Machine implemented utility valve exercising apparatus

A method implemented by a valve operating apparatus for hands free exercising of an in ground utility valve, which may include repeatedly opening and closing the utility valve without requiring the use of a computer program or a physical human manipulation. A valve operating apparatus may include a bi directional hydraulic powered motor which may be coupled to a utility valve stem for the purpose of rotating the valve stem of the utility valve in a closing direction or an opening direction. The direction of rotation, of a hydraulic motor, may be reversed in response to detecting an opening of a preset pressure relief valve.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for machine implementing a utility valve exercising event; wherein a “valve exercising event” is defined as a closing and opening of a utility valve with a valve exerciser; wherein a “valve exerciser” is defined as a hydraulic powered apparatus which will rotate a valve stem of a utility valve when the hydraulic powered apparatus is coupled to a valve stem of a utility valve.

A machine implemented, automated valve exercising apparatus may contain a pressurized fluid, a pressure relief valve (pressure regulator) a means for setting a pre determined fluid pressure; a means for detecting the achievement of a pre determined fluid pressure, wherein said means for detecting a pre determined fluid pressure is a sensor for detecting a pressure relief event (a fluid bypass event) by a pressure relief valve; wherein a pressure relief event is a pressure relief valve opening in order to relieve a fluid pressure by bypassing a volume of pressurized fluid. The sensor for detecting a pressure relief event may be a flow switch or a mechanical contactor switch which is activated by the opening of the pressure relief valve. When activated, the sensor for detecting a pressure relief event will signal and set into action a series of events which will cause a reversal of the direction of rotation of a utility valve stem. The signal from the sensor for detecting a pressure relief event may cause a directional control valve to reverse the flow of hydraulic fluid to a hydraulic motor which in turn will reverse the direction of rotation of the hydraulic motor which will in turn reverse the direction of rotation of a utility valve stem which is coupled to said hydraulic motor; thus automating the sequence of both opening and closing a utility valve without requiring the use of a computer program. The addition of counters, pressure sensors, flow sensors, timers, relays, displays, and data collection further automates the valve exercising event and the ability to document aspects of the valve exercising event.

2. Description of the Prior Art

Utility valves such as fire hydrant valves, water valves and gas valves will become non workable if they are not opened or closed on a frequent schedule. Typically a person will use a hand wrench to open or close a utility valve, or a hand held powered valve turner with a forward and reverse hand operated switch. A utility valve that has rusted up for years may require applying a predetermined pressure in a clock wise direction followed by applying a predetermined pressure in a counter clockwise direction. The sequence of flip flopping the direction of applied pressure needs to continue repeatedly until the valve operates freely between a full open and a full closed position, which may take an extended length of time, thus a need for the present invention, which is a hands free valve exerciser which is machine implemented and secured in place by an articulated boom arm.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The shortcomings and disadvantages of the prior art are overcome by the present invention.

The present invention includes a valve operating apparatus for hands free exercising of an in ground utility valve, which may include repeatedly opening and closing the utility valve without requiring the use of a computer program or a physical human manipulation. A valve operating apparatus may include a bi directional hydraulic powered motor which may be coupled to a utility valve stem for the purpose of rotating the valve stem of the utility valve in a valve closing direction or a valve opening direction. Opening and closing of the utility valve is considered “exercising a valve” or “valve exercising”. Valve exercising helps insure the operability of a utility valve. A valve operating apparatus may be coupled with sensors and monitoring devices for detecting and recording the operability and mechanical condition of a utility valve and or its affect on the attached utility. The direction of rotation, of a hydraulic motor, may be reversed in response to detecting an opening of a preset pressure relief valve.

The opening of a preset or presetable pressure relief valve occurs when the pressure relief valve is placed in communication with a hydraulic fluid and the pressure of the hydraulic fluid exceeds the preset pressure of the pressure relief valve.

The pressure relief valve may also be known as a balancing valve because it uses a preset spring pressure to force the pressure relief valve close and uses the pressure of the hydraulic fluid against the pressure relief valve to force the pressure relief valve open. When the force of the hydraulic fluid pressure exceeds the force of the spring pressure then the pressure relief valve starts to open thus allowing a portion of the hydraulic fluid to flow through the pressure relief valve. A “pressure relief event” is when the hydraulic fluid flows through the pressure relief valve. Hydraulic fluid which flows through the pressure relief valve is generally piped back to the hydraulic fluid tank, thus the pressure relief valve is often called a bypass valve because it diverts or bypasses hydraulic fluid from its intended use and return it to the hydraulic fluid tank. The force of the spring pressure may be substituted with another presetable force such as air or liquid pressure, a pressurized cylinder, solenoid or the like.

An exercising event of a utility valve at least includes closing or opening a utility valve with a valve exerciser, wherein a valve exerciser at least includes a valve actuator being a rotation apparatus which is powered by a pressurized fluid. A machine implemented, automated valve exercising circuit contains a pressurized fluid, a pressure relief valve (pressure regulator) a means for setting a pre determined fluid pressure; a means for detecting the achievement of a pre determined fluid pressure, wherein said means for detecting a pre determined fluid pressure is a sensor for detecting a pressure relief event (a fluid bypass event) by a pressure relief valve, wherein a pressure relief event is a pressure relief valve opening in order to relieve a fluid pressure by bypassing a volume of pressurized fluid, wherein said sensor may be a flow switch; and means for reversing the direction of fluid flow, wherein said means for reversing a fluid flow may be a directional control valve. Reversing the direction of fluid flow also reverses the direction of rotation of the fluid powered rotation apparatus, thus automating the sequence of both opening and closing a utility valve. A pre determining counter may be used for stopping the valve exercising event after the valve has exercised freely during the full travel of a valve stem between full open to full close. The utility valve manufactures specifications may be used for determining how many times the valve stem of a utility valve must be rotated in order to travel from a full open to a full closed condition. Historical data collected and stored during past valve exercising events may be used for determining how many times the valve stem of a utility valve must be rotated in order to travel from a full open to a full closed condition. A pressure sensor in combination with a pre determining counter may be used for determining that a valve is operating freely during a full travel of a valve stem from full open to full close condition.

It is an object of the present invention to operate a valve turner hands free.

Another object of this invention is to position a fluid powered valve actuator on a utility valve that is a part of a pressurized water conduit or a pressurized gas conduit, and having the valve actuator open or close said utility valve on a routine bases for the purpose of insuring that the valve is operable.

Another object of the present invention is to have the fluid powered valve actuator rotate a valve stem of a utility valve by powering the valve actuator with fluid from the pressurized conduit which also contains the utility valve.

Another object of the present invention is to pre set a maximum automated valve exercising circuit fluid pressure in order to insure that a valve stem is not broken because of having too much pressure applied to it during a valve exercising event.

Another object of the present invention is to us a pressure relief valve or the like for pre setting a maximum fluid pressure which will be available to a fluid powered valve actuator.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a sensor which will detect a pressure relief event of a pressure relief valve or the like.

Another object of the present invention is to have a sensor, which detects a pressure relief event of a pressure regulator, send a signal to a rotation reversing controller which will reverse the direction of rotation of the valve actuator each time a pre determined fluid pressure is achieved.

Another object of the present invention is to couple a fluid powered motor shaft to the valve stem of a utility valve; apply a pre determined fluid pressure to the motor in a first direction; use a detection devise to determine reaching the pre determined fluid pressure; have the detection device activate a reversal of the flow of fluid to the motor thus applying a pre determined fluid pressure to the motor in a second direction.

Another object of the present invention is to have a machine implemented apparatus for repeatedly working a stuck utility valve stem in a forward and reverse rotation with a pre determined pressure until the valve stem travels freely from a full open position to a full closed position.

Another object of the present invention is to have a machine implemented apparatus for determining when a valve stem travels freely from a full open position to a full closed position.

Another object of the present invention is to have a machine implemented apparatus for stopping the valve exercising event after a utility valve stem travels freely from a full open position to a full closed position.

Another object of the present invention is to have a machine implemented apparatus for collecting, documenting and displaying a condition relative to a utility valve opening or closing event.

Another object of the present invention is to have a machine implemented apparatus for supporting and securing a fluid powered rotation apparatus relative to a valve stem of a utility valve.

Prominent features of the present invention have been broadly outlined above in order that the detailed description that follows may be understood. There are additional features of the invention that will be described hereinafter and which will form the subject matter of the claims appended hereto.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Using the drawings, illustrations of the present invention will now be explained.

FIG. 1is a flow chart in schematic diagrammatic form which illustrates an apparatus and method for a machine implemented, automated valve exercising circuit300which contains a pressurized fluid HT1.

As illustrated in the drawings, a pressure relief valve PR2(pressure regulator) includes a pressure adjustment means PR2K for setting a pre determined pressure for the hydraulic fluid HT1, wherein said pressure relief valve PR2may insure that the pressurized hydraulic fluid HT1does not exceed a predetermined pressure, wherein said pressure relief valve PR2may bypass a volume of pressurized fluid HT1if the pressure of the hydraulic fluid HT1attempts to exceed the predetermined preset pressure which has been set by the pressure adjustment means PR2K.

A “pressure relief event” is the pressure relief valve PR2opening in order to flow a volume of pressurized fluid HT1through said pressure relief valve PR2. The hydraulic fluid HT1that has passed through the pressure relief valve PR2, is generally flowed back to a hydraulic fluid tank HFT1. Thus a portion of the pressurized fluid HT1which was intended to flow to a directional control valve DC1has been bypassed back to the hydraulic fluid tank HFT1.

A “sensor switch” BPS1is defined as a means for detecting a “pressure relief event” and activating a response; such as opening or closing an electrical contact or the like. The sensor switch BPS1may be a flow switch positioned down stream of the pressure relief valve PR2for the purpose of detecting a flow of hydraulic fluid HT1as it flows from the pressure relief valve PR2; or the sensor switch BPS1may consist of a contact switch mounted to the pressure relief valve PR2in such as way as to activate a response when the pressure relief valve PR2opens and creates a pressure relief event.

A hydraulic fluid HT1may be supplied to the automated valve exercising circuit300at a pressure equal to or greater than the maximum pressure needed for operating a worst case scenario. The pressurized fluid HT1flows from a pressurized fluid HT1source and through a conduit PL2in order to get to a pressure relief valve PR2. The pressure relief valve PR2may also be a pressure regulator PR2. Typically a pressure relief valve PR2uses a pressure adjustment means PR2K for pre setting a pressure relief pressure or bypass pressure. The pre set able pressure mean PR2K may be a tension spring with a screw and knob for increasing or decreasing a spring tension or pneumatic pressure of hydraulic pressure for push against a first side of a balancing valve PR2, which is the side that pushes the valve to a closed position. The pressurized fluid HT1pushes against a second side of the balancing valve PR2, which is the side which pushes the valve open.

The pressure of the fluid HT1is promotional to the energy required to rotate a motor HM1. Thus a valve actuator32motor HM1will require increasing amounts of energy when coupled to a valve stem99which is in bad repair due to the lack of use or maintenance. Utility valve stem99is often times made of brass and will break when too much energy is applied during a valve exercising event. Thus, a need for an automated valve exercising circuit300which will repeatedly open and close a utility valve98until it works freely from a full open to a full closed to a full open position and the exercising event is accomplished at or below a pre set energy level which will not over stress the valve stem99.

The pre set able pressure regulating means PR2may be pre set to a pressure which is at or below an energy level which will not over stress a valve stem99. The automated valve exercising circuit300will send pressurized fluid HT1in a first direction to a valve actuator32motor HM1which rotates a valve stem99in a first direction until the valve stem99reaches a point at which it will not further rotate, (either fully closed, open or stuck) thus the fluid HT1pressure increases to the preset energy level and triggers the automated valve exercising circuit300to reverse the direction of fluid HT1flow which in turn reverses the direction of rotation of the valve actuator32motor HM1which rotates valve stem99in a second direction until it reaches a point at which it will not further rotate. This sequence of flip flopping between a first rotation direction and a second rotation direction may continue until it is determined that the valve stem99operates freely through a full range of travel from fully open to fully closed to fully open. By counting each rotation to a fraction of a rotation it is possible to determine a full range of travel from fully open to fully closed to fully open. A counter means VSC2may be used in conjunction with a proximity switch VSC1and a gear tooth T1for the purpose of counting the rotations of a valve stem99. One or more pressure sensors PS1and PS2may be used for measuring the energy required for rotating a valve stem99. For example, inFIG. 5, the energy measured by sensor PS1may be subtracted from the energy measured by sensor PS2which will yield the energy used by motor HM1during a rotation. A counter VSC2may be coupled with a sensor PS1and PS2for the purpose of measuring an energy valve based on a rotation.

If the pressure exerted on fluid HT1attempts to exceed a preset value, then a pressure relief event take place, which is when the pressure of fluid HT1forces the pressure relief valve PR2to open, thus relieving excess pressure by discharging a portion of the fluid HT1from the pressurized conduit PL2and through a bypass orifice BP2. The bypass orifice BP2is often a conduit BP2which leads back to the source of fluid HT1, which is often times a hydraulic tank HFT1.

A sensor means BPS1may be used for detecting when a bypass event occurs. The sensor means BPS1may be a flow switch BPS1(such as an ST-6 flow switch by Suttner), which is activated upon detecting a flow of fluid HT1through orifice BP2. The sensor means BPS1may also be a pressure switch, a mechanical linkage between the balancing valve PR2and a micro switch, an electrical conductivity meter, or the like. The fluid HT1may leave the sensor BPS1via conduit BP3. Thus as explained above, the definition for a sensor means BPS1as used in this patent application is a “flow detection sensor” which detects a flow of hydraulic fluid HT1flowing through the bypass orifice BP2of a pressure relief valve PR2.

When sensor switch BPS1detects a pressure relief event, the sensor switch BPS1may send an out put signal BPS2to a flip flop relay FFR1. The flip flop relay FFR1may be a mechanical style such as a Tyco Electronics S89R11DAC112 or an electronic style such as a Cebek electronic I-9 or the like. The flip flop relay FFR1typically has two switches or out put signals FFR3and FFR4. The flip flop relay FFR1alternates its out put signal between signal out put FFR3and signal out put FFR4, thus only one of the two signals FFR3or FFR4are powered at any given time, thus the term “flip flop.” Each time the input signal BPS2stops and then starts again, the flip flop relay FFR1changes its signal out put source FFR3or FFR4. For example: flip flop relay FFR1starts off with FFR3having a closed relay for sending a signal and with FFR4having an open relay for stopping a signal; then a first input signal BPS2is sent to energize flip flop relay FFR1which causes flip flop relay FFR1to open contactor relay switch FFR3which stops its signal, and closes contactor relay switch FFR4which starts its signal; then the first signal BPS2stops and a second input signal BPS2is sent to reenergize flip flop relay FFR1which causes flip flop relay FFR1to close contactor relay switch FFR3which starts its signal, and opens contactor relay switch FFR4which stops its signal. Thus each time relay FFR1is reenergized it flip flops its out put signal source between out put switch FFR3and out put switch FFR4.

A directional control valve DC1may be used for reversing the direction of fluid HT1flow to a valve actuator32motor HM1. The directional control valve DC1may have an open center spool which returns fluid HT1back through conduit RL1to its origin unless the directional control valve DC1is energized for the purpose of dispensing fluid HT1to a valve actuator32motor HM1. The directional control valve DC1may dispense fluid in a first direction if solenoid S1is powered or directional control valve DC1will dispense fluid in a second direction if solenoid S2is energized. As illustrated inFIG. 4, a flip flop relay FFR1determines which solenoid S1or S2will be energized. For example: if the flip flop relay FFR1energizes its F3switch then as signal FFR3is sent to solenoid S1which in turn causes directional control valve DC1to dispense a pressurized fluid HT1in the direction of conduit SL1; but when the flip flop relay FFR1energizes its F4switch then a signal FFR4is sent to solenoid S2which in turn causes directional control valve DC1to dispense a pressurized fluid HT1in the direction of conduit SL2. In this illustration the direction or rotation of shaft SH1is reversed each time a different solenoid S1or S2is energized. InFIG. 4, an electrical power P1is illustrated as being supplied to contactor switch F2. Flip flop relay FFR1is illustrated as having a coil F1as a means for flip flopping between switches F3and F4. Coil F1is illustrated as being energized by a signal BPS2which is illustrated as being powered by a flow switch BPS1when a fluid HT1is dispensed through conduit BP2from a pressure relief valve PR2. Fluid HT1is illustrated as being dispensed from flow switch BPS1through a conduit BP3which connects to a fluid HT1return conduit RL1. InFIG. 4a hydraulic pump HP1is illustrated as receiving fluid HT1through a conduit PL1and then dispensing fluid HT1under pressure into conduit PL2. The pressure relief valve PR2is illustrated as having a knob and screw PR2K for pre setting a spring tension against the pressure relief balancing valve PR2.

FIG. 2is a flow chart in schematic diagrammatic form which illustrates using an automated valve exercising circuit300for powering a rotation motor HM1which illustrates a coupling means100for coupling the motor HM1to a utility valve98.

FIG. 3is a flow chart in schematic diagrammatic form likeFIG. 2, but with the addition of a counter VSC1for counting the rotations of a valve stem99of a utility valve98.

FIG. 4is a flow chart which illustrates a sample arrangement for using the bypass switch BPS1with a pressure relief valve PR2and a flip flow relay FFR1for controlling a directional control valve DC1and repeatedly reversing the direction of pressurized fluid HT1flow to a hydraulic motor HM1which in turn repeatedly reverses the direction of rotation of the shaft SH1.

A dead heading valve V1may be placed in conduit SL1, SL2, PL2, PL3or RL1. The dead heading valve V1will be left open while powering the bi directional hydraulic motor HM1. The “dead heading valve” V1is defined as a valve that, when closed, simulates placing full hydraulic fluid HT1pressure to the bi directional hydraulic motor HM1.

A primary function of dead heading valve V1is accomplished by closing valve V1while setting a pre determined fluid HT1pressure. Closing dead heading valve V1stops the flow of fluid HT1through its circuit which simulates a motor HM1being in a stalled condition. Closing valve V1is also known a dead heading the hydraulic system which triggers a pressure relief event by the pressure regulator PR2. During a dead heading event, a pressure regulator's PR2pressure adjustment means PR2K may be pre set for the purpose of setting a pre determined fluid HT1pressure. A pressure sensor PS1may be used to verify a fluid HT1pressure.

FIG. 5. is a flow chart similar toFIG. 4but with added features and control options such as a flow control valve FC1which is illustrated as being placed in the conduit PL2which supplies pressurized fluid HT1to a directional control valve DC1. Conduit PL3is illustrated as transporting the flow controlled fluid HT1to the directional control valve DC1. The flow control valve FC1will also function as a means for controlling the rotation of a motor HM1even if positioned in conduits SL1, SL2or RL1.

A pressure relief valve PR1is illustrated as being placed in conduit PL2just after the hydraulic pump HP1and dispenses its bypass fluid HT1through conduit BP1. The pressure relief valve PR1serves to establish the maximum available system pressure. Another pressure relief valve PR2may be positioned down stream for the purpose of regulating task oriented operations.

Hydraulic hose lines such as conduits PL2or RL1may have quick connect fittings QC1for temporally coupling a hydraulic circuit to a different tool which may be powered by the hydraulic circuit, and may also include a hose reel.

FIG. 5illustrates the use of an automated valve exercising circuit300for controlling the utility valve exercising event.

FIG. 5also illustrates its ability to select between the automated valve exercising circuit300and a manual operation of the utility valve exercising event. A selector switch SS1is shown to represent the ability to select between use of an automated valve exercising circuit300and the use of a manual switch MS1. The manual switch MS1allows an operator to toggle an OPEN-OFF-CLOSE switch MS1in order to manually choose to open a valve98or close a valve98or stop turning the valve stem99.

FIG. 5also illustrates the use of a cycle counter CC1for counting the number of times the automated valve exercising circuit300has completed a cycle or caused a valve98to be opened or closed. The cycle counter CC1may also be a predetermining cycle counter CC1for the purpose of choosing and setting a predetermined number of cycles one wishes to accomplish in a dial C4. The counter will count each cycle and display it in display C5. When the count in dial C4matches the display C5then a contact switch C2-C1will open and stop powering the automated valve exercising circuit300. A reset R1may be used for resetting the event.

FIG. 5also illustrates the use of a counter VSC2for counting the rotations of a shaft SH1which may be coupled to a valve stem99. A gear tooth T1may be positioned on shaft SH1. Each time the shaft SH1rotates, the tooth T1will pass by a switch VSC1. The proximity switch VSC1in turn will send a signal to the rotation counter VSC2. In this way the counter VSC2can count the rotations of shaft SH1. Switch VSC1may be a proximity switch, a magnetic pick up or the like. The gear tooth TI may have 10 teeth which will allow the counter VSC2to count the rotations of shaft SH1to an accuracy of 1 tenth of a rotation. By using a manufacturers specifications or historical data from past utility valve exercising events, one may pre know the number of rotations which are required in order to rotate a valve stem99from a full open condition to a full closed condition. Counter VSC2may be a predetermining counter VSC2. As a predetermining counter VSC2a pre known number of rotations may be dialed into display C4. The counter VSC2may display the measured rotations in display C5. When the rotation count displayed in display C5matches the preset count of display C4a contactor switch may activate. This contactor switch may be used for disconnecting power and stopping the automated valve exercising circuit300. Again, a reset may be used with this operation as well.

FIG. 5Bis a flow chart similar toFIG. 5but with yet more added features such as a flash drive92for storing data which has been collected during a utility valve exercising event. The flash drive92may be a USB coupled device with a weather cover which may be easily remover for the purpose of removing the flash drive98so that data may be transported to a centralized data storage means.

An RFID91reader and an RFID tag90are illustrated as being a part of the electronic package for the purpose of identifying data; such as an operator having an RFID tag90may use the RFID tag for identifying himself and activate the system to function. When activated, the RFID91reader may sequentially activate such events a Global Positioning System means89which in turn may document a date, time, latitude, longitude, elevation, or the like. A screen display97may display information concerning GIS mapping information about a utility system. Displays93may show information relative to a rotation or a torque reading or a force or a pressure or a temperature or the like. Data may be transmitted wirelessly via a transmitter/receiver means88.

FIG. 6is a side view of a utility maintenance machine with a, power plant76, a vacuum excavator12, a fire hydrant tester101, a valve exerciser400, and an articulated boom means36shown as a means for supporting a valve exerciser400all mounted on a mobile platform31. This machine can; excavate an access in the earth in order to access a utility valve98; gather and document historical data relative to a previous valve98maintenance event; use its articulated boom means36for moving a valve exerciser400into a workable position relative to the valve98, and then secure the valve exerciser400in a stable and secure position for the duration of a valve exercising event which may include opening or closing a valve98while collecting and storing data relative to the opening or closing event. The collected and stored data may include the date, time, operator identification, latitude, longitude, elevation, counting the number of rotations to open or close valve98and measuring the pressure and torque required to rotate a valve stem99. The hydrant tester101may measure the flow of water exiting a hydrant, measure its residual water pressure and temperature as well as dissipate the water pressure before releasing it to the ground. De-chlorinator tablets may be placed inside a water diffuser120for the purpose of removing chlorine from the water before it is dispensed onto the ground.

The valve exerciser400may be coupled to the articulated boom means36via a ball2and socket3having means for tightening the socket3to the ball2and the ball2is illustrated as being mounted as part of a boom means36and the socket3is illustrated as being mounted as a part of a valve exerciser400which in this illustration is a powered valve actuator32. The ball2and socket3serve as an attachment means for coupling a powered valve actuator32to a boom means36thus allowing the valve actuator32to have sufficient roll, pitch or yaw movement as needed in order to align said valve actuator32with the stem99of a valve98. Although not illustrated in this drawing, the valve actuator32may be aligned with the fire hydrant side cap in order to use the powered valve actuator to loosen and remove the cap so that the sensor94may be screwed onto the side of the fire hydrant. The boom means36supports and positions the valve actuator32in proximity to the water utility15fire hydrant valve stem nut. Thus the ball2and socket3coupling means is novel and useful as part of the utility15maintenance and servicing process.FIG. 6further illustrates a trailer31mounted vacuum excavator12having a boom means36attached. The boom means36includes a horizontal rotating pivot arm which allows the boom to operate on either side or from the back of the vacuum excavator12. A linear actuator41illustrates the ability of the boom means36to have a powered vertically movable arm. The arm is also illustrates as being a telescoping arm which allows the reach of the arm to be varied. An air spring130is coupled with the linear actuator41which allows the vertical movement of the boom arm to have a counter balance quality. The boom may have a powered means301which will allow the boom arm36to be positioned and secured into a predetermined orientation. For example, a boom means36may be manually articulated into a predetermined orientation. Then a powered means301which may be a wheel hub with a disc break, or a powered brake, such as a model H220 disc brake caliper system made by Tolomatic, may be engaged in order to secure the orientation of said arm or said boom means36. Or the boom means36may be moved to and secured in a predetermined orientation by a powered means301such as a slewing ring gear303, which may be of the model S-9 hourglass worm slew ring gear drive type as made by Kinematics Mfg. Inc. or the like. The slewing ring gear303may have a rotation means306and said rotation means306may be a manual hand crank, a hydraulic motor, an electric motor, an air motor or the like. The powered means301can provide the ability to position and secure a powered valve actuator32relative to a utility valve98. A coupling means100may be used for coupling the valve actuator32to the utility valve98which may be buried in the earth35, thus the powered valve actuator32may open or close the utility valve98automatically without the aid a human to secure the position of the valve actuator32during said opening or closing event. The powered means301could also be a wheel hub with a disc brake, a solenoid stop, a cylinder, or a motor driving a gear or chain or belt drive.

The illustrated water utility15may be flow tested via a maintenance process which may includes a water hose for receiving water which is being flushed from a fire hydrant valve98. The water hose delivers the water102to an inlet123of a water diffuser120which may have a perforated metal screen122over the outlet of the water diffuser. The perforated metal screen122may serve to further diffuse the water102thus reducing the erosion affect of the fire hydrant flushing water102. The screen122, may also serve to contain the De-Chlorinating chemical pellets within the water diffuser120. The De-Chlorinating pellets121may serve to remove chlorine from the water thus making the water non toxic so that it is safe to discharge into a storm drain.

The utility maintenance apparatus may further includes sensors94and data gathering means PC1for measuring, recording, storing and displaying data conditions relative to the utility maintenance event. Data conditions collected may include documenting the identity of a valve, the condition of a valve, it's location, who did the maintenance, when the service was performed, how the service affected the remainder of the utility system, what corrective maintenance needs to be accomplished and the assimilation of the collective data onto a utility mapping system or GIS program.

The mobile platform31is illustrated to have a power plant76which may have multiple utility servicing systems mounted on it which may include an engine, a vacuum pump, a blower, a water pump, a hydraulic pump, a generator, an air compressor, a welder and the like. Mobile platform31may also include a vacuum excavator system, a hydro excavation system, a water jetter system, and a pivot ably mounted articulated boom arm36with a utility valve actuator32mounted on it. In this example a valve actuator32is being used to exercise an in ground utility valve98via an extension rod attachment means100which is shown to couple the valve stem99to the powered valve actuator32. The powered valve actuator32may be used to loosen valve seats, bolts or the like. Camera96is illustrated as collecting an image of the of the utility valve98maintenance event. The mobile platform31mounted systems are also illustrated to include process control and data condition documentation sensors94to measure the physical quantities of the service or repair operation. Sensors94may include a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, a flow sensor or the like. A data logger92, a digital display93, an RFID91means, a camera96, a GPS signal receiver89, a utility mapping display97and wireless communication via antenna88are illustrated as being used for documenting, controlling, displaying and storing data related to the conditions of a utility servicing or repair operation or the like. A Process Control means PC1is shown to give a person access to gather and control data and to monitor a maintenance servicing and repair event. Process Control means PC1may at least be a rotation counter93which counts the rotations of the valve stem99. As noted below, PC1may also include many other functions. A person wishing to use the process controller PC1may first activate the process controller PC1by placing a personalized RFID tag90in proximity to a RFID reader91. The process controller PC1activation occurs when the person places his RFID tag90in communication with the RFID reader91. The process controller PC1will be activated provided that the persons RFID tag90is programmed to activate the system. In this way the PC1is protected from persons not authorized to use or operate the process controller PC1. Use of the RFID tag90also documents personal data regarding who is using the system, what he used it for and for what period of time.

FIG. 7is a flow diagram which illustrates a method of applying an automated valve exercising circuit300to a motor HM1in order to achieve a machine implemented valve actuator32for exercising a utility valve98.

FIG. 8is a side elevation which illustrates a pressurized utility15having an isolation valve98installed in the utility line15. A valve actuator32is illustrated as being attached to the utility valve stem99of the utility valve98for the purpose of exercising the utility valve98on demand. The utility line15is shown to contain a pressurized fluid HT15such as water under pressure, gas under pressure or the like. The pressurized fluid HT15is used to power the valve actuator32. A diaphragm means PL2D illustrates a method for powering the valve actuator32without having the pressurized fluid HT15come in contact with an automated valve exercising circuit300. The diaphragm means PL2D serves to allow an energy source to be transferred from pressurized fluid HT15to fluid HT1while segregating fluid HT15from fluid HT1. This allows fluid HT1to be a non corrosive fluid in contact with the automated valve exercising circuit300. The diaphragm means PL2D may include a conduit bulge and diaphragm such as a bladder tank or the like. This arrangement allows a utility valve98to be buried in ground along with a valve actuator32which includes an automated valve exercising circuit300and a process controller PC1. Thus, the valve98may be exercised on demand to insure its operability. A valve exercising event may be demanded by a remote wireless transmission to the PC1, or an internal timer may initiate the start of a valve exercising event, or a sensor which detects a maintenance condition may initiate a valve exercising event. The PC1may collect, display and document conditions relative to the valve exercising event and may transmit said data to a central operations data base such as a GIS program. An RFID means90or91may be used for initiating or retrieving data.

FIG. 9is a user friendly embodiment of a mobile valve exerciser400which may at least includes a valve actuator means32, but may also include a process control means PC1.FIG. 9is a plan view showing an example of how to arrange the valve actuator32on a mobile base32B which in this example is coupled to a boom arm1via a ball coupler2. The valve exerciser400mobile base32B is shown to have handles32H for use by an operator when operating the valve exerciser400in a manual mode. In this illustration the a manual reversing switch MS1is shown as rocker type switch which the operator may easily operate with his thumb while still griping a handle32H. The manual reversing switch is shown to bypass the automated flip flop relay circuit FFR1and the pressure relief sensor switch BPS1, thus allowing an operator to manually select a direction he wishes the hydraulic motor HM1to turn. The manual reversing switch MS1is shown to be powering the directional control valve DC1solenoid, which in turn selects which direction a hydraulic fluid flows to the hydraulic motor HM1. In this illustration, the shaft SH1of the hydraulic motor HM1is shown to have a sprocket32S attached. A chain32C is shown to connect two sprockets32S. This dual sprocket32S arrangement allows the shaft SH1of a hydraulic motor HM1to drive a second shaft SH1. By selecting a diameter for each sprocket32S a person may select a ration of power and or speed between a first shaft SH1and a second shaft SH1. Either shaft SH1may be used for coupling to a valve stem99for the purpose of rotating said valve stem99. It is understood that the sprocket32S may be substituted by a puller, gear or the like. The chain32C may be substituted by a belt, series of gears or the like.

FIG. 9also illustrates a valve V1located in a hydraulic conduit, which could be either conduit SL1or SL2. A purpose of valve V1is to allow an operator to temporally close the valve V1in order to simulate the hydraulic motor HM1operating at a stalled condition; in other words, valve V1stops the flow of fluid through the conduit circuit SL1and SL2thus causing a dead heading effect, which in turn causes a pressure relief valve PR2to open in order to protect the hydraulic system from becoming over pressurized. During this dead heading event an operator may adjust the desired pressure at which the pressure relief valve PR2will open. In this illustration, a pressure relief adjustment knob PR2K is shown as the means for adjusting the pressure at which the relief valve PR2will open. A pressure sensor PS1may be located in the hydraulic conduit circuit SL1or SL2for the purpose of identifying what hydraulic pressure is being applied to the hydraulic circuit SL1or SL2. Thus by closing valve V1an operator may then adjust the pressure relief adjustment knob PR2K in order to achieve a predetermined pressure value on the pressure sensor PSI. Valve V1may be a manual valve or an automated valve, and the pressure relief adjustment knob PR2K may be substituted with an automated means of adjustment, and the pressure sensor PS1may be a pressure dial, a pressure transducer or the like. The above described method of pre setting a maximum hydraulic operating pressure may be machine implemented. The above described technique for pre setting a maximum operating pressure for the hydraulic circuit SL1or SL2is use full for the purpose of insuring that the pressure applied to the hydraulic motor HM1will be restricted to safe rotational force against a valve stem99. By knowing the characteristics of a valve98and a valve stem99, the operator may then pre set a maximum safe hydraulic pressure for the hydraulic circuit SL1or SL2. The hydraulic circuit SL1or SL2are the supply and return hydraulic conduits for the hydraulic motor HM1. Depending on the clock wise or counter clockwise direction of rotation desired for the motor HM1the direction of hydraulic fluid flow within conduit SL1or SL2will reverse direction.

After the pressure relief valve PR2has been pre set, the valve V1is opened so that the hydraulic fluid is free to flow through the hydraulic circuit SL1and SL2thus powering the hydraulic motor HM1. After the motor HM1is coupled to a valve stem99, the operator has a choice of opening or closing the valve98manually by using the manual selector switch MS1or the operator may choose to let the machine implemented controls open and close the valve98automatically.

FIG. 10is a cross section top view of powered tool11coupled to a boom arm1via a ball2and socket3. The ball2is illustrated as being attached to the boom arm1and the socket3is illustrated as being attached to the power tool11. A support frame10is illustrated as a two part frame for attaching the power tool11to two socket segments3which are squeezed against the ball2. A bolt7is illustrated as a means to tighten the two socket segments3against the ball2. This arrangement allows the socket segments3to be tightened to a pre determined torque against the ball2in order to create a pre determined friction between the ball2and the socket3, thus requiring a pre determined force to be applied to the ball2before roll, pitch or yaw movement of the ball2is accomplished. Although a bolt is illustrated as a means to tighten the socket segments to the ball, it is also an objective to use a strain gauge, cylinder or linear actuator to loosen or tighten the socket3against the ball2and to measure and accomplish a pre determined force. The socket segments3may also be loosened sufficient for the ball2to be removed from within the socket3. The angular area of the ball2which is covered by the socket3may be pre determined so as to establish a pre determined range of roll, pitch or yaw. The socket3may be segmented into as many segments as needed to accomplish the specific attachment result. The socket3segments may be separate of each other or may be hinged together or hinged or attached to a common base.

The preceding description has been presented only to illustrate and describe an example of the invention. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to any precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching.

The illustrations were chosen and described in order to explain the principles of the invention and its practical application. The preceding description is intended to enable others skilled in the art to utilize the invention in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the following claims.