U.S. patent application number 12/537018 was filed with the patent office on 2009-11-26 for swivel for use in installing large diameter casing.
Invention is credited to James S. Barbera.
Application Number | 20090288883 12/537018 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39740508 |
Filed Date | 2009-11-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090288883 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Barbera; James S. |
November 26, 2009 |
SWIVEL FOR USE IN INSTALLING LARGE DIAMETER CASING
Abstract
The invention includes a pair of swivels for use with an auger
boring machine. One of the swivels allows for rotation of a first
auger of a first auger assembly connected to the trailing end of a
pilot tube without rotating the pilot tube. The other swivel allows
for rotation of a larger diameter second auger connected to the
trailing end of the first auger assembly without rotating the first
auger. Each of the swivels includes a thrust bearing.
Inventors: |
Barbera; James S.; (Canton,
OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
SAND & SEBOLT
AEGIS TOWER, SUITE 1100, 4940 MUNSON STREET, NW
CANTON
OH
44718-3615
US
|
Family ID: |
39740508 |
Appl. No.: |
12/537018 |
Filed: |
August 6, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11715134 |
Mar 7, 2007 |
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12537018 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
175/57 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E21B 7/28 20130101; E21B
7/046 20130101; E21B 7/201 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
175/57 |
International
Class: |
E21B 7/28 20060101
E21B007/28; E21B 7/00 20060101 E21B007/00; E21B 3/02 20060101
E21B003/02 |
Claims
1. A method comprising the steps of: pushing a smaller diameter
cylindrical casing forward with a first section of a swivel through
an underground hole having a first diameter; and during the step of
pushing, rotating a second section of the swivel, a first cuffing
head rearward of the smaller diameter casing and a first auger
rearward of the first cutting head relative to the first section
and smaller diameter casing to enlarge the underground hole from
the first diameter to a second diameter larger than that of the
smaller diameter casing.
2. The method of claim 1 wherein the first cutting head and first
auger are respectively a larger cutting head and a larger auger of
a larger auger assembly; and further comprising the steps of
rotating a smaller cutting head and smaller auger of a smaller
auger assembly to cut the underground hole having the first
diameter; and mounting the first section of the swivel on a
trailing end of the smaller auger assembly after the underground
hole with the first diameter has been cut.
3. The method of claim 2 wherein the smaller auger assembly
comprises the smaller cylindrical casing; and the step of mounting
comprises the step of abutting a trailing edge of the smaller
cylindrical casing with the first section of the swivel.
4. The method of claim 1 wherein the first cutting head and first
auger are respectively a larger cutting head and a larger auger of
a larger auger assembly; and further comprising the steps of
rotating a smaller cutting head and smaller auger of a smaller
auger assembly to cut the underground hole having the first
diameter; and wherein the step of rotating the second section of
the swivel comprises the step of rotating the larger auger without
rotating the smaller auger at the same time.
5. The method of claim 4 wherein the step of rotating the smaller
cutting head and smaller auger comprises the step of rotating the
smaller auger within the smaller diameter casing.
6. The method of claim 5 wherein the step of rotating the second
section of the swivel comprises the step of rotating the larger
auger within a larger diameter cylindrical casing having a diameter
larger than that of the smaller diameter casing.
7. The method of claim 1 wherein the step of rotating comprises the
step of rotating the first auger within a larger diameter
cylindrical casing having a diameter larger than that of the
smaller diameter casing.
8. The method of claim 7 further comprising the step of moving the
larger diameter casing forward into the enlarged underground
hole.
9. The method of claim 8 wherein the swivel is forward of a leading
end of the larger diameter casing throughout the steps of rotating
and moving.
10. The method of claim 7 further comprising the step of rotating a
smaller auger within the smaller diameter casing.
11. The method of claim 7 wherein the step of rotating comprises
the step of rotating the second section rearward of a trailing end
of the smaller diameter casing and forward of a leading end of the
larger diameter casing.
12. The method of claim 7 wherein the step of rotating comprises
the step of rotating the second section, first cutting head and
first auger with an auger drive which is rearward of a trailing end
of the larger diameter casing.
13. The method of claim 1 wherein the first cutting head has an
outer diameter which is greater than an outermost diameter of the
first auger.
14. The method of claim 1 further comprising the step of inserting
a wall of the first section into the smaller diameter casing so
that a cylindrical outer surface of the wall abuts a cylindrical
inner surface of the smaller diameter casing.
15. The method of claim 14 further comprising the step of abutting
a circular trailing edge of the smaller diameter casing with a
circular pushing member connected to the inserted wall and
extending radially outwardly of the cylindrical outer surface of
the wall.
16. The method of claim 1 wherein the step of pushing comprises the
step of pushing a circular trailing edge of the smaller diameter
casing with a circular pushing member of the first section.
17. The method of claim 1 wherein the step of rotating comprises
the step of rotating the second section, first cutting head and
first auger with an auger drive; and further comprising the step of
moving the auger drive rearwardly relative to the swivel.
18. The method of claim 17 wherein the step of rotating comprises
the step of rotating the first auger within a first larger diameter
cylindrical casing having a diameter larger than that of the
smaller diameter casing; and further comprising, after the step of
moving, the steps of connecting a leading end of a second larger
diameter cylindrical casing having a diameter the same as that of
the first larger diameter casing to a trailing end of the first
larger diameter casing; connecting a leading end of a second auger
to a trailing end of the first auger; and rotating the first auger
within the first larger diameter casing and the second auger within
the second larger diameter casing with the auger drive.
19. A method comprising the steps of: rotating a smaller cutting
head and smaller auger of a smaller auger assembly to cut an
underground hole having a first diameter; mounting a first section
of a swivel on a trailing end of the smaller auger assembly after
the underground hole with the first diameter has been cut; and
rotating a second section of the swivel, a larger cutting head and
a larger auger of a larger auger assembly relative to the first
section to enlarge the underground hole from the first diameter to
a second diameter larger than the first diameter.
20. A method comprising the steps of: pushing a swivel forward with
a first auger assembly through an underground hole having a first
diameter; the swivel comprising first and second sections mounted
on one another with relative rotation therebetween; the first auger
assembly comprising a first cutting head and a first auger; during
the step of pushing, rotating the second section, first cutting
head and first auger relative to the first section to enlarge the
underground hole from the first diameter to a second diameter
larger than the first diameter; the step of rotating comprising the
step of rotating the first auger within a cylindrical casing having
a diameter larger than that of the first diameter; and moving the
casing forward into the enlarged underground hole.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/715,134, filed Mar. 7, 2007; the disclosure
of which is incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Technical Field
[0003] The invention relates generally to an auger boring machine
and a method of use in the trenchless installation of underground
pipe. More particularly, the invention relates to such a machine
which utilizes a pilot tube for forming a pilot hole for guiding
smaller and larger diameter augers of the machine. Specifically,
the invention relates to a swivel between the pilot tube and
smaller diameter auger and a swivel between the smaller and large
diameter augers.
[0004] 2. Background Information
[0005] The use of an auger boring machine for installing
underground pipe between two locations without digging a trench
there between is broadly known. In addition, it is known to use a
pilot tube formed of a plurality of pilot tube segments to create a
pilot hole for guiding an auger which bores a larger hole so that
the auger remains within a reasonably precise line and grade. For
example, see U.S. Pat. No. 6,206,109 granted to Monier et al. An
enormous amount of force is involved in driving the pilot tube and
in rotating the augers. During the driving of the pilot tube, the
pilot tube is rotatable to provide steering in order to keep the
pilot tube on a reasonably accurate line and grade. However, once
the pilot hole is completed, there is no longer a need to rotate
the pilot tube and continuing such rotation substantially adds to
the amount of force required in the auger boring process.
Similarly, once it is time for the larger diameter auger and
cutting head to begin cutting the larger diameter hole, there is no
need to continue rotation of the smaller diameter auger which
likewise requires additional force. The present invention solves
this and other problems in the art.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The present invention provides a method comprising the steps
of: pushing a smaller diameter cylindrical casing forward with a
first section of a swivel through an underground hole having a
first diameter; and during the step of pushing, rotating a second
section of the swivel, a first cutting head rearward of the smaller
diameter casing and a first auger rearward of the first cutting
head relative to the first section and smaller diameter casing to
enlarge the underground hole from the first diameter to a second
diameter larger than that of the smaller diameter casing.
[0007] The present invention also provides a method comprising the
steps of: rotating a smaller cutting head and smaller auger of a
smaller auger assembly to cut an underground hole having a first
diameter; mounting a first section of a swivel on a trailing end of
the smaller auger assembly after the underground hole with the
first diameter has been cut; and rotating a second section of the
swivel, a larger cuffing head and a larger auger of a larger auger
assembly relative to the first section to enlarge the underground
hole from the first diameter to a second diameter larger than the
first diameter.
[0008] The present invention further provides a method comprising
the steps of: pushing a swivel forward with a first auger assembly
through an underground hole having a first diameter; the swivel
comprising first and second sections mounted on one another with
relative rotation therebetween; the first auger assembly comprising
a first cutting head and a first auger; during the step of pushing,
rotating the second section, first cutting head and first auger
relative to the first section to enlarge the underground hole from
the first diameter to a second diameter larger than the first
diameter; the step of rotating comprising the step of rotating the
first auger within a cylindrical casing having a diameter larger
than that of the first diameter; and moving the casing forward into
the enlarged underground hole.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of the auger boring
machine of the present invention shown in a pit formed in the
earth.
[0010] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the auger boring machine.
[0011] FIG. 3 is a side elevational view similar to FIG. 1 showing
the pilot tube drive assembly removed from the frame of the boring
machine.
[0012] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the drive assembly.
[0013] FIG. 5 is a fragmentary sectional view taken along the
longitudinal axis of a pilot tube segment showing the internal
structure thereof and the coupling members.
[0014] FIG. 6 is an end elevational view taken on line 6-6 of FIG.
5 showing one of the coupling members.
[0015] FIG. 7 is an end elevational view taken on line 7-7 of FIG.
5 showing the other coupling member.
[0016] FIG. 8 is a side elevational view of the auger boring
machine showing the smaller diameter auger assembly mounted on the
pilot tube by the first swivel.
[0017] FIG. 8A is similar to FIG. 8 and shows the larger diameter
auger assembly mounted on the smaller diameter auger assembly by
the second swivel.
[0018] FIG. 9 is a sectional view taken on line 9-9 of FIG. 8
showing the connection between the pilot tube segments via the
connection of the coupling members.
[0019] FIG. 10 is sectional view taken on line 10-10 of FIG. 8
showing the internal structure of the first swivel and connections
with the pilot tube and smaller diameter cutting head.
[0020] FIG. 11 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the second swivel
connected to each of the smaller and larger diameter auger
assemblies.
[0021] FIG. 12 is a sectional view taken on line 12-12 of FIG. 11
showing the internal structure of the second swivel and its
connections with the smaller and larger diameter auger
assemblies.
[0022] FIG. 13 is a top plan view of the drive mechanism showing an
extension of the hydraulic actuators to provide an initial stage of
pilot hole formation and also showing the steering capability of
the pilot tube.
[0023] FIG. 14 is similar to FIG. 13 and shows the subsequent pilot
tube segment connected to the previously driven pilot tube segment
and the drive mechanism.
[0024] FIG. 15 is similar to FIG. 14 and shows the extension of the
hydraulic actuators of the drive mechanism to drive the pilot tube
with the newly installed pilot tube segment thereof to lengthen the
pilot hole.
[0025] FIG. 16 is a side elevational view of the boring machine
showing the pilot tube drive assembly being removed from the frame
of the auger boring machine.
[0026] FIG. 17 is similar to FIG. 16 and shows the auger and first
swivel connected to the smaller diameter auger assembly and pilot
tube.
[0027] FIG. 18 is similar to FIG. 17 and shows the smaller auger
assembly boring an intermediate diameter hole as it follows the
pilot tube.
[0028] FIG. 19 is similar to FIG. 18 and shows a second segment of
the smaller diameter auger assembly having been connected to the
first segment and mounted on the auger drive.
[0029] FIG. 20 is similar to FIG. 19 and shows additional boring
with the subsequent segment of the smaller diameter auger assembly
to lengthen the intermediate diameter hole.
[0030] FIG. 21 is similar to FIG. 20 and shows the installation of
the larger diameter auger assembly on the auger drive and on the
smaller diameter auger assembly via the second swivel.
[0031] FIG. 22 is similar to FIG. 21 and shows the larger diameter
auger assembly boring at an initial stage of the enlarged diameter
hole in which the underground pipe will be disposed.
[0032] FIG. 23 is similar to FIG. 22 and shows the larger diameter
hole completed with the pipe disposed therein.
[0033] FIG. 24 is similar to FIG. 8 and shows the smaller diameter
auger assembly mounted on a second embodiment of the pilot tube by
a second embodiment of the first swivel and a shock rod.
[0034] FIG. 25 is a sectional view taken on line 25-25 of FIG. 24
showing the second embodiment of the swivel and its respective
connections with the trailing end of the pilot tube and the leading
end of the shock rod.
[0035] FIG. 26 is a sectional view taken on line 26-26 of FIG. 24
and shows the connection between the trailing shock rod coupler and
the cutting head coupler.
[0036] FIG. 27 is similar to FIG. 18 and shows a smaller auger
assembly boring an intermediate diameter hole as it follows the
second embodiment of the pilot tube, first swivel and shock
rod.
[0037] FIG. 28 is similar to FIG. 27 and shows the smaller auger
assembly disconnected from the shock rod and removed from the
intermediate diameter hole.
[0038] Similar numbers refer to similar parts throughout the
drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0039] The auger boring machine of the present invention is
indicated generally at 10 in FIGS. 1 and 2. Referring to FIG. 1,
machine 10 is typically disposed in a pit 6 formed in the earth's
soil or ground 8 and configured to bore a hole through ground 8 for
the purpose of laying underground pipe in the bored hole. Machine
10 typically bores a hole from within a pit such as pit 6 to
another pit which may be spaced several hundred feet away. Machine
10 includes a frame 12 which extends from a front end 14 to a rear
end 16 of machine 10. Front and rear end 14 and 16 define there
between an axial direction of machine 10. Machine 10 further has
first and second opposed sides 18 and 20 (FIG. 2) defining there
between a lateral direction of machine 10.
[0040] An engine compartment 22 is mounted on frame 12 and houses
therein a fuel powered engine 24, an electric generator 26 powered
by engine 24 and a hydraulic pump 28 also powered by engine 24. An
auger drive compartment 30 is disposed in front of compartment 22
and houses therein an auger drive having a rotational output shaft
32 for rotationally driving an auger 34 (FIG. 25). Frame 12 further
includes a pair of spaced longitudinally extending rails 36 secured
to a plurality of cross bars 38 which are mounted on ground 8 in
the bottom of pit 6. A pair of adjustable stabilizing poles 40 are
telescopically received in and adjustably mounted respectively on
rails 36 and configured to press against the wall of ground 8 which
bounds pit 6.
[0041] A pilot tube guidance and drive assembly 42 is removably
mounted on frame 12 and more particularly on rails 36 via mounting
legs 44 (FIG. 3) which are removably insertable into openings 46
formed in each of rails 36. Mounting legs 44 and the mounting
mechanism of which they are a part are described in further detail
in the copending application entitled Pilot Tube System And
Attachment Mechanism for Auger Boring Machine which is incorporated
herein by reference and filed concurrently herewith. Assembly 42
when mounted on frame 12 is positioned so that a central axially
extending axis X of a pilot tube 48 is coaxial with an axially
extending axis Y which passes centrally through output shaft 32 and
about which shaft 32 is rotated when driving auger 34. Assembly 42
includes a generally circular rear plate 50 which abuts compartment
30 when assembly 42 is mounted on frame 12 and includes a portion
which is inserted into compartment 30 to assist with the alignment
of assembly 42.
[0042] Assembly 42 includes front and rear mounting assemblies 52
and 54 which also serve as supports providing rigid structure
extending laterally across the width of assembly 42. Assemblies 52
and 54 are seated on rails 36 of frame 12 when assembly 42 is
mounted on frame 12. A pair of axially extending parallel spaced
rails 56 and 58 are rigidly mounted on assemblies 52 and 54 and
extend along most of the length of assembly 42. Adjustable
stabilizing poles 60 are telescopically mounted respectively within
first and second rails 56 and 58 and are adjustable to provide
force against ground 8 in the same manner as poles 40.
[0043] A rigid front cross member 62 extends between and is
connected to each of rails 56 and 58 adjacent the front thereof
with a front pilot tube support 64 mounted thereon centrally
between rails 56 and 58. Support 64 includes a plurality of
bearings which engage the pilot tube 48 to allow axial movement of
tube 48 as well as rotational movement of tube 48 about axis X to
allow for the steering thereof. Rear plate 50 and associated
structure attached thereto serve as a rear cross member for rigidly
connecting rails 56 and 58 to one another at the rear of assembly
42. An intermediate cross member 66 extends laterally between rails
56 and 58 and is supported respectively on rails 56 and 58 by first
and second roller assemblies 68 and 70 (FIGS. 1 and 3). Each roller
assembly includes a pair of upper rollers 72 and lower rollers 74
which respectively rollingly engage upper and lower parallel
surfaces 76 and 78 of respective rails 56 and 58.
[0044] An electric guidance control motor 80 is mounted on cross
member 66 for selectively rotating pilot tube 48 in either
direction about axis X. A lubricant feed swivel 82 having a
lubricant inlet 84 is mounted on motor 80 by a pair of spaced
mounting rods 86. Swivel 82 serves as an engaging member for
drivingly engaging tube 48 during operation of assembly 42. Inlet
84 of swivel 82 is in fluid communication with a lubricant feedline
which is in fluid communication with a source of lubricant, which
is typically water. Swivel 82 receives water through inlet 84 to
pump the water through pilot tube 48 and through a steering head 88
connected to the front of pilot tube 48, the water flowing out a
forward exit opening 90 and a plurality of lateral exit openings
92. A cord carrier 96 includes a plurality of links 98 which are
pivotally connected to one another so that electrical cords (not
shown) for powering motor 80 will not become tangled during the
driving of pilot tube 48.
[0045] During the driving of pilot tube 48, a steering mechanism
keeps tube 48 on line and grade using a theodolite which utilizes a
camera 100 in electrical communication with a display monitor 102
which displays the view of the camera through pilot tube 48 of an
illuminated LED target 104 (FIG. 4) disposed within pilot tube 48
adjacent steering head 88. In order for camera 100 to view LED
target 104, pilot tube 48 is hollow, as are the other structures
intermediate camera 100 and target 104, such as motor 80 and swivel
82, in order to provide a line of sight Z (FIGS. 5, 9, 13) between
camera 100 and target 104. A guidance control unit 106 is mounted
on rail 58 and includes manually operable controls 108 in
electrical communication with motor 80 in order to send a signal to
motor 80 to control rotation of pilot tube 48.
[0046] Assembly 42 includes a drive mechanism 110 comprising a pair
of hydraulic piston-cylinder combinations 112 which are powered by
pump 28 and provide a substantial amount of forward and reverse
thrust. For example, the forward thrust produced by combinations
112 on one preferred embodiment has a maximum thrust of 280,000
pounds while the reverse thrust has a maximum thrust of 140,000
pounds. Drive mechanism 110 is described in greater detail in the
copending application entitled Method And Apparatus For Providing A
Continuous Stroke Auger Boring Machine which is incorporated herein
by reference and filed concurrently herewith.
[0047] Pilot tube 48 is made up of a plurality of pilot tube
segments which are connected end to end to sequentially increase
the length of pilot tube 48 during the driving process. Pilot tube
48 includes lead pilot tube segment 122, which houses target 104,
is connected to steering head 88 and is shorter than the standard
pilot tube segments 124 connected sequentially behind segment
122.
[0048] As noted previously, pilot tube 48 is configured to allow a
lubricant such as water to flow therethrough to steering head 88.
With reference to FIGS. 5-7, segment 124 has first and second
coupling members 130 and 132 having a mating configuration with one
another so that a first coupling member 130 of tube segment 124 may
be coupled to a second coupling member 132 of another tube segment
124 to form pilot tube 48 during the process of driving the pilot
tube. Members 130 and 132 are respectively connected at either end
of a central section 134, which includes an outer pipe 135 and an
inner pipe 166 defining therebetween an annular passage 170. Each
of outer pipe 135 and coupling members 130 and 132 have an outer
diameter D1 (FIG. 7) which is the diameter of pilot tube 48. First
coupling member 130 includes an externally threaded end portion
138. Six lubricant passages 140 are formed in first coupling member
130 and communicate with passage 170. A central hexagonal opening
148 extends inwardly from the trailing end of member 130.
[0049] Second coupling member 132 includes an inner member 150 and
an internally threaded collar 152 rotatably mounted on inner member
150 and configured to threadably engage the threaded portion 138 of
a coupling member 130 of another pilot tube segment 124. Inner
member 150 includes a hexagonal segment 158 which is receivable
within and has a mating configuration with hexagonal opening 148 of
first coupling member 130. Inner member 150 includes an annular
wall 160 and defines a central passage 162 and six lubricant
passages 164 communicating with passage 170 and arranged to align
with passages 140 when a first and second coupling member 130 and
132 are joined to one another. Passages 140, 164 and 170 thus form
a lubricant through passage in tube segment 124 extending from
adjacent its leading end to adjacent its trailing end.
[0050] Inner pipe 166 defines a central passage 168 which
communicates with passage 162 and opening 148 so that a through
passage is formed in segment 124 to provide for line of sight Z.
FIG. 9 shows two pilot tube segments 124 connected via the coupling
of members 130 and 132 via the threaded engagement there between.
Passages 140 are aligned respectively with passages 164 with seals
165 therebetween. The lubrication system of assembly 42 is
described in further detail in the copending application entitled
Lubricated Pilot Tubes For Use With Auger Boring Machine Pilot
Steering System which is incorporated herein by referenced and
filed concurrently herewith.
[0051] FIG. 8 shows machine 10 with drive assembly 42 removed
therefrom subsequent to pilot tube 48 having been driven to form a
pilot hole 172 extending from pit 6 to another open space such as
pit 174. FIG. 8 also shows that pilot tube 48 includes a first
pilot tube segment 124A and a second pilot tube segment 124B
connected thereto. In addition, a first smaller diameter auger
assembly 176 is mounted on pilot tube 48 via a first swivel 178
disposed therebetween. Auger assembly 176 has a diameter D2 (FIG.
11) which is substantially larger than diameter D1 (FIG. 7) of
pilot tube 48. Assembly 176 includes a cylindrical casing 180,
auger 34 disposed therein and a cutting head 182 mounted on the
leading end of auger 34 and rotatable therewith. Auger 34 is
mounted on drive 32 so that FIG. 8 shows machine 10 in preparation
for boring a hole with cutting head 182 which is larger than pilot
hole 172.
[0052] FIG. 8A shows machine 10 having been operated so that auger
assembly 176 has formed such a larger diameter intermediate hole
184 in soil 8. FIG. 8A also shows that auger assembly 176 includes
first and second segments 186A and 186B connected thereto. A larger
second auger assembly 188 is mounted on the trailing end of first
auger assembly 176 via a second swivel 190. Assembly 188 has a
diameter D3 (FIG. 11) which is substantially larger that diameter
D2 of first assembly 176. Assembly 188 includes a cylindrical
casing 192, auger 194 disposed therein and a cutting head 196
mounted on the leading end of auger 194 and rotatable therewith.
Second swivel 190 includes an axially elongated cylindrical
mounting insert 198 which is slidably received within the trailing
end portion of casing 180 of segment 186B. More particularly,
insert 198 is disposed within the interior cavity in which auger 34
is disposed and slidably engages the inner surface of casing 180
upon insertion therein. Auger 194 is mounted on drive 32 so that
FIG. 8A shows machine 10 in preparation for boring a larger
diameter hole than that of intermediate hole 184.
[0053] Referring to FIG. 10, first swivel 178 and its connection to
pilot tube 48 and auger assembly 176 is described in further
detail. Swivel 178 has leading and trailing ends defining
therebetween an axial direction thereof. Swivel 178 is configured
to allow for the rotation of cutting head 182 and auger 34
independent of the movement of pilot tube 48 and typically without
rotation of pilot tube 48. This is achieved primarily by the use of
a pair of axially spaced annular thrust bearings 200A and 200B.
Swivel 178 thus includes a rotatable portion or section which is
mounted on and rotates with cutting head 182 relative to another
portion or section of swivel 178 which is referred to herein as the
non-rotating portion for simplicity. More particularly, the
rotatable portion includes a main shaft 202 and a retaining flange
or cap 204 mounted on the leading end of main shaft 202. Shaft 202
is mounted on cutting head 182 by a bolt 206 and nut threaded
thereon. Cap 204 is secured to shaft 202 by a plurality of bolts
208 extending through holes formed in cap 204 and threadably
engaging shaft 202. Shaft 202 includes a hexagonal or other
non-circular projection 210 which extends rearwardly into a mating
hexagonal or other non-circular opening formed in cutting head 182
and defines a hole through which bolt 206 passes. Shaft 202 steps
outwardly from projection 10 to a cylindrical flange 212 at the
leading end of projection 210, then steps inwardly to a cylindrical
seal seat 214 and steps further inwardly to a forward cylindrical
portion 216 forward of seal seat 214. Thrust bearings 200
circumscribe portion 216, abutting the cylindrical outer surface
thereof. Bearing 200A abuts the trailing end of cap 204 and bearing
200B abuts the leading end of seat 214. Lubricant passages 218 are
formed in forward portion 216 to allow movement of lubricant
therethrough which is used in lubricating thrust bearings 200. A
rearmost seal 220 abuts the outer cylindrical surface of flange
212, and a pair of seals 222 likewise abut the outer surface of
seal seat 214 with one of seals 222 abutting the rear edge of
thrust bearing 200B.
[0054] Swivel 178 also includes a non-rotating portion which is
mounted on pilot tube 48. The non-rotatable portion includes a main
shaft 224 and a mounting flange or cap 226 connected to the rear
end thereof by a plurality of bolts 228 which threadably engage
shaft 224. More particularly, shaft 224 includes a hexagonal or
other non-circular forward projection 230 which is received in
hexagonal or other non-circular opening 148 in a mating fashion
therewith. Shaft 224 further includes an annular flange 232
extending radially outwardly from the trailing end of forward
projection 230, and a rear projection 234 extending rearwardly from
flange 232. Flange 232 has a leading or front end 236 and a
trailing or rear end 238. Front end 236 engages seals 165 and the
trailing end of pilot tube 48 when mounted thereon so that flange
232 serves as a pushing member for pushing pilot tube 48 during
operation. Front end 236 thus completely covers entrance openings
239 at the trailing end of respective passages 140 on the outer
surface of pilot tube 48. Swivel 178 further includes an internally
threaded collar 240 which threadably engages threaded portion 138
of the rearmost coupling member 130 of pilot tube 48. Collar 240
has a cylindrical side wall and an annular flange 242 extending
radially inwardly from the rear end of the cylindrical side wall.
Flange 242 engages rear end 238 of flange 232 when swivel 178 is
mounted on pilot tube 48. An annular wall 244 defines an interior
chamber in which rear projection 234 is received. Wall 244 is
secured to cap 226 by a plurality of bolts 246 which threadably
engage wall 244. Wall 244 further includes a tapered section 248
which tapers rearwardly and radially outwardly from adjacent
trailing end of collar 240. Wall 244 further includes an externally
threaded portion 250 disposed rearwardly of section 248.
[0055] Wall 244 further includes an annular flange 252 extending
rearwardly from threaded portion 250 and forming the trailing end
of wall 244. Flange 252 defines therewithin a cavity which serves
as a counter bore 254 in which mounting cap 226 is received in
abutment with a rearwardly facing counter bore ledge 256 which
bounds counter bore 254. The heads of bolts 246 and 208 are
disposed within counter bore 254 with bolts 208 disposed radially
inwardly of bolts 246 to prevent interference therebetween during
rotation of cutting head 182 and the rotatable portion of swivel
178. An outwardly facing annular groove is formed in the outer
surface of flange 252 for receiving therein an annular seal
258.
[0056] The non-rotating portion of swivel 178 further includes a
central generally cup-shaped connecting member 260 which includes a
base 262 and a cylindrical side wall 264 extending forward
therefrom. Side wall 264 at the front thereof includes an
internally threaded portion 266 which threadably engages threaded
portion 250 to secure member 260 to annular wall 244 with an inner
surface of side wall 264 abutting seal 258 to provide a seal
between the two members. Member 260 defines an interior chamber 268
with which an externally accessible lubricant access port 270
communicates. The front of forward portion 216 and retaining cap
204 of the rotatable portion of swivel 178 are disposed within
interior chamber 268 along with thrust bearing 200A. Base 262
includes an externally threaded portion 272 and defines an annular
groove along its outer surface rearward of portion 272 for
receiving therein an annular seal 274. The non-rotating portion of
swivel 178 further includes a rear connecting member 276 comprising
a substantially cylindrical side wall having an internally threaded
portion 278 at the front thereof which threadably engages threaded
portion 272 of central connecting member 260. The inner surface of
connecting member 276 immediately behind threaded portion 278 abuts
seal 274. An inwardly facing annular groove is formed in member 276
adjacent the rear end thereof for receiving therein seal 220. The
inner surface of member 276 also abuts seals 222. The inner surface
of connecting member 276 cooperates with the rear facing surface of
base 262 of member 260, the forward facing surface of seal seat 214
and the outer circumference of forward portion 216 to define an
annular interior chamber 280 in which thrust bearing 200B is
disposed. An externally accessible lubricant access port 282
communicates with interior chamber 280.
[0057] Referring to FIG. 12, second swivel 190 is described in
further detail. Swivel 190 has leading and trailing ends defining
therebetween an axial direction thereof. Swivel 190 includes a
rotatable portion or section which is mounted on cutting head 196
and rotatable therewith relative to another portion or section of
swivel 190 referred to herein as a non-rotating portion for
simplicity. The non-rotating portion is mounted on casing 180 of
auger assembly 176. Insert 198 is part of the non-rotating portion
and includes a cylindrical side wall 284 and an end wall 286
connected to the front of side wall 284. Side wall 284 has an outer
diameter substantially the same as that of auger 34. It is noted
that the only connection between swivel 190 and the rearmost casing
180 is the simple insertion of insert 198 and abutment of pushing
plate 288 against the trailing end of said casing 180. Thus, there
are no fasteners extending between swivel 190 and casing 180 to
connect swivel 190 to casing 180, nor other fasteners used in the
connection. Insert 198 thus extends into the interior chamber of
the rearmost casing 180 to provide sufficient stability to the
connection. Slidable removal of insert 198 from within casing 180
involves no more than frictional engagement between the cylindrical
outer surface of insert 198 and the cylindrical inner surface of
casing 180.
[0058] A pushing member in the form of an annular pushing plate 288
is connected to the rear of side wall 284 and abuts the trailing
edge of casing 180 along its outer perimeter. Plate 288 defines a
central opening in which a cylindrical inner pipe 290 is disposed.
Inner pipe 290 has a rear threaded portion 291 on which a nut 293
is threadably mounted. An annular flange 292 extends radially
outwardly from the front end of inner pipe 290 and is mounted on
plate 288 in abutment with the front surface thereof by a plurality
of bolts 294. An annular cup 296 is disposed on the rear side of
plate 288 and includes an annular base 298 and a cylindrical side
wall 300 connected thereto and extending rearwardly therefrom. Cup
296 is connected to plate 288 by a plurality of bolts 302. Cup 296
defines therein a rearward facing cylindrical cavity 304 for
receiving therein a portion of a thrust bearing 306. A cylindrical
rear side wall 308 having the same outer diameter as casing 180 is
connected to and extends rearwardly from plate 288. An externally
accessible lubrication port 310 is mounted on side wall 308.
[0059] The rotating part of swivel 190 includes a hexagonal rear
projection 312 which is received within a mating hexagonal opening
of cutting head 196 and mounted thereon via a bolt 314 and nut
mounted thereon. A cup-shaped portion 316 is connected to the front
end of projection 312 and includes an annular base 318 which
extends radially outwardly from projection 312 and an annular side
wall 320 which extends forward from the outer perimeter of base
318. An annular seal plate 322 is connected to the front of side
wall 320 by a plurality of bolts 324. Plates 322 defines a central
opening in which a portion of inner pipe 290 is disposed
immediately forward of threaded portion 291. Plate 322 along the
center perimeter defines a rearwardly opening notch in which a pair
of annular seals 326 are disposed in abutment with each of plate
322 and the outer surface of inner pipe 290. The rearward seal is
also abutted by nut 293. An interior chamber 328 is defined by the
inner surface of rear side wall 308 in cooperation with plates 288
and 322, annular cup 296 and the outer surface of pipe 290. Thrust
bearing 306 is disposed in interior chamber 328 in abutment with
plate 322, pipe 290 and cup-shaped member 296.
[0060] The operation of boring machine 10 is now described with
reference to FIGS. 13-23. FIGS. 13-15 are shown without main frame
12 of machine 10 for simplicity. FIG. 13 shows assembly 42 in the
process of driving of pilot tube 48 to form a pilot hole 172 with
an operator 330 operating assembly 42. More particularly, pistons
116 are extended to drive pilot tube 48 into ground 8 as indicated
at arrow E in FIG. 13. During the extension of pistons 116 and
pilot tube 48, camera 100 senses or receives input from LED target
104 and relays the images of illuminations from target 104 to
monitor 102. Operator 330 views display monitor 102 in order to
determine whether steering head 88 needs to be adjusted to maintain
the line and grade of pilot tube 48. Operator 330 will use controls
108 in order to make any necessary adjustments, specifically
rotating pilot tube 48 as indicated at arrow F in FIG. 13 via motor
80. For use with longer pilot holes, machine 10 may include
additional steering control mechanisms, as described in further
detail in the copending application entitled Auger Boring Machine
With Two-Stage Guidance Control System which is incorporated herein
by referenced and filed concurrently herewith. Simultaneously with
driving and steering pilot tube 48, water may be pumped through
pilot tube 48 via swivel 82 to steering head 88 and through the
exit openings thereof in order to facilitate the formation of pilot
hole 206.
[0061] Once the initial driving of tube 48 is performed, pistons
112 are retracted and a pilot tube segment 124B is positioned and
connected to tube segment 124A and rotatable portion 186 of swivel
82 as indicated at arrow H in FIG. 14 in preparation for additional
driving of tube 48. Drive mechanism 110 is then operated to drive
pilot tube 48 including segments 124A and B to lengthen pilot hole
172 as indicated at arrow J in FIG. 15 while operator 330 provides
any rotational adjustment to steering head 88 as indicated at arrow
K. The pattern of adding tube segments and continuing to drive
pilot tube 48 goes on until the pilot hole is completed or more
particularly so that the pilot tube 48 extends out of ground 8, as
at pit 174, so that sections of pilot tube 48 may be removed as the
auger boring operation is underway and thus moves pilot tube 48
gradually forward.
[0062] Once pilot hole 206 is completed, assembly 42 is removed
from frame 12 of auger boring machine 10 as indicated at arrow L in
FIG. 16. As shown in FIG. 17, auger 34 is then connected to output
shaft 32 along with the pipe or casing 180 in which auger 34 is
disposed and cutting head 182 connected to the front of auger 34.
Swivel 178 is also connected to the trailing end of pilot tube 48
and the front of cutting head 182 to allow for the rotation of
auger 34 and cutting head 210 independently of and generally
without rotating pilot tube 48. As shown in FIG. 18, engine 24 is
then operated to rotate output shaft 32, auger 34 and cutting head
182 (arrow N) as engine 24 moves forward on rails 36 with auger 34
as indicated at arrow P to form a larger diameter hole 332 in which
casing 180 will be disposed to form underground piping. Auger 34
carries soil displaced by cutting head 182 rearwardly to discharge
from its trailing end so that it can be removed from pit 6. As
shown in FIG. 19, engine 24 then moves rearwardly along rails 36
(Arrow Q) so that another casing 180 with auger 34 disposed therein
is connected (Arrow R) to the previous casing 180 and auger 34 in
end to end fashion to increase the length of the pipe to be laid,
each casing 180 being welded to the subsequent casing 180. Once the
additional casing 180 and auger 34 are connected, engine 24 is once
again operated to rotate output shaft 32 and said augers to
lengthen hole 332 as indicated at arrow S in FIG. 20. Additional
casings 180 and augers 34 are connected and operated by engine 24
until casings 180 reach pit 174, where they are removed from one
another and from pit 174.
[0063] As shown in FIG. 21, second auger assembly 188 is then
connected to the rear of first auger assembly 176 (arrow T). More
particularly, insert 198 is slidably inserted into the rear of the
last of casings 180 so that pushing plate 288 abuts the trailing
end thereof. Cutting head 196 is connected to second swivel 190 and
auger 194 (not shown) is connected to output shaft 32. Referring to
FIG. 22, engine 24 is then operated to rotate shaft 32, auger 194
and cutting head 196 (arrow U) to cut a hole 334 which is
substantially larger than hole 332 as engine 24 and second auger
assembly 188 move forward as indicated at arrow V. During the
process of cutting hole 334, pushing plate 288 pushes against the
trailing edge of rearmost casing 180 to push it through hole 332.
Swivel 190 allows for the rotation of cutting head 196 and auger
194 independently of and without rotation of auger 34 within casing
180. As shown in FIG. 23, an additional casing segment 192 with an
auger (not shown) disposed therein is connected to the rear of the
first casing 192 with the auger connected to drive 32 and then
advanced in the same manner as indicated at arrow W. Additional
casings 192 and augers 194 are added in sequence and moved along to
lengthen hole 334 until reaching pit 174, at which time casing
segments 192 together form the final underground pipe. Cutting head
186 and augers 194 are then removed from within casing 192. It is
noted that engine 24 serves as a single power source for operating
augers 34 and 194 as well as for powering the drive mechanism of
the pilot tube control and guidance assembly via generator 26 and
hydraulic pump 28 (FIG. 2), as described in further detail in the
copending application entitled Auger Boring Machine With Included
Pilot Tube Steering Mechanism which is incorporated herein by
referenced and filed concurrently herewith.
[0064] Referring to FIG. 24, the second embodiment of the swivel
336 and associated structure is now described. Swivel 336 serves
the same function as that of swivel 178 and is shown connected to
the trailing end of a pilot tube segment 338 which is described in
greater detail in the previously mentioned copending application
entitled Lubricated Pilot Tubes for Use With Auger Boring Machine
Pilot Steering System. While swivel 178 was shown connected
directly to a coupler of a cutting head, swivel 336 is connected
indirectly to the cutting head via connection with a shock rod 340
which is connected to the trailing end of swivel 336. In turn,
shock rod 340 is connected to a cutting head coupler 342.
[0065] Referring to FIG. 25, swivel 336 and its associated
connections are described in greater detail. The leading end of
swivel 336 is connected to a coupling member 344 on the trailing
end of pilot tube segment 338. Coupler member 344 includes an
annular member 346 having an externally threaded section 348
adjacent its trailing end with a hexagonal cavity or passage 350
extending forward from its trailing end. Swivel 336 includes a
front coupling member including an annular member 352 and an
internally threaded collar 354 which is rotatably mounted thereon
and threadedly engages threaded section 348 to connect swivel 336
to pilot tube segment 338. A hexagonal cavity 356 is formed in
annular member 352. A hexagonal drive shaft 358 is disposed within
hexagonal cavities 350 and 356 and has a mating configuration
therewith in order to provide a torque drive therebetween. Swivel
336 includes a hexagonal projection 360 adjacent its trailing end
which is matingly received within a front cavity 362 of an annular
coupler 364 of shock rod 340. Front cavity 362 is shaped to provide
for a driving torque engagement with projection 360. A connector
pin 366 extends through respective holes formed in coupler 364 and
projection 360 to connect the two and provide an additional torque
connection.
[0066] With continued reference to FIG. 25, swivel 336 is further
described. Swivel 336 includes first and second portions 368 and
370 which are mounted on and rotatable relative to one another via
a plurality of angular contact bearing assemblies including a front
annular bearing assembly 372 and six rear angular contact bearing
assemblies 374. First portion 368 includes an annular member 352, a
tapered member 376 rigidly connected to member 352 and an outer
sleeve 378 connected to tapered member 376. Tapered member 376
includes an externally threaded portion 380 adjacent its trailing
edge which threadedly engages an internally threaded leading
portion 382 of outer sleeve 378 to provide the connection
therebetween. Outer sleeve 378 steps inwardly at an annular flange
384 to provide a forward-facing surface or ledge 384 and a
rearward-facing surface or ledge 386.
[0067] Second portion 370 includes projection 360, a cylindrical
flange 388 extending outwardly from the leading end thereof and a
cylindrical shaft 390 which is stepped inwardly from flange 388 and
extends forward therefrom. A pair of annular seals 392 are disposed
respectively in annular grooves formed in the cylindrical outer
surface of flange 388 to provide a seal with the inner surface of
outer sleeve 378. Flange 388 provides an annular forward-facing
surface or ledge 394.
[0068] A retaining mechanism 396 or flange is connected adjacent
the leading end of shaft 390 and abuts front contact bearing
assembly 372 so that assembly 372 is sandwiched between the
trailing end of mechanism 396 and ledge 384. Mechanism 396 may
include a nut which threadedly engages the front of shaft 390 or
may include a clip or other suitable connector or retaining
structure to prevent rearward movement of second portion 370
relative to first portion 368.
[0069] Each of bearing assemblies 372 and 374 includes an inner
ring 398, an outer ring 400 and a full complement of spherical ball
bearings 402 disposed therebetween. Each of inner rings 398 abuts
and rotates with shaft 390. Each of outer rings 400 abuts the
cylindrical inner surface of sleeve 378 and rotates therewith. Ball
bearings 402 thus provide for the rotatable relation between first
and second portions 368 and 370. The inner ring 398 of front
bearing assembly 372 abuts retaining mechanism 396 and the outer
ring 400 thereof abuts ledge 384. The outer ring 400 of the leading
rear bearing assembly 374 abuts ledge 386 while the inner ring 398
of the trailing or rearmost bearing assembly 374 abuts ledge 394.
Bearing assemblies 374 are stacked in abutment with one another in
order to handle the substantial thrust which occurs during
operation of machine 10 as the cutter head which rotates second
portion 370 of swivel 336 cuts through the soil and forces a pilot
tube forward. This forward force is thus transmitted from pushing
surface 394 to bearing assemblies 374 to first portion 368 via
pushing surface 386 of flange 388. It is noted that only a single
bearing assembly 372 is disposed forward of flange 388. If a
rearward force were applied to move the pilot tube out of the pilot
hole, additional assemblies 372 would typically be stacked ahead of
flange 388 to handle the rearward thrust. However, as described
below, this is not necessary with the present system.
[0070] Referring to FIG. 26, the connection between shock rod 340
and the smaller diameter auger assembly is described in greater
detail. Shock rod 340 has a central section 404 and rear coupler
406 connected to the trailing end thereof. Coupler 406 includes a
projection or insert 407 comprising a hexagonal section 408 and a
conical section 410 connected to and extending rearwardly from
section 408. Conical section 420 tapers rearwardly and inwardly to
a point. A receiving cavity 412 is formed in coupler 342 and
includes a leading tapered section 414 which tapers rearwardly and
inwardly a short distance to an engaging section 416 of a mating
configuration with hexagonal section 408 to provide for a torque
drive connection. Section 416 may be hexagonal or another shape of
mating configuration with hexagonal section 408. Insert 407 simply
slides into cavity 412 of coupler 342 with no additional mechanism
for making the connection between coupler 406 and 342. The inner
surfaces of section 416 engage the outer surfaces of hexagonal
section 408 to provide the torque drive connection between the
couplers. However, there is no other engagement between the two
couplers which prevents them from sliding apart if a suitable force
is applied to move the two away from one another. Thus, there are
no fasteners extending between coupler 406 and 342 to connect
them.
[0071] Referring to FIG. 27, the embodiments described with
reference to FIGS. 24-26 are shown in use with auger assembly 176,
which has bored into ground 8 to push the pilot tube ahead of it
while swivel 336 allows further rotation of cutting head 182
independent of any rotation of the pilot tube. Should the cutting
head of auger assembly 176 become stuck or damaged, it may be
necessary to remove the cutting head for repair or replacement. As
illustrated in FIG. 19, this is greatly simplified by the simple
slide fit connection between coupler 406 and 342 whereby machine 10
is operated to move auger assembly 176 rearwardly out of the
intermediate diameter hole cut thereby while leaving the pilot
tube, swivel 336 and shock rod 340 within the pilot hole. As
previously noted, the ability to leave these elements within the
pilot hole eliminates the need for an increased number of front
bearing assemblies 372 within swivel 336. In addition, this greatly
facilitates the ability to repair or replace the cutting head of
assembly 176. Without this simple disconnection between couplers
406 and 342, the entire pilot tube would have to be withdrawn from
the pilot hole along with assembly 176 which would require a
substantial amount of force and energy expended therefore. In
addition, pilot tube segments which have previously been removed at
pit 174 would have to be reconnected to the portion of the pilot
tube remaining within the pilot hole to ensure that upon subsequent
forward thrust of the pilot tube that it would be properly aligned
within the pilot hole and not be damaged.
[0072] Thus, auger machine 10 provides for the driving of a pilot
tube and subsequent connection of a swivel to the pilot tube to
allow for the rotation of a cutting head and auger independent of
the pilot tube in order to create a hole of increased diameter
which follows the pilot hole. In addition, machine 10 provides a
cutting head having a coupler which may be disconnected from the
pilot tube while the pilot tube remains within the pilot hole so
that the cutting head may be repaired or removed and replaced if
necessary. Moreover, machine 10 provides a second swivel to allow
for independent rotation of a larger diameter cutting head and
auger independent of the smaller diameter auger. This configuration
greatly facilitates the boring process in the laying of underground
pipe, minimizing the force required in order to bore the related
holes.
[0073] In the foregoing description, certain terms have been used
for brevity, clearness, and understanding. No unnecessary
limitations are to be implied therefrom beyond the requirement of
the prior art because such terms are used for descriptive purposes
and are intended to be broadly construed.
[0074] Moreover, the description and illustration of the invention
is an example and the invention is not limited to the exact details
shown or described.
* * * * *