PIPELINE

Cross ReferenPI To Related Applications

This application claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. utility patent application serial number 1 1/580,154, attorney docket number 25791.407.02, fifed on 15 Nov 2006 which claims benefit of the filing date of U.S. provisional patent application serial number 60/832,909, attorney docket number 25791.407, filed on 24 JuI 2006, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

This application is a coπtinuatioπ-in-part of ϋ.S application serial no, 11/084,788, attorney docket no. 25791.325, filed on 18 Mar 2005, which was a continuafion-ϊπ-part of U.S. application seriaf no. 10/418.687, attorney docket no. 25791 ,228, filed on 13 Apr 2003 which issued as U.S. Patent Mo. 7,021 ,390, which was a continuation of U.S. application serial no. 09/852,026, attorney docket no. 25791 -56, tiled on 9 May 2001 , which issued as U.S. Patent No. 6,551 ,227, -which was a divisional of U.S. application seriai no. 09/454,139, attorney docket no. 25791 .3.02, filed on 03 Dec 1SS9, which issued as U.S. Patent No, 8,497,289, which claimed the benefit of the fihng date of ϋ.S. Provisional Patent Application Seriai Number 60/11 1 ,293, attorney docket number 25791.3, filed on 07 Dec 1998, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

This application is related to the following co-pending applications: {1 ) ϋ.S. Patent Number 6,497,289, which was filed as U.S. Patent Application seria! no. 09/454,139, attorney docket no. 25791.03.02, filed on 03 Dec 1999, which claims priority from provisional application 80/111 ,293. filed on 07 Dec 1998, (2) U.S. patent application serial no, 09/510,913, attorney docket no, 25791 ,7.02, filed on 23 Fsb 2000, which claims priority from provisional application 60/121 ,702, filed on 25 Feb 199S. {3} U.S. patent application serial no, 09/502,350, attorney docket no. 25791.8.02, filed on 10 Feb 2000, which claims priority from provisional application 60/119,81 1 , filed on 11 Feb 1999, (4) U.S. patent no. 6,328, 113. which was filed as ϋ.S. Patent Application seriai number 09/440,338, attorney docket number 25781.9.02, filed on 15 Nov 1899, which claims priority from provisional application 60/108,558, filed on 19 Mov 1998, (5) U.S. patent application seriai no 10/189,434, attorney docket no. 25791.10.04, filed on 01 Ju! 2002, which ciaims priority from provisional application 60/183,546, filed on 18 Feb 2000 6) U S. patent no, 6,640,903 which was filed as ϋ.S. patent application serial no. 09/523,468, attorney docket no. 25791.11 02. filed on 10 Mar 2000, which claims priority from provisional application 80/124,042, filed on 11 Mar 1899, (7) U.S. patent number 6,588,471 , which was filed as patent application serial no. 09/512,895. attorney docket no. 257S1.12.02, filed on 24 Feb 2000, which claims priority from provisional application 60/121 ,841 , filed on 26 Feb 1999, (8) U.S. patent number 6,575,240, which was filed as patent application seriai no. 09/511 ,941 , attorney docket no. 25791.16.02, filed on 24 feb 2000, which ciaims priority from provisional application 60/121.907, filed on 26 FES 1999, {9} U S. patent number 6,557,640,. which was filed as patent application seriai no. 09/588,946, attorney docket no. 25791.17.02, filed on 07 Jun 2000, which claims priority from provisional application 60/137.998, filed on 07 Jun 1999, (10) U.S. patent application seriai no. 09/981 ,918, attorney docket no. 25791,18, filed on IS Oct 2001 as a contsnuation-in-part application of U.S. patent no. 6,328,113, which was ftied as U.S. Patent Application senai number 09/440,338, attorney docket number 25791.9.02, filed on 15 Nov 1999 _: which claims priority from provisional application 60/108,558. filed on 16 Nov 1998, (11 ) U.S. patent number 6,804,763, which was fifed as

application serial no. 09/559,122, attorney docket no. 25791.23.02, filed on 26 Apr 2000, which claims prionty from provisional application 60/131 ,106, filed on 28 Apr 1999, (12) U.S. patent application serial no. 10/030,593.. attorney docket no. 25791.25.08. fifed on 08 Jan 2002, which claims priority from provisional application 80/146,203, fifed on 29 JuS 1999, {13} U.S. provisioπai patent application serial no. 80/143,039, attorney docket no. 26791.26, fifed on 09 Ju-* 1999, (14) U.S. patent application serial no. 10/111 ,982, attorney docket no. 25791.27.0S ₁ tiled art 30 Apr 2002, which ciasrπs priority from provisional patent application serial no. 80/162,671 , attorney docket no. 25791.27, filed on 07 N ov 1999, {15) U.S. provisional patent application serial no. 60/154,047, attorney docket no. 25791.29, filed on 16 Sep 1899, (16) U.S. provisional patent application serial no. 80/438,828, attorney docket no, 25791 ,31 , Hied on 09 Jan 2003, (17) U.S. patent number 8,564,875, which was filed as application serial no. 09/879,907, attorney docket no. 25791.34.02, on 05 Get 2000, which claims priority from provisional patent app ication serial no. 60/159,082, attorney docket no. 25791.34, filed on 12 Oct 1899, (18) U.S. patent application serial no. 10/083,419, filed on 27 Mar 2002, attorney docket no, 25791 ,36.03, which ciairos priority from provisional patent application serial no. 80/159.039, attorney docket no. 25791 38. filed on 12 Oct 1999, (19) U.S. patent application serial no. 09/679,306, filed on 05 Oct 2000, attorney docket no. 25791.37.02, which claims priority from provisional patent application serial no. 60/159,033, attorney docket no. 25791.37, filed on 12 Oct 1999, {20} U.S. patent application serial no. 10/303,992, fiieei on 22 Mov 2002, attorney docket no. 25791 ,38,07. which claims prionty from provisional patent application serial no. 60/212.359, attorney docket no. 25791.38, filed on 18 Jun 2000« (21 ) U.S. provisional patent application serial no. 60/165,228. attorney docket no. 25791 ,3S ₁ Hied on 12 Nov 1999, (22) U.S. provisional patent application serial no. 60M55.051 , attorney docket no. 25791.40, filed on 14 Mar 2003, (23) PCT application US02/2477, filed on 26 Jun 2002, attorney docket no, 25791.44.02, which claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application serial no. 80/303,711 , attorney docket no. 25791.44, filed on 08 JuI 2001 , (24} U.S. patent application serial no. 10/31 1 ,412. filed on 12 Dec 2002, attorney docket no. 26791 ,45.07. which ciaims priority from provisional patent application serial no. 60/221.443, attorney docket no. 257S1.45. filed on 28 JuI 2000, (25) U.S. patent number 7,100,684 which was filed as application serial no. 10/322.947, on 18 Dec 2002. attorney docket no. 25791.46.07 _« which ciaims priority from provisional patent application serial no. 60/221 ,645, attorney docket no. 25781.46. filed on 28 JuI 2000, (26) U.S. patent application serial no. 10/322,947, fiSed on 22 Jan 2003, attorney docket no. 25791.47.08, which ciaims priority from provisional patent application serial no. 60/233,638, attorney docket no. 25791.47, filed on 18 Sep 2000, (27) U.S. patent application serial no. 10/406,848, filed on 31 Mar 2003, attorney docket no. 25791.48.06, which claims priority from provisional patent application serial no. 60/237,334, attorney docket no. 25731.48, filed on 02 Oct 2000, (28) PCT application USG2/G4353, filed on 14 Feb 2002, attorney docket no. 25791.50.02, which claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application serial no. 80/270,007, attorney docket no. 25781.50, filed on 20 Feb 2001 , {29} U.S. patent application senai no. 10/465,835, filed an 13 Jun 2003, attorney docket no. 25791.51.06, which c-iaims priority from provisional patent application serial no. 80/262,434, attorney docket no. 25791.51 , filed on 17 Jan 2001 , {30} U.S patent application serial no. 10/465,831 , fiieei on 13 Jun 2003, attorney docket no. 25791.52.06, which claims pπonty from U.S. provisional patent application serial no. 60/259,486. attorney docket no. 257S1.52, filed on 03

Jan 2001 , (31 ) U.S. provisional patent application serial no. 60/452,303, filed on 05 Uar 2003, attorney docket no. 25791 ,53, (32) U.S. patent number 6,470,966, which was filed as patent application serial numoer 09/850,093, filed on 0? May 2001 , attorney docket no. 25791.55, as a divisional application of U.S. Patent Number 6,497,289, which was filed as U.S. Patent Application serial no. 09/454,139, attorney docket no. 25791.03,02, filed on 03 Dec 1SS3, which claims priority from provisional application 60/111 ,293, filed on 07 Dec 1998, {33} U.S. patent number 6,561 ,227, which was filed as patent application serial number 09/852,026 , riled on OS May 2001 , attorney docket no. 25791.56, as a divisional application of U.S. Patent Number 6,497,289. which was filed as U.S. Patent Application senal no. 09/454,139, attorney docket no. 25791.03.02, filed on 03 Dec 1999, which claims priority from provisional application 60/11 1 ,293, filed on 07 Dec 1998, (34) U.S. patent application serial number 09/852,027, filed on 09 May 2001 , attorney docket no, 25791.57, as a divisional application of U.S. Patent Number 8,497,289, which was filed as U.S. Patent Application serial no. 09/454,139, attorney docket no. 25791.03.02, filed on 03 Dec 1999, which claims priority from provisional application 60/111 ,293, filed on 0? Dec 1998. {35} PCT Application US02/25608. attorney docket no. 25791.58.02. filed on 13 Aug 2002, which claims priority from provisional application 50/318,021 , filed on 0? Sep 2001 , attorney docket no. 25791.58, (36) PCT Application US02/24399, attorney docket no. 25791.59.02, filed on 01 Aug 2002, which claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application seriai no. SO/313,453, attorney docket no. 25791.59, filed on 20 Aug 2001 , (37) PCT Application US02/29856, attorney docket no. 25791.80.02, filed on 19 Sep 2002, which claims prionty from U.S. provisional patent application serial no. 60/326,886, attorney docket no. 25791.60, filed on 03 Get 2001 , (38) PCT Application US02/20258, attorney docket no. 25791.61.02, filed on 26 Juπ 2002. which claims prionty from U.S. provisional patent application senai no. 80/303,740, attorney docket no, 257S1.61 , filed on 06 Ju; 2001 , (39) U.S. patent application serial no. 09/962,469, filed on 25 Sep 2001 , attorney docket no. 25791.62, which Is a divisional of U.S. patent application sens! no. 09/523,468, attorney docket no. 25791 11.02, fiied on 10 Mar 2000, (now U.S. Patent 6,6-40,903- which issued 11/4/2003}, which claims priority from provisional application 60/ 124 ,042, riled on 11 MAR 199S. (40) U.S. patent application serial no. 09/962,470, fifed on 25 Sep 2001 , attorney docket no 25791.63, which is a divisional of U.S. patent application serial no. 09/523,468, attorney docket no. 25791.11.02. fiied on 10 Mar 2000, (now U.S. Patent 6,640,903 which issued 11/4/2003), which claims priority from provisional application 60/124,042, fifed on 1 1 Mar 1999, (41 ) U.S. patent application serial no. 09/962,4? i, fiied on 25 Sep 2001 , attorney docket no, 25791.64, which is a divisional of U.S. patent application sεπai no. 09/523.488, attorney docket no. 25791.11.02, filed on 10 Mar 2000. (now U.S. Patent 6,640,903 which issued 11/4/2003), which claims priority from provisional application 60/124,042, fifed on 1 1 Mar 1999, (42) U.S. patent application seriai no. 09/962,46?, fiied on 25 Sep 2001 , attorney docket no. 25791.65 _« which is a divisional of U S. patent application serial no. 09/523,468, attorney docket no. 25731.11.02, fiied on 10 Mar 2000. (now U.S. Patent 8,640,903 which Issued 11/4/2003), which claims priority from provisional appiscatlon 60/124,042, fifed on 1 1 Mar 1999, (43) U.S. patent application seriai no. 09/962,468, filed on 25 Sep 2001 , attorney docket no. 25791.66, which is a divisional of U.S. patent application seriai no. 09/523,468, attorney docket no. 25791.11 ,02, filed on 10 Mar 2000, (now U.S. Patent 6,640,903 which issued 11/4/2003), which claims priority from provisional application 60/124,042, filed on 11 Mar

1999, {44} PCT application US 02/25727, fifed on 14 Aug 2002, attorney docket no. 25791.67.03, wh.-ch claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application serial no, 60/317,985, attorney docket no. 25781.67, filed on 08 Sep 2001 , and U.S. provisional patent application serial no, 60/318,386, attorney docket no. 26791.67.02, fiied on 10 Sep 2001 , (45) PCT application US 02/39425, fifed on 10 Dec 2002, attorney docket no. 25791 ,68.02, which claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application serial no. 80/343,674 . attorney docket no. 25791.68, filed on 27 Dec 20Gi , {46} U.S. utility patent application serial no. 09/969,922, attorney docket no. 25791.69. fiied on 03 Oct 2001, (now U.S. Patent 6,634,431 which issued 21 Oct 2003), which is a coniinuafion-in-part application of U.S. patent no. 6,328,113, which was filed as U.S. Patent Application serial number 09/440,338, attorney docket number 25791.9.02, ήieti on 15 Nαv 1999, which, claims priority from provisional application 60/108,558. fiied on 16 Nov 1998. {47} U.S. utility patent application serial no. 10/516,467, attorney docket no, 25791.70, filed on 10 Dec 2001 , which is a continuation applications of U.S. utility patent application serial no. 09/969,922, attorney docket no. 257S1.88, filed on 03 Oct 2001 , {now U.S. Patent 6,634,431 which issued 21 Oct 2003), which is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent no. 6,328,113, which was filed as U.S. Patent Application serial number OS/440, 338, attorney docket number 25791.9.02, fiied on 15 Nov 1999, which claims priority from provisional application 60/108,558. filed on 16 Nov 1998, {48} PCT application US 03/00609, fiied on OS Jan 2003, attorney docket no. 25731.71.02, which claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application serial no. 60/357,372 , attorney docket no. 25791.71 , fiied on 15 Feb 2002, {49) U.S. patent application serial no. 10/074,703, attorney docket no. 25791.74, filed on 12 Feb 2002, which is a divisional of U.S. patent number 6,588,471 , which was fiied as patent application serial no. 08/512,895, attorney docket no. 25791.12.02, fjied on 24 Feb 2000, which claims priority from provisional application 60/121 ,841 , filed on 26 Feb 1999. (50) U.S. patent application serial no, 10/074,244, attorney docket no, 25791 ,75, fifed on 12 FeD 2002, which Is a divisional of U.S. patent number 6,588,47" , which was filed as patent application serial no. 09/512,895, attorney docket no. 25791.12.02. filed on 24 Feb

2000, which claims priority From provisional application 80/121 ,841 , filed on 2δ Feb 19SS, (51 ) U.S. patent application serial no. 10/076.860, attorney docket no. 25791.76, filed on 15 Feb 2002. which is a divisional of U.S. patent number 8,568.471 , which was filed as patent application serial no. 09/512,895, attorney docket no. 25791.12.02. filed on 24 Feb 2000, which ciairos priority from provisions! application 60/121.841 , fhβd on 26 Feb 1999, (52) U.S. patent application serial no.

10/075,861 , attorney docket no. 25791.77, filed on 15 Feb 2002, which is a divisional of U.S. patent number 6,588,471 , which was filed as patent application serial no. OS/512,895, attorney docket no. 25791.12.02, filed on 24 Feb 20D0, which claims priority from provisional application 60/121 ,841 , fiied on 26 Feb 1999, (S3) U.S. patent application serial no. 10/076,659, attorney docket no. 25791.78, filed on 15 Feb 2002, which is a divisional of U.S. patent number 6,588,471 , which was filed as patent application seriai no. 09/512,895, attorney docket no. 25791.12.02, filed on 24 Feb 2000, which claims pnority from provisional application 60/121 ,841 , filed on 26 Feb 1999, (54) U.S. patent application serial no. 10/078,928, attorney docket no. 25791.79, filed on 20 Feb 2002, which is a divisional of U.S. patent number 6.568,471 , which was fiied as patent application serial no. 09/512,895, attorney docket no 25791.12.02, fiied on 24 Feb 2000, which claims priority from provisional application 60/121 ,841 , filed on 26 Feb 1999, {55} U.S. patent application serial no.

10/078,922, attorney docket no. 25791.80, fifed on 20 Feb 2002, which is a divisional of U.S. patent number 6,568,471 , which was fled as patent application serial no. 09/512,895, attorney docket no. 25791.12.02, fsied on 24 Feb 2000, which claims priority from provisions:' application 60/121 ,841 , fiied on 26 Feb 1999, (SS) U.S. patent application seriai no, 10/078,921« attorney docket no. 25731.81 , filed on 20 Feb 2002, which ;s a divisional of U.S. patent number 6,588,471 , which was fiieά as patent application seriai no. 09/512,895. attorney docket no. 25791.12.02, filed on 24 Feb 2000, which claims priority from provisional application 60/121 ,841 , filed on 28 Feb 1999, (5?) U.S. patent application seriai no. 10/261 ,928, attorney docket no. 25791.82, fiied on 01 Dei 2002, which is a divisions! of U.S. patent number 6,567,640, which was filed as patent application seriai no. 09/588,946. attorney docket no. 25791.17.02, tiled on 07 Jun 2000, which claims priority from provisional application 80/137,998, Hied on 07 Jun 1999, (58) U.S. patent application seriai no. 10/079,278, attorney docket no. 25791.83, fiied on 20 Feb 2002, which is a divisional of U.S. patent number 6,588,471 , which was fiied as patent application senai no. 09/512,895, attorney docket no. 25791 ,12.02, filed on 24 Feb 2000, which ciaims priority from provisional application 60/121 ,841 , filed on 26 FeD 1999, (59) U.S. patent application serial no. 10/262,0OS, attorney docket no. 257S1.84, fiied on 01 Oct 2002, which is a divisional of U.S. patent number 6,557,640, which was fifed as pai&iit application seriai no. 09/588,946, attorney docket no. 25791.17,02, filed on 07 Jun 2000, which claims priority from provisional application 60/137,998, filed on 07 Jun 1993, (60} U.S. patent application serial no, 107092,481 , attorney docket no. 25791.85, fiied on 07 Mar 2002. which is a divisional of U.S. patent number 8,568,471 , which was fiied as patent application serial no. 09/512,895, attorney docket no. 25781 ,12.02, filed on 24 Feb 2000, which claims priority from provisional application 80/121 ,841 , filed on 26 Feb 1999, {61} U.S. patent application seriai no. 10/261 ,926, attorney docket no. 25791.86, fiied on 01 Od 2002, which is a divisional of U.S. patent number 6.557,640, which was filed as patent application serial no. 09/588,946, attorney docket no. 25791.17.02, filed on 07 Jun 2000, which claims priority from provisional application 60/137,988, fifed on 07 Jun 199S, (62) PCT application US 02/36167« filed on 12 Nov 2002, attorney docket no. 2S7S1.87.02, which claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application seriai no. 60/338,996. attorney docket no. 25791.87, filed on 12 Nov 2001 , {63} PCT application US 02/36267. filed on 12 Nov 2002, attorney docket no. 25791.88.02» which claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application seriai no. 60/339,013, attorney docket no. 25791.88, fiied on 12 Nov 2001 , (64) PCT application US 03/1 1765, fiied on 16 Apr 2003, attorney docket no. 25791.89,02, which claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application senai no. 60/383,917, attorney docket no. 25791.89, filed on 29 May 2002, (65) PCT application US 03/15020, filed on 12 May 2003, attorney docket no. 25791.90.02, which claims priority from U.S. provisions? patent application serial no. 60/391 ,703, attorney docket no 25791. SO, fiied on 26 Jun 2002, {66} PCT application US 02/39418, filed on 10 Dec 2002, attorney docket no.

25791.92.02, which claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application serial no. 80/346,309, attorney docket no. 25791.92, filed on 07 Jan 2002, (67) PCT application US 03/06544, fiied on 04 Mar 2003. attorney docket no. 25791.93.02. which claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application seriai no. 60/372,048, attorney docket no. 25791.93, fiied on 12 Apr 2002, (68) U.S. patent application seriai no. 10/331 ,718, attorney docket no. 25791.94, ftied on 30 Dec 2002, which is a divisional U.S. patent application seriai no. 09/679,906, filed on 05 Oct 2000, attorney docket no.

25791.37.02, which claims priority from provisional patent application seriai no. 60/159.033, attorney docket no. 25791,37, filed on 12 Qcλ 1989, {69} PCT application US 03/04S37, fifed on 29 FeP 2003 2/29/03, attorney docket no. 25791.95.02, which claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application seriai no. 60/363,829, attorney docket no. 25791.95, Filed on 13 Mar 20G2, (70) U.S. patent application seriai no, 10/261 ,927, attorney docket no. 25791.97,. filed on 01 Oct 2002, which is a divisional of U.S. patent number 6,557,640, which was Fifed as patent application seriai no. 09/588.948, attorney docket no. 25781 ,17.02, filed on 0? Jun 2000, which claims priority from provisional application 50/137,998. filed on 07 Jun 1999, {71 } U.S. patent application serial no. 10/262,008, attorney docket no. 25791.98, fifed on 01 Oct 2002, which is a divisional of U.S. patent number 6,557,640, which was filed as patent application seriai no. 09/588,948, attorney docket no,

25791.17.02, filed on 07 Jun 2000, which claims priority from provisional application 60/137,598, filed an 07 Jun 1999, (72) U.S. patent application serial no. 10/261 ,925, attorney docket no. 25791.99, filed on 01 Oct 2002, which is a divisional of U.S. patent number 6,557,640. which was filed as patent application seriai no. 09/588,946, attorney docket no. 25791.17,02, filed on 07 Jun 2000, which claims priority from provisional application 60/137,998, filed on 07 Jun 1999, {73} U.S. patent application serial no. 10/189,524, attorney docket no. 25791100, filed on 19 JUL 2002, which ss a continuation of U.S. Patent Number 6,497,289, which was filed as U, S, Patent Application serial no, 09/454,139, attorney docket no. 25791 ,03,02, filed on 03 DEC 1999, which claims priority from provisional application 60/1 1 1 ,293, tlisd on 07 Dec 19SS, (74) PCX application US 03/10144, filed on 28 Mar 2003, attorney docket no. 25791 ,101.02, which claims priority from U S, provisional patent application seriai no, 60/372,632, attorney docket no. 25791.101, flied on 15 Apr 2002, (75) U.S. provisional patent application serial no. 60/412,542, attorney docket no. 25791.102. filed on 20 Sep 2002, {76} PCT application US 03/14153, filed on 06 May 2003. attorney docket no. 257S1.104.02, which claims pnority from U.S. provisional patent application serial no. 80/380,147, attorney docket no. 25791 ,104. filed on 06 May 2002. {77} PCT application US 03/199S3, flied on 24 Jun 2003, attorney docket no. 25791.108.02, which claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application serial no. 60/397,284, attorney docket no. 25791.1 OvS, filed on 19 JuI 2002, (78) PCT application US 03/13787, filed on 05 May 2003, attorney docket no. 25791.107,02, which claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application sens! no. 60/387,488, attorney docket no. 25791.107, filed on 10 Jun 2002. (79) PCT application US 03/18530, filed on 11 Jun 2003, attorney docket no. 25791.108.02.. which claims priority from U.S. provisions! patent application serial no, 60/387,981 , attorney docket no. 25791.108, riled on 12 Jun 2002, {80} PGT application US 03/20894, filed on 01 Ju! 2003, attorney docket no, 25791.1 10.02, which claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application seriai no. 60/398.081 , attorney docket no. 25731.1 10, filed on 24 JuI 2002, (81 } PCT application US 03/20870, filed on 02 JuI 2003, attorney docket no. 257S1.111.02, which claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application seriai no. 60/399.240, attorney docket no. 25791.1 11 , filed on 29 Jui 2002, {82} U.S. provisional patent application serial no. 60/412,487, attorney docker no, 25791.112, filed on 20 Sep 2002, (83) U.S. provisional patent application serial no, 60/412,488, attorney docket no 25791 .114, fifed on 20 Sep 2002. (84) U.S. patent application serial no. 10/280,358, attorney docket no. 25791.115, tiled on 25 Od 2002, which is a continuation of U.S. patent number 6,470,966, which was fifed as patent application serial number 09/850,093, filed on 07 May 2001 , attorney docket no.

25791.55, as a divisional application of U.S. Patent Number 6,497,289, which was filed βs U.S. Patent

Application serial no. 09/454,139. attorney docket no. 25791 03.02, filed on 03 DEC 1999, which claims priority from provisional application 60/111 ,293, filed on G7 Dec 1998, (85) U.S. provisionai patent application serial no, 60/412,177, attorney docket no. 25791.117, filed on 20 Sep 2002, {86} U.S. provisional patent application serial no. 80/412,653, attorney docket no. 25791.118. filed on 20 Sep 2002, {87} U.S. provisional patent application serial no, 60/405,610, attorney docket no. 25791.1 19, filed on 23 Aug 2002, (88) U.S. provisional patent application serial no. 60/405,394, attorney docket no. 25791.120, filed on 23 Aug 2002, (89) U.S. provisional patent application series no. 60/412,544. attorney docket no. 25791.121 , filed on 20 Sep 2002, {90} PCT application US 03/24779, fϋed on 08 Aug 2003, attorney docket no. 25791.125.02, which claims priority from U.S. provisions! patent application serial no. 60/407,442, attorney docket no, 257S1.125, fϋed on 30 Aug

2002, (91 ) U.S. provisionai patent application serial no. 60/423,363, attorney docket no. 25791 .126, filed on 10 Dec 2002. (92) U.S. provisionai patent application serial no. 60/412,196, attorney docket no. 25791.127, filed on 20 Sep 2002, {93} U.S. provisionai patent application serial no. 60/412.187, attorney docket no. 25791.128, filed on 20 Sep 2002, (94) U.S. provisional patent application serial no. 60/412,371 , attorney docket no. 25791.129, filed on 20 Sep 2002, (95} U.S. patent application serial no. 10/382,325, attorney docket no. 25791.145, filed on 05 Mar 2003, which Is a continuation of U.S. patent number 8,557,840, which was filed as patent application serial no, 09/588,946, attorney docket no. 25791.17.02, filed on 07 Jun 2000, which claims priority from provisional application 80/137,998, filed on 07 jun 1899, (98} U.S. patent application serial no. 10/624,842, attorney docket no. 25791.151 , fiied on 22 Ju! 2003, which is a divisional of U.S. patent application serial no. 08/502,350, attorney docket no. 2S7S1.S.02, fiied on 10 Feb 2000, which claims priority from provisionai application 60/119,611 , filed on M Feb 199S, (97) U.S. provisional patent application seriai no. 60/431 ,184, attorney docket no. 25791.157. fiied on 05 Dec 2002, {98} U.S. provisions! patent application serial no. 60/448,526, attorney docket no. 25791.185, filed on 18 Feb 2003. (99) U.S. provisionai patent application serial no. 60/461 ,539. attorney docket no. 257S1.188, filed on 09 Apr 2003, {100} U, S. provisions! patent application serial no. 60/462,75O ₅ attorney docket no. 25791.193, filed on 14 Apr 2003, {101 } U.S. provisional patent application seriai no. 60/436,106, attorney docket no. 25791.200, filed on 23 Dec 2002, {102} U.S. provisionai patent application serial no. 60/442,942, attorney docket no. 25791.213, filed on 27 Jan 2003 _; {103} U.S. provisionai patent application sens! no. 60/442,338, attorney docket no, 25791.225, fiieti on 27 Jan 2003, (104) U.S. provisional patent application serial no. 60/418,687, attorney docket no, 25791.228, fiied on 18 Apr

2003, {105} U.S. provisional patent application serial no. 60/454,896, attorney docket no. 25791.236. filed on 14 Mar 2003, {108} U.S. provisional patent application seriai no. 60/450,504, attorney docket no. 25791.238, filed on 28 Feb 2003, {107} U.S. provisional patent application serial no. 60/451 ,152, attorney docket no. 25791.239, filed on 08 Mar 2003, (108) U.S. provisional patent application serial no. 60/455,124, attorney docket no. 25791 ,241 , filed on 1 ? Mar 2003, {109} U.S. provisional patent application serial no. 60/453,678, attorney docket no. 25791.253, filed on 11 Mar 2003, (110) U.S. patent application serial no, 10/421 ,682. attorney docket no. 25791.256, fifed on 23 Apr 2003, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application serial no. 09/523,468, attorney docket no. 25791 .1 1.02, filed on 10 Mar 2000, {now U.S. Patent 6,640,903 which issued 11/4/2003), which claims priority from

provisional application 60/124,042, fifed on 1 1 Mar 1999, (1 11) U.S. provisional patent application serial no. 60/457,985, attorney docket no. 25791.260, fifed on 27 Mar 2003, (112! U.S. provisional patent application serial no. 60/455,718, attorney docket no. 25791 .262, filed on 18 Mar 2003, (1 13) U.S. patent number 6,550.821 , which was filed as patent application serial no. 09/811 „734, filed on 19 Mar 2001 , (114) U.S. patent application serial no. 10/436,467, attorney docks! no. 25791 268, filed on 12 May 2003, which is a continuation of U.S. patent number 8,604,763, which was filed as application serial no. OB/559, 122, attorney docket no. 25791.23.02, filed on 26 Apr 2000 _: which cia.ms priority from provisional application 60/131 ,106, filed on 26 Apr 1999, (115) U.S. provisional patent application seriai no. 60/459776, attorney docket no. 25791 270, filed on 02 Apr 2003, (116) U.S. provisional patent application seriai no. 60/481 ,094, attorney docket no. 25791.272, rlied on OS Apr 2003, {117} U.S. provisionai patent application seriai no. 60/461 ,038, attorney docket no. 25791.273, filed on 07 Apr 2003, (1 18) U.S. provisionai patent application seriai no. 60/483,586, attorney docket no. 25781.277. filed on 17 Apr 2003, (1 19} U.S. provisional patent application seriai no. 60/472,240, attorney docket no. 25791.286, filed on 20 May 2003, (120) U.S. patent application serial no. 10/619,285. attorney docket no, 25791 .292, filed on 14 Ju! 2003, which is a coπtsnuation-in-part of U.S. utility patent application seriai no. 09/969,922, attorney docket no. 2579169, filed on 03 Oct 2001, (now U.S. Patent 6,634,431 which issued 10/21/2003). which is a coniinuation-in-pari application of U.S. patent no. 6.328,113, which was filed as U.S. Patent Application serial number 09/440,338, attorney docket number 25791.9.02, filed on 15 Nov 1SS9, which claims priority from provisionai application 60/108,558, filed on 18 Nov 1998, (121) U.S. utiiity patent application seriai no. 10/416,888, attorney docket no. 25791.257, which was filed on 18 Apr 2003, as a division of U.S. utility patent application serial no. 09/523,468, attorney docks! no. 25791.11.02, filed on 10 Mar 2000, (now U.S. Patent 8,640,903 which issued 1 1/4/2003), which claims priority from provisional application 80/124.0^2, fred on 1 1 Mar 1899; {122} PCT patent application seriai no. PCT/US2004/08246, attorney docket no. 25791.238.02, filed on 26 Feb 2004; {123} PCT patent application seriai number PGT/US2004/08170, attorney docket number 25791 40.02, filed on 1 S Mar 2004; (124) PCT patent application serial number PCT/US2004/08171 , attorney docket number 25791.238.02, filed on 15 Mar 2004; (125) PCT patent application seriai number PCT/US2004/08073, attorney docket number 257S1.262, 02, filed on 18 Mar 2004; (126) PCT patent application senaS number PCT/US2004/0771 1 , attorney docket number 2S791.253.02, filed on 1 1 Mar 2004; (127) PCT patent application seriai number PCT/US20Q4/G29G25, attorney docket number 25791.260.02. filed on 26 Mar 2004: {128,5 PCT patent application serial number PCT/US2004/010317. attorney docket number 25791 ,270.02, filed on 02 Apr 2004; (129) PCT patent application serial number PCT/US2004/010712, attorney docket number 25791.272.02, filed on 06 Apr 2004; {130} PCT patent application serial number PCT/US2004/010?62, attorney docket number 2S791.273.02, fifed on 06 Apr 2004; (131 ) PCT patent application serial number PCT/US2004/01 1973, attorney docket number 25791.277.02. filed on 15 Apr 2004: {132} U.S. provisionai patent appficatioπ seriai number 80/495056, attorney docket number 25791 301 , filed on 14 Aug 2003; {133} U.S. provisional patent application seriai number 50/800879, attorney docket number 25791.134, filed on 1 1 Aug 2004; (134} PCT patent application serial number PCT/US2005/027318, attorney docket number 257S1.329.02, filed on 29 Jυi 2005; (135) PCT patent application serial number PCT/US2005/028936, attorney

docket number 25791.338.02, filed on 12 Aug 2005; (136) PCT patent application serial number

PCT/US2005/028889, attorney docket number 25791.194.02. fiϊed on 11 Aug 2005; (13?) PCT pBtert application serial number PCT/US2005/028453, attorney docket number 257Si .371 , filed on 1 1 Aug 2005; (138) PCT patent application serial number PCT/US2G05/028641 , attorney docket number 257S1.372, filed on 11 Aug 2005; (139} PCT patent application serial number PCT/US2005/028819, attorney docket number 25791.373, fifed on 1 1 Aug 2005; (140) PCT patent application serial number PCT/US2005/028446. attorney docket number 25791.374. fited on 11 Aug 2005; (141) PCT patent application serial number PCT/US2GQ5/O28642, attorney docket number 25791.375, filed on 11 Aug 2005; {142} PCT patent application serial number PCT7US2005/G28451 , attorney docket number 25791.376, fiϊed on 11 Aug 2005, and ( 143). PCT patent application serial number

FCT/US2GG5/G28473, attorney docket number 25791 ,377, filed on 11 Aug 2005, (144) U.S. utility patent application serial number 10/546082, attorney docket number 25791.378, filed on 18 Aug 2005, (145) U.S. utility patent application seriai number 10/548076, attorney docket number 25791.379, filed on 16 Aug 2005, (146) US utility patent application serial number 10/545936, attorney docket number 25791.380, filed on 16 Aug 2005, (147) U.S. utility patent application serial number 10/546079, attorney docket number 25791.381 , filed on 16 Aug 2005 (148) U S. utility patent application seπaS number 10/545941 , attorney docket number 25791.382, filed on 16 Aug 2005, {149} U.S. utility patent application serial number 546078, attorney docket number 25791 ,383, filed on 15 Aug 2005, filed on 1 1 Aug 2005., {150} U.S. utility patent application serial number 10/545941 , attorney docket number 25791.185.05, filed on 1 δ Aug 2005, (151 } U.S. utility patent application serial number 11/249967, attorney docket number 257S1.384, filed on 13 Gct 2Q05, (152) U.S. provisional patent application serial number 60/734302, attorney docket number 25791 24, filed on 07 Nov 2005. (153) U.S. provisional patent application serial number 80/725181 , attorney docket number 25791 ,184, filed on 1 1 OcI 2005, (154) PCX patent application serial number PCT/US2005/023381 , attorney docket number 25791.299.02 filed 29 Jun 2005 which claims priority from U S provisional patent application serial number 60/585370, attorney docket number 25791.299, filed on 02 JuI 2004, (155) U.S. provisional patent application serial number 50/721579, attorney docket number 25791.327, filed on 28 Sep 2005, {156} U.S. provisional patent application seriβ! number SO/717391 , attorney docket number 25791.214, filed on 15 Sep 2005, (157) U.S. provisions! patent application serlai number 60/702935, attorney docket number 25791.133, filed on 27 JuI 2005, (158} U-S. provisional patent application serial number 60/663913, attorney docket number 25791.32, filed on 21 Mar 2005, (159) U.S. provisional patent application serial number 60/552564, attorney docket number 25791.348. filed on 14 Feb 2005, {180} U.S. provisional patent application serial number 60/645840, attorney docket number 25791.324, filed on 21 Jan 2005, {161 } FCT patent application serial number PCT/US2005/Q43122, attorney docket number 257S1.326.02, fifed on 29 Nov 2005 which dairos priority from U.S. provisional patent application serial number 60/631703, attorney docket number 25791.32S ₁ filed on 30 Nov 2004, (162) U.S. provisional patent application serial number 60/752787., attorney docket number 25791.339, filed on 22 Dec 2005, (163) U.S. National Stage application serial no. 10/548934, attorney docket no, 25791.253.05, filed on 12 Sep 2005; ( 164) U.S. National Stage application serial no. 10/549410, attorney docket no. 25791.262,05, filed on 13 Sep 2005; (165} U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/717391 , attorney docket no. 25791.214 filed en 15 Sep

2005; (168) U.S. National Stage application serial no. 10/550906, attorney docket no. 25791.260.08. filed on 2? Sep 2G0S; {167} U.S. National Stage application serial no. 10/551880, attorney docket no.

.5791 ,270.06, filed on 30 Sep 2005; (168) U.S. National Stage application serial no. 10/552253. attorney docket no. 25781.273.06, fiSed on 04 OcI 2005; (169) U.S. National Stage application serial no. 10/552780, attorney docket no, 257S1.272.06, filed on 11 Get 2005; {170} U.S. Provisions! Patent Application No, 60/725181. attorney docket no. 25791.184 filed on 11 OCX 2005; (171 ) U.S. National Stage application serial no. 10/553094, attorney docket no. 25701 ,193.03, filed on 13 Oct 2006: (172) U.S. National Stage application serial no. 10/553566, attorney docket no, 25791.277.06, filed on 17 Oct 2005; {173} PCT Patent Application Mo. PCT/US2006/002449, attorney docket no. 25791.324,02 filed on 20 Jsπ 2006. and {174} PCT Patent Application No. PC77US2G06/G04809, attorney docket no. 25791.348.02 filed on 09 Feb 2006; (175) U.S. Utility Patent application serial no 11/356899, attorney docket no. 25791.386, filed on 1?' Feb 2006, (176) U.S. National Stage application seπal no. 10/56820O ₁ attorney docket no, 257S1.301.08, filed on 13 Feb 2006, (177) U.S. National Stage application serial no. 10/568719, attorney docket no. 25791.137.04, filed on 16 Fsb 200S, filed on 16 Feb 2006. (178) U.S. National Stage application serial no. 10/569323, attorney docker no. 25791 215.08, filed on 17 Feb 2006, {179} U.S. National State patent application serial no. 10/571041 , attorney docket no, 25791.305.05, filed on OS Mar 2006; (180) U.S. National State patent application serial no. 10/571017, attorney docket no. 2S791.306.04, fiied on 03 Mar 2008: (181 J U.S. National State patent application serial no, 10/571086, attorney docket no. 25791.307.04.. filed on 06 Mar 2006; and (182} U S, National State patent application serial no. 10/571085. attorney docket no,

25791.308.07, filed on 06 Mar 2006, (183) U.S, utility patent application senai number 10/938788, attorney docket number 25791 ,330, filed on 10 Sep 2004, (184) U.S. utility patent application serial number 10/938225, attorney docket number 25791.331 , filed on 10 Sep 2004. ( 185) U S utility patent application serial number 10/952288, attorney docket number 25791.332, fiied on 28 Sep 2004, (186) U.S. utility patent application serial number 10/952418, attorney αockei number 25791 333, filed on 28 Sep 2004, (187) U.S. utility patent application seriai number 10/950749, attorney docket number 25791.334. filed on 27 Sep 2004, (188)U.S. utility patent application serial number 10/950889, attorney docket number 25791 335, filed on 27 Sep 2004; {189} U.S. provisions! patent application sen ^' al number 80/761324, attorney docket number 25791.340, fiied on 23 Jan 2006, (I SG) U.S. provisional patent application serial number 60/754556, attorney docket number 25791.342, filed on 28 Dec 2005, (191 ) U.S. utility patent application serial number 11 /380051 , attorney docket number 25791.388, filed on 25 Apr 2006, (1S2) U.S. utility patent application serial number 11/380055, attorney docket number 25791.38S, fiied on 25 Apr 2006, (193} U.S. utility patent application serial number 10/522039, attorney docket number 25791.106.05, fifed on 10 Mar 2008; (194) U.S. provisional patent application seriai number 60/746.813, attorney docket number 25791.259, filed on 09 May 2006; {195} U.S. utliity patent application serial number 1 1/456584,. attorney docket nυmber 25791.403, fiied on 11 JuJ 2006: and (196) U.S. utility patent application serial number 11/456587. attorney docket number 25791.404» filed on 11 JuI 2006; (197} PCT Patent Application No. PCT/US20G8/009886, attorney docket no. 25791,32.02 filed on 21 Mar 2006; anά (193} PCT Patent Application No. PCT/US2008/010674, attorney docket no. 25791 337.02 filed on 21 Mar 2006, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Background of ths invention

This invention relates generally to pipelines, and in particular to pipelines that are formed using expandable tubing.

Brief Description of the Drawings FlG. 1 is a fragmentary cross-sectionai view illustrating an underground pipeline.

FiG. 2 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view illustrating the unearthing the pipeline of FiG, 1 at spaced apart locations.

FIG. 3 is a fragmentary cross-sectiαnaf view illustrating the removal of portions of Vne imeaύhβϋ portions of the pipeline of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 Is a fragmentary cross-sectional view illustrating me injection of a pig into an open end of the one of the unearthed portions of the pipeiine of FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is s fragmentary cross-sectional view illustrating the continued injection of a pig into an open end of the one of the unearthed portions of the pipeline of FiG. 4.

FIG. 6 is s fragmentary cross-sectionai view illustrating the placement of an assembly for coupling pipe sections into one of the unearthed portions of the pipeiine of FiG. 5.

PlG. 6a is a schematic view illustrating the welding and inspection assembly of FiG. 6. FiG. 8b is a schematic view illustrating the coating assembly of FiG. 6. FiG. 6c is a schematic view illustrating the actuator assembly of FIG. 6. FIG. 7 is a fragmentary cross-sectionai and schematic view illustrating the operation of the assembly for coupling pipe sections of FIG, 6.

FJG. 8 is a fragmentary cross-sectionai and schematic view iiiustrating the continued operation of the assembly for coupling pipe sections of FiG. 7,

FlG. 8a is a fragmentary cross-sectional and schematic view iiiustrating the operation of the welding and inspection assembly for coupling pipe sections of FiG. 8 FlG. Sb is a fragmentary cross-sectional and schematic view illustrating the continued operation oi the welding and inspection assembly for coupling pipe sections of FiG. 8a.

FiG. 8ba is a fragmentary cfoss-sectionaf view illustrating the coupling of adjacent pips sections m the welding and inspection assembly of FiG. 8b.

FIG. 8c is a fragmentary cross -sectional and schematic view illustrating the continued operation of the welding and inspection assembly for coupling pipe sections of FIG. 8b.

FiG. 8d is a fragmentary cross-sectional and schematic view iiiustrating the continued operation of the welding anό Inspection assembly for coupling pipe sections of FIG, 8b.

FiG. 3 is 3 fragmentary cross-sectionai and schematic view illustrating the continued operation of the assembly for coupling pipe sections of FSG. 8. FiG. 9s is a fragmentary cross-sectionai and schematic view illustrating the operation of the coating assembly for coating coupled pipe sections of FiG. 9.

FIGS. 9ba and 9bb are fragmentary cross-sectional views illustrating ihe coating of coupled adjacent pipe sections jn lhe coating assembly of FiG. Sa.

FiG. 9c is a fragmentary cross-sectionai and schematic view illustrating the continued operation of the costing assembly for coating pipe sections of FiG. Sa.

FiG. 10 is a fragmentary cross-sectional and schematic view illustrating the continued operation of ifr& assembly for coupling pipe sections of FSG. 8.

FiG. 10a is a fragmentary cross-sectional and schematic view illustrating the operation of the actuator of FIG. 10. FiG. 10b is s fragmentary cross-sectional and schematic view illustrating the continued operation of the actuator of HG. 10a.

FIG. 11 is a fragmentary cross-sectional and schematic view illustrating the insertion of pipe sections processed by the assembly for coupling pipe sections into the pipeline.

FiG. 12 is a fragmentary cross-sections: and schematic view illustrating the continued insertion of pipe sections processed by ϊhe assembly for coupling pipe sections info the pipeline.

FiG. 12a is a fragmentary cross-sectionai illustration of an embodiment of the nose provided on the end-most pipe section.

FfG. 13 is a fragmentary cross-sectional and schematic view illustrating the continued insertion of pspe sections processed by the assembly for coupling pipe sections into the pipeline. FIG. 14 is a fragmentary cross-sectional and schematic view illustrating the couphrtg of an expansion device to an mό of the coupled pipe sections.

FlG. I S is a fragmentary cross-sectional and schematic view illustrating the operation of the expansion device of Fig. 14.

FiG. 16 is a fragmentary eross-seetionai and schematic view illustrating the continued operation of the expansion device of rsg. 15.

FIG. 17 is a fragmentary cross-sectional and schematic view illustrating the continued operation of the expansion device of F»g. 16,

FiG. 18 is a fragmentary cross-sectional and schematic view Illustrating the continued operation of the expansion device of Fig. 17. FIG. 18a SS a cross-sectional illustrating the radial expansion and piastic deformation of the pipe sections Within the pipeline of rig. 18,

FIG, IS SS a fragmentary cross -sectional and schematic view illustrating the coupling of an end plate to an end of the radially expended and plastically deformed pipe sections of P'-g, 18.

FiG, 20 ss a fragmentary cross-sectional and schematic view Illustrating the coupling of an end plate and Dump to another BP.Q of the radially expanded and pfssticaiiy deformed pipe sections of Fig. I S.

FiG, 21 is a fragmentary cross-sectsonai and schematic vsew illustrating the coupling of a transstionary pipe section between sπ enύ of the radially expanded and plastically deformed pipe sections and another portion of the pipeline. FiG. 22 ss a fragmentary crosβ-sectiona! and schematic view illustrating the coupling of 3 transitioπary pψe section between another end of the radiaϋy expanded and plastically deformed pipe sections and another portion of the pipeiine.

FSG. 23 is a fragmentary cross-secϋonai and schematic view illustrating lhe covering of the pipeline of Fig. 21 with earthen material FIG. 24 Is a fragmentary- cross-sectional and schematic view illustrating the covering of the pipeline of Fig. 22 with earthen material.

FSG. 25a is an illustration of a pipe section.

FiG. 25b is a cross-sectional view of the pipe section of Fig. 25a.

FiG. 28 is a εross-seeiionai view of a radiaϋy expanded and plastically deformed pipe section positioned within a pipe section, FIG. 27a is sπ illustration of a pipe section,

FiG. 2?b is s cross-sectional view of the pipe section of FIg. 27a.

FiG. 28 is a fragmentary cross-sectiona! and schematic view illustrating an expansion device.

FIG. 29 is s fragmentary cross-sectional and schematic view illustrating an expansion device.

FiG. 30 is a fragmentary cross-sectional and schematic view illustrating an expansion device. FiG, 31 is a fragmentary cross-sectionai and schematic view illustrating an expansion device.

FiG. 32 is a fragmentary cross-sectionai and schematic view illustrating an expansion device.

FlG. 33 is a fragmentary cross-sectionai and schematic view illustrating an expansion device.

FIG. 34 is a fragmentary cross-sectional and schematic view illustrating an expansion device.

FiG. 35 Is a fragmentary cross-sectional and schematic view illustrating an expansion device. FIGS. 36a and 38b are fragmentary cross-sectional and schematic view illustrating the operation of an expansion device.

FIGS. 37a and 37b are fragmentary cross-sectional and schematic view illustrating the operation of an expansion device,

FIG. 38 is a fragmentary cross-sectionai and schematic vsew illustrating an actuator. FlG. 39 is a fragmentary cross-sectionai and schematic view illustrating an actuator.

FIGS. 4O ₁ 40a, 4GD, and 40c are fragmentary cross-sectional and schematic views of methods of reducing contact friction between the pipe sections and the pipeline

FiG, 41 is a fragmentary view of bending one or more pipe sections,

FIGS. 42a and 42b are fragmentary cross-sectionai and schematic views of a sMart pig. FIGS. 43a, 43b, 43c and 43d are fragmentary cross-sectional and schematic views αf the operation of en expansion device.

FiG, 44 is a cross-sectionai view of a pipe section.

FIGS. 45a, 45b, 45c and 4Sd are fragmentary cross-sectiαnai and schematic views of the operation of a hydroformϊng expansion device. FIGS. 48a and 48b are fragmentary cross-sectionai and schematic vsews of the operation of an explosive expansion device.

FIG. 47 is s fragmentary cross-sectiona! and schematic views of a pips section that provides an indication of the near completion of the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the pipe sections. FiG. 48 )s a fragmentary cross-sectionai and schematic views of a system for inserting pipe sections into the pipeline using fiuid pressure.

FiG. 49 is a fragmentary cross-sectionai and schematic views of a system for inserting pipe sections into the pipeline using a tractor.

FiG. 60 is a fragmentary cross-sectionai view of a rnαifi-iayereά pipeline repair iiner. FiG. 51 is a fragmentary cross-sectionai and schematic view of a system for inserting seamless pipe Into the pipeline.

FiG. 52 ;s a fragmentary cross-sectional and schematic view of a system for heating the pipeline.

FSG. 53 is s fragmentary cross-sectional and schematic view of s system for radially expanding anό plastically deforming both ends of the pipe sections. FfG. 54 is s fragmentary cross-seetionai and schematic views of a relative geometry of the radially expanded and plastically deformed pipe section and another section of a pipeline.

Fig. 55 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a computer mode! used to generate exemplary experimental results.

Fig. 56 is a graphical illustration of exemplary experimental results generated using the computer model of Fig. 55,

Fig. 57 is a graphical illustration of exemplary experimental results generated using the computer model of Fig. 55,

Fig. 58a is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a computer modef used to generate exemplary experimental results. FIg. 58t> is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a computer model used to generate exemplary experimental results

Fig. 58c is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a computer model used to generate exemplary experimental results.

Figs. 59a, 59b, and 53c are illustrations of an exemplary embodiment of the repeated radial expansion and plastic deformation of a pipe section within a pipeline.

Figs. 60a and 60b are illustrations of an exemplary embodiment of the radial expansion and plastic deformation of 8 pipe section and a surrounding pipeline.

FiQ. 61 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the radial expansion and plastic deformation of a pipe section including an outer coating material. Fig 62 Is an illustration of several exemplary embodiments of tubular assemblies ssch including tubular members coupled end to end by welded connections.

Detailed Description of the Illustrative Embodiments

Referring to FIg. 1 , a pipehne 10 that defines a passageway 10a traverses a subterranean formation 12. The pipeline 10 further includes a first end 10b and 3 second end 10c that is separated from the first end. in an exemplary embodiment, the pipeline 10 is positioned below the surface 14 of the Earth in an exemplary embodiment, the pipeline 10 may include one or more defects that may necessitate repair of the pipeline by, for example, hning the interior of the pipeline with a tubular member.

Referring to Fig. 2, *n an exemplary embodiment, in order to facilitate the repair of the pipeline 10. the first and second ends, 10b and 10c, respectively, of the pipeline may be exposed by removing earthen materia! proximate the first and second ends. As a result, trenches, 16a and 16b, are provided proximate the first and second ends, 10b and 10c, respectively, of the pipeline 10. As & result, -he first and second ends, 10b and 10c, respectively, of the pipeline 10 may be accessed from the surface 14. Referring to rig. 3, In an exemplary embodiment, portions of the first and second ends, 10b and 10c, respectively, of the pipeline 10 may then be removed by, for example, machining away the

portions in a convention manner, As a result, the interior passageway 10s of the pipeline 10 may be accessed through the resulting open ends, 1Od and 10e, of the first and second ends, 10b and IGc, respectively, of the pipeline.

Referring to Fig. 4, in an exemplary embodiment, a conventional pig 18 may then be positioned within the passageway 10a of the pipeline 10 through the open end 1Oe of the pipeline. As wϋl be recognized by persons having ordinary skill in the art, pigs are commonly inserted into and then pumped through pipelines to perform task such as, for example, cleaning the Interior of the pipelines, in an exemplary embodiment, the pig 18 seaiingiy engages the interior surface of the passageway 10a of the pipeiine. An end of a tow ϋne 20 may then be coupled to an end of the pig 16 by passing the end of the tow isne through a passageway 22a defined in an end plate 22. in an exemplary embodiment, a portion of the interior surface of the passageway 22a of the end pi ate 22 seaisngly engages the tow line 20. in an exemplary embodiment, the end piate 22 further includes en exterior flange 22b and a transverse passageway 22c that is operabiy coupled to the passageway 22a, in an exemplary embodiment, after coupling the end of the tow line 20 to the end of the pig 18. the exterior fiange 22b of the end piate 22 is coupled to the open end 1Oe of pipeline 10, and an outlet 24a of a conventional pump 24 is operabiy coupled to the passageway 22c of the enά piate in a conventional manner. The other end of the tow line 29 may then be operabiy coupled to a conventional winch 26 in a conventional manner using, for example, one αr more puiieys, 28a and 28b. The pump 24 and winch 28 may be operabiy coupled to a conventions! programmable controller 30.

Referring to Fig. 5, in an exemplar/ embodiment, the controller 30 may then operate the pump 24 such that fiuidic materials are discharged out of the outlet 24a of rn& pump and injected into the passageway 22c of the end piate 22 while the winch 26 is operated by ins controller to permit movement of the tow line 20. As a result, the passageway 22a of ihe end plate and the interior of the passageway 10a of the pipeiine on one side of the pig 18 are pressurized. As a result, the pig 18, and the end of the tow sine 20 that is coupled to the end of the pig, may be displaced »n a direction 32 away from the open end 1Oe of the pipehne and towards the open end 1Od of the pipeiine. Referring to Fig 6, in an exemplary embodiment, after displacing the pig 18, and the end of the tow ϋne 20 that is coupled to the end of the pig, to a position within the passageway 10a of the pipeline 10 proximate the open end 10d ₁ the end plate 22 may be removed and a pipe section processing apparatus 34 may be placed within the trench 18a proximate ihe open end of the pipeline, in an exemplary emoodiment, the apparatus 34 includes a conventional pipe section support 34a, 3 welding and Inspection assembly 34b, a coating assembly 34c. and an actuator 34d that sre each coupled to a support member 34e and the controller 30. Referring to Rg. 8a, sn sπt exemplary embodiment, ihe welding and inspection assembly 34b includes a conventional pre-weiding heat treatment device 34ba, a conventional pip® section welder device 34bb. a conventional post-yielding heat treatment device 34bc, a conventional weld Inspection device 34bd, and a conventional pipe section support member 34be. in an exemplary embodiment, the conventional pre- weidsng heat treatment device 34ba is adapted to provide heat treatment of a pipe section in a conventional manner and, may, for example, include one or more conventional devices for heat treating metallic pipe sections, in an exemplary embodiment, the conventional pipe

section welder device 34bb is adapted io weld together end portions of metallic pipe sections end may, for example, include one or more conventional devices for welding together end portions of metallic pipe sections, in an exemplary embodiment the pipe section welder device 34bb may include one or more aspects of conventional friction stir welding, in an exemplary embodiment, the conventional post-weiding heat treatment device 34bc is adapted to provide heat treatment of welded together pipe sections in a conventional manner and, may, for example, Include one or more conventional devices for heat treating welded together metallic pipe sections. In an exemplary embodiment, the conventional weld inspection device 34bd is adapted to inspect welded together metallic pipe sections and, may, for example, include one or more conventional devices far inspecting welded together metallic pipe sections such as x-ray, ultrasonic, and other non-destructive Inspection devices. In art exemplary embodiment, the conventional pipe support member 34be is adapted fcs convey anά support metallic pipe sections as they are processed by the pre-wβidiπg heat treatment device 34ba, pipe section welder device 34bb, post-welding heat treatment device 34bc, and weld inspection device 34bd. in an exemplary embodiment, the welding and inspection assembly 34b may include one or more elements of one or more of the conventional commercially available weioiπg devices commercially available from TubeFuse. in an exemplary embodiment one or more elements of conventional coupling methods that do not include welding may be used in addition to, or instead of, the conventional weld inspection device 34bd in the vveidsng and inspection assembly 34b. Referring to Fig. 6b. In an exemplary embodiment, the coating assembly 34c includes a conventional pipe section coating device 34ca, a conventional pipe section coating Inspection device 34cb, and a conventional pipe section support member 34cc. In an exemplary embodiment, the conventional pipe section costing device 34cs is adapted to apply a coating material to the exterior surface of a pipe section in a conventional manner and, may, for example, include one or more conventional devices for applying a coating material to pipe sections. In an exemplary embodiment, the conventional pipe section coating inspection device 34cb is adapted to inspect coated pipe sections and, may, for example, include one or more conventional devices for inspecting coated pips sections, in an exemplary embodiment, the conventions! pipe support member 34<x is adapted to convey and support metallic pipe sections as they are processed by the pipe section coating device 34ca and the conventional pipe section coating inspection device 34eb,

Referring to Fig. δc, in an exemplary embodiment, the actuator assembly 34d includes a conventional pipe section gripper device 34da, a conventional pipe section actuator device 34db, and a conventional pipe section support member 34tic. in an exemplary embodiment the conventional pipe section gripper device 34da is adapted to grip pipe sections in a conventionai manner and, may, for example, include one or mors conventional devices for gripping pipe sections, in an exemplary embodiment, the conventional pipe section actuator device 34db is adapted to displace pipe sections in a longitudinal direction out of an end of the actuator assembly 34d and, may. for example, include one or more conventional devices for displacing pipe sections in a longitudinal direction, in an exemplary embodiment, the conventional pipe support member 34dc is adapted to convey and support metaiϊic pipe sections as they are processed by the pipe section gripper device 34da and a conventional pipe section actuator device 34db.

Referring to Flo. 7, in an exemplary embodiment, a pspe section 36 may then be positioned on the pipe section support 34B of the apparatus 34. in an exemplary embodiment, each pipe section 36 includes a first end 36a and a second end 36b and is fabricated from a metallic materia!.

Referring to Figs. 8 and 8s, Bb, 8ba, 8c, and 8d in an exemplary embodiment, the initial pipe section 36 may then be moved into the welding and inspection assembly 34b and additional pipe sections 38 may then be sequentially positioned onto lhe pipe section support 34a of ϋi& apparatus 3-4 and also sequentially moved into the welding and inspection assembly. Ui this manner, the pipe sections 36 may then be processed by the welding and inspection assembly 34b.

As illustrated in Fig. 8a. in an exemplary embodiment, within the welding and inspection assembly 34b, the first and second ends, 38a and 36b, of the pipe sections 35 may be initially heat treated In a conventional manner by the pre-weidsng heat treatment device 34ba in order to provide enhanced materia! properties within the first and second ends of the pipe sections prior to welding the first and second ends of adjacent pipe sections to one another in the pipe section welder device 34bb. As illustrated in Fig. 8b, in an exemplary embodiment, within the welding and inspection assembly 34b, once adjacent pipe sections 38 are positioned within the pipe section welder device 34bb, the first and second ends, 3Sa anά 36b. of the adjacent pipe sections are welded to one another in a conventional manner In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated In Fig. 8ba, as a result of the welding operation, the entire circumference of the first and second ends, 36a and 38b. of the adjacent pipe sections are weideti to one another forming a continuous circumferential weld 38, As lliustrated in Fig. 8c, in an exemplary embodiment, within the welding and inspection assembly 34b. after the first and second ends, 36a and 36b, of the adjacent pipe sections are weided to one another in the pipe section welder device 34b b, the first and second ends of the weided together adjacent pipe sections, Including the weid 38. are then heat treated in the post-weidiog heat treatment device 34bc In order to provide enhanced material properties within the first and second ends of the pipe sections, including the weld 38, after welding the first anύ second ends of adjacent pipe sections to one another in the pipe section welder device 34bb.

As illustrated in Fig. δd, if- an exemplary embodiment, within the welding and inspection assembly 34b, after the first and second ends, 36a and 36b, of the adjacent pipe sections are heat treated sn the post-welding heat treatment device 34bc, the first and second ends of the pipe sections, including the weld 38, are inspected sn the weld inspection device 34bd.

Referring to Figs. S, 9a, Qba, 9bb and 3c, in art exemplary embodiment, further additional pipe sections 36 may then oe sequentially positioned onto the pipe section support 34a of the apparatus 34 as pipe sections processed by the welding and inspection assembly 34b are then processed by the coating assembly 34c. in this manner, the pipe sections 36 may then be sequentially processed by the welding &nό inspection assembly 34b and the costing assembly 34c.

As illustrated in Figs. 3a. δbs and 8bb, in an exemplary embodiment within the coating assembly 34c, the exterior surfaces of pipe sections 36 and welds 38 are coated with an exterior coating layer 40 by the coating device 34ca. Sn an exemplary embodiment, the layer 40 is adapted to protect the exterior surfaces of the pipe sections 36 and welds 38 and reduce contact friction between the pipe sections and welds and the interior surface of the pipeline 10

In an exemplary embodiment, the layer 40 comprises a conventions! abradable coating material thai may provide, for example, corrosion protection and/or wear resistance.

In an exemplary embodiment, the layer 40 comprises a plurality of layers of an abradaøie and/or lubricating costing material. In an exemplary embodiment, the layer 40 comprises a conventional self-healing layer of material such that any damage to the layer caused by, for example, abrasion or scratches, is automatically healed.

In an exemplary embodiment the layer 40 is a conventional environmental Iy friend Sy layer. As illustrated in Fig. 9c, in an exemplary embodiment, within the coating assembly 34c, after the pipe section 36 and welds 38 are coated with the layer 40 in the coating device 34ca, the layer is inspected in the coating inspection device 34cb.

Refernπg to Figs. 10, 10a, and 10b, in an exemplary embodiment, further additional pipe sections 36 may then be sequentially positioned onto the pipe section support 34a of ihe apparatus 34 as pipe sections processed by the welding and inspection assembly 34b and the coating assembly 34c are then processed by the actuator assembly 34d. In this manner, the pipe sections 36 may then be sequentially processed by the welding and inspection assembly 34b, the coating assembly 34c, and the actuator assembly 34d.

As illustrated In Figs. 10a and 10b. in an exemplary embodiment, within the actuator assembly 34d, the gripper 34da grips the pipe sections 38 and then the actuator 34db displaces the pipe sectsons 36 in a longitudinal direction out of the actuator 34d. Thus, the actuator assembly 34d aiso puiis the welded together pipe sections 36 through the end of the welding and inspection assembly 34b and the coating assembly 34c and thereby controls the rate at which pipe sections 36 and welds 36 are processed.

Referring to Figs. 11 end 12. in an exemplary embodiment, the continued operation of the actuator assembly Mύ pushes the welded together pipe sections 36 into and through the passageway 1Ga of the pipeline IQ until an &nti 3δb of a pipe section 36 engages and couples to an end of the pig 18 Continued operation of the actuator assembly 34d then continues to push the welded together pipe sections 35 into snά through the passageway 10a. In sn exemplary embodiment, In combination with the operation of ihe actuator assembly 34d, the winch 26 is operated to pull the pig 18 through the passageway 10a of the pipeline 10. As a result of the operation of the winch 26, the welded together pipe sections 38 are pulled through the passageway l Oa of the pipeline 10- Thus, in an exemplary embodiment, by operation of the actuator assembly 34c ^; and the winch 26, the welded together pipe sections 36 are pushed anά puϋed through the passageway 10a of the pipeline 10.

In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in Fsg, 12a, the pspe secison 36 that is coupled to the pig 18 includes a nose 37 having a first end that is coupled to an end of the pipe section and another tapered end 37« that is coupled to the pig. In an exemplary embodiment, the tspereo em 37a of ihe nose 37 includes a lubricant supply for lubricating the annular space between nose 37 and/or the pipe sections 38 and the pipeline 10. in an exemplary embodiment, during operation, the nose 37 reinforces ihe structure of one or more of the pipe sections 36 and thereby substantially prevents one or more of the pipe sections 36 from being deformed to, for example, an oval outer profile.

Referring to Rg. 13, in an exemplary embodiment, ths continued operation of the actuator assembly 34d and the winch 28 displaces the pips sections 36 out of the end 1 Ge of the pipeline and into the trench 16b. In ar* exemplary embodiment, the pig 18 may then be decoupled from an end of one of the pipe sections 36 anύ removed from the trench 16b. Subsequent continued operation of the actuator assembly 34d may then displace at least a portion of the pipe sections 36 into an open snύ of the second end 10c of the pipeline 10. in an exemplary embodiment, the insertion and placement of the pipe sections 36 within the pipeline may include one or more aspects of the conventional methods of siiplining and/or swagsiiriing. Referring to Figs. 14 and 15, In- an exemplary embodiment, after the pipe sections 38 have been positioned within the entirety of the length of the passageway 10a of the pipeline 10 between the trenches, 16s and 18b, the apparatus 34 may be removed from the trench 16a anά an expansion system 42 may be positioned withsn the trench proximate the open end 1Od of the pipeline, in an exemplary embodiment, the expansion system 42 includes a pump 42a that is operehfy coupled Jo an expansion device 42b and the controller 30. in an exemplary embodiment, the pump 42a and expansion device 42b are mounted upon a support member 42c.

In an exemplary embodiment, the expansion device 42b includes a tubular lsuneher 42ba that defines a Gh amber 42bee having a first tubular portion 42foab _; 3 second tubular portion 42bac, and an intermediate tapered tubular portion 42bad. In an exemplary embodiment, an end of the first tubular portion 42bab of the tubular launcher 42ba of the expansion device 42b is coupled to an enά piste 42bb that defines a passage 42bc and an end of the second tubular portion 42bac of the tubular launcher 42ba of the expansion device 42b is coupled to an end of one of the pipe sections 36. In gn exemplary embodiment each pipe section 36 defines a passageway 38c in an exemplary embodiment, sn outiet of the pump 42a is operabiy coupled to the passage 42bc of the end plate 42bb of the expansion device 42b. In an exemplary embodiment, an expansion cone 42bc that includes a tapered exterior surface 42bca is positioned within trie chamber 42bøa and mates with the interior surfaces of the tubular launcher 42ba. In an exemplary embodiment, the interface between the expansion cone 42bc and the interior surfaces of the tubular launcher 42ba is πoi fluid tight in order to facilitate lubrication of the interface. Referring to Figs. 16 and 17, in an exemplary embodiment, the pump 42a may then be operated by the controller 30 to inject fiuidic materials into the chamber 42baa of the tubular launcher 42ba of the expansion device 42b. As a result, the expansion cone 42bc may be displaced longitudinally relative to the end piate 42bb thereby causing the tapered external surface 42oca of the expansion cone to engage and thereby radiaiiy expand and plastically deform the tapered tubular portion 42bad and second lubular portion 42bac of the tubular launcher 42ba. in an exemplary embodiment, continued injection of the fluidse materials into the chamber 42baa wit! then further displace the expansion cone 42bc In a longitudinal direction thereby causing the expansion cone to radiaiiy expand and plastically deform one or more of the pipe sections 36.

Referring to Figs. IB and 18a, in an exemplary embodiment, continued injection of the fiuidic materials into the chapter 42baa wiii then further displace the expansion cone 42bc thereby causing the expansion cone to radially expand and plastically deform all of the pφe sections 36 positioned

within the pipeline 10, in an exemplary embodiment, each pipe section 36 is expanded into contact with the surrounding portion of the pipeline 10. \n an exemplary embodiment, at feast a portion or the surrounding pipeline 10 is radially expanded and eiasticaiiy and/or plastically deformed by the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the pipe sections 36, In an exemplary embodiment the tsάlal expansion and plsstic deformation of ϊhe pipe sections 36 into engagement with the pipeline 10 results in s resulting pipeline assembly, including the combination of the pipeline and the radially expanded and plastically deformed pipe sections, having a capacity to convey fluidsc materials such as, for example, natural gas and/or fuel oil. Bϊ increased operating pressures and/or flow rates versus the pipeline 10 by itself. In thss manner, the present exemplary embodiments provide a methodology for up-rating preexisting underground pipelines to convey fiuidic materials at increased flow rates and/or operating pressures, in an exemplary embodiment, the up-rating of the pipeline 10 may be provided with or without any radial deformation of the pipeline.

Referring to Figs. 19 and 20, in an exemplary embodiment, after ail of the pipe sections 36 positioned within the pipeline 10 have been radiaϋy expanded and plastically deformed, the expansion cone 42bc may be removed from the pipe sections, the expansion system 42 may be decoupled from the pipe sections 36 and removed from the trench 16a, an end plate 44 may be coupled to a radially expanded end of a pipe section 36 within the trench 16b, and an end pføte 46 that defines s longitudinal passage 4Q@ may be coupled to a radially expanded αnύ of a pipe section within the trβncn ISa.

Sn ar\ exemplary embodiment, an outlet of a pump 48 that is operabiy coupisd to the controller 30 may then be operabiy coupled to the passage 48a of the end plate 46. in an exemplary embodiment, the pump 48 may then be operated to inject fiuidic materials into the pipe sections 36 Io thereby pressurize the pspe sections, in an exemplary embodiment, during iftG pressurizaiioπ of She inteπor of the pipe sections 36, the operating pressure is monitored by the controller 30 to thereby determine the Integrity and condition of the pipe sections.

Referring to Figs. 21 and 22, after completing the pressure testing of the pipe sections 36, the end plates, 46 and 48, may ^e removed from the ends of the corresponding pipe sections. in an exemplary embodiment, after removing the end plates, 46 and 48. from the ends of the corresponding pipe sections, trans itlonary pipe sections, 50a and 50b. may be snsialieti in a conventional manner between the ends of the radially expanded and plastically deformed ends of the pipe sections 36 and the open ends, 10b and 10c, respectively, of the pipeline 10. As a result, fiuidic materials may then be transported through the pipeline 10, radially expanded pipe sections 36, and lhe transitϊonary pspe sections, 50a and 50b. Referring to Figs. 23 and 24, In an exemplary embodiment, after installing the transitionary pipe sections, 50a and 50b, the trenches, 16a and 16b, may be filled with earthen material thereby burying the radially expanded pipe sections 36 and the transitionary pspe sections, SOe and 50b, within the respective trenches beneath the surface 14 of the Earth.

Thus, the operational steps of Figs. 1-24 result in a methodology for repairing the pipeline 10. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the pipe sections 36 may be fabricated from other materials such as. for example, plastics and/or composite materials and the apparatus 34 may be

modified using combinations of conventional joining systems for joining metallic, plastic and/or composite materials to one another, in an exemplary embodiment, one or more portions of ihe pipeline 10 may be uncovered and then pipe sections 36 may be inserted into the pipeline and processed using one of more of the operational steps of ϊh® method of Figs. 1-24,

Referring to Figs. 25a and 25b, in an exemplary embodiment, pipe sections 2500 that include a corrugated cross section 2500a may be employed in place of, or in addition to, one or more of the pipe sections 36 in the method of Figs. 1-24 above. In an exemplary embodiment, the expansion forces required to radially expand the pipe sections 2500 may be substantially less than the expansion forces required to radially expand the pipe sections 36. Thus, use of the pipe section 2500 in the method of Figs- '-24 above may result in reduced overail expansion forces and thereby may save time and money

Referring to Fig. 26, in an exemplary embodiment, in the method of Figs. 1-24 above, one or more portions of one or more of the pipe sections 36 may not be radtaϋy expanded and plastically deformed. In addition, referring to Fig. 26, in an exemplary embodiment, in the method of Figs. 1-24 above, one or more portions of one or more of the pipe sections 36 may not be radially expanded and plastically deformed Into engagement with the surrounding portions of the pipeline 10

Referring to Figs. 2? and 27a. in an exemplary embodiment, pipe sections 2700 that include one or more outer seeling layers 2700a may be employed in place of, or in addition to, one or more of the pipe sections 36 In the method of Figs. 1-24 above. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the outer sealing layers 2700s may, for example, seal the Interface between the pipe section 2700 and the corresponding outer portion of the pipeline 10. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the outer sealing layers 2700a may, for example, provide cathodic protection of the pipe section 2700 and/or the corresponding outer portion of the pipeline 10. In an exemplary embodiment, following the radlsi expansion and piastic deformation of the pipe sections 36 within the pipeline 10, at least a portion of the one or more of the pipe sections form a metal to meiai seal vvsth at least a portion of the pipeline.

Referring to Fig. 28, m an exemplary embodiment, an expansion device 2800 may be used m the method of Figs. 1-24 above that is substantially identical to the expansion device 42b with the exception of the use of an adjustable expansion device 2802 instead of the expansion cone 42 be. in an exemplary embodiment, the adjustable expansion device 2802 is a conventional adjustable expansion device and/or one or more of the adjustable expansion devices included in one or more of the applications and patents incorporated by reference into the present application

Refernng to Fig. 29, In an exemplary embodiment, an expansion device 2900 may be used sn the method of Rgs. 1-24 above that :s substantially identical to the expansion device 42b with the exception of the use of an adjustable expansion device 2902 and a fixed expansion αevice 2904 instead of the expansion cone 42bc. in an exemplary embodiment, the adjustable expansion device 2902 is a conventional adjustable expansion device and/or one or more of the adjustable expansion devices included In one or more of the applications and patents incorporated by reference Into the present application. In an exemplary embodiment, the fixed expansion device 2904 is a conventional

adjustable expansion device and/or one or more of the adjustable expansion devices included In one or more of the applications and patents incorporated by reference into the present application.

Referring to Fig. 30, in an exemplary embodiment, an expansion device 3000 may be used in the method of Figs. 1-24 that includes a gripper 3002 for controiiaDiy gripping an interior surface of the pipe sections 38 that is coupled to an end of an actuator 3004. in an exemplary embodiment, another end of the actuator 3004 is coupied to an expansion device 3006.

In an exemplary embodiment, during operation of the expansion device 3000, the gripper 3002 engages the interna! surfaces of a radiaiiy expanded and plasticaliy deformed pipe section 36 and the actuator 3004 operates to displace the expansion device 3006 in a longitudinal direction away from the gripper thereby radiaiiy expanding and piasticaiiy deforming the pips section 36. In an exemplary embodiment, the gripper 3002 is a conventional gripping device and/or one or more of the gripping devices included in one or more of the applications and patents incorporated by reference into the present application. In an exeropiary embodiment, the actuator 3004 is a conventional actuator and/or one or more of the actuators included in one or more of the applications end patents incorporated by reference into the present application, in an exemplary embodiment, the expansion device 3006 is a conventional expansion device and/or one or more of the expansion devices included in one or more of the applications and patents incorporated by reference into the present application.

Referring to Fie. 31 , in an exemplary embodiment, an expansion device 3100 may be used in the method of Figs. 1-24 that includes an expansion device 3102, an actuator 3104, and a gripper 3106.

!n an exemplary embodiment during operation of the expansion device 3100, ifce gripper 3108 engsgss the internal surfaces of a pipe section 3δ and the actuator 3104 operates fs displace the expansion device 3102 in a longitudinal towards from the gripper thereby radiaiiy expanding and piasticaiiy deforming the pipe section 35. in an exemplary embodiment, the expansion device 3102 is a conventional expansion device and/or one or more of the expansion devices included in one or more of the applications and patents incorporated by reference into the present application, in an exemplary embodiment, the actuator 3104 is a conventional actuator and/or one or more of the actuators included in one or more of ths applications and patents incorporated Oy reference into the present application, in an exemplary embodiment, the gnpper 3106 is a conventional gripping devsce and/or one or more of the gripping devices included In one or more of the applications and patents Incorporated by reference into the present application.

Referring to Fig. 32, in an exempiary embodiment, an expansion device 3200 may be used in the method of Figs. 1 -24 above that is substantially identical to the expansion device 42b with the exception of She use of a compliant expansion device 3202 instead of the expansion cone 42bc, In an exemplary embodiment, i'ne corophant expansion device 3202 is a conventional compliant expansion device and/or one or more of the adjustable expansion devices included in one or more of the applications and patents incorporated by reference into the present application.

Referring to Fig. 33, m an exemplary embodiment, an expansion devsce 3300 may be used in the method of Figs. 1-24 that includes a tractor 3302 and an expansion device 3304.

In an exemplary embodiment, during operation of the expansion device 3300, the tractor 3302 drives along the interior of the pipe sections 36, As a result, the expansion device 3304 coupled to the tractor 3302 is pushed by the tractor within the pipe sections in a longitudinal direction thereby radially expanding sod plastically deforming the pipe section 36. in an exemplary embodiment, the tractor 3302 is a conventions! tractor and/or one or more of the tractors included in one or more of the applications and patents incorporated by reference into the present application. In an exemplary embodiment, the expansion device 3304 is a conventional expansion device and/or one or more of the expansion devices included sn one or more of the applications and patents incorporated Dy reference into the present application. Referring to Rg. 34 _: in an exemplary embodiment, an expansion device 3400 may be used in the method of Figs. 1-24 that includes an expansion device 3402 and a tractor 3404.

In an exemplary embodiment, during operation of the expansion device 3400, the tractor 3402 drives along the interior of the pipe sections 36. As a result, the expansion device 3402 coupled to the tractor 3404 Is pulled by the tractor within the pipe sections in a longitudinal direction thereby racially expanding and piasticaiSy deforming the pipe section 36. in an exemplary embodiment, the expansion device 3402 is s conventional expansion device sπd/or one or more of the- expansion devices included in one or more of the applications and patents incorporated by reference into the present application, in an exemplary embodiment, the tractor 3404 is a conventional tractor and/or one or more of the tractors iπciuded in one or more of the applications and patents incorporated by reference into the present application.

Referring to Fig. 35, in an exemplary embodiment, an expansion device 3500 may be used in the method of Fsgs. 1-24 that includes a pump 3502 and an expansion device 3504, in an exemplary embodiment, dυπng operation of the expansion device 3500, the interior portion of the pipe section 36 is at least partially filled with a fiuidic materia* and the pump 3502 is operated to discharge fiuidie materials in a longitudinal direction sway from the pump, As a result, the expansion devsce 3504 coupled fc the pump 3502 is pushed through the pipe section 36 in 3 iσrjgsiudinai direction thereby radially expanding and plastically deforming the pipe section 36. In an exemplary embodiment, the expansion device 3504 is a conventional pump and/or one or more of the expansion devices included in one or more of the applications and patents incorporated by reference into the present application.

Referring to Figs. 38a and 36b, in an exemplary embodiment, an expansion device 3600 may be used in the method of Figs. 1 -24 that includes a vibration device 3602 coupled to an expansion device 3604.

In sn exemplary embodiment, during operation of the expansion device 3600; the vibration device 3802 is operated while the expansion device 3604 is displaced in a longitudinal direction within the pipe sections 36. As a result, the expansion device 3604 radially expands and plastically deforms the pipe section 36. Furthermore, in an exemplar/ embodiment, the expansion device 3604 also radially expands and piastscaliy deforms defects 3704 within the pipeline 10 such as, for example, collapsed portions of the pipeline, in an exemplary embodiment, the vibration device 3602 is a conventional vibration device and/or one or more of the vibration devices included in one or more of the applications and patents incorporated by reference into the present application, in an exemplary

embodiment, the expansion device 3604 is a conventional expansion device and/or one or mors of the expansion devices induced in one or more of the applications and patents incorporated by reference into the present application.

Referring to Figs. 3?a anύ 37b, in an exemplary embodiment, an expansion device 3700 may be used in the method of Figs, 1-24 the! includes a controller 3702 coupled to a rotary expansion device 3704.

In an exemplary embodiment, during operation of the expansion device 3700. the controller 3702 is operated to rotate and longitudinally displace the rotary expansion device 3704 within the pipe sections 36. As a result, the rotary expansion device 3704 radially expands and plastically deforms the pipe section 36, Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment, the expansion device 3704 also radially expands and plastically deforms defects 3706 within the pipeline 10 such as. for example, collapsed portions of the pipeline. In an exemplary embodiment, the controller 3702 is a conventional controller and/or one or more of the controller devices included in one or more of the applications and patents incorporated by reference into the present application. !π an exemplary embodiment, the rotary expansion device 3704 is a conventional expansion device and/or one or more of the rotary expansion devices included in one or more of the applications and patents incorporated by reference into the present application.

Referring to Fig. 38, sn an exemplary embodiment of an actuator 3800 is substantially Identical to the actuator 34d with the addition of a vibration source 3802 that is operabiy coupled to the gripper 34da. in sn exemplary embodiment, the actuator 3800 may be substituted for, or used in addition to, the actuator 34d in the method of Figs. 1 -24 described above. In an exemplary embodiment, during ϊhe operation of the actuator 3800, the vibration source 3802 injects vibratory energy Into the pipe sections 38 thereby reducing the level of contact friction between the pipe sections and the pipeline 10. Referring to Fig 39, in an exempfary embodiment of an actuator 3900 is substantially identical to the actuator 34d with the substitution of an actuator 3902 that may impart longitudinal and rotational displacement to the pipe sections 38. In an exemplary embodiment, the actuator 3900 may fos substituted for. or used in addition to, the actuator 34d in the method of Figs. 1-24 describees above, in an exemplary embodiment, during the operation of the actuator 3900, the actuator 3902 smparts longitudinal and rotational displacement to the pipe sections 36 thereby reducing the level of contact friction between the pipe sections and the pipeline 10,

Referring to Figs. 40, 40a, 40b, and 40c, in an exemplary embodiment, during operation of the method of Figs. 1-24 described above, the interface between the pipe sections 38 and the pipeline 10 is filled with one or more of the following: a) s fluidic material 4002, b) a spider support 4004, and/or c) a dissolvable beanng materia; 4006. in en exemplary embodiment, use of the fluidic rnateπai 4002 within the interface between the pipe sections 36 and the pipeline 10, permits the pipe sections to be floated through the pipeline thereby reducing contact friction between the pipe sections and the pipeline, in an exemplary embodiment, once the pipe sections 36 are positioned to their desired finaf positions, the fluidic rnateπai 4002 may be drained out of the interior of the pipeline 10.

In an exemplary embodiment, the spider support 4006 includes bearing surfaces for supporting the pipe sections 36 away from the interior surface of the pipeline 10. in this manner, contact friction between trie pipe sections 36 and the pipeline 10 may be reduced, in an exemplary embodiment, the spider support 4004 may be, for example, a conventional spider support structure. in an exemplary embodiment, once the pipe sections 36 are positioned Io their desired final positions, the spider support 4006 may be removed from the interior of the pipeline 10.

In an exemplary embodiment, the bearing material 4008 provides bearing surfaces for supporting the pipe sections 36 away from the interior surface of the pipeline 10. In this manner, contact friction between the pipe sections 36 and the pipefine 10 may be reduced, in an exemplary embodiment, the bearing materia! 4008 may be, for example, a dissolvable bearing materia! such as ice

Referring to fig. 41 , in an exemplary embodiment, during operation of the method of Figs. 1- 24 described above, one or more of the pipe sections 36d may be bent about a radius of curvature R wh tie being positioned within the pipefine 10, prior to be being radially expanded and plastically deformed, in an exemplar/ embodiment the bending of the pipe section 3δd results in a plastic deformation of the pipe section 36b.

In an exemplary experimental embodiment pipe sections 36σ were bent about a radius and then radially expanded and plastically deformed without any failure of the pipe section. This was an unexpected result. Referring to Figs. 42a axvJ 43b, m an exemplary embodiment, during operation of the method of Figs. 1 -24 described above, a sfvfert pig 4200 may be pumped through the pipeline 10 prior to placing the pipe sections 36 within the pipeline in order to inspect the pipeline

In particular, as illustrated in Fig. 42a. the pig 4200 may be inserted Into an end of the pipe sections 36 that extend into the trench 1Sa and an mid plate 4202 that defines a passage 4202a coupled the end of the pipe sections. A pump 4204. mounted upon a support member 4206. may then be positioned within the trench 16a and the outlet of the pump operably coupled to the passage 4202a of the end plate 4202. The pump 4204, under the control of the controller 30, may then be operated to displace the pig 4200 through the pipeline 10,

In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIg. 42b. the pig 4200 Includes an inspection tool 4200a and a pipe preparation tool 4200b. In an exemplary embodiment, during operation of the pig 4200, under the control of the controller 3O ₁ the inspection tool 4200a inspects the pipeline 10 and the preparation tool 4200b prepares the interior surface of the pipeline for subsequent insertion of the pipe sections 38. In an exemplary embodiment, the inspection tool 4200a may include a conventional pipe inspection tool and the pipe preparation tool 4200b may inεiυde a conventional pipe preparation tool.

Referring to Figs. 43a, 43b, 43c, and 43d, an exemplary embodiment of a pspe repair tool 4300 includes a tractor 4300a, an expansion device 4300b, and an inspection too! 4300c. in an exemplary embodiment, tne treotor 4300a Is adapted to move the too, ⁵ 4300 through the Interior of the pipeline 10 and may, for example, include a conventional tractor ctevjce. in an exemplary embodiment, the expansion device 4300b includes a tubular liner 4300ba and is adapted to radsauy expand -arid plastically deform the tubular liner 4300ba into engagement with a portion of the pipeline

10. In an exemplary embodiment, the inspection too! 4300c is adapted to inspect the pipeline 10 and locate defects 4302 in the pipeline.

Sn an exemplary embodiment, during operation of the too! 4300, under the control of the cαntroifer 30, the tractor 4300a moves the too! through iϊiθ pipeline 10. While the tool 4300 is moved through the pipeline 10, the inspection too! 4300c identifies and locates defects 4302 In the pipeline.

The expansion tool 4300b is then positioned proximate the located defects 4302 and is operated to radially expand and plastically deform the tubular iiner 4300ba into engagement with the pipeline 10 in opposing relation to the defect. !n this manner, defects 4302 within the pipeline 10 may be repaired. Referring to Fig. 44, in an exemplary embodiment, during operation of the method of Figs. 1- 24 described above, one or more of the pipe sections 36 may include an interior coating 4400 of a lubricating materia! in order to reduce the required expansion forces during the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the pipe sections.

Referring to Figs, 45a. 45b, 45c, and 45d, In an exemplary embodiment, during operation of the method of Figs. 1-24 described above, after the pipe sections 38 are positioned within the pipeline 10, an end cap 4500 that defines a passage 4500a ts coupled to an end of the pipe sections within the trench 16a anύ an erx! cap 4502 Is coupled to &(\ end of the pipe sections within the trench 18b, An outlet of a pump 4504 Is then operabiy coupled to the passage 4500a of the end cap 4500. in an exemplary embodiment, the pump 4504, under the control of the controller 30, is then operated to pressurize the interior 38c of the pipe sections 36 and thereby hydroform the pipe section thereby radisify expanding and plastically deforming the pipe sections into engagement with the pipeline 10.

Referring to Figs. 46a , 46b, 48c, and 46d, in an exemplary embodiment, during operation of the method of Figs. 1 -24 described above, after the pipe sections SS are positioned within the pipeline

10, a conventional explosive device 4600 is positioned within the interior 36c of the pipe sections. End caps 4602 end 4604 are then coupled to the opposing ends of the pipe sections 38 within the trenches, 1Sa and 16b, respectively. in an exemplary embodiment, the explosive device 4600, under the control of the controller

30, is then detonated within the interior 36c of the pipe sections 36 and thereby radially expands and piastlcaϋy deforms the pipe sections info engagement with the pipeline 10. Referring Fsgs. 47, in an exemplary embodiment, during operation of the method of Figs. 1-24 described above, during the redial expansion and piastic deformation of th-e pipe sections 36, at least one pipe section 3δe within the trench 16b is adapted to provide an indication of the radial expansion and piastic deformation of pipe sections within the trench 16b. In an exemplary embodiment, the indication may be a visual indication and/or a pressure indication. For example, the pipe section 36e may be coated with a stress sensitive coating that changes color when strained. For example, the pipe section 38e may include one or more perforations such that a noticeable pressure drop may be observed wiien the pipe section 36 is radially expanded and plastically deformed.

Referring Fig. 4B ₁ In an exemplary embodiment during operation of the method of Figs. 1-24 described above, dunng ϊhe insertion of the pipe sections 36 into the pipeline, an end plate 4800 is coupled to an end of the pipe sections 36 and outlet of a pump 4800, under the control of the controller 30, is operabfy directed into an open end of an end most one of the pipe sections extending

into the trench 16a. In this manner, the fluid pressure directed into the open end of the end most of the pφe sections 38 within the trench ISa times the pipe sections into the pipeline 10.

Referring Fig, 49, in an exemplary embodiment, during operation of the method of Figs. 1 -24 described above, during the Insertion of the pipe sections 36 into the pipeline, an end of a conventional tractor 490G, under the control of the controller 30, is coupled to an enά of the pipe sections 38 operated to puii the pipe sections through the interior of the pipeline 10.

Referring Fig. 50, m an exemplary embodiment, during operation of the method of Figs. 1 -24 described above, at least a portion of the pipeline 10 ss iined with a plurality of pipe sections, 5002 and 5004, that are substantially identical to the pipe sections 36. in this manner, the pipeline 10 may be lined with a multi-layer liner whose collapse strength may thereby be adjusted by varying the number and type of liners installed within the pipeline. in an exemplary embodiment, the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the pipe sections 5002 and 5004 into engagement with the pipeline 10 results in a resulting pipeline assembly, including the combination of the pipeline and the radially expanded and plastically deformed pipe sections, having a capacity to convey fluidic materials such as, For example, natural gas and/or fuel OiL at increased operating pressures and/or flow rates versus the pipeline 10 by itself, in this manner, the present exemplary embodiments provide a methodology for up-rating preexisting underground pipelines to convey fiuidic materials at increased How rates and/or operating pressures. In an exemplary embodiment, the up-rating of the pipeline 10 may be provided with or without any radisi deformation of the pipeline.

Referring Rg. 51 , in an exemplary embodiment, during operation of the method of Figs. 1-24 described above, a coiiec! tubing 5100 may be installed in the pipeline 10 using a conventional pipe reel 5102 under the controi of the controller 30. In this manner, a seamless liner may be used and thereby the need to weld together pipe sections may be eliminated. in an exemplary embodiment, the tubing 5100 may be fabricated from one or more of the following: metallic materials, non-metallic materials, plastics, composites, ceramics, porous materials, non-porous materials, perforated materials, non-perforated materials, and/or hardenabie fiuidic materials.

Referring Fig. 52. in sn exemplary embodiment, dunng operation of the method of Figs. 1-24 described above, a heater 5200 may be operated by the controller 30 to heat the pipeline 10 during the radial expansion anά plastic deformation of the pipe sections 38, in an exemplary embodiment, upon the completion of the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the pipe sections 36, the operation of the heater 5200 may be stopped by the controller 30. As a result, during the radial expansion and piastic deformation of the pipe sections 36, the heated pipeline 10 wili radially expand in size. Following the completion of the radial expansion and piastic deformation of the pipe sections 3S ₁ tne pipeline 10 will then cool and thereby shrink. As a result, the joint between the pipeline 10 and the radially expanded and plastically deformed pipe sections 36 will be an interference fit. in an exemplary embodiment, more generally, energy such as, for example, thermal energy, acoustic energy, or electrical energy may be injected into the pipeline 10 and/or the pipe sections 36 during ihe radial expansion and plastic deformation of the pipe sections in order to facilitate the radsai expansion of the pipeline. In this manner, in an exemplary embodiment, an interference fit may be

formed between the pipeline 10 and the pipe sections 38 such that the pipeline remaining in circumferential tension and the pipe sections remain in circumferential compression following the completion of the radial expansion process. in an exemplar),' embodiment, the injection of the energy into the pipeline 10 may also facilitate the rupture of the pipeline during the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the pipe sections 36. In this manner, the amount of energy required to radially expand and plastically deform the pip© sections 38 may be reduced.

Referring Fig. 53 _» in an exemplary embodiment, during operation of the method of Figs. 1-24 described above, the pipe sections 38 may be radiaiiy expanded at both ends.

Referring to Fig, 54, in an exemplary embodiment during operation of the method of Figs. 1 - 24 described above, portions of the pipeline 10 between the trenches 16a and 18b is also radiaiiy expanded, in an exemplary embodiment, the inside diameter of the radiaiiy expanded pipe sections 36 is substantially equal to the inside diameter of the portions, 10b and 1 Oe, of the pipeline 10. In this manner, the cross sectional area of the pipeline 10 following the repair Is substantially squai to the cross sectional area of the pipeline prior to the repair.

In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the pipe sections, 36 and/or 5100, may include perforations. in an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the pipe sections, 38 and/or 5100, may include spirally wound elements.

In an exemplary experimental embodiment, as illustrated in Fig, 55, three-dimensional ("3D") finite element analyses ("FEA") using a conventional FEA software program, that was predicative of actual experimental results, was performed using a model 5500 in which a tubular member 5502 was: 1} inserted into an outer tubular member 5504 having 3 bend radius 5505; and then 2} the tubular member 5502 was radially expanded and plastically deformed within the outer tubular member 6504. by disp lacing a solid expaπs on cone through the tubular member I ~<SQ2 using fluid pressure that generated the following tab a far results for model cases 5500A, 55008, 5500C, SSOOO ₁ and 5500E:

Case 5500A was the base case which simulated actual laboratory testing conditions. For case SSOOA, the wail thickness of the tubular member 5500 was 0.307". Due to the higher friction coefficients used in case 55D0A, the predicted expansion forces and pressures were much higher than the laboratory test results.

Case 55008 was substantially Identical to case 5500A except that the coefficient of friction between the expansion cone and the tubular member 5502 was reduced from 0,13 to G.07. Case 5500B had lower friction coefficients than case 5500A, And, as expected, the expansion pressure and forces for case 5500B were much lower than for case S500A. The laboratory test had an expansion pressure of 2030 psi compared to 2600 psi for case 5500B. The higher predicted pressure for case 55008 was afso due to the addition of an outer layer of a subterranean formation that was simulated In case 55008 that added a restraining condition to the outer tubular member 5504 tn case 55008.

Case 5500C was substantially identical to case 5500A except that the diametrical clearance between the tubular members, 5500 and 5502, was reduced -and the percentage of the radial expansion of the tubular member 6500 was reduced from 20% to 15%. Because case 5500C had a smaller diametrical clearance between the inner tubular member 5502 and the outer tubular member 5504, the possible percentage radial expansion ratio for the inner tubular member 5502 was lower The expansion pressures and forces were also lower than for case 5500A. Case 5500D was suostantialiy identical to case 5500A, except that the bend radtus 5506 of the tubular member 5504 was increased from 20 degrees to 30 degrees. Note that the expansion pressure anά force for case 5500D was substantially the same as for case 5500A. This experimental result Indicated that the dimension of the bend radius 5506 had no effect on the expansion pressure. Tiiis was an unexpected result. Case 5500E was substantially identical to case 5500A, except that the wall thickness of the tubular member 5502 was increased from 0.307" to 0.625". Case 55G0E had the highest insertion force and expansion pressure due to the thick waϋ thickness of the tubular member 5502.

Further graphics! results for cases 5500A ₁ 5500B, 5500C, 5500D, and 5500ξ are presented in Figs. 56 and 57. Note that the expansion force for case 5500D was substantially the sarrse as for case 5500A. This experimental result indicated that the dimension of the bend radius 5508 had no effect on the expansion pressure. This was an unexpected result.

Based upon the experimental results for cases 5500.A, 5500B, 5500C, 5500D, and 5500E, the following observations can be made: the bend radius 5508 has an effect on the insertion force but does not affect the expansion force or pressure. This was an unexpected resuiL Furthermore, this indicates that the systems of the present illustrative embodiments may be operated to radisHy expand a given tubular member positioned within an outer tubular member using substantially constant expansion forces and/or pressures for any bend radius or combination of bend radiuses of the outer tubular member. In addition, the unexpected exemplary experimental results further indicated that the radial expansion and piasϊlc deformation of the pipe section 38 within 3 pipeline 10 having one or more bend radiuses was both feasible and commercially viable.

In an exemplary experimental embodiment, three-dimensional ("3D") finite element analyses ("FEA") using a conventional FEA software program, thai was predicative of actual experimental results, were performed using models 5800A and 5800B, each having an inner tubular member 5802 and an outer tubular member 5804 having the following properties:

In a model 5800A, as illustrated in FIg. 58a. the inner tubular member 5802 was inserted into the outer tubular member 5804 In which the outer tubular member 5804 did not include any bend radius. in model 5600B. as illustrated in Fig. 58b, the inner tubular member 5802 was inserted into the outer tubular member 5804 in which the outer tubular member 5804 incSudeti a curved portion 58G4a. in the model 5SOOB ₁ as illustrated in Fig. 58c, the curved portion 5804a of the outer tubuiar roember 5804 was approximately parabolic and includes a maximum radius of curvature of about 20

in an εxempisry embodiment, the modes 5800A was experimentally tested with the following ri r lt

In an exemplary embodiment, the model 58008 was experimentally tested with the following variations, which resulted in the following experiments! results;

As the exemplary jest results above for models, 5800A and 5800B, indicate, lowering the coefficient of fncfion between the inner and outer tυbuiars. 5802 and 5804, respectively, reduced the required insertion forces, floating the inner tubular member 5802 using a fiuidic materia; during the insertion unexpectedly significantly reduced the required insertion forces, and reducing the wall thickness of the inner tubular member 5802, which effectively increased the diametrical clearance between the jπner ana outer tubuisrs. 5802 and 5804, respectively, reduced the required insertion forces.

Referring to Figs, 69a, 59b, and 59c, in an exemplary embodiment, one or more of th® pipe sections 36 are positioned within the pipeline 10 and radially expanded and plastically deformed until they have an interior diameter SDi ■ One or more of the pipe sections 36 may then be further radiaϊiy expanded and pissticaliy deformed until they have an interior diameter iθ ₌ , where SD _; , _: is greater than iD-i. In an exemplary embodiment, the number of repeated radial expansion and piastre deformations of the pipe sections 36 may be greater than or eςusi to 2. in an exemplary experimental embodiment, as illustrated in Figs. 80a and 60&, a pipe section 35 was positioned within a pipeline 10, end then the pipe section and lhe pipeline were both radially expanded and plastically deformed Dy displacing an expansion device 600G through the pipe section and the pipeline. In the exemplary experimental embodiment, the pipe section 38 and the pϊpehne 10 were both radially expanded and plastically deformed wsth the increase in the internal diameters ranging from about 29.8% to about 35.3%, for the pipe section 36, end from about 12.1% to about 12.9%. for the pipeline 10. These were unexpected results.

In a further exemplary experimental embodiment, in which ύie expansion device 6000 was displaced using fluid pressure, the pipe section 36 and the pipeline ' 0 were both radially expanded snd plastically deformed with the increase sn the interna! diameter for the pipe section 36 equal to sboiit 29.4%, These were unexpected results. in a further exemplary experimental embodiment, in which the pipeline 10 had a bertd radius of about 20 degrees and the expansion device 6000 was displaced using fluid pressure, the pipe section 36 and the pipeline 10 were both radially expanded and plastically deformed with the increase in lhe interna! diameter for the pipe section 38 equai to about 21.2% and the increase in ^[ he internal diameter of ths pipeline equai to about 5.1 %. The expansion pressure while radially expanding and plastically deforming the pipe section 36 and the- pipeline i 0 through the bent portion of the pipeline was oniy about 2.7% higher than the expansion pressure while radially expanding and plastically deforming the pipe section 36 and the pipeline 10 through the non-bent portions of the pipeline. This extremely small variation in the expansion pressure was an unexpected result. in an exemplary experimental embodiment, as Illustrated in Fig. 61 , a pipe section 36 having an outer coating 8100 was radially expanded and plastically deformed by displacing an expansion device 6102 through the pipe section, Sn several exemplary experimental embodiments, the outer costing 8100 was: a) Kersten coating Teflon; b} Kersten coating Hslar; c) Kersien coating Rllaπ: d) Akzo Nobei Resicoat R5-726LD; e} Akzo Nobel Resicoat 500620; f) Akzo Nobei Resicoat 500644; g) Akzo Nobel Resicoat R5-105; h) Akzo Nobel Resicoat R655S; i} Akzo Nobel Resicoat 500536; or j) galvanized coating. In an exemplary experimental embodiment, following the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the pipe section 36, by up to about 2?.5%, the following coatings 6100 maintained their bond to the exterior surface of the pipe section 36: s) Kersten coating Teflon; b) Kersten coating Haiar; and c) Kersten coating Rilan.. These were unexpected results. Furthermore, these unexpected exemplary experimental results demonstrated that using an abrsdabie coating, which may provided lubrication and/or corrosion resistance, on the exterior surfaces of the pipe sections 36 was both feasible anύ commercially viable in en exemplary experimental embodiment, as illustrated in Fig, 62, pipe sections, 6202, 6204 and 8206, were manufactured having adjacent pipes coupled together by welded connections, 6202a, 6204a, and 620δa _< respectively. In the exemplary experimental embodiment, sach of the welded connections, 6202a. 8204a. snd 8206a, include one or more defects, in particular, the weided connection 6202a was a butt weld that included s circumferential cut in the weld over a circumferential angle of 15 degrees, the welded connection 6204a induced poor penetration of the welding material and s gap, snd the welded connection 6208a included poor penetration or the welding material without a gap. in an exemplary experimental embodiment, ϊhe welded connections 6202a, 6204a. and

6206a were radially expanded and plastically deformed Py up to about 29.6%. in an exemplary embodiment, the radially expanded and plastically deformed welded connections, 8204a and 6206a, did not exhibit any failure due to the radial expansion and plastic deformation. Thts was an unexpected result. Furthermore, these unexpected exemplary experimental results demonstrated that rachaliy expanding pipe sections 36 and/or a pipeline 10 having possibly inferior welded connections

was both feasible and commercially viable. This was extremely important, particularly with respect to older pipelines 10 which may be of uncertain quality.

A method of repairing a damaged portion of an underground pipeline between first and second portions of the pipeline, the pipeline positioned within a subterranean formation below the surface of the earth has been described that includes: uncovering the first and second portions of the pipeline; removing portions of the first and second uncovered portions of Vne pipeline to permit access to the interior of the pipeline at the first and second access points within the pipeline; coupling pipe sections end to end; positioning the coupled pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline; coupling an expansion device to the coupled pipe sections; and radially expanding and plastically deforming the coupled pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline, in an exemplary embodiment, coupling pipe sections end to end comprises welding pipe sections enά to end. in an exemplary embodiment, coupling pipe sections end to end comprises: heat treating the ends of the pipe sections. In an exemplary embodiment, coupling pipe sections end to end comprises: heat treating the ends of the pipe sections before welding, in an exemplary embodiment, coupling pipe sections end to end comprises: heat treating the ends of the pipe sections after welding, in an exemplary embodiment, coupling pipe sections enύ to end comprises: heat treating the ends of ϊhe pipe sections before and after welding, in an exemplary embodiment, coupling pipe sections end to end comprises: coating the exterior surfaces of the pipe sections. In an exemplary" embodiment, coating the exterior surfaces of ins pipe sections comprises: coating the exterior surfaces of the pipe sections with an abradabie coating. In an exemplary embodiment, positioning the cαupied pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises: pushing the coupled pipe sections into the damaged portion of the pipeline, in an exemplary embodiment, positioning the coupled pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises: pulling the coupled pipe sections into the damaged portion of lhe pipeline, in an exemplary embodiment, positioning the coupied pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises: pushing and puϋing the coupied pipe sections into the damaged portion of the pipeline. In an exemplary embodiment, coupling an expansion device to the coupied pipe sections comprises: coupling a fluid powered expansion device to an end of the coupled pipe sections. In an exemplary embodiment, radially expanding and plastically deforming the coupied pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises ^' energizing the expansion device. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the pipe sections comprsse; a tuboiar member having a corrugated cross-section in sn exemplary embodiment, radially expanding and plastically deforming the coupled pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises; radially expanding and piasticaiiy deforming the coupied pipe sections into engagement with the damaged portion of the pipeline. \n an exemplary embodiment, the cross sectional area of lhe radially expanded and piasticaiiy deformed pipe sections are substantially equal to the cross sectional area of the damaged portion of the pipeline prior to radially expanding and piasticaiiy deforming the coupied pipe sections, in an exemplar/ embodiment, one or more of the pipe sections comprise: one or more sealing members coupled to an exterior surface of the pipe sections for engaging the damaged portion of the pipeline, in an exemplary embodiment, the expansion device comprises: a fixed expansion device, in an exemplary embodiment, the expansion device comprises: an adjustable expansion device, in an exemplary embodiment, the expansion

device comprises: a fixed expansion device and an adjustable expansion device, in an exemplary embodiment the expansion device comprises: an expansion device; and an actuator for displacing the expansion device relative to the pipe sections, Sn an exemplary embodiment the actuator comprises: an actuator for pushing the expansion device through the pipe sections, in an exemplary embodiment, the actuator comprises: an actuator for pulling the expansion device through the pipe sections, fn an exemplary embodiment, the actuator comprises: an actuator for rotating the expansion device through the pipe sections, In an exemplary embodiment, positioning the coupled pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises: vibrating the pψe sections. In an exemplary embodiment, positioning the coupled pipe sections λ'ithiπ the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises: plastically deforming the coupled pipe sections within Vnβ damaged portion of the pipeline, in an exemplary embodiment, the expansion device comprises: a source of Vibration proximate the expansion device, in an exemplary embodiment, the expansion device comprises: a rotary expansion device, in an exemplary embodiment, an Inferior surface of one or more of the pipe sections comprises: a lubricant costing, in an exemplary embodiment, radially expanding end plastically deforming the coupled pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises' hydroforming the coupled pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline, in an exemplary embodiment, radially expanding and plastically deforming the coupled pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises: explosively forming the coupled pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline, in an exemplary embodiment, radsaily expanding and plastically deforming the coupled pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises: Indicating an end of the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the coupled pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline, in an exemplary embodiment positioning the coupled pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises: rotating the pips sections, in an exemplary embodiment, positioning the coupled ptpe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises: pulling on an end of the pipe sections using a vehicle positioned within the pipeline, in an exemplary embodiment, positioning the coupled pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises; floating the pipe sections within the pipeline. In an exemplary embodiment, positioning the coupled pipe sections wtthin the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises: carrying the pipe sections on rollers through the pipeline. In an exemplary embodiment, positioning the coupled pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises: carrying the pipe sections on dissolvable rollers through the pipeline.

A method of repairing a damaged portion of an underground pipeline between first and second portions of the pipeline, the pipeline positioned within a subterranean formation below the surface of the earth, has been described that Includes: uncovering the first and second portions of the pipeline; removing portions of the first and second uncovered portions of the pipeline to permit access to the interior of the pipeline at the first anά second access points within the pipeline; heδi treating ends of pipe sections; welding the pipe sections end to end; heat treating the welded ends of ths pipe sections; coating the exterior of the weided pipe sections with an abradabie costing; gripping the pipe sections end pushing the weided pipe sections Into the damaged portion of the pipeline; pαflino the welded pipe sections into the damaged portion of the pipeline; coupling an expansion device to an end of the weided pipe sections: and pressurizing an interior portion of the expansion device to

displace an expansion cone through the welded pipe sections to radially expand and plastically deform the welded pipe sections into engagement with the damaged portion of the pipeline.

A method of repairing a damaged portion of an underground pipeline, the pipeline positioned within a subterranean formation ijβiow the surface or the earth, has been described that includes determining the location of the damaged portion of the underground pipeline; and radially expanding and plastically deforming one or more pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline. In sn exemplary embodiment, radially expanding and plastically deforming one or more pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises: moving an expansion device within the pipeline to a position proximate the damaged portion of the pipeline; and then radially expanding and plastically deforming one or more pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline.

A system for repairing a damaged portion of an underground pipeline between first and second portions of the pipeiine, the pipeline positioned within a subterranean formation below the surface of the earth, has been described that includes means for uncovering the first and second portions of the pipeline: means for removing portions of the first and second uncovered portions of the pspeisne to permit access to the interior of the. pipeline at the first and second access points within the pipeiine; means for coupling pipe sections end to end; means for positioning the coupled pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline; means for coupling an expansion device to the coupled pipe sections; and means for radially expanding and plastically deforming the coupled pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline. In an exemplary embodiment, means for coupling pipe sections end to end comprises; means for welding pipe sections end to end, In an exemplary' embodiment, means for coupling pipe sections end to end comprises: means for heat treating the ends of the pipe sections, in an exemplary embodiment, means for coupling pipe sections end to snd comprises: means for heat treating the ends of the pipe sections before welding. In 'an exemplary embodiment, means for coupling pipe sections end to end comprises: means for heat treating the ends of the pipe sections after welding. Sn en exemplary embodiment means for coupling pipe sections end to end comprises; means for heat treating the ends of the pipe sections before and after welding. In an exemplary embodiment, means for coupling pipe sections end to end comprises; means for coating the exterior surfaces of the pipe sections, in an exemplary embodiment, means for coating &e exterior surfaces of the pipe sections comprises; means for coating the exterior surfaces of the pipe sections with an abradabie coating. In an exemplary embodiment, means for positioning the coupied pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeiine comprises; means for pushing the coupied pipe sections into the damaged portion of the pipeiine. in an exemplary embodiment, means for positioning the coupled pspe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises, means for pulling the coupled pipe sections Into the damaged portion of the pipeline, in an exemplary embodiment, means for positioning the coupled pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises; means for pushing and pulling the coupled pipe sections into the damaged portion of the pipeline, in an exemplary embodiment, means for coupling an expansion device to the coupled pipe sections comprises; means for coupling a fluid powered expansion device to an end of the coupled pipe sections, in an exemplary embodiment, means for ratiiaϊiy expanding and plastically deforming the coupled pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises: means for energizing the expansion device, in an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the pipe sections

compose: a tubular member having a corrugated cross -section, irs an exemplary embodiment, means for radially expanding and plastically deforming the coupied pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises: means for radially expanding and plastically deforming the coupled pipe sections into engagement with the damaged portion of the pipeline, in an exemplary embodiment, the cross sections! area of the radiaiiy expanding and piasticaify deformed pipe sections are substantially equal to the cross sectional area of the damaged portion of the pipeline prior to radiaiiy expanding and plastically deforming the coupied pipe sections, in an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the pipe sections comprise: one or more sealing members coupled to an exterior surface of the pipe sections for engaging the damaged portion of the pipeline, In an exemplary embodiment, the expansion device comprises: a fixed expansion device, in an exemplary embodiment, the expansion device comprises: an adjustable expansion device. In an exemplary embodiment, the expansion device comprises: a fixed expansion device and an adjustable expansion device, in an exemplary embodiment, the expansion device comprises: an expansion device; and an actuator for displacing the expansion device relative to the pipe sections, in an exemplary embodiment, the actuator comprises" an actuator for pushing the expansion device through the pipe sections, in an exemplary embodiment, the actuator comprises: an actuator for pulling the expansion device through the pipe sections. In an exemplary embodiment, the actuator comprises: an actuator for rotating the expansion device through the pipe sections, in an exemplary embodiment, means for positioning the coupled pips sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises: means for vibrating the pipe sections. In an exemplary embodiment, means for positioning the coupled pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises; means for plastically deforming the coupled pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline, in an exemplary embodiment, the expansion device comprises; a source of vibration proximate the expansion device. In an exemplary embodiment, the expansion device comprises: a rotary expansion device, in an exemplary embodiment, an interior surface of one or more of the pipe sections comprises; a lubricant coating, in an exemplary embodiment, means for radially expanding and plastically deforming the coupled pipe sections within ϊhe damaged portion of the pipeline comprises: means for hydroforroing the coupled pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline. Sn an exemplary embodiment, means for radially expanding and plastically deforming the coupled pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises: means for explosively forming the coupied pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline, in an exemplary embodiment, means for radially expanding and plastically deforming the coupled pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises; means for indicating an en<i of the radial expansion and plastic deformation of the coupied pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline. In an exemplar;/ embodiment, means for positioning the coupled pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises: means for rotating lhe pipe sections. In an exemplary embodiment, means for positioning the coupied pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises, means for puiitng on an end of the pipe sections using a vehicle positioned within the pipeline. In an exemplary embodiment, means for positioning the coupied pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises: means for floating the pipe sections within the pipeline, in art exemplary embodiment, means for positioning the coupled pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises: means for carrying the pipe

sections on rollers through the pipeline. in an exemplary embodiment, means for positioning the coupled pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises: means for carrying the pipe sections on dissolvable rollers through the pipeline.

A system for repairing a damaged portion of an underground pipeline between first and second portions of the pipeline, the pipeline positioned within a subterranean formation below the surface of the earth, has been described that includes means for uncovering the first and second portions of the pipeline; means for removing portions of the first and second uncovered portions of the pipeline to permit access to the interior of the pipeline at the first and second access points within the pipeline: means for heat treating ends of pipe sections; means for welding the pipe sections end to end; means for heat treating the welded ends of the pipe sections; means for coating the exterior of the welded pipe sections with an sbradabie coating; means for gripping the pipe sections and pushing the welded pipe sections Into the damaged portion of the pipeline; means for pulling the welded pipe sections into the damaged portion of the pipeline; means for coupling an expansion device to an end of the welded pips sections; and means for pressurizing an interior portion of the expansion device to displace an expansion cone through the welded pipe sections to radially expand and plastically deform the welded pipe sections into engagement with the damaged portion of the pipeline

A system for repairing a damaged portion of an underground pipeline, the pipeline positioned within s subterranean formation below the surface of the earth, has been described that includes means for determining the location of the damaged portion of the underground pipeline; and means for radially expanding and piastscsiiy deforming one or more pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline. In an exemplary embodiment, means for radsaily expanding and plastically deforming one or more pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline comprises: means for moving an expansion device within the pipeline to a position proximate the damaged portion of the pspeisne; and means for then radially expanding and plastically deforming one or more pipe sections within the damaged portion of the pipeline.

An underground pipeline has been described that includes a radiaϋy expanded pipeline; and a radially expanded and plastically deformed tubular liner positioned within and coupled to the pipeiine. In an exemplary embodiment, the pipeiine comprises a first portion that is radially expanded and a second portion that is not radially expanded; and wherein an snside diameter of the iiner is substantially equal to an inside diameter of the second portion of the pipeiine.

A method of joining a second tubυiar member to a first tυhuiar member a pipeiine, the fksi tubular member having an inner diameter greater than an outer diameter of the second tubular member, has been described that Includes positioning an expansion device within an interior region of the second tubular member; pressurizing a portion of the interior region of the second tubular member; and radially expanding and plastically deforming the second tubular member using the expansion device snio engagement with the first tubular member; wherein an interface between the expansion device snό the second tubular member does not include a OuId tight seal.

A method of fluidicly isolating a section of pipeiine tubing has been described that Includes running a length of expandable tubing into pipeline-lined borehole and positioning the expandable tubing across a section of pipeline to be fluid rely isolated; and piasticaiiy deforming at least onα portion of the expandable tubing to Increase the diameter of the portion to sealingiy engage the

pipeline to be fluidicly isolated by displacing an expansion device therethrough in the iongitudina! direction.

An apparatus for expanding a tubular liner in a pipeline has been described that includes a support member; an expansion device coupled to the support member; a tubular liner coupled to the expansion device: and a shoe coupled to the tubular liner, the shoe defining 3 passage; wherein the interface between the expansion device and the tubular liner is not fluid tight.

A system for joining a second tubular member to a first tubuiar member in a pipeline, the first tubular member having an inner diameter greater than an outer dsarrseter of the second tubular member, has bsen described that includes: means for positioning an expansion device within an snterior region of the second tubuiar member; means for pressurizing a portion of the interior region of the second tubular member; and means for radially expanding and plastically deforming the second tubuiar member using the expansion device into engagement with the first tubular member; wherein an interface between tne expansion device and the second tubuiar member does not include a fluid tight seal. A system for fϊuidicSy isolating a section of pipeline tubing has been described thai includes: means for running a length of expandable tubing into pipeline-lined borehoie and positioning the expandabie tubing across a section of pipeline to be fiuidicly isolated: and means for plastically deforming at ieast one portion of the expandable tubing to increase the diameter of the portion to seaisπgly engage the pipeline to be fϊuidiciy isolated by displacing an expansion device therethrough in the longitudinal direction.

Although illustrative embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, a wide range of modification, changes and substitution is contemplated In the foregoing disclosure, in some instances, some features of the present invention may be employed without a corresponding use of the other features. Accordingly, it Is appropriate that ϊhe appended claims be construed broadly and In a manner consistent with the scooe of the invention.