| Patent application number | Description | Published |
|---|
| 20090041545 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR LATERAL PIPE IDENTIFICATION - The method for identifying lateral pipes includes printing identifying indicia on the interior surface of a liner assembly positioned adjacent the lateral pipe. The apparatus includes the liner assembly in place with the identifying indicia visible from the interior of the pipe line. | 02-12-2009 |
| 20090041546 | METHOD OF LOCATING LINER WITHIN SEWER PIPE - A method of inserting a cured in-place pipe from a cleanout includes positioning a lining along a portion of a length of a bladder, wherein the lining is frangibly connected to the bladder, inserting the bladder through the cleanout, to a position wherein the lining is within the pipe and does not block the pipe. | 02-12-2009 |
| 20090056823 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR REPAIRING PIPE - A liner tube is provided for repairing either a single pipe line or a main pipe line having a lateral pipe line connected thereto. The liner tube assembly includes a liner tube impregnated with a liquid material capable of curing and hardening. The liner tube includes a gasket or band positioned about the juncture of the pipe lines. The gasket or bands form a tight seal between the liner tube and the pipe line. | 03-05-2009 |
| 20090095355 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR REPAIRING PIPE - The present invention includes a device and method for reinforcing the portions of an inflation bladder not contained by a liner in pipeline renewal applications. A liner/bladder assembly is provided wherein the liner is positioned relative to the bladder such that a portion of the bladder having a greater wall thickness extends beyond the ends of the liner. The present invention also includes a device and method for repairing the junction of a main pipe and the lateral pipe with bladders reinforced in areas unconstrained by the liners. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090194183 | BLADDER AND METHOD FOR CURED-IN-PLACE PIPE LINING - A fiber reinforced non-stick plastic bladder is provided. The bladder preferably includes a bladder body formed of a fiber reinforcing material layer with a coating on the bladder body made of a thermoplastic. The coating preferably has elastomeric properties and is semi-transparent. Methods of lining pipe using the new bladder are also provided. | 08-06-2009 |
| 20090194184 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR REPAIRING PIPE - The present invention relates to a new liner for repairing a damaged portion of a pipe. A lining tube formed from a non-resin absorbent material has an exterior surface adapted to receive a curable resin and contact an interior wall of the pipe. The present invention also includes a main/lateral liner assembly for repairing the junction between main and lateral pipes using a non-resin absorbent liner for at least a portion of the lining. | 08-06-2009 |
| 20090288726 | METHOD OF LOCATING LINER WITHIN SEWER PIPE - A method of inserting a cured in-place pipe from a cleanout includes positioning a lining along a portion of a length of a bladder, wherein the lining is frangibly connected to the bladder, inserting the bladder through the cleanout, to a position wherein the lining is within the pipe and does not block the pipe. | 11-26-2009 |
| 20100018631 | METHOD OF REPAIRING A MANHOLE CHIMNEY USING A STRETCHABLE SLEEVE - A method of repairing and renewing a manhole chimney utilizes a circumferentially stretchable liner sleeve which is inserted into the manhole and pressed by an inflatable bladder into engagement with the walls of the manhole chimney. The sleeve is coated with an uncured resin, which is allowed to cure as the sleeve is pressed against the chimney walls, thereby attaching the sleeve to the walls of the manhole chimney. The stretchable sleeve eliminates air spaces between the sleeve and the chimney walls, and precludes formation of undesirable folds in the sleeve. The sleeve stretches circumferentially up to 150% of its unstretched diameter, while having a substantially unstretchable length. | 01-28-2010 |
| 20100212766 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR LINING A PIPE - A new apparatus for repairing a damaged portion of a pipe includes a liner having a tubular sleeve of resin absorbent material that is capable of being stretched circumferentially and a plastic film laminated to an exterior surface of the sleeve. The plastic film contains resinous material in the liner until the liner is stretched circumferentially to thereby breech the integrity of the plastic film and expose the resinous material to a damaged section of pipe in need of repair. A method of lining a damaged section of pipe using the liner is also provided. | 08-26-2010 |
| 20100295198 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR LINING A PIPE - An apparatus and method for lining a damaged portion of a pipeline is disclosed. An inverting tubular liner is resin impregnated while in the pipeline in need of repair. An inverting end of the liner is received by a dispensing unit that dispenses resin under pressure to the inverting face of the liner. The liner is then pressed against the damaged section of the pipe until the resinous material cures and hardens. | 11-25-2010 |
| 20100301505 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR LINING A PIPE - An apparatus and a method for forming a lining in a pipe is disclosed. A pumpable material capable of curing is dispensed about an interior wall of a damaged section of pipe between an inflatable bladder and the pipe. The pumpable material is compressed between the bladder and the pipe and allowed to cure. An assembly for forming the lining in the pipe includes a feeding pump, a static mixer, a dispensing unit and a bladder. The pumpable material is preferably dispensed rearward of an inverting face of the bladder and the dispensing unit and the bladder move substantially in sync along the interior of the pipe. | 12-02-2010 |
| 20110038673 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING ACCESS TO A BURIED PIPE - The pipe access device is comprised of a curved plate adapted to engage an underground pipe along an arc of the outer surface of the pipe, and a boss extending upwardly from the curved plate about an aperture in the curved plate. The curved plate extends along an arc of the outer surface of the curved plate that corresponds to a central angle of the pipe less than or equal to 180°. The curved plate includes a concave surface with a radius of curvature less than a radius of curvature of the outer surface of the pipe so as to bias the curved plate against the outer surface of the pipe when the curved plate is flexed to engage the pipe. The pipe access device is for use in providing access to the buried pipe that requires minimal excavation and disruption of the soil. | 02-17-2011 |
| 20110197413 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR LINING A PIPE - A new apparatus for repairing a damaged portion of a pipe includes a liner having a tubular sleeve of resin absorbent material that includes a plastic film laminated to an exterior surface of the sleeve. The plastic film contains resinous material in the liner, and is modified to breech the integrity of the plastic film and expose the resinous material to a junction of a main and lateral pipe. A method of lining a junction of a main and lateral pipe using the liner is also provided. | 08-18-2011 |
| 20110203719 | APPARATUS AND METHOD TO REPAIR THE JUNCTION OF A SEWER MAIN LINE AND LATERAL PIPE - A liner assembly and method for lining a damaged pipe junction between a main and lateral pipe is provided. The liner assembly includes a main liner member and a lateral liner tube. A collar disposed near the juncture between the main liner member and lateral liner tube is impregnated with a liquid hydrophobic or hydrophilic material capable of curing in a flexible or rigid state with the material expanding in the presence of water. The hydrophobic or hydrophilic material can also be applied without the use of the collar. When the liner assembly is pressed against the main and lateral pipes, a portion of the hydrophilic or hydrophobic material is forced into the damaged pipe junction. | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110259461 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR REPAIRING PIPE - A liner tube is provided for repairing either a single pipe line or a main pipe line having a lateral pipe line connected thereto. The liner tube assembly includes a liner tube impregnated with a liquid material capable of curing and hardening. The liner tube includes a gasket or band positioned about the juncture of the pipe lines. The gasket or bands form a tight seal between the liner tube and the pipe line. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110277864 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR REPAIRING PIPE - A liner tube is provided for repairing either a single pipe line or a main pipe line having a lateral pipe line connected thereto. The liner tube assembly includes a liner tube impregnated with a liquid material capable of curing and hardening. The liner tube includes a gasket or band positioned about the juncture of the pipe lines. The gasket or bands form a tight seal between the liner tube and the pipe line. | 11-17-2011 |
| 20110290359 | METHOD FOR CREATING A SEAL BETWEEN PIPE LINERS - A method of providing a seal between pipe liners in a pipe, or at the juncture between a main and lateral pipe is provided. A first liner, which has been impregnated or otherwise coated with a resinous material capable of curing and hardening, is positioned in a pipe about an area in need of repair. A second liner, also including the resinous material, is place in the same pipe, with a portion of the second liner overlapping a portion of the first liner. A sealing member, such as a hydrophilic or hydrophobic band or material, is placed between the two liners at the overlap to seal the connection of the two liners. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110297243 | METHOD AND APPARATUS OF LINING A PIPE - An apparatus and a method for using a bladder in combination with a curable material capable of curing and hardening is disclosed. A curable material capable of curing and hardening is dispensed about an interior wall of a damaged section of a pipe ahead of an inverting end of a bladder. The bladder inverts to push a plate attached to a dispensing unit, pushing the assembly through the pipe, while also compressing the curable material against the interior wall of the pipe. The material is pressed into fractures and the bladder remains inflated until the material cures and hardens, leaving a newly lined pipe. An assembly for forming the lining in the pipe includes a dispensing hose, a dispensing unit, and a bladder. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20120006439 | METHOD AND MEANS FOR FORMING A LINER - A new liner and method of forming a liner for use in lining the junction between a main pipe and a lateral pipe are provided. A liner tube is joined about one end to a liner member about an aperture in the liner member. A liquid thermoset adhesive is applied around a junction formed between the liner tube and the liner member on a resin impermeable coated side of the liner tube and the liner member. The thermoset adhesive is not affected by temperature changes present during an exothermic reaction when the resin impregnated liner tube and liner member are cured and hardened. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120006440 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR LINING A PIPE JUNCTION - A liner assembly is provided for repairing a pipe junction. The liner assembly includes a first and second camera and a containment bladder all operably connected to a launcher device, and which are used in combination by a user in a remote location to position and align the liner assembly in a main pipe, adjacent a lateral pipe, wherein no external access to the lateral pipe is available. The user will use images from the cameras to send control information to a positioning device, which positions and aligns a liner assembly with a lateral pipe. The liner assembly is then used to repair damage to the lateral pipe and the juncture between the main and lateral pipes. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120009020 | MANHOLE LINER AND METHOD OF USING THE SAME - A manhole liner and a method of using the same are provided. The manhole liner is sized substantially equally to the largest diameter of the manhole, so that the liner does not have to stretch to be pressed against the manhole wall. Additionally, the liner is impregnated with a resinous material capable of curing and hardening. A bladder, preferably stretchable circumferentially and having a diameter less than the smallest diameter of the manhole, is inserted into the liner. The bladder is expanded to press the liner against the wall of the manhole to dispense resinous material from the liner, while the liner is able to fold over itself in areas having a diameter less than the original diameter of the liner. Because the bladder stretches to produce a smooth outside surface, the resinous material will migrate to areas in the folds and will cure with a smooth interior surface. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120084956 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR REPAIRING THE JUNCTION OF A SEWER MAIN AND LATERAL PIPE - The present invention is an improved method and assembly for repairing a pipe or the junction of two pipes, such as sewer pipes. The assembly includes a launcher device having a launcher device body, a launcher device opening disposed on the launcher device body, and a main bladder substantially surrounding the launcher device body. The main bladder includes an opening that substantially aligns with the launcher device opening. The assembly further includes an absorbent liner and a lateral bladder having a tubular lateral bladder body portion and a flange portion. The flange portion of the lateral bladder is attached to the exterior of the launcher device body. A method of using the assembly includes impregnating the liner with resinous material; inserting at least a portion of the liner into the lateral bladder; inflating the bladders; pressing the liner against the pipe; and allowing the resinous material to cure and harden. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120084957 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR REPAIRING THE JUNCTION OF A SEWER MAIN AND LATERAL PIPE - The present invention is directed to methods for repairing pipes or pipe junctions. The methods include providing a launcher device having a bladder and a liner impregnated with a material capable of curing and hardening. The bladder includes a first end, a closed second end, and an opening proximal the closed second end. A portion of the bladder is positioned within the launcher device, a rope or a line is connected to the liner, and the rope or line is threaded through the opening in the bladder. The rope or the line is pulled until the liner is at least partially within the bladder, and the rope or line is removed. The pipe is repaired by positioning the liner against the wall of a pipe, and allowing a material capable of curing and hardening to cure and harden. The methods allow for the rapid reuse of the bladder. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120112375 | METHOD AND MEANS OF LINING A MANHOLE - An apparatus and method is provided for lining the wall of a manhole. The apparatus may include a liner assembly, which includes an expansion device, an auxiliary bladder, a primary bladder, and a liner. The auxiliary bladder is first inflated near the top of the manhole. Next the primary bladder may be expanded to press the liner against the wall of the manhole. The liner, being impregnated with a resinous material, is pressed against the wall until the resinous material cures and hardens. The expansion device, auxiliary bladder, and primary bladder are then removed from the manhole. The result is a repaired manhole wall. | 05-10-2012 |
| 20120138184 | HYDROPHILIC END SEAL - A kit, apparatus, and method for sealing a junction between a manhole and a pipe within a sewer system are provided. In a first embodiment, the end of a pipe adjacent a manhole is sealed by the use of a pipe liner and a tubular sleeve made of a hydrophilic material. In a second embodiment, a majority of the area surrounding a junction of a pipe and a manhole is sealed by the use of a tubular sleeve made of a hydrophilic material including a flange portion, a pipe liner, and a manhole liner. | 06-07-2012 |
| 20120139183 | HYDROPHILIC END SEAL - A kit, apparatus, and method for sealing a junction between a manhole and a pipe within a sewer system are provided. In a first embodiment, the end of a pipe adjacent a manhole is sealed by the use of a pipe liner and a tubular sleeve made of a hydrophilic material. The tubular sleeve is held in place by a mechanical fastener and a pipe liner is installed or otherwise placed through the tubular sleeve and against the wall of the pipe. In a second embodiment, a majority of the area surrounding a junction of a pipe and a manhole is sealed by the use of a tubular sleeve made of a hydrophilic material including a flange portion, a mechanical fastener, a pipe liner, and a manhole liner. | 06-07-2012 |
| 20120141210 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REPAIRING THE WALL OF A MANHOLE - The present invention comprises a method and means for repairing the wall of a manhole wherein a material capable of curing and hardening is adhered to the wall. An expandable bladder engages the curable and hardenable material and presses against and smoothes the material. The bladder may be chemically bonded to the curable and hardenable material or it may be mechanically bonded. | 06-07-2012 |
| 20120175004 | LINER TUBE WITH NON-STRETCHING MATERIAL - An apparatus and method of making a cured-in-place pipe repair to a lateral pipe having an area in need of repair. The method and apparatus use a liner assembly comprising a bladder tube and a liner tube. The liner tube comprises at least one layer of non-stretching material, which includes strands of non-stretching material oriented in the longitudinal direction of the liner tube. The strands allow radial stretching but ensure that the liner tube does not stretch longitudinally, which prevents the liner tube from stretching into a main pipe or past the area in need of repair during use. The liner tube may also comprise second and third layers of a resin impregnable material, such as felt, which surround the layer of non-stretching material such that the liner tube may be impregnated with a resinous material to repair a pipe having an area in need of repair. | 07-12-2012 |
| 20120183358 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING ACCESS TO A BURIED PIPE - The pipe access device is comprised of a curved plate adapted to engage an underground pipe along an arc of the outer surface of the pipe, and a boss extending upwardly from the curved plate about an aperture in the curved plate. The curved plate extends along an arc of the outer surface of the curved plate that corresponds to a central angle of the pipe less than or equal to 180°. The curved plate includes a concave surface with a radius of curvature less than a radius of curvature of the outer surface of the pipe so as to bias the curved plate against the outer surface of the pipe when the curved plate is flexed to engage the pipe. The pipe access device is for use in providing access to the buried pipe that requires minimal excavation and disruption of the soil. | 07-19-2012 |
| 20120204989 | HYDROPHILIC END SEAL - A kit, apparatus, and method for sealing a junction between a manhole and a pipe within a sewer system are provided. In a first embodiment, the end of a pipe adjacent a manhole is sealed by the use of a pipe liner and a tubular sleeve made of a hydrophilic material. In a second embodiment, a majority of the area surrounding a junction of a pipe and a manhole is sealed by the use of a tubular sleeve made of a hydrophilic material including a flange portion, a pipe liner, and a manhole liner. | 08-16-2012 |
| 20120217708 | END SEAL - A kit, apparatus, and method for sealing a junction between a manhole and a pipe within a sewer system are provided. In a first embodiment, the end of a pipe adjacent a manhole is sealed by the use of a pipe liner and a tubular sleeve made of a hydrophilic material. The tubular sleeve is held in place by a mechanical fastener and a pipe liner is installed or otherwise placed through the tubular sleeve and against the wall of the pipe. In a second embodiment, a majority of the area surrounding a junction of a pipe and a manhole is sealed by the use of a tubular sleeve made of a hydrophilic material including a flange portion, a mechanical fastener, a pipe liner, and a manhole liner. | 08-30-2012 |
| 20120267863 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR SEALING PIPES AND UNDERGROUND STRUCTURES - An apparatus and method for sealing pipes or underground structures is provided. In one embodiment, the end of a pipe is sealed by the use of a pipe liner and a sealing member. The sealing member may be a hydrophilic material, a hydrophobic material, a compressible material, or a paste. The sealing member is held in place by a mechanical fastener and a liner is installed adjacent the sealing member and against the wall of the pipe or other structure to be sealed. In another embodiment, a manhole is sealed by the use of a sealing member, a mechanical fastener, and a manhole liner. | 10-25-2012 |
| 20120279600 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR SEALING PIPES - An apparatus and method for sealing pipes. In one embodiment, the end of a pipe is sealed by the use of a pipe liner and a sealing member. The sealing member may be a hydrophilic material, a hydrophobic material, a compressible material, or a paste, and may also be a unitary member or formed from a sheet of material. The sealing member is held in place by a mechanical fastener and a liner is installed adjacent the sealing member and against the wall of the pipe or other structure to be sealed. The mechanical fastener aids in holding the sealing member in place at the end of the pipe. | 11-08-2012 |
| 20130019983 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR REPAIRING PIPE - The present invention includes a device and method for reinforcing the portions of an inflation bladder not contained by a liner in pipeline renewal applications. A liner/bladder assembly is provided wherein the liner is positioned relative to the bladder such that a portion of the bladder having a greater wall thickness extends beyond the ends of the liner. The present invention also includes a device and method for repairing the junction of a main pipe and the lateral pipe with bladders reinforced in areas unconstrained by the liners. | 01-24-2013 |
| 20130081732 | METHOD OF LINING A CONDUIT USING A SCRIM-REINFORCED PIPE LINER - A method for repairing a conduit using a tube-shaped liner comprising a single layer of resin-absorbent fabric having a polymeric coating attached to an outer wall of the tube and a reinforcing layer connected to an inner surface of the tube. The liner is impregnated with a resinous material capable of curing and hardening and inverted under pressure into the conduit to be repaired such that the reinforcing layer is pressed against the interior of the conduit. The resinous material is allowed to cure and harden, creating a lining to the conduit. The single layer of fabric may be a non-woven material, such as a felt. The conduit to be lined may be a sewer pipe, and the reinforcing material may be a woven scrim. The woven scrim may be capable of preventing longitudinal stretch of the liner tube while allowing radial stretch. | 04-04-2013 |
| 20130098535 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FORMING A COATING ON A LINING OF A CONDUIT IN SITU - The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for repairing the wall of a conduit where a coating is placed onto a conduit lining using a non-absorbent bladder preferably made of polyurethane and material capable of curing and hardening, such as a grout or thermoset resin, preferably an epoxy. The coating is to be formed on the conduit lining after the lining is placed against the walls of the conduit. The non-absorbent bladder and the material capable of curing and hardening should be compatible for adhesion. The material capable of curing and hardening is placed between the wall of the pipe and the non-absorbent bladder by an inversion technique, and the non-absorbent bladder permanently bonds to the material capable of curing and hardening. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130112303 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR REPAIRING PIPE - A liner tube is provided for repairing either a single pipe line or a main pipe line having a lateral pipe line connected thereto. The liner tube assembly includes a liner tube impregnated with a liquid material capable of curing and hardening. The liner tube includes a gasket or band positioned about the juncture of the pipe lines. The gasket or bands form a tight seal between the liner tube and the pipe line. | 05-09-2013 |
| 20130154163 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REPAIRING THE WALL OF A MANHOLE - The present invention comprises a method and means for repairing the wall of a manhole wherein a material capable of curing and hardening is adhered to the wall. An expandable bladder engages the curable and hardenable material and presses against and smoothes the material. The bladder may be chemically bonded to the curable and hardenable material or it may be mechanically bonded. | 06-20-2013 |
| 20130174979 | PIPE LINER AND METHOD OF USING THE SAME - A pipe liner and a method of using the same are provided. The method includes inserting a pipe liner impregnated with a resinous material into a length of pipe, where the pipe liner has an outer diameter substantially equal to or greater than an inner diameter of the pipe. A bladder having an unstretched outer diameter less than the inner diameter of at least a portion of the length of pipe and capable of stretching circumferentially is inserted into the pipe liner. The bladder is expanded under fluid pressure against the pipe liner, pressing the pipe liner against an inner wall of the length of pipe. The resinous material is allowed to cure and harden, leaving a renewed pipe wall. The length of pipe may have a plurality of inner diameters, and the bladder stretches to produce a smooth interior surface of the pipe liner across the plurality of pipe diameters. | 07-11-2013 |
| 20130199652 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR REPAIRING PIPE - A liner tube is provided for repairing either a single pipe line or a main pipe line having a lateral pipe line connected thereto. The liner tube assembly includes a liner tube impregnated with a liquid material capable of curing and hardening. The liner tube includes a gasket or band positioned about the juncture of the pipe lines. The gasket or bands form a tight seal between the liner tube and the pipe line. | 08-08-2013 |
| 20130213513 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR REPAIRING PIPE - A liner tube is provided for repairing either a single pipe line or a main pipe line having a lateral pipe line connected thereto. The liner tube assembly includes a liner tube impregnated with a liquid material capable of curing and hardening. The liner tube includes a gasket or band positioned about the juncture of the pipe lines. The gasket or bands form a tight seal between the liner tube and the pipe line. | 08-22-2013 |
| 20130213551 | METHOD AND MEANS OF LINING A MANHOLE - An apparatus and method is provided for lining the wall of a manhole. The apparatus may include a liner assembly, which includes an expansion device, an auxiliary bladder, a primary bladder, and a liner. The auxiliary bladder is first inflated near the top of the manhole. Next the primary bladder may be expanded to press the liner against the wall of the manhole. The liner, being impregnated with a resinous material, is pressed against the wall until the resinous material cures and hardens. The expansion device, auxiliary bladder, and primary bladder are then removed from the manhole. The result is a repaired manhole wall. | 08-22-2013 |
| 20130249208 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REPAIRING A PIPE JUNCTION - An assembly and method of sealing a junction of a pipe and a second structure are provided. The assembly includes a pipe liner having a tubular portion and a brim portion, and a mechanical anchor adapted to secure the brim portion of the pipe liner to the second structure. The assembly may further include a compression gasket for placement between the pipe liner and the pipe or second structure. The compression gasket may comprise a hydrophilic material, a hydrophobic material, or a compressible material. The methods of using the assembly include, but are not limited to, the use of a cured-in-place pipe liner. | 09-26-2013 |
| 20130259578 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING ACCESS TO A BURIED PIPE - The pipe access device is comprised of a curved plate adapted to engage an underground pipe along an arc of the outer surface of the pipe, and a boss extending upwardly from the curved plate about an aperture in the curved plate. The curved plate extends along an arc of the outer surface of the curved plate that corresponds to a central angle of the pipe less than or equal to 180°. The curved plate includes a concave surface with a radius of curvature less than a radius of curvature of the outer surface of the pipe so as to bias the curved plate against the outer surface of the pipe when the curved plate is flexed to engage the pipe. The pipe access device is for use in providing access to the buried pipe that requires minimal excavation and disruption of the soil. | 10-03-2013 |
| 20140013828 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TESTING THE SEAL OF A JUNCTION LINER - A method and apparatus for testing the seal of a junction liner assembly is provided. The liner assembly includes a main liner member and a lateral liner tube extending from the main liner member. The lateral liner is attached to the main liner. To determine if there is a leak in the assembly, the assembly is placed on a plate with perforations. A negative pressure source pulls the liner assembly tightly against the plate. A colored liquid is applied to the liner assembly under the negative pressure. The assembly is then viewed to determine if any of the colored liquid has passed through the liners, which would indicate a leak in the assembly. The leak is repaired, and the assembly is then retested with a different color to test for any additional leaks. | 01-16-2014 |
| 20140015155 | TEMPERATURE SENSING WITHIN AN UNDERGROUND STRUCTURE TO DETERMINE LINER CURE SCHEDULE - The invention utilizes temperature sensing to measure the internal temperature of an underground structure, such as a pipe, for the purpose of determining a proper cure interval and/or mix ratio of a resin system during a lining operation. A temperature sensor is placed within a pipe or other underground structure to be rehabilitated and at least one temperature measurement is taken within the structure prior to or simultaneously with the installation of a liner. Once the temperature of an internal aspect of the structure is taken, a cure schedule is utilized to determine the appropriate curing time based on test data obtained from baseline tests performed under simulated conditions in a soil cell apparatus. A computer program may be utilized such that upon entering the type of resin, the lowest recorded temperature of the structure, and the initial resin temperature, a cure schedule is supplied. | 01-16-2014 |
| 20140027000 | PIPE LINER HAVING A WIRELESS DATA TRANSMITTER WITH SENSING CAPABILITIES - The present invention provides a liner assembly for repairing the wall of a pipe that includes a transmitter or transmitters capable of transmitting information, such as identification information and physical characteristics of the area around the transmitter. Embedded in the liner is a transmitter, which includes a radio-frequency identification and at least one sensor. The RFID transmits identification information about the repaired wall, while the sensor provides physical characteristics of the environment in and around the pipe. Examples of physical characteristics may include temperature, pressure, flow, chemical reactions, velocity of the pipe, and the like. Additional transmitters may be used along the length of the pipe to determine characteristics at multiple locations, with each additional transmitter including the same or different sensors. | 01-30-2014 |
| 20140030026 | MANHOLE LINER HAVING A WIRELESS DATA TRANSMITTER - The present invention provides an apparatus and method for repairing a manhole. The wall of the manhole is lined with a liner to form a new wall. The liner includes a resin that cures to form the new wall that is similar to the repaired wall. Embedded in the liner is a wireless data transfer mechanism that includes a transmitter, such as a radio-frequency identification (RFID). The RFID transmits identification information about the liner or the repaired wall. The transmitter may be capable of data entry in the field or may be otherwise field-programmable and further capable of transmitting at least one physical characteristic. Examples of physical characteristics may include temperature, pressure, chemical reactions, flow within the manhole, and the like. Additional transmitters may be used along the length of the manhole to determine characteristics at multiple locations, with each additional transmitter including the same or different sensors. | 01-30-2014 |
| 20140076447 | METHOD OF LINING A CONDUIT USING A SCRIM-REINFORCED PIPE LINER - A method for repairing a conduit using a tube-shaped liner comprising a single layer of resin-absorbent fabric having a polymeric coating attached to an outer wall of the tube and a reinforcing layer connected to an inner surface of the tube. The liner is impregnated with a resinous material capable of curing and hardening and inverted under pressure into the conduit to be repaired such that the reinforcing layer is pressed against the interior of the conduit. The resinous material is allowed to cure and harden, creating a lining to the conduit. The single layer of fabric may be a non-woven material, such as a felt. The conduit to be lined may be a sewer pipe, and the reinforcing material may be a woven scrim. The woven scrim may be capable of preventing longitudinal stretch of the liner tube while allowing radial stretch. | 03-20-2014 |
| 20140085643 | METHOD AND MEANS FOR DETERMINING PIPE DIAMETER - An apparatus and method for determining the diameter of a pipe from a remote location is disclosed. A measuring assembly, including a reference device and an imaging device, is inserted into a pipe from a remote location. The reference device is inflatable to a predetermined and known diameter within the pipe. The imaging device acquires imaging data of the reference device within the pipe and the imaging data is used to determine the diameter of the pipe by comparing the predetermined diameter of the reference device with the diameter of the wall of the pipe. The diameter of the pipe is then used to properly choose a liner assembly of the same diameter to repair the wall of the pipe. The liner tube may include a bladder and liner tube, which is saturated with a curable resin, to repair the wall of the pipe. | 03-27-2014 |
| 20140098384 | METHOD AND MEANS FOR DETERMINING CHANGE IN PIPE DIAMETER - A diameter sensing assembly is provided for determining the location of a change in diameter in a pipe from a remote location outside of the pipe. The assembly includes an imaging device operatively connected to an imaging cable and a diameter sensing device operatively connected to a sensing cable. The sensing device is positioned generally forward of the imaging device, and includes a plurality of flexible arms that are rigid enough to stay horizontal, but flexible enough to bend or depress easily. The two cables are connected to one another such that the entire assembly is able to be moved through a pipe at a constant speed. Marks are placed on one of the cables to determine the length to the change in diameter, and the length of portions of pipes having different diameters. | 04-10-2014 |
| 20140102576 | MEANS AND METHOD FOR LINING A PIPE - A method and means for repairing the junction of a main and lateral pipe are provided. A repair assembly includes a launcher device, a bladder assembly surrounding the launcher device, and a liner assembly surrounding the bladder assembly. The bladder assembly is frangibly connected to the launcher device to maintain the position of the bladder assembly relative to the launcher device during transport and positioning of the assembly. Likewise, the liner assembly, which includes main and lateral liner members, is frangibly connected to the bladder assembly. The frangible connections allow the position of the repair assembly to be maintained. The frangible connections can be broken, such as by inflation and/or tearing or pulling apart of the components of the repair assembly. Thus, the invention provides a way to mitigate the movement of components of the repair assembly during transport and positioning of the repair assembly. | 04-17-2014 |
| 20140102577 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR SEALING PIPES AND UNDERGROUND STRUCTURES - An apparatus and method for sealing pipes or underground structures is provided. In one embodiment, the end of a pipe is sealed by the use of a pipe liner and a sealing member. The sealing member may be a hydrophilic material, a hydrophobic material, a compressible material, or a paste. The sealing member is held in place by a mechanical fastener and a liner is installed adjacent the sealing member and against the wall of the pipe or other structure to be sealed. In another embodiment, a manhole is sealed by the use of a sealing member, a mechanical fastener, and a manhole liner. | 04-17-2014 |
| 20140158243 | MAIN / LATERAL CONNECTION LINER WITH RESIN PUTTY MAINLINE PORTION - An apparatus for repairing a junction between a main sewer pipe and a lateral sewer pipe comprises a tubular portion having opposite first and second ends. A collar extends outwardly from one of the first and second ends of the tubular portion. The tubular portion and the collar are formed of a curable, waterproof putty, such as an epoxy or silicate putty. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140202569 | APPARATUS AND METHOD TO REPAIR THE JUNCTION OF A SEWER MAIN LINE AND LATERAL PIPE - A liner assembly and method for lining a damaged pipe junction between a main and lateral pipe is provided. The liner assembly includes a main liner member and a lateral liner tube. A collar disposed near the juncture between the main liner member and lateral liner tube is impregnated with a liquid hydrophobic or hydrophilic material capable of curing in a flexible or rigid state with the material expanding in the presence of water. The hydrophobic or hydrophilic material can also be applied without the use of the collar. When the liner assembly is pressed against the main and lateral pipes, a portion of the hydrophilic or hydrophobic material is forced into the damaged pipe junction. | 07-24-2014 |
| 20140202570 | METHOD OF REPAIRING A MANHOLE CHIMNEY USING A STRETCHABLE SLEEVE - A method of repairing and renewing a manhole chimney utilizes a circumferentially stretchable liner sleeve which is inserted into the manhole and pressed by an inflatable bladder into engagement with the walls of the manhole chimney. The sleeve is coated with an uncured resin, which is allowed to cure as the sleeve is pressed against the chimney walls, thereby attaching the sleeve to the walls of the manhole chimney. The stretchable sleeve eliminates air spaces between the sleeve and the chimney walls, and precludes formation of undesirable folds in the sleeve. The sleeve stretches circumferentially up to 150% of its unstretched diameter, while having a substantially unstretchable length. | 07-24-2014 |
| 20140248088 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING ACCESS TO A BURIED PIPE - The pipe access device is comprised of a curved plate adapted to engage an underground pipe along an arc of the outer surface of the pipe, and a boss extending upwardly from the curved plate about an aperture in the curved plate. The curved plate extends along an arc of the outer surface of the curved plate that corresponds to a central angle of the pipe less than or equal to 180°. The curved plate includes a concave surface with a radius of curvature less than a radius of curvature of the outer surface of the pipe so as to bias the curved plate against the outer surface of the pipe when the curved plate is flexed to engage the pipe. The pipe access device is for use in providing access to the buried pipe that requires minimal excavation and disruption of the soil. | 09-04-2014 |
| 20140261832 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR LINING A PIPE - The method for rehabilitating a damaged section of a pipe without a need for a resin absorbent liner is provided. The method includes pumping a low viscosity material towards a damaged section of pipe and changing the viscosity prior to dispensing of the material. For example, the material may be partially cured prior to dispensing. The partially cured or higher viscosity material is compressed between an inflating bladder and interior wall of the pipe, and the material that is allowed to fully cure. The bladder either can then be removed from the pipe or could be allowed to maintain in the pipe providing a new interior surface for the repaired pipe. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140261833 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SEALING AND STRUCTURALLY RENEWING A WALL OF A MANHOLE - An apparatus and method is provided for structurally renewing and sealing a wall of a manhole. The apparatus includes a tubular sleeve impregnated with a hydrophilic or hydrophobic material capable of expanding when in contact with water, and a liner impregnated with a resinous material capable of curing and hardening. The apparatus is positioned in a manhole and inflated, which forces the tubular sleeve and the liner into contact with the wall of the manhole. The hydrophilic or hydrophobic material is forced into defects of the wall, thus sealing the wall, while the liner is allowed to cure and harden, thus structurally renewing the wall of the manhole. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140270968 | METHOD OF DISPENSING A MATERIAL - A method and system for dispensing a material through a delivery apparatus is provided. The material initially comprises or is manipulated to comprise a low viscosity. The material either can comprise a curable material or can comprise initiators, which can be activated to raise the viscosity at a later time and position. The low viscosity material is moved through the delivery apparatus for a relatively long distance using low energy. Upon nearing an end use application, the material and/or initiators can be activated by a curing agent, such as a light or heat source, such that the viscosity of the material be raised prior to the end use application thereof. Therefore, the present invention provides a method and system for moving a material normally having a higher viscosity a long distance requiring lower energy and pressure. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140311607 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REPAIRING MAIN AND LATERAL PIPES - A method and apparatus for repairing a pipe system including a main pipe extending between a first and second manhole and one or more lateral pipes extending from the main pipe is provided. Aspects of the invention include the use of a main liner member having a plurality of lateral liner tubes in fluid connection and extending from the main liner member. The main liner member is used to line a main pipe, while the multiple lateral liner tubes extend into separate lateral pipes extending in various orientations from the main pipe. This method and apparatus provides for a single assembly to be able to line multiple pipes, which reduces time and cost for pipe repair. | 10-23-2014 |
| 20140334883 | MANHOLE LINER HAVING A WIRELESS DATA TRANSMITTER - The present invention provides an apparatus and method for repairing a manhole. The wall of the manhole is lined with a liner to form a new wall. The liner includes a resin that cures to form the new wall that is similar to the repaired wall. Embedded in the liner is a wireless data transfer mechanism that includes a transmitter, such as a radio-frequency identification (RFID). The RFID transmits identification information about the liner or the repaired wall. The transmitter may be capable of data entry in the field or may be otherwise field-programmable and further capable of transmitting at least one physical characteristic. Examples of physical characteristics may include temperature, pressure, chemical reactions, flow within the manhole, and the like. Additional transmitters may be used along the length of the manhole to determine characteristics at multiple locations, with each additional transmitter including the same or different sensors. | 11-13-2014 |
| 20140341655 | MANHOLE LINER AND METHOD OF USING THE SAME - A manhole liner and a method of using the same are provided. The manhole liner is sized substantially equally to the largest diameter of the manhole, so that the liner does not have to stretch to be pressed against the manhole wall. Additionally, the liner is impregnated with a resinous material capable of curing and hardening. A bladder, preferably stretchable circumferentially and having a diameter less than the smallest diameter of the manhole, is inserted into the liner. The bladder is expanded to press the liner against the wall of the manhole to dispense resinous material from the liner, while the liner is able to fold over itself in areas having a diameter less than the original diameter of the liner. Because the bladder stretches to produce a smooth outside surface, the resinous material will migrate to areas in the folds and will cure with a smooth interior surface. | 11-20-2014 |
| 20140360611 | PIPE LINER HAVING A WIRELESS DATA TRANSMITTER WITH SENSING CAPABILITIES - The present invention provides a liner assembly for repairing the wall of a pipe that includes a transmitter or transmitters capable of transmitting information, such as identification information and physical characteristics of the area around the transmitter. Embedded in the liner is a transmitter, which includes a radio-frequency identification and at least one sensor. The RFID transmits identification information about the repaired wall, while the sensor provides physical characteristics of the environment in and around the pipe. Examples of physical characteristics may include temperature, pressure, flow, chemical reactions, velocity of the pipe, and the like. Additional transmitters may be used along the length of the pipe to determine characteristics at multiple locations, with each additional transmitter including the same or different sensors. | 12-11-2014 |
| 20140373957 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR REPAIRING THE JUNCTION OF A SEWER MAIN AND LATERAL PIPE - The present invention is directed to methods for repairing pipes or pipe junctions. The methods include providing a launcher device having a bladder and a liner impregnated with a material capable of curing and hardening. The bladder includes a first end, a closed second end, and an opening proximal the closed second end. A portion of the bladder is positioned within the launcher device, a rope or a line is connected to the liner, and the rope or line is threaded through the opening in the bladder. The rope or the line is pulled until the liner is at least partially within the bladder, and the rope or line is removed. The pipe is repaired by positioning the liner against the wall of a pipe, and allowing a material capable of curing and hardening to cure and harden. The methods allow for the rapid reuse of the bladder. | 12-25-2014 |
