| 20100101610 | PIPELINE CLEANING APPARATUS AND METHOD - A cleaning apparatus useful for cleaning the interior of a pipeline contains: (A) a platform of a dimension sufficient to be inserted through an opening in the pipeline, the platform containing one or more portions; (B) a fluid interrupter having one or more parts to provide a surface to contact fluid flow and thereby interrupt fluid flow, the fluid interrupter constructed and arranged to be attached to the platform; a downstream side of the fluid interrupter being supported by members connected to the platform to dispose the fluid interrupter against fluid flow; (C) runners attached to the underside of the platform to contact an inner diameter of the pipeline; whereby the supported fluid interrupter, platform and runners redirect fluid flow between an underside of the platform and an inner surface of the pipeline; and (D) a device located downstream of the fluid interrupter to constrict the volume of the redirected fluid and increase its flow rate; whereby fluid flow is increased to move solid waste in the pipeline; and method for utilization of the cleaning apparatus to assist in relocation of solids in a pipeline for extraction therefrom, such as sewer lines or storm drains. The apparatus may further have opposing support members on an upper face of the platform; a rudder to orient disposition of the apparatus; one or more ballasts to correct any listing of the apparatus during use; and/or one or more seals or skirts that help the sled better form to the pipe. | 04-29-2010 |
