Patent Abstract:
A method and apparatus for pulling multiple joints of pie which comprises a pulling section and a pulled section, the method and apparatus working while the joints of pipe are below grade and capable of pulling multiple joints of pipe without relocating the pulling section.

Full Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     Not applicable 
     STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
     Not applicable 
     REFERENCE TO A “MICROFICHE APPENDIX” 
     Not applicable 
     BACKGROUND 
     Frictionally and/or adhesively bonded joints of pipe are commonly used with many types of underground pipelines. Conventionally available joints of pipe include male and female type jointing. 
     It is necessary that large forces be used to cause the male end of one joint of pipe to be inserted into the female end of a second joint of pipe so that a proper seal can be made between the two joints of joined piping, along with overcoming frictional forces between the joints of pipe and the ground surface in contact with the joints of pipe. 
     The large forces necessary to join multiple joints of pipe together are especially difficult to create in confined spaces such as ditches or digouts where the joints of pipe are placed before being joined and which will be filled so that the pipeline will be below or underground. 
     Conventionally available methods for joining pipes include hammering the one joint into another. 
     While certain novel features of this invention shown and described below are pointed out in the annexed claims, the invention is not intended to be limited to the details specified, since a person of ordinary skill in the relevant art will understand that various omissions, modifications, substitutions and changes in the forms and details of the device illustrated and in its operation may be made without departing in any way from the spirit of the present invention. No feature of the invention is critical or essential unless it is expressly stated as being “critical” or “essential.” 
     BRIEF SUMMARY 
     The apparatus of the present invention solves the problems confronted in the art in a simple and straightforward manner. 
     In one embodiment is provided a method and apparatus including a pulling and pulled portions detachably connectable to two pipe joints to be joined which are located in a ditch or dugout, which apparatus pulls one joint relative to the second joint causing socketing of the joints together at a joint area. 
     In one embodiment is provided cables or chains which detachably connect the pulling and pulled portion of the method and apparatus. 
     As force is applied by the gas controlled cylinders the joints of pipe are pulled together and one joint is socketed into the other at the joint between them. 
     In one embodiment each pipe is encircled by a clamping belt. 
     In one embodiment the gas controlled cylinders include a frictional enhancing material suitable for gripping each joint of pipe, such as rubber. 
     In one embodiment the pulling section includes a pair of gas controlled cylinders each having extension/retraction rods. In this embodiment each gas controlled cylinder will be detachably connected to a first joint of pipe with diametrically opposed positions on the first joint of pipe. 
     In various embodiments chains or cables or like pulling members can be connected to the extension/retraction rods of each gas controlled cylinder, and also to a pulled section which pulled section is detachably connected to a second joint of pipe. 
     In one embodiment the gas controlled cylinders can be actuated causing retraction of the extension/retraction rods into the gas controlled cylinders, said refraction causing the male end of the first joint of pipe to be pulled into the female end of the second joint of pipe. 
     In various embodiments pulling can be made at time when each joint of pipe is resting in a ditch. 
     In various embodiments multiple pulls of separate joints of pipe can be made without relocating pulling section when it is detachably connected to the first joint of pipe. In various embodiments at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 separate joints of pipe pulled together without removing the pulling section from its detachable connection to the first joint of pipe. In various embodiments, a range of multiple pulls can be made between any two of the above referenced multiple joints of pipe being pulled without removing the pulling section from its detachable connection to the first joint of pipe. 
     In various embodiments pulls can be made between a plurality of joints of pipe having a minimum joint length of at least about 10, 12, 14, 15, 16, 18, 20, 22, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, and/50 feet without removing the pulling section from its detachable connection to the first joint of pipe. In various embodiments, multiple pulls of joints of pipe having lengths falling with a range between any two of the above referenced minimum joint lengths can be made without removing the pulling section from its detachable connection to the first joint of pipe. 
     In various embodiments the method and apparatus includes a pulling section having a clamping belt with a plurality of pulling cylinders, with at least one of the pulling cylinders being laterally adjustable relative to the clamping belt. In various embodiments both of the pulling cylinders are laterally adjustable relative to the clamping belt. In various embodiments the apparatus includes two clamping belts with wherein at least one of the pulling cylinders has lateral adjustability, and in other embodiments two of the clamping cylinders have lateral adjustability. In various embodiments lateral adjustability can be provided by a loop connection with the at least one clamping belt. In various embodiments lateral adjustability can be provided by a sliding connection, and in other embodiments by a slot connection with the clamping belt. 
     In various embodiments the method and apparatus includes a pulled section having a clamping belt with a plurality of connectors, with at least one of the connectors being laterally adjustable relative to the clamping belt. In various embodiments both of the clamp connectors are laterally adjustable relative to the clamping belt. In various embodiments the apparatus includes two clamping belts with wherein at least one of the connectors has lateral adjustability, and in other embodiments two of the connectors have lateral adjustability. In various embodiments lateral adjustability can be provided by a loop connection with the at least one clamping belt. In various embodiments lateral adjustability can be provided by a sliding connection, and in other embodiments by a slot connection with the clamping belt. 
     In various embodiments lateral adjustability can be used to attach to joints of multiple diameters of piping with same system by adjusting length of belt clamp and relative lateral position of connectors to belt. 
     In various embodiments the pulling and/or pulled sections includes a belt having lateral adjustability to accommodate multiple diameter joints of pipes to be pulled. In various embodiments the pulling and/or clamping units include a belt having lateral adjustability used to attach to joints of multiple diameters of piping with same system by adjusting length of belt for pulling section and relative lateral position of cylinders to belt. 
     In various embodiments the diameters of pipe which can be accommodated include 6, 8, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 42, 48, 60, 72, 84, 96, 108, and/or 120 inch diameters of joints of pipe. In various embodiments, the lateral adjustability is such that it can accommodate a multiple diameters of pipe falling within a range of between any two of the above referenced diameters of joints of pipe. 
     In various embodiments pulling cylinders are located at 180 degrees from each other around the joint of pipe. In various embodiments pulling cylinders are spaced about 90, 100, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270 degrees from each other. In various embodiments, the pulling cylinders can be spaced within a range of between any two of the above referenced degree spacing. 
     In various embodiments the method and apparatus includes the steps of, after making a pull, and during the time the pipe string remains resting in a ditch, removing the pulling portion of the apparatus from the joint of pipe to which it was connected before making the pull. 
     In various embodiments, the pulling section is removed without having to lift resting pipe. In various embodiments, the pulling section is removed without digging out around resting pipe. In various embodiments, the pulling section is removed by sliding at least one clamping belt relative to at least one of the cylinders. In various embodiments, the clamp belt of the pulling section removed from ditch separately from both gas controlled cylinders (clamp detached from at least the separately removed cylinder/clamp detached from both cylinders). In various embodiments, the clamp belt and gas controlled cylinder can be removed from the ditch separately from other gas controlled cylinder (clamp detached from at least the separately removed cylinder/clamp detached from both cylinders) 
     In various embodiments, the pulled can be removed when pipe resting in ditch, clamping section removed from pipe. In various embodiments, the pulled section is removed without digging out around resting pipe. In various embodiments, the pulled section is removed by sliding at least one clamping belt relative to at least one of the connectors. In various embodiments, the clamp belt of the pulled section removed from ditch separately from both connectors. In various embodiments, the clamp belt and connector can be removed from the ditch separately from other connector for the pulled section (first connector detached from clamping belt separately removed from the clamping belt and/or second connect; and/or both connectors detached from the clamping belt and separately removed). 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
       For a further understanding of the nature, objects, and advantages of the present invention, reference should be had to the following detailed description, read in conjunction with the following drawings, wherein like reference numerals denote like elements and wherein: 
         FIG. 1  is a side view of first and second joints of pipe to be attached using the method and apparatus. 
         FIG. 2  is a top perspective view of the pulling and pulled section of the method and apparatus. 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of the control system for the pulling section. 
         FIG. 4  is a side perspective view of first and second joints of pipe to be attached shown in  FIG. 1 , but now showing more clearly the ditch in which these joints rest before the pull. 
         FIG. 5  is a is a perspective view of the apparatus on the pulled joints shown in 
         FIG. 4  with the pulled section being installed around joints to be pulled. 
         FIG. 6  is a perspective view of a user setting up the apparatus to make a pull. 
         FIG. 7  is a schematic diagram of gas flow through the lines of the pulling section which will cause an extension of the pulling rods, and showing the rods in a fully extended condition. 
         FIG. 8  is a schematic diagram of gas flow through the lines of the pulling section which will cause a retraction of the pulling rods, and at the beginning of a pull. 
         FIG. 9  is a schematic diagram of gas flow through the lines of the pulling section which will cause a retraction of the pulling rods, and at the end of a pull showing complete retraction. 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of the apparatus now set up to make a pull between two joints of pipe. 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of the apparatus in the middle of a a pull between two joints of pipe. 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of the apparatus finishing a pull between two joints of pipe. 
         FIG. 13  is a is a perspective view of the apparatus on the pulled joints shown in  FIG. 12  with the pulled section being removed from around the pulled joint so that it can be attached to a second joint of pipe to be pulled. 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective view of the apparatus now set up to make a second pull of a new joint of pipe onto the two joints of pipe connected in  FIGS. 10 through 12 . 
         FIG. 15A  is a sectional view of the system shown in  FIG. 14  taken along the lines  15 A— 15 A in  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 15B  is a sectional view of the system shown in  FIG. 14  taken along the lines  15 B— 15 B in  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 15C  is a sectional view of the system shown in  FIG. 14  taken along the lines  15 C— 15 C in  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 15D  is a sectional view of the system shown in  FIG. 14  taken along the lines  15 A— 15 A in  FIG. 14 , but showing first and second cylinders laterally adjusted with respect to the centerline of the joints of pipe. 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective view of the system  10 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Detailed descriptions of one or more preferred embodiments are provided herein. It is to be understood, however, that the present invention may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but rather as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to employ the present invention in any appropriate system, structure or manner. 
       FIG. 1  is a side view of first  50  and second  60  joints of pipe to be attached using the method and apparatus  10 . Second joint  50  includes enlarged female end  68  at second end  64  within which will be pulled male end  52  of a first joint of pipe  50 . In various embodiments the pulling can occur while first  50  and second  60  joints are primarily below grade  40  level, such as inside a ditch  42 .  FIG. 4  is a side perspective view of first  50  and second  60  joints of pipe to be attached, but now showing more clearly the ditch  42  in which these joints rest before the pull. 
       FIG. 2  is a top perspective view of the pulling  200  and pulled  100  section of the method and apparatus  10 .  FIG. 3  is a perspective view of the control system  600  for the pulling section  200 . In one embodiment, pulling apparatus  10  includes pulling section  200  and pulled section  100 . 
     Pulled section  100  can include clamping belt  110  along with first  130  and second  140  laterally adjustable connectors. First connector  130  can include strap  131  and loop  132 , and have an extent of lateral adjustability  134 . Second connector  140  can include strap  141  and loop  142 , and have an extent of lateral adjustability  144 . Detachable connection can be achieved by the use of at least one clamping belt  110 , with first end  112 , second end  114 , and sliding lock  120 . 
     Pulling section  200  can include two pistons  300 , 400  which can be detachably connected to a pipe joint (e.g., joint  50 ). Detachable connection can be achieved by the use of at least one clamping belt  370 , but preferably a second clamping belt  470  is also used. 
     First piston  300  can have rod  320  slidably connected to its piston chamber. First piston  300  can include inlets  310  and  312  for controlling extension and retraction of rod  320 . Compressed gas entering inlet  310  causes retraction of rod  320  and compressed gas entering inlet  312  causes extension of rod  320 . Rod  320  can be connected to pulling member  350  which can be a conventionally available chain or cable. First piston  300  can include a frictional increasing member  306 , such as a rubber lining or like material. 
     Similar to first piston  300 , second piston  400  can have rod  420  slidably connected to its piston chamber. Second piston  400  can include inlets  410  and  12  for controlling extension and retraction of rod  420 . Compressed gas entering inlet  410  causes retraction of rod  420  and compressed gas entering inlet  412  causes extension of rod  420 . Rod  420  can be connected to pulling member  450  which can be a conventionally available chain or cable. Second piston  400  can include a frictional increasing member  406 , such as a rubber lining or like material. 
     First piston  300  can slidably connected to first clamping belt  370  through slot  308 , and slidably connect to second clamping belt  470  through slot  308 . First clamping belt  370  can include first end  372 , second end  374 , and sliding lock  376 . Second piston  400  can slidably connected to first clamping belt  370  through slot  408 , and slidably connect to second clamping belt  470  through slot  408 . Second clamping belt  470  can include first end  472 , second end  474 , and sliding lock  476 . First piston  300  can have an extent of lateral adjustability  360  relative to first  370  and second  470  belts. Second piston  400  can have an extent of lateral adjustability  460  relative to first  370  and second  470  belts. 
       FIG. 3  shows a perspective view of the control system  600  for apparatus  10 . Control system  600  generally includes switching unit  610  and portable supply of compressed gas  500 . Switching unit  610  can be controlled by handle  620 . Supply of compressed gas  500  can be connected to switching unit  610  by inlet line  650 . Switching unit  610  has two outlets which are connected to lines  710  and  810 . Handle  620  controls three states: (a) state  1  where no gas is allowed to exist to either line  710  or line  810 ; (b) state  2  where gas is allowed to exit to line  710  but not line  810 ; and (c) state  3  where gas is allowed to exit to line  810  but not line  710 . Line  710  is split into lines  720  and  730  (with lines  710 ,  720 , and  730  generally being referred together as first set of lines  700 ). Line  810  is split into lines  820  and  830  (with lines  810 ,  820 , and  830  generally being referred together as second set of lines  800 ).  FIGS. 5 and 6  are perspective views of apparatus  10  being connected to joints  50  and  60  with pulled section  100  being installed on joint  60  and pulling section being attached to joint  50 . For purposes of clarity in  FIG. 6  ditch  42  and ground  40  are not shown with all items being in empty space. 
     First  300  and second  400  cylinders can be positioned on the opposite sides of joint  50 . Before joint  50  is placed in ditch  42  it is preferred that straps  370  and  470  be placed in ditch  42  under where joint  50  will be lowered. Also preferably before lowering of joint  50  into ditch  42 , second cylinder  400  can be attached to straps  370  and  470  using slot  408 . Alternatively, after joint  50  has been lowered into ditch  42  and on top of straps  370 , 470 ; second ends  374 , 474  of straps  370 , 470  can be threaded through slot  408  of second cylinder  400  and attaching sliding locks  376 , 476  so said second ends  374 , 474 . 
     Positioning of Cylinders for Pulling Section 
     After joint  50  has been lowered into ditch  42  and on top of straps  370 , 470 , cylinders  300 , 400  can be positioned about joint  50 . Cylinder  300  can be slid over straps  370 , 470  (schematically indicated by arrow  301 ) to its ultimate pulling position when attached to joint  50 . Cylinder  400  can be slid with respect to straps  370 , 470  (schematically indicated by arrow  401 ) to its ultimate pulling position when attached to joint  50 . After cylinders  300  and  400  are positioned, sliding locks  376  and  476  can be used to lock in place cylinders  300  and  400 . 
     Preferably, as indicated in  FIG. 14A , cylinders  300 , 400  are symmetrically spaced about joint  50  to provide a balanced force on each side joints  50  and  60  which balanced force is parallel to central axis  30  to avoid any tendency to skew or cock joints  50  and  60  during a pull. However, as schematically indicted in  FIG. 14A , both cylinders  300  and  400  have an extend of lateral adjustment, respectively angular ranges  360  and  460 , such that cylinder  300  and/or  400  can be angularly spaced above or below the central axis  30 . 
     In various embodiments both cylinder  300  and  400  are angularly spaced above central axis  30  although symmetrically spaced about joint  50 . 
     In various embodiments both cylinder  300  and  400  are angularly spaced below central axis  30  although symmetrically spaced about joint  50 . 
     In various embodiments both cylinder  300  is angularly spaced above central axis  30  while cylinder  400  is angularly spaced below central axis, although both cylinders  300  and  400  are symmetrically spaced about joint  50 . 
     In various embodiments cylinder  300  can be non-symmetrically spaced about a joint compared to cylinder  400 . 
     Positioning of Connectors for Pulled Section 
     After joint  60  has been lowered into ditch  42  and on top of strap  110 , connectors  130  and  140  can be positioned about joint  60 . Connector  130  can be slid over strap  110  (schematically indicated by arrow  135 ) to its ultimate position for being pulled when attached to joint  60 . Connector  140  can be slid with respect to strap  110  (schematically indicated by arrow  145 ) to its ultimate position for being pulled when attached to joint  60 . After connectors  130  and  140  are positioned, sliding lock  120  can be used to lock in place connectors  130  and  140 . 
     Preferably, as indicated in  FIG. 14C , connectors  130 , 140  are symmetrically spaced about joint  60  to provide a balanced pulled force on each side joints  50  and  60  which balanced force is parallel to central axis  30  to avoid any tendency to skew or cock joints  50  and  60  during a pull. However, as schematically indicted in  FIG. 14C , both connectors  130  and  140  have an extent of lateral adjustment, respectively angular ranges  134  and  144 , such that connector  130  and/or  140  can be angularly spaced above or below the central axis  30 . 
     In various embodiments both connectors  130  and  140  are angularly spaced above central axis  30  although symmetrically spaced about joint  60 . 
     In various embodiments both connectors  130  and  140  are angularly spaced below central axis  30  although symmetrically spaced about joint  60 . 
     In various embodiments connector  130  is angularly spaced above central axis  30  while connector  140  is angularly spaced below central axis, although both connectors  130  and  140  are symmetrically spaced about joint  60 . 
     In various embodiments connectors  130  and  140  can be non-symmetrically spaced about a joint. 
     Operatively Connecting Cylinders to Connectors 
     Preferably, when positioned on joints  50  and  60 , cylinder  300  will line up with connector  130 ; and cylinder  400  will line up with connector  140  so that chains  350  and  450  will be substantially parallel with central axis  30  along with each other. 
     Over joint  50 , chains  350  and  450  are respectively connected to rods  320  and  420 . Over joint  60  chains  350  and  450  are respectively connected to connectors  130  and  140 . Preferably, chains  350  and  450  will have some excess length (excess  353  and  453  respectively). 
     As shown in  FIGS. 10-14 , preferably, the length of chains  350  and  450  extend long enough to span the length of at least two normal sized joints  50 , 60  so that multiple pulls can be made without having to move pulling apparatus  200  from its attachment to joint  50 . 
     Making a Pull for a First Set of Pipe Joints when Below Grade 
     Initially, rods  320  and  420  can be placed in the initial completely extended positions.  FIG. 7  is a schematic diagram of gas flow through the lines  700  of the pulling section  200  which will cause an extension of the pulling rods  320 , 420 , and showing the rods  320 , 420  in a fully extended condition (fully extended positions schematically indicated by dimensional lines  380 , 480 ). Handle  620  is moved (schematically indicated by arrow  1002 ) to allow flow from pressurized gas source  500  to flow lines  700 . This flow proceeds through line  710  (schematically indicated by arrow  1010 ), flow being split into lines  720  (schematically indicated by arrow  1014 ) and  730  (schematically indicated by arrow  1012 ), and ultimately into ports  312  and  412  of cylinders  300  and  400 . Flow into ports  312  and  412  respectively cause rods  320  and  420  to extend (schematically indicated by arrows  1030  and  1032 ). Cylinders  300  and  400  are now in a position to make a pull. 
       FIG. 8  is a schematic diagram of gas flow through the line set  800  of the pulling section  200  causing retraction of the pulling rods  320 , 420  at the beginning of a pull.  FIG. 10  is a perspective view of apparatus  10  now set up to make a pull between two joints of pipe  50  and  60 . Handle  620  is moved (schematically indicated by arrow  1005 ) to flow from pressurized gas source  500  to flow lines  800 . This flow proceeds through line  810  (schematically indicated by arrow  1020 ), flow being split into lines  820  (schematically indicated by arrow  1022 ) and  830  (schematically indicated by arrow  1024 ), and ultimately into ports  310  and  410  of cylinders  300  and  400 . Flow into ports  310  and  410  respectively cause rods  320  and  420  to retract (schematically indicated by arrows  1040  and  1042 ). Cylinders  300  and  400  are now starting to make a pull respectively on chains  350  and  450  which are respectively connected to connectors  130  and  140  which are connected to joint  60 . 
       FIG. 9  is a schematic diagram of gas flow through the line set  800  of the pulling section  200  causing continued retraction of the pulling rods  320 , 420 , and in the middle of a pull.  FIG. 11  is a perspective view of apparatus  10  in the middle of a pull between two joints of pipe  50  and  60 . As shown in  FIGS. 9 and 11 , handle  620  is continued to be pushed in the direction of arrow  1005  allowing continued flow from source  500  to flow lines  800 . This continued flow continues to proceed through line  810  (schematically indicated by arrow  1020 ), flow being split into lines  820  (schematically indicated by arrow  1022 ) and  830  (schematically indicated by arrow  1024 ), and ultimately into ports  310  and  410  of cylinders  300  and  400 . Flow into ports  310  and  410  respectively continues to cause rods  320  and  420  to continue retract (schematically indicated by arrows  1040 ′ and  1042 ′). Assuming that the chains  350 , 450  had little to no slack in the position indicated by  FIG. 9 , rods  320  and  420  have respectively pulled chains  350  and  450  an equal distance (schematically indicated by dimensional lines  384  and  484 ), which pulled distance has also moved joint  60  through connectors  130  and  140  being clamped onto belt  110 . It is noted that shoulder  67  of joint  60  will restrict relative longitudinal movement of joint  60  and belt  110  (with attached connectors  130  and  140 ). As handle  620  is continued to be place in the position indicated by arrow  1005  continued flow in the directions of arrows indicated above will cause rods  320  and  420  to continue to retract in the directions of arrows  1040 ′ and  1042  until either rods  320  and  420  bottom out in cylinders  300  and  400  or joints  50  and  60  full nest with each other. 
     In the situation of rods  320  and  420  bottoming out before joints  50  and  60  become fully nested a second, third, or more pulls can be made without relocated either pulling section  200  and pulled section  100 . In this situation of bottoming out, handle  620  is moved in the direction of arrow  620  to fully extend rods  320  and  420  (as described with reference to  FIG. 7 ). After full extension chains  350  and  450  are detached from connectors  130  and  140  and then reattached to connectors  130  and  140  to minimize any slack in chains  350  and  450 . After reattaching chains  350  and  450 , second, third, etc. pulls can be made using the procedure described above with respect to  FIGS. 8 and 9  until additional retraction of rods  320  and  420  are prevented by the full nesting/attachment/connection of joints  50  and  60 . 
       FIG. 12  is a perspective view of apparatus  10  finishing a pull between two joints of pipe  50  and  60 . In  FIG. 12 , using the above described steps, joints  50  and  60  have full nested with each other wherein rods  320  and  420  have stopped retraction before bottoming out in cylinders  300  and  400 . Dimensional line  384 ′ schematically indicates the extent of retraction for the last pull to fully nest joints  50  and  60 . 
     Making a Pull for a Second Set of Pipe Joints without Relocating Pulling Section 
       FIG. 14  is a perspective view of apparatus  10  now set up to make a second pull of a new joint of pipe  70  onto the two joints of pipe connected together with the pull(s) described regarding  FIGS. 10 through 12 . 
     Pulled section  100  is removed from joint  60 , which removal is schematically shown in  FIG. 14 .  FIG. 14  is a is a perspective view of apparatus  10  located on the pulled joints  50  and  60  with the pulled section  100  being removed from around the pulled joint  60  so that it  100  can be attached to a second joint of pipe  70  to be pulled. Sliding connector  120  is released and strap  110  removed from said connector. Belt  110  (with attached connector  140 ) can be removed from joint  60  by pulling in the direction of arrow  1100 . Preferably, before pulling out belt  110 , connector  130  is removed from belt  110  by sliding connector in the direction of arrow  1120 . At this point pulled section can be laid in ditch  42  under the location of where new joint  70  will be placed in ditch  42  and then attached to said joint  70  in a similar manner as that described with respect to attaching pulled section to joint  60 . 
     After attaching pulled section to joint  70 , chains  350  and  450  can be attached to connectors  130  and  140  minimizing any slack in said chains. Because pulling section  200  has not been moved, chains  350  and  450  need to have an overall length which can span the length  61  of  60  to allow attachment to relocated connectors  130  and  140  (now relocated on joint  70 ). Now the pulling of joint  70  to nest with joint  60  follows a similar procedure as describe above with the pulling of joint  60  to nest with joint  50  and will not be described in detail again. However, it should be noted that pulling on joint  70  when the pulling section  200  is attached to joint  50  has the added advantage of ensuring that joint  60  completely nests with joint  50  because when joint  70  nests with joint  60 , continued pulling forces on joint  70  will be transmitted through joint  60  causing it to want to further nest with joint  50 . 
     Relocating Pulling Section to New Joint of Pipe 
     Chains  350  and  450  will not be long enough to make an infinite numbers of pulls without the need to relocate pulling section  200  from joint  50 . Below is described a procedure for removing pulling section  200 . 
     Pulling section  200  can be removed from joint  50 , which removal is schematically shown in  FIG. 14 .  FIG. 14  is a is a perspective view of apparatus  10  located on the pulled joints  50  and  60  with the pulling section  100  being removed from around joint  50  so that it  200  can be attached to another joint in the pipe line in connection with another set of pulls. Sliding connectors  376  and  476  are released and straps  370  and  470  removed from said connectors. Belts  370  and  470  (with attached cylinder  400 ) can be removed from joint  50  by pulling in the direction of arrow  1200 . Preferably, before pulling out belts  370  and  470 , cylinder  300  is removed from belts  370  and  470  by sliding cylinder in the direction of arrow  1220 . At this point pulling section  200  can be laid in ditch  42  under the location of where new joint of pipe will be placed in ditch  42  and then attached to said joint of pipe in a similar manner as that described with respect to attaching pulling section to joint  50 . 
     In one embodiment the end of an already pulled pipe (e.g., first end  72  of joint  70 ) must be slightly lifted in ditch  42  to allow placement of belts  370  and  470  under such joint  70  and attachment of pulling section  200  for the next set of joints of pipe to be pulled. 
     In one embodiment a second set of straps  370 ′ and  470 ′ can be laid in the ditch under the same joint of pipe (e.g., joint  70 ) on which the pulled section  100  is to be attached for a pull. This is schematically shown in  FIG. 14 . In this manner, belts  370 ′ and  470 ′ can be located under joint  70  for the next round of joint pulling. 
     Independent Adjustability of Pulling and Pulled Sections 
       FIG. 15A  is a sectional view of the pulling apparatus  10  taken along the lines  15 A — 15 A in  FIG. 14 . It is noted that pulling can be made at a time when the joints to be pulled are below grade  40  in ditch  42 . Angular indicators  360  and  460  schematically indicate lateral adjustment of cylinders  300  and  400  relative to the joints in the set of joints. 
       FIG. 15D  is a sectional view of the pulling apparatus  10  taken along the lines  15 A — 15 A in  FIG. 14 , but now showing first  300  and second  400  cylinders laterally adjusted with respect to the centerline  30  of the joint  50 . The lateral adjustment is schematically indicated by arrow  360 ′ and  460 ′. With such lateral adjustment (arrows  360 ′ and  460 ′) first  300  and second  400  cylinders are located above the height of centerline  30  of joint  50 . 
     Arrow  31  schematically indicates the raised position of first  300  and second  400  cylinders with respect to centerline  30 —to line  32  which is show as being horizontal as first  300  and second  400  cylinders in this figure remain symmetrically spaced about centerline  30 . In various embodiments line  32  spanning between first  300  and second cylinders will not be horizontal when first  300  and second  400  cylinders are not symmetrically spaced about centerline  30 . For example arrow  360 ′ may indicate that first cylinder  300  is laterally adjusted above centerline  30  by about 30 degrees while arrow  460 ′ may indicate that second cylinder  400  is laterally adjusted above centerline by about 15 degrees. In various embodiments one of the cylinders can be laterally adjusted above centerline  30  while the other is laterally adjusted below centerline  30 . 
       FIG. 15B  is a sectional view of the pulling apparatus  10  taken along the lines  15 B — 15 B in  FIG. 14 . Angular indicators  360  and  460  schematically indicate lateral adjustment of chains  350  and  450  relative to the joints in the set of joints. 
       FIG. 15C  is a sectional view of the pulling apparatus  10  taken along the lines  15 C — 15 C in  FIG. 14 . Angular indicators  360  and  460  schematically indicate lateral adjustment of connectors  130  and  140  relative to the joints in the set of joints.  FIG. 16  is a perspective view of pulling system  10  showing lateral adjustment of first  300  and second  400  cylinders along with lateral adjustment of first  130  and second  140  connectors. 
     In various embodiments connectors  130  and  140  can be laterally adjusted about centerline  30  to about the same extent as their respective first  300  and second  400  cylinders. In various embodiments the extent of lateral adjustment of one or both of first  130  and second  140  connectors can differ from the extent of lateral adjustment of one or both of first  300  and second  400  cylinders. 
       FIG. 16  is a perspective view of the system  10  shown in  FIG. 15D  and showing lateral adjustment (arrows  360 ′ and  460 ′) of first  300  and second  400  cylinders along with lateral adjustment (arrows  360 ″ and  460 ″) of first  130  and second  140  connectors. 
     In  FIG. 16  it can be noted that belt  110  of pulled section  100  is held in place by shoulder  67  of joint  60 . In this manner of connection of pulled section  100 , friction is not as important as for pulling section  200  which depends on frictional resistance between the particular joint pulling section is connected to and pulling section members (e.g., first  300  and second  400  cylinders along with belts  370  and  470 ). 
     The following is a list of reference numerals: 
     
       
         
               
             
               
               
             
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
               
                 LIST FOR REFERENCE NUMERALS 
               
             
          
           
               
                 (Reference No.) 
                 (Description) 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 5 
                 user 
               
               
                 10 
                 attachment system 
               
               
                 30 
                 centerline 
               
               
                 31 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 32 
                 line between first and second cylinders 
               
               
                 40 
                 ground 
               
               
                 42 
                 ditch 
               
               
                 44 
                 interior 
               
               
                 45 
                 floor or bottom 
               
               
                 48 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 50 
                 pipe joint 
               
               
                 52 
                 first end 
               
               
                 54 
                 second end 
               
               
                 58 
                 enlarged female end 
               
               
                 60 
                 pipe joint 
               
               
                 61 
                 overall length of joint of pipe 
               
               
                 62 
                 first end 
               
               
                 64 
                 second end 
               
               
                 67 
                 tapered shoulder 
               
               
                 68 
                 enlarged female end 
               
               
                 70 
                 pipe joint 
               
               
                 72 
                 first end 
               
               
                 74 
                 second end 
               
               
                 78 
                 enlarged female end 
               
               
                 100 
                 clamping section 
               
               
                 110 
                 clamping belt 
               
               
                 112 
                 first end 
               
               
                 114 
                 second end 
               
               
                 120 
                 sliding lock 
               
               
                 130 
                 first connector 
               
               
                 131 
                 strap for first connector 
               
               
                 132 
                 loop for first connector 
               
               
                 134 
                 extent of lateral adjustability of first connector 
               
               
                   
                 relative to clamping belt 
               
               
                 135 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 140 
                 second connector 
               
               
                 141 
                 strap for second connector 
               
               
                 142 
                 loop for second connector 
               
               
                 144 
                 extent of lateral adjustability of second connector 
               
               
                   
                 relative to clamping belt 
               
               
                 145 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 200 
                 powered section 
               
               
                 210 
                 first clamping belt 
               
               
                 212 
                 first end 
               
               
                 214 
                 second end 
               
               
                 218 
                 sliding lock 
               
               
                 230 
                 second clamping belt 
               
               
                 232 
                 first end 
               
               
                 234 
                 second end 
               
               
                 238 
                 sliding lock 
               
               
                 300 
                 first powered cylinder 
               
               
                 301 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 302 
                 first end 
               
               
                 304 
                 second end 
               
               
                 306 
                 frictional increasing base 
               
               
                 308 
                 adjustment slot 
               
               
                 310 
                 first inlet 
               
               
                 312 
                 second inlet 
               
               
                 320 
                 rod 
               
               
                 322 
                 first end 
               
               
                 350 
                 pull line 
               
               
                 352 
                 intermediate point of pull line 
               
               
                 353 
                 excess for pull line 
               
               
                 354 
                 end of pull line 
               
               
                 360 
                 extent of lateral adjustability of first cylinder relative 
               
               
                   
                 to clamping belts 
               
               
                 370 
                 clamping belt 
               
               
                 372 
                 first end 
               
               
                 374 
                 second end 
               
               
                 376 
                 sliding lock 
               
               
                 380 
                 extended position of rod 
               
               
                 382 
                 amount of extension of rod 
               
               
                 384 
                 amount of retraction of rod 
               
               
                 385 
                 retracted position of rod 
               
               
                 400 
                 second powered cylinder 
               
               
                 401 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 402 
                 first end 
               
               
                 404 
                 second end 
               
               
                 406 
                 frictional increasing base 
               
               
                 408 
                 adjustment slot 
               
               
                 410 
                 first inlet 
               
               
                 412 
                 second inlet 
               
               
                 420 
                 rod 
               
               
                 422 
                 first end 
               
               
                 450 
                 pull line 
               
               
                 452 
                 intermediate point of pull line 
               
               
                 453 
                 excess for pull line 
               
               
                 454 
                 end of pull line 
               
               
                 460 
                 extent of lateral adjustability of second cylinder 
               
               
                   
                 relative to clamping belts 
               
               
                 470 
                 clamping belt 
               
               
                 472 
                 first end 
               
               
                 474 
                 second end 
               
               
                 476 
                 sliding lock 
               
               
                 480 
                 extended position of rod 
               
               
                 482 
                 amount of extension of rod 
               
               
                 484 
                 amount of retraction of rod 
               
               
                 485 
                 retracted position of rod 
               
               
                 500 
                 portable supply of compressed gas 
               
               
                 600 
                 portable compressed gas power unit 
               
               
                 610 
                 switching unit 
               
               
                 620 
                 handle 
               
               
                 650 
                 inlet line 
               
               
                 700 
                 first set of lines 
               
               
                 800 
                 second set of lines 
               
               
                 1000 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 1002 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 1005 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 1010 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 1012 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 1014 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 1020 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 1022 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 1024 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 1030 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 1030 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 1040 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 1042 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 1050 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 1060 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 1100 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 1110 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 1120 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 1130 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 1200 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 1210 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 1220 
                 arrow 
               
               
                 1230 
                 arrow 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
     All measurements disclosed herein are at standard temperature and pressure, at sea level on Earth, unless indicated otherwise. All materials used or intended to be used in a human being are biocompatible, unless indicated otherwise. 
     It will be understood that each of the elements described above, or two or more together may also find a useful application in other types of methods differing from the type described above. Without further analysis, the foregoing will so fully reveal the gist of the present invention that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily adapt it for various applications without omitting features that, from the standpoint of prior art, fairly constitute essential characteristics of the generic or specific aspects of this invention set forth in the appended claims. The foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only; the scope of the present invention is to be limited only by the following claims.

Technology Classification (CPC): 5