surface of the pipe is placed on the inside of the pipe not to exposed outside and thus a polishing thereof is not easy and further in case of a long pipe, the inner circumferential surface thereof is more difficult to be polished.

[4] Meanwhile, in a food processing industry, a pipe that is used, as a sanitary pipe for transporting food material has to be configured such that the inner circumferential surface thereof is glossy, more preferably, the inner circumferential surface is plated with a plating material that is not injurious to the human body. In addition, in case of a pipe, as fabricated above described-manner, on an inner circumferential surface of which bead is formed in welding, when the bead is not removed, the pipe cannot be used as a sanitary pipe. Furthermore, though the welding bead on the inner circum-

ferential surface of the pipe is pressed to be flat with a bead processor, the bead that is pressed to be flat is not glossy on the surfaces. In addition, some parts of the bead that is formed in shapes of convex and concave is protruded from the inner circumferential surface and thus it is not proper to be used as a sanitary pipe, furthermore, when the bead on the inner circumferential surface is not polished or grinded, the inner circumferential surface can not be plated sanitarily. As a result, only when the inner circumferential surface of the pipe is polished smooth and glossy and is plated sanitarily, the pipe can be used as a sanitary pipe. Disclosure of Invention Technical Problem

[5] As a representative method in the prior art to meet above requirements, it is referred to Korean utility model register No. 20-0258105(Title: a polisher for a pipe diameter) (December 7, 2001), filed by DAE MYNG metal co. Ltd. . Referring to the above disclosure, it is advantageous that foreign objects that is attached to an inner circumferential surface and bead that is formed on the inner circumferential surface can be removed clearly. Here, a polishing state of a inner circumferential surface of a pipe has to meet the requirements which is considered to be highly qualified and is requested in the fields of a semiconductor pipe, a food and drinks pipes and sanitary pipe, etc. However, in case where the inner circumferential surface is polished using a conventional polisher for a inner circumferential surface of a pipe, the polishing state thereof has not been good enough to meet the above requirements of the semiconductor pipe, etc. Also, there arises a problem in that the conventional polisher is not automated partially to cause an inconvenience in using it.

[6] Accordingly, the present invention has been proposed to solve the above described- problems, and the object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for polishing efficiently and automatically an inner circumferential surface of a pipe by using air pressure. Technical Solution

[7] To achieve this object, the present invention provides an apparatus for polishing an inner circumferential surface of a pipe including: a base one end of which is changeable in a inclination with respect to the other end thereof; a pipe operation line that is installed on one side of the base, and fixes and rotates the pipe; and a polishing dipstick operation line which is installed on the other side of the base, and fixes and moves the polishing dipstick to be fitted into the inside of the pipe that is mounted on the operation line, wherein air pressure is supplied to the inside of the polishing dipstick to make the surface of the polishing dipstick flexible.

[8] Preferably, the operation line includes: a first operation unit that is installed on one

end of the base and to which one end of the pipe is connected; a second operation unit that is installed slidingly on the base and to which the other end of the pips is connected; and a first supporting unit at least one or more of which is/are installed on the base between the first operation unit and second operation unit.

[9] Preferably, the first operation unit includes: a first fixing housing that is provided on a surface of the base; a first hollow connective rotary pipe that passes rotatably through the first fixing housing in a longitudinal direction and to one end of which the one end of the pipe is fitted; a first connective pulley that is connected to one side of the first connective rotary pipe and transmits a driving force; and a first driving motor to which a first driving shaft is installed rotatably to transmit the driving force to the first connective pulley.

[10] Preferably, a first fastening member is screwed to the outer circumferential surface of the free end of the first connective rotary pipe such that the pipe is fitted and connected to the inner circumferential surface of the first connective rotary pipe, and on the part of the free end of the first connective rotary pipe, to which the first fastening member is connected, a plurality of first fastening grooves is formed in a longitudinal direction and a first enlarged groove is formed extending to the inner wall of the fastening groove.

[11] Preferably, the second operation unit includes:

[12] A second fixing housing that is provided on a surface of the base; a second hollow connective rotary pipe that passes rotatably through the second fixing housing in a longitudinal direction and to one end of which the one end of the pipe is fitted; a second connective pulley that is connected to one side of the second connective rotary pipe and transmits a driving force; and a second driving motor to which a second driving shaft is installed rotatably to transmit the driving force to the second connective pulley.

[13] Preferably, the second operation unit further includes a sliding member that in installed slidingly movable toward the first operation unit, wherein the sliding member includes: a second base plate that is installed on a surface of the base and to both ends of which a pair of fixing hinges is provided; a pair of movement guide shafts both ends of which are axis -connected rotatably to the respective fixing hinge; a pair of movement member that is fitted slidingly into the respective movement guide shaft and is moved along the movement guide shaft; and a movement plate to one surface of which the respective movement guide member is connected and to the other surface of which the second fixing housing is connected.

[14]

[15] *Preferably, the second operation unit further includes a polishing dipstick guide pipe that is extended from the one end of the second connective rotary pipe and passes through the inside of the second fixing housing.

[16] Preferably, a free end of the polishing dipstick guide pipe is configured for the diameter to be larger gradually toward the tip end thereof such that the polishing dipstick can be fitted thereto easily.

[17] Preferably, on the base of the free end part of the polishing dipstick guide pipe, a reservoir unit is further included, the reservoir unit includes: a reservoir body that is installed on the base of the free end part of the polishing dipstick guide pipe and on both sides of which a first entrance and exit hole is installed, respectively, and the upper part of which is opened; a reservoir cover that is connected rotatably to the opened end of the reservoir body to close the opened upper part of the reservoir body and on the both sides of which a second entrance and exit hole corresponding to the first entrance and exit hole is formed, respectively, wherein on the opened inner space of the reservoir body and reservoir cover, the free end of the polishing dipstick guide pipe is placed to store a polishing liquid that is leaked outside.

[18] Preferably, the first supporting unit includes: a pair of supporting rollers; and a second hinge bracket to which both ends of the respective first supporting roller is axis -connected rotatably, and that is installed uprightly on the base.

[19] Preferably, a clamping unit on one side of the base to press and fix the pipe that is placed on the first supporting unit is further included.

[20] Preferably, the clamping unit includes: a clamping lever that is axis-connected movably in a seesaw to one side of the base; a clamping roller that is axis-connected rotatably to the one end of the clamping lever to press the pipe that is placed on the roller of the first supporting roller; and a clamping cylinder that is installed on the one side of the base, and a clamping axial bar on the tip end of which is connected forwardly and backwardly to the other end of the clamping lever such that the clamping lever can be seesawed.

[21] Preferably, the polishing operation line includes: a third operation unit that is installed slidingly in multi steps to the part of the base, opposed to the operation unit, and makes the polishing dipstick pass through the polishing guide pipe to be fitted into the inner side of the pipe; and a second supporting unit that is installed on the base between the second operation unit and third operation unit to support the polishing dipstick mounted on the third operation unit.

[22] Preferably, the third operation unit includes: a third base plate that in installed slidingly on the base; a third fixing housing that in installed on the third base plate; a fixing pipe one end of which passes through one surface of the fixing housing to be exposed and displaced on the inside of the fixing housing and on the inner part of which an inserting groove for the polishing dipstick is formed; and a first supplying hose and second supplying hose that is connected to the fixing pipe via the third fixing housing.

[23] Preferably, a first movement unit between the base and base plate is further included, wherein the first movement unit includes: a driving member that is installed on one surface of the base plate in a longitudinal direction and on the inside of which a female thread hole is formed; a driving bar that is screwed rotatably to the female thread hole of the driving member and on the outer surface of which male threads are formed; a plurality of second hinge brackets that is provided on the base in a axial direction on a line extended from the driving bar such that both ends of the driving bar are axis-connected rotatably; and a third driving motor that is connected to the driving bar on one end of the driving bar, which protrudes to the second hinge bracket, and transmits a driving force thereto, wherein as the driving bar is rotated with a driving force from the driving motor, the driving member is operated to progress to cause the third operation unit on which the polishing dipstick is mounted to move in a straight line.

[24] Preferably, a guide member through which a guide hole passes is provided on the third base plate of both sides of the driving member, and a guide bar both ends of which are fixed to the base, respectively, passes through the guide hole of the guide member.

[25] Preferably, a second movement unit is further included between the base and first movement unit, wherein the second movement unit includes: a movement housing that is connected slidingly to the base, and comprises an upper plate on surface of which the driving member, guide member and driving hinge are placed, respectively, and a pair of side plates that is extended from the both ends of the upper plate and bent vertically; a rack that is installed in a longitudinal direction of the side surface of the base; a pinion that is axis -connected rotatably to the inner surface of the side plate of the movement housing and is geared-connected to the rack; and a third driving motor that is axis-connected rotatably to the outer surface of the side plate of the movement housing and is connect to the rack, and thus transmits a driving force thereto.

[26] Preferably, a driving rail is installed in a longitudinal direction on both of the side walls of the base, and at lease one or more of the first driving roller and second driving roller is/are axis -connected rotatably to the inner side of the side plate of the movement housing.

[27] Preferably, the supporting unit includes: a supporting bar that is installed uprightly on the base between the second supporting unit and third supporting unit; and a second supporting guide roller that is axis-connected rotatably to the free end of the supporting bar.

[28] Preferably, a protective cover is provided on the supporting bar to prevent water from being contacted.

[29] Preferably, a reservoir is installed on the one end of the base such that the polishing

liquid supplied to the pipe can be collected thereto to reuse it.

[30] Preferably, a plurality of supporter are installed uprightly on the both ends of the base and a connective member is installed on the respective free end of the supporter, and a shielding member surrounding the whole of the pipe operation line and polishing operation line is installed slidingly to be opened or closed.

Advantageous Effects

[31] As described in detail above, an apparatus according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, a pipe is installed rotatably between the first unit and second unit on a base surface, and a third unit on which a polishing dipstick on a base surface is mounted, is moved slidingly, and thus the polishing dipstick can be fitted into the inner circumferential surface of the pipe to polish it. According to this configuration, a polishing effect is improved significantly to meet the standards required in a semiconductor pipe, food and drinks pipe and sanitary tube, etc. Brief Description of the Drawings

[32] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[33] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a polishing apparatus for an inner circumferential surface according to a preferred embodiment;

[34] FIG. 2 is a front view of a polishing apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[35] FIG, 3 is a plain view of a first operation unit in a pipe storage line;

[36] FIG. 4 is an enlarged-perspective view showing main elements in a state before a pipe is fitted into a first connective rotary pipe of a first operational unit, as shown in FIG.;

[37] FIG. 5 is a front view showing a configuration as shown in FIG. 4;

[38] FIG. 6 is a sectional view showing a combined state, taken along line A-A in FIG.

4;

[39] FIG. 7 is a perspective view or an enlarged view showing a second operational unit and a reservoir unit, as shown in FIG. 1 ;

[40] FIG. 8 is a front view showing a configuration in FIG. 7, wherein FIG. 8a is a perspective view showing a state before a pipe is combined to a second connective rotary pipe and FIG. 8b is a perspective view showing a state that a pipe is combined the second connective rotary pipe;

[41] Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing a configuration in FIG. 7 at a different angle;

[42] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the rear side of a pipe reservoir line in FIG.

2;

[43] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a configuration in FIG. 10 at a different angle;

[44] FIG. 12 a partial sectional view showing a support unit in FIG. 2;

[45] FIG. 13 is a side view showing a configuration in FIG. 12;

[46] FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing an installment of the first support unit and a clamping unit in FIG. 11 ; [47] FIG. 15 is a view showing the pipe operation line in FIG. 2, seen from a reservoir unit; [48] FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing an operational line of a polishing dipstick in

FIG. 2;

[49] FIG. 17 is a enlarged-perspective view showing a third operational unit in FIG. 16;

[50] FIG. 18 is a front view showing a configuration in FIG. 16;

[51] FIG. 19 is a rear view showing a configuration in FIG. 16;

[52] FIG. 20 is a top view showing a configuration in FIG. 16;

[53] FIG. 21 is a perspective view showing a configuration in FIG. 19, seen from at different angle;

[54] FIG. 22 is a view showing an installment of the second operational unit in FIG. 16;

[55] FIG. 23 is an enlarged-perspective view showing main elements of a driving rail and driving roller in FIG. 22; [56] FIG. 24 is a view showing a connective relation the third operational unit and first movement unit in FIG. 16; [57] FIG. 25 is a view showing a movement state of a polishing dipstick in accordance with an operation of the first movement unit in FIG. 16, wherein FIG. 25a is a view showing a state before the first operational unit is moved, FIG. 25b is a view showing a state after the first movement unit is moved, and FIG. 25c is a view showing a state after the second movement unit is moved; [58] FIG. 26 is a perspective view showing a installment state of a protective cover of a polishing apparatus for a circumferential surface on a pipe according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; and [59] FIG. 27 is an enlarged-perspective view showing a main element in FIG. 26.

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention [60] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a polishing apparatus for an inner circumferential surface according to a preferred embodiment and FIG. 2 is a front view of a polishing apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [61] Referring to FIGs. 1 and 2, the polishing apparatus according to a preferred embodiment includes a base (B), a pipe operational line 100 and an operational line for a polishing dip stick 200. In referring to FIGs. 1 and 2, the pipe operational line 100 is

placed on the right side of the base (B) and the operational line for a dip stick line 200 is placed on the left side of the base (B), however, positions of the installment thereof can be reverse.

[62] One end of the base (B) is lowered than the other end thereof or is inclined from the other end toward the one end. Preferably, the base (B) is rotated in clockwise or counter clockwise direction about a center thereof such that it becomes an inclined state. More preferably, in fabricating initially the base (B), it is configured that the one end of the base (b) is lower than the other end thereof such that it is inclined. In particular, a reservoir unit 140 is installed on the lower end of the base (B) such that a polishing liquid that is used in polishing the inner circumferential surface of the pipe (p) can be stored therein.

[63] Here, the pipe operational line 100 is installed to fix and rotate the pipe (P), wherein it includes a first operational unit 110, a second operational unit 120, a first support unit 150 and a clamping unit 160. Particularly, the second operational unit 120 can be operated to move on the top surface of the base (B) by a sliding member 130. In addition, a third operational unit 210 includes a first reservoir tank 219 for storing polishing liquid and a second reservoir tank 219a for storing air.

[64] Meanwhile, the operational line for a polishing dipstick 200 is configured to fix and move the polishing dipstick (GM) such the it can be fitted into the inside of the pipe (P) that is mounted on the operational line 100, wherein it includes a third operational unit 210, a second support unit 270, a first movement unit 220 and a second movement unit 240.

[65] FIG. 3 is a front view showing an operational unit of a storage line of a pipe as shown in FIG. 2.

[66] Referring to FIG. 3, the operational line of a pipe 100 includes a first operational unit 110 that installed on one end of the base (B) and is connected a part of a pipe (P). Here, a second operational line 120 is installed slidingly on the base (B) at a predetermined distance from the first operational unit 110 and the other end of the pipe (P) is connected thereto. At least one of the first support unit 150 is installed on the base (b) between the first operational unit 110 and the second operational unit 120.

[67] FIG. 4 is a view showing a state before the pipe is fitted into a connective rotational pipe of a first operation unit as shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 5 is a front view showing the sate shown in FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is a sectional view taken in line of A-A in FIG. 4.

[68] Referring to FIGs. 4 to 6, the first operational unit 110 includes a first fixing housing 112 that is provided to a surface of the base (B). Here, the first hollow connective rotary pipe 114 passes rOtatably through the first fixing housing 112 in a longitudinally direction and the pipe (P) is fitted and connected to one end thereof. In addition, a first connective pulley 118 is connected to one side of the first connective

rotary pipe 114 and transmits a driving force. Additionally, a first driving shaft 119a of a first motor 119 is connected rotatably to the first connective pulley 118 to transmit a driving force thereto.

[69] Meanwhile, a male thread is formed on an outer circumferential surface of a free end of the first connective rotary pipe 114 and is screwed to a female thread that is formed on an inner circumferential surface of a first fastening member 116. In addition, one end of the pipe (P) is fitted into the inner circumferential surface of the first connective rotary pipe 114, and the first fastening member 116 is tightened and connected to the outer circumferential surface of the first connective rotary pipe 114 by a screwing, into a part of which the pipe is fitted. For this purpose, on the free end of the first connective rotary pipe 114, into which the first fastening member 116 is fitted, a plurality of a first tightening groove 114a is formed in a longitudinal direction, and on the inner wall inside the first tightening groove 114a, a first expanding groove 114b is formed.

[70] FIG. 7 is a perspective view or an enlarged view showing a second operational unit and a reservoir unit, as shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 8 is a front view showing a configuration in FIG. 7, FIG. 8a is a perspective view showing a state before a pipe is combined to a second connective rotary pipe, FIG. 8b is a perspective view showing a state that a pipe is combined the second connective rotary pipe, and Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing a configuration in FIG. 7 at a different angle.

[71] Referring to FIGs. 7 to 9, the second operational unit 120 includes a second fixing housing 122 that is provided on a surface of the base (B). The second hollow connective rotary pipe 124 passes through the second fixing housing 122 in a longitudinal direction and to one end of which a pipe (P) is fitted and connected. A second connective pulley 126 is connected to one side of the second connective rotary pipe 124 and transmits a driving force. A second driving motor outputs a driving force to the second connective pulley 128 that is connected rotatably to a second driving shaft 128a.

[72] The second operational unit 120 further includes a sliding member 130 that is slidingly movable to the first operational unit 110. The second base plate 132 is installed on the upper surface of the base (B) and on both ends of thereof a pair of fixing hinges 133 is provided, respectively. Both ends of a pair of movement guide shafts 134 are axis -connected rotatably to the respective fixing hinge 133. A pair of movement members 136 is fitted slidingly into the respective movement guide shaft 134 and moves along the movement guide shaft 134. To the bottom surface of the movement plate 138, the respective movement member 136 is connected, respectively, and to the upper surface thereof, the second fixing housing 122 is connected. Here, the second fixing housing 122 includes a first operational hose 122a and a second op-

erational hose 122b through which oil pressures, etc., are supplied. The flow directions of oil pressures, etc., through these first and second operational hoses are opposed.

[73] A male thread is formed on the outer circumferential surface of a free end of the second connective rotary pipe 124 and the second fastening member 125 on inner circumferential surface of which a female thread is formed, is screwed thereto. The other end of the pipe (P) is fitted into the inner circumferential surface and the second fastening member 125 is tightened and connected to the outer circumferential surface of the second connective pipe 124, onto which the pipe (p) is fitted, through a thread connective.

[74] For this purpose, on the free end of the second connective pipe 124, into which the second fastening member 125 is connected, a plurality of a second tightening groove 124a is formed in a longitudinal direction, and on the inner wall inside the second tightening groove 124a, a second expanding groove 124b is formed.

[75] The second operational unit 120 includes a guide pipe for 139 a polishing dipstick that is extended from one end of the second connective rotary pipe 124 and passes through the inside of the second fixing housing 122. One free end of the guide pipe 139 for a polishing dipstick increases in diameter toward a tip thereof such that the polishing dipstick (GM) is easily fitted thereto.

[76] FIG. 15 is a view showing the pipe operation line in FIG. 2, seen from a reservoir unit.

[77] As shown in FIG. 15, the reservoir unit 140 is included on the base (B) of one free end of the guide pipe 139 for a polishing dipstick, wherein the reservoir unit 140 is displaced on the base (B) of one free end of the guide pipe 139 for a polishing dipstick and a reservoir body 142 on both sides of which a first entrance and exit opening 142a is formed, respectively, and the upper part of which is opened, is provided. Here, a reservoir cover 144 is connected rotatably to the one side of the reservoir body 142 such that the opened-upper part of the reservoir body 142 is closed. In addition, on both sides of the reservoir cover, a second entrance and exit opening 144a corresponding to the first entrance and exit opening 142a is formed, respectively, the lower part thereof is opened. The free end of the guide pipe 139 for a polishing dipstick is placed on the reservoir body 142 and the opened-inside part of the reservoir cover 144 such that the polishing liquid that is leaked outside, is stored therein.

[78] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the rear side of a pipe reservoir line in FIG.

2. FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a configuration in FIG. 10 at a different angle. FIG. 12 a partial sectional view showing a support unit in FIG. 2. FIG. 13 is a side view showing a configuration in FIG. 12. FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing an installment of the first support unit and a clamping unit in FIG. 11.

[79] Referring to FIGs. 10 to 14, the first support unit 150 includes a pair of a first

support rollers 152. Both ends of the first support roller are axis-connected rotatably to the second hinge bracket 226, which is installed uprightly on the base (B). In addition, the second hinge bracket 226 is installed uprightly on the upper plate 156, and a plurality of a spaced-maintaining bar 156a and lower plate 156b may be connected to below the upper plate 156 with a nut. Additionally, a bottom plate 158a including a plurality of vertical plates 158 is connected to below the lower plate 156b.

[80] A clamping unit 160 that pushes the pipe (p) placed on the first support unit 150 is further included in one side of the base (B).

[81] The clamping unit 160 includes a clamping lever 162 that is axis-connected to seesaw to the one side of the base (B). The clamping roller 184 is axis -connected to one end of the clamping lever 164 such that it pushes the pipe (P) placed on the first support roller 152 of the first support unit 150. A clamping cylinder 166 is installed on one side of the base (B) such that a tip of a clamping axial bar 166a is connected movably forwardly and backwardly to the other end of the clamping lever 162 and the clamping lever 162 can be seesawed.

[82] FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing a operational line for a polishing dipstick in

FIG. 2, as shown in FIG. 2, a operational line 200 for a polishing dipstick includes a third operation unit 210 that is installed slidingly in multi steps on the part of the base (B), opposed to a position of the first operation unit 110. In addition, the third operation unit 210 makes the polishing dipstick (GM) passes through the guide pipe 139 and enter into the inside of the pipe (P). A second support unit 270, which will be described later in FIG. 20, is installed on the base (B) between the second operation unit 120 and third operation unit 210, and supports the polishing dipstick (GM) that is mounted in the third operation unit 210.

[83] FIG. 17 is an enlarged-perspective view showing a third operational unit in FIG. 16.

FIG. 18 is a front view showing a configuration in FIG. 16. FIG. 19 is a rear view showing a configuration in FIG. 16. FIG. 20 is a top view showing a configuration in FIG. 16. FIG. 21 is a perspective view showing a configuration in FIG. 19, seen from at different angle. FIG. 22 is a view showing an installment of the second operational unit in FIG. 16. FIG. 23 is an enlarged-perspective view showing main elements of a driving rail and driving roller in FIG. 22. FIG. 24 is a view showing connective relations the third operational unit and first movement unit in FIG. 16.

[84] Referring to FIGs. 17 to 24, the third operation unit 210 includes a third plate 212 that is installed slidingly on the base (B). A third fixing housing 214 is installed and fixed the third base plate 212. One end of a third fixing pipe 216 passed through one surface of the third fixing housing 214 to be exposed and is placed the inside of the third fixing housing 214, and on the inside thereof, a hollow part for a polishing dipstick (GM) is formed. A first supplying hose 218 and second supplying hose 218a

are connected to a fixing pipe 216 via the third fixing housing 214. The first supplying house 218, as shown in FIG. 1, is connected to the first reservoir tank 219 and the second supplying hose 218a is connected the second reservoir tank 219a. Here, a polishing liquid is preferably stored in the first reservoir tank 219 and air is preferably stored in the second reservoir tank 219a.

[85] The first movement unit 220 is installed between the base (B) and third base plate

212. A driving member 220 is installed on the bottom surface of the third plate 212 in a longitudinal direction, and on the inside of which a female thread hole 222a is formed. A driving bar 224 is screwed rotatably to the female thread hole 222a of the driving member 222, and on the outer circumferential surface of which male threads are formed. A plurality of second hinge brackets 226 is provided on the base (B) that is placed on an axial direction on an extended line of the driving bar 224 such that both ends of the driving bar 224 are axis-connected rotatably. A third driving motor 228 is connected to one end of the driving bar 224 and transmits a driving force thereto, on which the second hinge bracket 226 is formed protrudingly. As the driving bar 224 is rotated by the driving force from the driving motor 28, the driving member 222 is operated to move forwardly, and thus the third operational unit 210 on which a polishing dipstick (GM) is mounted, is moved on a straight line.

[86] A guide member 230 through which a guide hole 232a passes is provided on the third plate 212 that is placed on both sides of the driving member 222, and the guide bar 234 both ends of which are fixed to the base, respectively, passes the guide hole 232a of the guide member 230.

[87] The second movement unit 240 is installed between the base (B) and first movement unit 220. The second movement unit 240 includes a movement housing 242 that is connected slidingly to the base (B), comprising of a upper plate 242a on surface of which the driving member 222, guide member 230 and second hinge bracket 226 are installed, respectively, and a pair of side plates 242b that is extended to the both ends of the upper plate and bent at a right angle. A rack 244 is installed on the side of the base (B) in a longitudinal direction. A pinion 246 is axis -connected rotatably to the inside of the side plate 242b of the movement housing 242 and is geared-connected to the rack 244. A fourth driving motor 248 is axis -connected rotatably to the outside surface of the side plate 242b of the movement housing 242 and is connected to the rack 244 to transmit a driving force thereto.

[88] In particular, a rotation force from the fourth driving motor 248 is transmitted to the pinion 246 via the first driving pulley 248a, second driving pulley 248b, first driving belt 248c, and second driving belt 248d. That is, the first driving pulley 248a and second driving pulley 248b are axis-connected rotatably the side plate 242b of the movement housing 242. A driving shaft 248e of the fourth driving motor 248 is

connected to the first driving pulley via the first driving belt 248c and the first driving pulley 248a and second driving pulley 248b are connected to each other via the second driving belt 248d.

[89] A driving rail 250 is installed on both of the side walls, and at least more than one of the first driving roller 252 and second driving roller 252a are axis-connected rotatably to the inner side of the side plate 242b of the movement housing 242. The first driving roller 252 contacts with the driving rail 250 to apply a vertical force thereto, and the second driving roller 252a contacts with the driving rail 250 to apply a horizontal force thereto. That is, the first driving roller 252 contacts with and moves along the upper surface of the driving rail 250 and the second driving roller 252a contacts with and moves along one side of the driving rail 250.

[90] The second support unit 270 includes a bracket bar 272 that is installed uprightly on the base (B) between the second operation unit 120 and third operation unit 210. Here, a second bracket guide roller 274 is axis-connected to a free end of the bracket bar 272. On the bracket bar 272, a protective cover 276 made of vinyl, etc., is provided to prevent water from being contacted.

[91] The reservoir 260 is installed on one end of the base (B), and collects the liquid supplied to the inside of the pipe (P) and reuses it.

[92] FIG. 26 is a perspective view showing an installment state of a protective cover of a polishing apparatus for a circumferential surface on a pipe according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 27 is an enlarged-perspective view showing main elements in FIG. 26.

[93] Referring to FIGs. 26 and 27, a plurality of support stand 280 is installed uprightly on both ends of the base (B), and a connective member such as a connective rope 282 is installed horizontally on the respective support stand 280. Here, a shielding member such as a shielding curtain 284 that is opened or closed by a sliding and made from a vinyl, etc., is provided on the connective rope 282 such that it surrounds the whole pipe operation line 100 and polishing dipstick operation line 200. The shielding film 284 is installed slidingly to the connective rope 282 with a plurality of connective ring 286.

[94] In the followings, an operation of a polishing apparatus for an inner circumferential surface of a pipe will be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[95] <Pipe operation line 100>

[96] Again, referring to FIGs. 3 to 5, first, an end of a pipe an inner circumferential surface of which to be polished is fitted into the first connective rotary pipe 114 of the first operation unit 110. Then, the first fastening member 116 is screwed to the free end of the first connective pipe 114, thereby rotating the first fastening member 116 together with the first connective rotary pipe 114. As a result, a plurality of first tightening groove 114a that is formed on the first connective rotary pipe 114 becomes

narrower, respectively, such that they press the outer circumferential surface of the pipe (P). At this time, in case where the first fastening member 116 is moved to the expanding groove 114b, the one end of the pipe (P) is stationary to the inside of the first connective rotary pipe 114.

[97] Next, the middle of the pipe (P) one end of which is fixed to the second operation unit 120 is supported by the first support unit 150 that is installed on the upper surface of the base (B). To be more specific, the first hinge bracket 54 is installed uprightly on the upper surface of the base (B) and the first support roller 152 of the first support unit 150 is installed horizontally and rotatably on a free end of the hinge bracket 154. The first support roller 152 is preferably configured to correspond to an outer circumferential surface of the pipe (P).

[98] At this time, referring to FIG. 7, the other end of is placed a predetermined distance spaced from the second connective rotary pipe 124 of the second operation unit 120. Under this state, a controller (not shown) is operated to work the sliding member 130 by means of air pressure. That is, the air pressure, etc., is supplied to the second fixing housing 122 through the first operation hose 122a, and then the second operation unit 120 is moved to the other end of the pipe (P), that is, a direction of the left side seen in FIG. 7. As a result, the other end of the pipe (P) is fitted into the inside of the second connective rotary pipe (124). At this time, in case where the second fastening member 125 is rotated in a clockwise or counter clockwise by a worker, the spaces of the second tightening groove 124a that is formed on the second connective rotary pipe 124 become narrower. As a result, the pipe (P) is secured to the inner circumferential surface of the second connective rotary pipe 124.

[99] Under this state, in case where the first and second driving motors 119, 128 are driven to produce a rotation force, the rotation force from the first driving motor 119 rotates the first connective rotary pipe 114 within the first fixing housing 112 through the first connective pulley 118. The rotation force from the second driving motor 128 rotates the second connective rotary pipe 124 within the second fixing housing 122 through the second connective pulley 126. As a result, both ends of the pipe (P) are fixed to the first connective rotary pipe 114 and second connective rotary pipe 124, respectively, and the whole pipe is rotated.

[100] Here, referring to FIGs. 10 to 15, the pipe (P) is supported by a plurality of first support unit 150. That is, the pipe is axis-connected rotatably to a free end of the first hinge bracket 154 on which a pair of first support rollers 152 is installed uprightly on the base (B). At this time, the pipe (P) is placed between the first support rollers (152) such that the rollers are rotated together with the pipe (p).

[101] Furthermore, when the pipe is operated to rotate, it can be vibrated significantly due to a long length thereof. For preventing this phenomenon, a clamping unit 160 is

provided to press downwardly the pipe (P). In the clamping unit 160, the clamping lever 162 is rotated about the part hinged-connected to the base (B), which is caused from a straight movement of the clamping cylinder 166. In other words, the clamping hinges 168 that is formed on the base (B) and clamping lever 162, respectively, are connected to each other, and further they are connected through the clamping hinge axis 169. A rotation of the clamping lever 162 causes the clamping roller 164 that is axis -connected to the one end of the clamping lever 162, to press the upper part of the pipe (p) that is placed on the first support roller 152 of the first support unit 150. In a rotation of the pipe, the clamping lever 162 is rotated together with the pipe.

[102] For references, the first driving motor 119 of the first operation unit 110 and the second driving motor 128 of the second operation unit 120 may be operated simultaneously, or if necessary, one of them may be operated.

[103] <Operation line of the polishing dipstick 200>

[104] Meanwhile, again, referring to FIGs. 16 to 24, the polishing dipstick (GM) is fitted into a fixing tube 216 of the third operation unit 210 and fixed thereto. To be more specific, an inserting part (GM2) is provided to the one end of the polishing dipstick (GM) by a connective flange (GMl). A plurality of connective holes GM3 is formed on the connective flange (GMl). In addition, a plurality of connective protrusions 216a corresponding to the connective hole (GM3) is formed on the one end of the fixing tube 216.

[105] Under this state, the inserting part (GM2) of the polishing dipstick (GM) is fitted into the inside of the fixing tube 216. At this time, the connective protrusion 216a of the fixing tube 216 is fitted into the respective connective hole (GM3) of the connective flange (GMl) is protruded therefrom. The connective protrusion 216a that is protruded is fitted with a fastening means such as a nut and fixed.

[106] Additionally, the polishing dipstick (GM) one end of which is connected to the fixing tube 216, is supported by the second support unit 270. That is, in a state that a bracket bar 272 of the second support unit 270 is standing on the upper surface of the base (B), the polishing dipstick (GM) is supported by the second bracket guide roller 274 that is axis-connected rotatably to the upper end of the bracket bar 272.

[107] FIG. 25 is a view showing a movement state of a polishing dipstick in accordance with an operation of the first movement unit in FIG. 16, wherein FIG. 25a is a view showing a state before the first operational unit is moved, FIG. 25b is a view showing a state after the first movement unit is moved, and FIG. 25c is a view showing a state after the second movement unit is moved.

[108] As shown in drawings, the first operation unit 220 is operated to make the third operation unit 210 move at a predetermined distance toward the polishing dipstick guide pipe 139 of the second operation unit 120. That is, the third driving motor 228 is

operated to produce a rotation force, by which the driving bar 224 that is installed on the second hinge bracket 226 is operated to rotate. At this time, the driving bar 224 is threaded to the female thread hole 222a of the driving member 222, and a rotation of the driving bar 224 makes the driving member 222 move along the guide bar 234 toward the second operation unit 120. Here, a condition of the operation of the third driving motor 228 is set to move the driving member 222 of the guide bar 234 at the same distance as a length of the guide bar 234.

[109] As a result, the third operation unit 210 including the third base plate 211 that is connected to the driving member 222, progresses to the opened-end of the second connective rotary pipe 124 of the second operation unit 120. As a result, a free end of the polishing dipstick (GM) that is installed on the fixing tube 216 of the third operation unit 210 is placed near the second connective rotary pipe 124 of the second operation unit 120.

[110] For the polishing dipstick (GM) to be fitted into a inner circumferential surface of the pipe (p), when a fourth driving motor 248 of the second movement unit 240 is driven to produce a rotation force, the rotation force from the fourth driving motor 248 is transmitted to the first driving pulley 248a via the first driving belt 248c and then the rotation force is transmitted to the second driving pulley 248b via the second driving belt 248d. As a result, a pinion 246 that is connected integrally near the side plate 242b of the movement housing 242, is rotated. This rotation force of the pinion 246 is converted to a straight movement along the rack 244. Accordingly, the movement housing 242, that is, the third operation unit 210 is moved to near the second operation unit 120 and thus the polishing dipstick (GM) is fitted deeply into the inner circumferential surface of the pipe that in installed between the first operation unit 110 and second operation unit 120.

[I l l] Under this state, as the pipe (P) is operated to rotate, a polishing work is preformed by the polishing dipstick (GM). At this time, a polishing liquid is supplied to the inside of the polishing dipstick (GM) through a first supplying hose 218 of the third fixing housing in the third operation unit 210 and the polishing dipstick (GM) is swollen through the second supplying hose 218a. That is, a polishing means (not shown) on the surface of the polishing dipstick (GM) is contact with the swollen inner circumferential surface of the pipe and at the same time the polishing liquid is supplied to between the pipe (P) and polishing dipstick (GM).

[112] Meanwhile, the reservoir unit 140 is installed on the upper surface of the base (B) and above a free end of the second connective rotary pipe 124 of the second operation unit 120. Here, the reservoir 140 is enclosed by the reservoir body 142 of the reservoir unit 140 on the lower part of the connective rotary pipe 124 and by the reservoir cover 144 on the upper part of the connective rotary pipe 124. At this time, a first entrance

and exit hole 142a of the reservoir body 142 and a second entrance and exit hole 144a of the of the reservoir cover 144 are formed in a columnar shape and the polishing dipstick (GM) is entered and exited therethrough. Under this state, the polishing liquid flowing on the inside of the polishing dipstick (GM) is prevented from being leaked outside and thus being damaged to a worker or equipments.

[113] In case where an inner circumferential surface of the pipe (P) is polished through these procedures, the polishing liquid that is used in polishing processes is drained to the lower part of the base since the base (B) is inclined to one side direction. At this time, since the reservoir 260 is provided on the lower position of the base (B), the polishing liquid is flown to and stored in the inside of the reservoir 260. In particular, the reservoir connected to a first storage tank 219 into which the polishing liquid is stored. Therefore, the polishing liquid is supplied back from the reservoir 260 to the storage tank 260 by (not shown) a pump pressure and reused.

[114] Again, referring to FIGs. 26 and 27, while a polishing work of an inner circumferential surface of a pipe is done by using a polishing dipstick (GM), as described above, a polishing liquid flowing on the inside of the polishing dipstick (GM) can be leaked outside and damaged to a worker or mechanical equipment. For preventing this, a supporting member 280 is installed uprightly on both ends of the base (B), respectively, and a connective member such as a connective wire 282 connects therebetween. This connective wire 282 is provided with a shielding member such as a shielding curtain 284, which can be closed or opened with a sliding, by using a plurality of connective rings 286. This shielding curtain 284 is kept folded to open the pipe operation line 100 and polishing dipstick operation line 200, during installment or uninstallment of the pipe (P) and polishing dipstick (GM) before a polishing work, however, to start the polishing work, the shielding curtain is operated to close the whole equipment. At this time, a movement of the shielding curtain 284 is preformed through the connective wire 282 that is connected to a plurality of the connective rings 286.

[115] As described above in detail, the apparatus for polishing the inner circumferential surface of a pipe according to the present invention is configured that a base is insta lied fixable and/or changeable in an inclined state, and the pipe operation line and polishing operation line are installed separately. Then, the polishing dipstick is put automatically into the inner circumferential surface of the pipe and polishes the surfaces. At this time, air pressure is supplied to the inside of the polishing dipstick, to make the surfaces of the polishing dipstick, that is, the polishing material flexible. Accordingly, according to the apparatus for polishing the inner circumferential surface of a pipe, the polishing work can be done efficiently to meet the standards required in semiconductor industry.

[116] Furthermore, according to the apparatus for polishing the inner circumferential surface of a pipe, since only the installment of the pipe and polishing dipstick is done manually and the whole polishing work is done automatically; therefore, the efficiency of polishing of a pipe can be improved. Industrial Applicability

[117] While this invention has been described in conjunction with the specific embodiments outlined above, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the preferred embodiments of the invention as set forth above are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.