Patent Description:
When excavating and drilling tunnels or rooms under ground, sometimes there are weak ground conditions. Conventionally, to support and increase the stability of the roof and/or walls of a tunnel or a room, a plurality of pipes may be installed in the ground, i.e. in the roof and/or walls. Conventionally, one or more pipes after one another are installed in the same drill hole, and pipes are installed in several drill holes extending side by side, i.e. extending essentially parallel to one another. The structure formed in this way may be called a pipe roof or a pipe wall or a pipe umbrella. The concept of installing pipes in this manner may be called pipe roofing. Pipes may be installed in this way to increase stability in portal sections and for the re-excavation of collapsed sections in underground constructions. Another application is ground improvement. Conventionally, a single-use drilling tool is rotatably attached to the first pipe and the drilling tool is drilled into the ground together with the pipes. A conventional apparatus used for installing the pipes is attached to a boom of a drilling rig. Conventionally, a drilling machine of the apparatus is attached to the drilling tool by one or more drill rods which in a drilling operation are attached to one another and extend longitudinally inside the pipes. The installation of the pipes as disclosed above involves many steps and is complex.

<CIT> relates to a method and a system for installing a pipe when drilling a hole with the aid of a rock drilling apparatus. The system comprises a feed beam, a feeder, a drilling machine attached to a drilling tool by a drill rod, and a pipe magazine comprising six pipe positions. Each pipe position is suitable for holding a pipe. In a drilling operation the drill rod extends inside the pipe in the longitudinal direction.

<CIT> relates to a rock drilling machine comprising a feed beam, a feeder, a handling equipment for handling inner and outer drill tubes used for lining drill tube drilling, and a drifter for driving the drill tubes. The drill tubes may be provided with drill tips. In a drilling operation an inner drill tube extends inside an outer drill tube in the longitudinal direction. The handling equipment comprises a shear-type gripper configured to grip around the inner drill tube.

<CIT> relates to a diamond drilling machine that is used mainly for prospecting purposes when it is desired to collect a core. The drilling machine comprises a feed beam, a feeder, a first chuck for rotating and feeding a drill string, a second chuck for a lining or outer drill pipe wider than the drill string, and a rotation unit attached to a drilling bit by an inner drill pipe. The diamond drilling machine further comprises a pipe holder with a spring coupled between two jaws for forcing the two jaws towards each other to grip the inner drill pipe. The lining or outer drill pipe does not necessarily have a drill bit. In a drilling operation the inner drill pipe extends inside the lining or outer drill pipe in the longitudinal direction.

An object of embodiments of the invention is to provide a solution which mitigates or solves the drawbacks and problems of conventional solutions.

According to a first aspect of the invention, the above-mentioned and other objects of the embodiments of present invention are attained by providing an apparatus for installing pipes in ground. The apparatus is configured to install pipes connected to a drilling tool and drill the drilling tool into the ground together with the pipes. The apparatus comprises.

An advantage of the apparatus according to the first aspect is that by way of the above-mentioned movability of the first arm, when the first arm is the inactive position and thus moved away, room is made for receiving the drill rod and place it in an operating position in which the drill rod is attachable to the drilling machine and to a neighbouring drill rod, and when the first arm is in the active position the drill rod can be manipulated, i.e. gripped or held, by the gripper of the first arm. The installation according to conventional solutions requires several operators, since several steps require manual handling of the pipes and the drill rods by one or more operators. An advantage of the apparatus according to the first aspect is that more steps can be performed solely by the apparatus without any manual handling of the drill rods by one or more operators. Thus, the installation of the pipes is made more efficient requiring a reduced amount of manual work. The time needed for the installation of the pipes is efficiently reduced. By means of the apparatus according to the first aspect, the installation of pipes in ground or the process of pipe roofing is improved and requires less man hours. Consequently, the stability of roofs and walls having weak ground conditions can be increased in an efficient manner.

The drilling tool may be rotatably attached to a pipe. The drilling tool may comprise an annular drill bit rotatably attached to a pipe at an end thereof and a pilot drill bit fixedly attachable to the annular drill bit. The pilot drill bit is advantageously detachably attached to the annular drill bit. The pilot drill bit is attachable, advantageously detachably attachable, to the drill rods. The annular drill bit is a single-use drill bit and is left in the drill hole. The pilot drill bit may be re-used for consecutive pipe installation. Alternatively, the drilling tool may be a single-use drilling tool rotatably attached to a pipe, and the drill rods may be attached to the single-use drilling tool by an adapter, which may be seen as an interface.

In general, the drill rods are removed from the installed pipes after drilling and re-used for consecutive pipe installation. In general, the drill rods are attachable, for example detachably attachable, to one another and attached to one another during the drilling operation. In general, during the drilling operation the drilling machine is attached to one or more drill rods. The pipes may be attachable to one another.

In the active position of the first arm the gripper of the first arm is configured to grip the drill rod and/or in the active position of the first arm the gripper of the first arm is configured to hold the drill rod. Holding the drill rod may involve supporting, pressing and/or guiding the drill rod. The first arm may be directly or indirectly attached to the feed beam.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, in the active position of the first arm the gripper of the first arm is configured to support two of the drill rods in order to align the longitudinal central axes of the two drill rods for aligning the drill rods. An advantage of this embodiment is that the step of attaching two adjacent drill rods to one another is facilitated and can be performed with less manual work. Thus, the installation of the pipes in ground is further improved.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, in the active position of the first arm the gripper of the first arm is configured to hold an end portion of a first drill rod of the drill rods and an end portion of a second drill rod of the drill rods to be attached to the first drill rod when the drilling machine is attached to the second drill rod. An advantage of this embodiment is that the step of attaching two adjacent drill rods to one another is facilitated and can be performed with less manual work. Consequently, the installation of the pipes in ground is improved.

According to another advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, the first arm is pivotably movable in relation to the feed beam between the inactive position and the active position. Thus, the first arm is pivotable between the inactive position and the active position. An advantage of this embodiment is that an efficient movement of the first arm between the inactive and active positions is attained, whereby the installation of a drill rod, for example the attachment of a drill rod to another drill rod and/or to the drilling machine, and the detachment of a drill rod from another drill rod or from the drilling machine are facilitated and can be performed with less manual work. Consequently, the installation of the pipes in ground is improved.

According to still another advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, the active position of the first arm comprises a first active position and a second active position, wherein the first arm is movable to the first active position and the second active position, wherein in the first active position of the first arm the gripper of the first arm is configured to grip one or two of the drill rods located in a drill centre, and wherein in the second active position of the first arm the gripper of the first arm is configured to interact with a first drill rod of the drill rods and a second drill rod of the drill rods to push the first drill rod against an inner surface edge of a first pipe of the pipes and push the second drill rod against an inner surface edge of a second pipe of the pipes. Thus, in the second active position of the first arm the gripper of the first arm is configured to interact with the first drill rod and the second drill rod to push the first drill rod against an edge of an inner surface of the first pipe and push the second drill rod against an edge of an inner surface of the second pipe. Advantageously, the second drill rod is attached to the drilling machine when the first arm is in the second active position. Further advantageously, the first drill rod is attached to the drilling tool or another drill rod when the first arm is in the second active position. An advantage of this embodiment is that the attachment of a drill rod to another drill rod or to the drilling machine and the detachment of a drill rod from another drill rod or from the drilling machine are facilitated and can be performed with less manual work. Consequently, the installation of the pipes in ground is improved.

According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, the feeder is movable in the longitudinal direction in relation to the feed beam between a first position and a second position, wherein the first arm is attached, for example directly or indirectly attached, to the feed beam at the second position of the feeder or at the first position of the feeder. An advantage of this embodiment is that the attachment of a drill rod to another drill rod or to the drilling machine and the detachment of a drill rod from another drill rod or from the drilling machine are facilitated and can be performed with less manual work. Consequently, the installation of the pipes in ground is improved.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, the apparatus comprises a muck shield attached, for example directly or indirectly attached, to the feeder and movable in relation to the feed beam, wherein the muck shield is configured to cover a portion of the guide and configured to guide muck away from the guide, whereby muck is prevented from entering the feed beam. An advantage of this embodiment is that muck is efficiently prevented from entering the feed beam, which otherwise could impair the guide and the function and movement of the feeder, or even damage the guide or feeder. By means of this embodiment, the installation of pipes in ground or the process of pipe roofing is improved. Consequently, the stability of roofs and walls having weak ground conditions can be increased in an efficient manner. Muck includes released ground material and slurry leaving the drill hole.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, when the feeder is movable in the longitudinal direction in relation to the feed beam between a first position and a second position, the muck shield is configured to be positioned between the feeder and the second position of the feeder when the feeder is located anywhere between the first position and the second position. An advantage of this embodiment is that muck is efficiently prevented from entering the feed beam.

According to another advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, in the active position of the first arm the gripper of the first arm is configured to grip a first drill rod of the drill rods when the feeder is in the second position and when the drilling machine is to be detached from the first drill rod. An advantage of this embodiment is that the detachment of a drill rod from another drill rod is facilitated and can be performed with less manual work. Consequently, the installation of the pipes in ground is improved.

According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, the drill rods are attachable to one another, wherein in the active position of the first arm the gripper of the first arm is configured to grip an end portion of a first drill rod of the drill rods when the feeder is in the first position and when the first drill rod is be detached from a second drill rod of the drill rods attached to the drilling machine. An advantage of this embodiment is that the detachment of a drill rod from another drill rod is facilitated and can be performed with less manual work. Thus, the process of removing the drill rods from the installed pipes to re-use the drill rods for consecutive pipe installations is facilitated. Consequently, the installation of the pipes in ground is improved.

According to still another advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, the apparatus comprises a second arm having a gripper for gripping and holding the drill rod, wherein the second arm is movable in relation to the feed beam between an inactive position and an active position, wherein in the active position of the second arm the gripper of the second arm is configured to grip and hold the drill rod, and wherein the second arm is attached, for example directly or indirectly attached, to the feed beam at the first position of the feeder. An advantage of this embodiment is that the attachment of a drill rod to the drilling machine and the detachment of a drill rod from the drilling machine is facilitated and can be performed with less manual work. Consequently, the installation of the pipes in ground is improved.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, the second arm is pivotably movable in relation to the feed beam between the inactive position and the active position. Thus, the second arm is pivotable between the inactive position and the active position. An advantage of this embodiment is that an efficient movement of the second arm between the inactive and active positions is attained, whereby the attachment of a drill rod to the drilling machine and the detachment of a drill rod from the drilling machine are facilitated and can be performed with less manual work. Therefore, the installation of the pipes in ground is improved.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, in the active position of the second arm the gripper of the second arm is configured to grip the drill rod when the feeder is in the first position and when the drilling machine is to be detached from or attached to the drill rod. An advantage of this embodiment is that the attachment of a drill rod to the drilling machine and the detachment of a drill rod from the drilling machine is facilitated and can be performed with less manual work. Consequently, the installation of the pipes in ground is improved.

According to another advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, in the inactive position of the second arm the gripper of the second arm is configured to grip the drill rod before the drill rod is moved from a resting position to an active position between the first position of the feeder and the second position of the feeder, wherein in the active position of the drill rod the drilling machine is attachable to the drill rod. An advantage of this embodiment is that the mounting and attachment of a drill rod to the drilling machine is facilitated and can be performed with less manual work. Consequently, the installation of the pipes in ground is improved.

According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, in the active position of the second arm the gripper of the second arm is configured to grip the drill rod when the drill rod is to be moved away from an active position between the first position of the feeder and the second position of the feeder to a resting position. An advantage of this embodiment is that the detached drill rod can be efficiently removed to be re-used for consecutive pipe installation. Therefore, the installation of the pipes in ground is improved.

According to still another advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, in the active position of the second arm the gripper of the second arm is configured to grip the drill rod when the drill rod is attached to the drilling machine and when the feed beam is to be lowered to the ground or floor. An advantage of this embodiment is that the apparatus and its drilling machine can be lowered to the ground or floor with a drill rod attached to the drilling machine in a secure and supported manner. Thus, there is no need to detach the last drill rod from drilling machine after the removal of the other drill rods, whereby the collection of the drill rods to be re-used for consecutive pipe installation is facilitated. Therefore, the installation of the pipes in ground is improved.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, the gripper of the first arm is configured to grip and/or hold, the gripper of the second arm is configured to grip and hold and/or the drilling machine is attachable to drill rods which are attachable to one another by means of threads. Threads are an efficient way to attach to the drill rods to one another, whereby the attachment of the drill rods and the detachment of the drill rods to be re-used for consecutive pipe installation are facilitated. Therefore, the installation of the pipes in ground is improved. However, alternative means of attachment for the drill rods are possible, e.g. bayonet mounts.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, the drilling machine is attachable to a drill rod by means of threads. Threads are an efficient way to attach to the drilling machine to the drill rods, and the drilling machine will also interact efficiently with drill rods attached to one another by means of threads, whereby the attachment of the drilling machine to the drill rods and the detachment of drill rods from the drilling machine to be re-used for consecutive pipe installation are facilitated. Therefore, the installation of the pipes in ground is improved. However, alternative means of attachment between the drill rod and drilling machine are possible, e.g. bayonet mounts.

According to another advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, the gripper of the first arm and/or the second arm comprises a pair of pincers movable in relation to one another, wherein the pair of pincers is configured to grip the drill rod.

According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, the apparatus comprises a pipe feeding device for feeding and moving the pipe in relation to the feed beam, wherein the apparatus comprises a third arm attached, for example directly or indirectly attached, to the feed beam, the pipe feeding device being attached to the third arm, wherein the third arm is movable in relation to the feed beam between an inactive position and an active position, and wherein in the active position of the third arm the pipe feeding device is configured to move a first pipe of the pipes in relation to a second pipe of the pipes to attach the first pipe to the second pipe. An advantage of this embodiment is that by way of the above-mentioned movability of the third arm, the pipe feeding device of the third arm can easily be moved away, i.e. when the third arm is brought to the inactive position, when the handling of the pipe or drill rod so requires. When the pipe is placed in a position to be fed, the third arm can be brought to the active position and the pipe can be fed by the pipe feeding device of the third arm and attached to an adjacent pipe without any manual handling by an operator. A further advantage of this embodiment is that by way of the above-mentioned movability of the third arm, the pipe feeding device can work as a grip to move the pipe from a resting position to a position where the pipe is ready to be fed. Another advantage of this embodiment is that more steps can be performed solely by the apparatus without any manual handling of the pipes by one or more operators. The installation of the pipes is made more efficient requiring a reduced amount of manual work. The time needed for the installation of the pipes is efficiently reduced. By means of this embodiment, the installation of pipes in ground or the process of pipe roofing is improved and requires less man hours. Consequently, the stability of roofs and walls having weak ground conditions can be increased in an efficient manner.

According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, in the active position of the third arm the pipe feeding device is configured to rotate the pipe about the longitudinal central axis of the pipe in relation to the feed beam. Thus, in the active position of the third arm the pipe feeding device may also be configured to rotate the pipe about the longitudinal central axis of the pipe in relation to an adjacent pipe of the pipes. In the active position of the third arm the pipe feeding device may be configured to move the pipe in the longitudinal direction in relation to the feed beam. Thus, in the active position of the third arm the pipe feeding device may also be configured to move the pipe in the longitudinal direction in relation to an adjacent pipe of the pipes. This is an efficient way to attach pipes to one another, which does not require any manual handling by an operator. Therefore, the installation of the pipes is made more efficient.

According to still another advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, the pipe feeding device comprises a gripper for gripping and feeding the pipe in the longitudinal direction when the third arm is in the active position, wherein the gripper of the pipe feeding device comprises one or more drive wheels for abutment against the pipe. An advantage of this embodiment is that the pipe can be easily moved from resting position to the operating position where the pipe is ready to be fed. The gripper of pipe feeding device can both efficiently grip the pipe to move the pipe to the operating position where the pipe is ready to be fed and efficiently feed the pipe by means of the drive wheels. By introducing the drive wheels, an efficient feeding of the pipe is provided, whereby the installation of the pipes is made more efficient. Thus, in the inactive position of the third arm, the gripper of the third arm may be configured to grip the pipe when the pipe is in a resting position and move the pipe to the operating position where the pipe is ready to be fed.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, the third arm is attached, for example directly or indirectly attached, to the feed beam between the first position of the feeder and the second position of the feeder. By this position of the third arm, the pipe feeding device and the gripper of the pipe feeding device can efficiently handle the pipe, whereby the installation of the pipes is made more efficient and requires a reduced amount of manual work.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, the gripper of the third arm is configured to be positioned between the gripper of the first arm and the gripper of the second arm when the arms are in the active positions. By this position of the third arm, the pipe feeding device and the gripper of the pipe feeding device can efficiently handle the pipe, whereby the installation of the pipes is made more efficient and requires a reduced amount of manual work.

According to another advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, the gripper of the pipe feeding device comprises three drive wheels separated from one another in a circumference direction in relation to a central axis which is substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction. An advantage of this embodiment is that an efficient feeding of the pipe is provided. Thus, the installation of the pipes in ground is improved and requires less man hours. Alternatively, the pipe feeding device may comprise two drive wheels and one idler wheel, or one drive wheel and two idler wheels. Other combinations are also possible.

According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, each drive wheel has an axis of rotation about which the drive wheel is rotatable, wherein the axis of rotation of the drive wheel forms an acute angle with the longitudinal direction. An advantage of this embodiment is that an efficient feeding of the pipe is provided. Thus, the installation of the pipes in ground is improved and requires less man hours.

According to still another advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, the third arm is pivotably movable in relation to the feed beam between the inactive position and the active position. Thus, the third arm is pivotable between the inactive position and the active position. An advantage of this embodiment is that an efficient movement of the third arm between the inactive and active positions is attained, whereby the handling of both drill rods and pipes is facilitated. Consequently, the installation of the pipes in ground is improved.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, the apparatus comprises one or more pipe guiding elements attached, for example directly or indirectly attached, to the feed beam, wherein the pipe guiding element is pivotable in relation to the feed beam between an inactive position and an active position, and wherein in the active position the pipe guiding element is configured to assist the pipe feeding device in guiding the pipe. An advantage of this embodiment is that the movement of the pipe from a resting position to a position where the pipe is ready to be fed is made further efficient, and the guiding of the pipe when fed to be attached to another pipe is further improved. In the inactive position of the pipe guiding element, the pipe guiding element may be configured to assist the gripper of the third arm in moving the pipe from its resting position to the operating position where the pipe is ready to be fed in the longitudinal direction.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, when the arms and the pipe guiding elements are positioned in the active positions one pipe guiding element is configured to be positioned between the gripper of the first arm and the gripper of the third arm, wherein when the arms and the pipe guiding elements are positioned in the active positions one pipe guiding element is configured to be positioned between the gripper of the second arm and the gripper the third arm. An advantage of this embodiment is that the movement of the pipe from a resting position to a position where the pipe is ready to be fed is made further efficient, and the guiding of the pipe when fed to be attached to another pipe is further improved.

According to another advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, the apparatus comprises a pivot member extending in the longitudinal direction, the pivot member being pivotable in relation to the feed beam, wherein one or more of the first arm, the second arm, the third arm and the pipe guiding element is/are attached to the pivot member. Thus, the first arm and/or the second arm and/or the third arm and/or the pipe guiding element is/are attached, for example directly or indirectly attached, to the pivot member. An advantage of this embodiment is that an efficient movement of the arms and the pipe guiding elements between the inactive position and the active position is achieved. Thus, the installation of the pipes is made more efficient.

According to still another advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, the pipe feeding device is configured to feed and move a pipe which is attachable to another pipe by means of threads. This is an efficient way to attach pipes to one another, which does require less amount of manual handling by an operator. Therefore, the installation of the pipes is made more efficient.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect, the pipe feeding device is configured to feed and move a pipe which is attachable to another pipe by means of force fitting. Thus, the pipe feeding device may be configured to force one end of the pipe with a reduced diameter into the end of another pipe, or vice versa.

According to a second aspect of the invention, the above-mentioned and other objects of the embodiments of present invention are attained by providing an apparatus for installing pipes in ground, the apparatus being configured to install pipes connected to a drilling tool and drill the drilling tool into the ground together with the pipes, the apparatus comprising.

An advantage of the apparatus according to the second aspect is that by way of the above-mentioned movability of the arm, the pipe feeding device of the arm can easily be moved away, i.e. the arm is brought to the inactive position, when the handling of the pipe or drill rod so requires. When the pipe is placed in a position to be fed, the arm can be brought to the active position and the pipe can be fed by the pipe feeding device of the arm. A further advantage of the apparatus according to the second aspect is that by way of the above-mentioned movability of the arm, the pipe feeding device can work as a grip to move the pipe from a resting position to a position where the pipe is ready to be fed. Another advantage of the apparatus according to the second aspect is that more steps can be performed solely by the apparatus without any manual handling of the pipes by one or more operators, or with a reduced amount of manual handling. Thus, the installation of the pipes is made more efficient requiring a reduced amount of manual work. By means of the apparatus according to the second aspect, the installation of pipes in ground or the process of pipe roofing is improved and requires less man hours, and the time needed for the installation of the pipes is efficiently reduced. Consequently, the stability of roofs and walls having weak ground conditions can be increased in an efficient manner.

According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the second aspect, in the active position of the arm the pipe feeding device is configured to rotate the pipe about the longitudinal central axis of the pipe in relation to the feed beam. Thus, in the active position of the arm the pipe feeding device may also be configured to rotate the pipe about the longitudinal central axis of the pipe in relation to an adjacent pipe of the pipes. In the active position of the arm the pipe feeding device may be configured to move the pipe in the longitudinal direction in relation to the feed beam. Thus, in the active position of the arm the pipe feeding device may also be configured to move the pipe in the longitudinal direction in relation to an adjacent pipe of the pipes. This is an efficient way to attach pipes to one another, which does not require any manual handling by an operator. Therefore, the installation of the pipes is made more efficient.

According to another advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the second aspect, the pipe feeding device comprises a gripper for gripping and feeding the pipe in the longitudinal direction when the arm is in the active position, wherein the gripper of the pipe feeding device comprises one or more drive wheels for abutment against the pipe. Advantages of this embodiment correspond to advantages mentioned above in connection with the corresponding embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the second aspect, the gripper of the pipe feeding device comprises three drive wheels separated from one another in a circumference direction in relation to a central axis which is substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction. Advantages of this embodiment correspond to advantages mentioned above in connection with the corresponding embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect.

According to another advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the second aspect, each drive wheel has an axis of rotation about which the drive wheel is rotatable, wherein the axis of rotation of the drive wheel forms an acute angle with the longitudinal direction. Advantages of this embodiment correspond to advantages mentioned above in connection with the corresponding embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect.

According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the second aspect, the arm is attached, for example directly or indirectly attached, to the feed beam between the first position of the feeder and the second position of the feeder. Advantages of this embodiment correspond to advantages mentioned above in connection with the corresponding embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect.

According to still another advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the second aspect, the arm is pivotably movable in relation to the feed beam between the inactive position and the active position. Thus, the arm is pivotable between the inactive position and the active position. Advantages of this embodiment correspond to advantages mentioned above in connection with the corresponding embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the second aspect, the apparatus comprises one or more pipe guiding elements attached, for example directly or indirectly attached, to the feed beam, wherein the pipe guiding element is pivotable in relation to the feed beam between an inactive position and an active position, and wherein in the active position the pipe guiding element is configured to assist the pipe feeding device in guiding the pipe. In the inactive position of the pipe guiding element, the pipe guiding element may be configured to assist the gripper of the arm in moving the pipe from its resting position to the operating position where the pipe is ready to be fed. Advantages of this embodiment correspond to advantages mentioned above in connection with the corresponding embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the second aspect, when the arm and the pipe guiding elements are positioned in the active positions one pipe guiding element is configured to be positioned between the gripper of the arm and the first position of the feeder, wherein when the arm and the pipe guiding elements are positioned in the active positions one pipe guiding element is configured to be positioned between the gripper of the arm and the second position of the feeder and/or between the gripper of the arm and the pipe guide. Advantages of this embodiment correspond to advantages mentioned above in connection with the corresponding embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect.

According to another advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the second aspect, the apparatus comprises a pivot member extending in the longitudinal direction, the pivot member being pivotable in relation to the feed beam, wherein one or more of the arm and the pipe guiding element is/are attached to the pivot member. Thus, the arm and/or the pipe guiding element is/are attached, for example directly or indirectly attached, to the pivot member. Advantages of this embodiment correspond to advantages mentioned above in connection with the corresponding embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect.

According to still another advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the second aspect, the pipe feeding device is configured to feed and move a pipe which is attachable to another pipe by means of threads. Advantages of this embodiment correspond to advantages mentioned above in connection with the corresponding embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect.

According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the second aspect, the pipe feeding device is configured to feed and move a pipe which is attachable to another pipe by means of force fitting. Thus, the pipe feeding device may be configured to force one end of a pipe with a reduced diameter into the end of another pipe, or force one end of a pipe with an increased diameter onto the end of another pipe.

According to a third aspect of the invention, the above-mentioned and other objects of the embodiments of present invention are attained by providing an apparatus for installing pipes in ground, the apparatus being configured to install pipes connected to a drilling tool and drill the drilling tool into the ground together with the pipes, the apparatus comprising.

An advantage of the apparatus according to the third aspect is that muck is efficiently prevented from entering the feed beam, which otherwise could impair the guide and the functionality and movement of the feeder, or even damage the guide or feeder. By means of the apparatus according to the third aspect an improved installation of pipes in ground or the process of pipe roofing is provided. Consequently, the stability of roofs and walls having weak ground conditions can be increased in an efficient manner. Muck includes released ground material and slurry leaving the drill hole.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the apparatus according to the third aspect, the feeder is movable in the longitudinal direction in relation to the feed beam between a first position and a second position, wherein the muck shield is configured to be positioned between the feeder and the second position of the feeder when the feeder is located anywhere between the first position and the second position. An advantage of this embodiment is that muck is efficiently prevented from entering the feed beam.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention, the above-mentioned and other objects of the embodiments of present invention are attained by providing a drilling rig for installing pipes in ground, wherein the drilling rig comprises a boom and an apparatus according to any one of the claims <NUM> to <NUM>, or according to any one of the above-mentioned or below-mentioned embodiments, attached or connected to the boom. Advantages of the drilling rig according to the fourth aspect correspond to advantages mentioned above in connection with the corresponding apparatus according to the first aspect.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention, the above-mentioned and other objects of the embodiments of present invention are attained by providing a method for installing pipes connected to a drilling tool in ground, wherein the method comprises drilling the drilling tool into the ground together with the pipes by means of an apparatus comprising.

Advantages of the method according to the fifth aspect correspond to advantages mentioned in connection with the corresponding apparatus according to the first aspect.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the fifth aspect, the method comprises the step of supporting two drill rods by the gripper of the first arm to align the longitudinal central axes of the drill rods for aligning the drill rods when the first arm is in the active position. Advantages of this embodiment correspond to advantages mentioned above in connection with the corresponding embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the method according to the fifth aspect, method comprises pivotably moving the first arm in relation to the feed beam between the inactive position and the active position. Advantages of this embodiment correspond to advantages mentioned above in connection with the corresponding embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect.

According to another advantageous embodiment of the method according to the fifth aspect, the method comprises moving a second arm attached to the feed beam in relation to the feed beam between an inactive position and an active position, wherein the method comprises gripping and holding the drill rod by means of a gripper of the second arm when the second arm is in the active position to assist in the attachment or detachment of a drill rod. Advantages of this embodiment correspond to advantages mentioned above in connection with the corresponding embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect.

According to a sixth aspect of the invention, the above-mentioned and other objects of the embodiments of present invention are attained by providing a method for installing pipes connected to a drilling tool in ground, wherein the method comprises drilling the drilling tool into the ground together with the pipes by means of an apparatus comprising.

Advantages of the method according to the six aspect correspond to advantages mentioned above in connection with the corresponding apparatus according to the second aspect.

The apparatus may be configured to install pipes in rock. Then, the drilling machine may be a rock drilling machine. The drilling machine may be a percussive or percussion drilling machine. The apparatus may be a top hammer apparatus for top hammer drilling, i.e. the drilling tool is located at one end of a drill string and the drilling machine is located at the other end of the drill string.

The above-mentioned features and embodiments of the apparatus, drilling rig and method, respectively, may be combined in various possible ways providing further advantageous embodiments.

Further advantageous embodiments of the present invention and further advantages with the embodiments of the present invention emerge from the dependent claims and the detailed description of embodiments.

Aspects of the present invention will now be described, for exemplary purposes, in more detail by way of embodiments and with reference to the enclosed drawings, in which:.

<FIG> and <FIG> schematically shows aspects of the embodiments of the apparatus <NUM> according to the first aspect, second aspect and/or third aspect, for installing pipes <NUM>, <NUM> (see <FIG>) in ground <NUM> (see <FIG>) in order to increase stability in the ground <NUM>. Conventionally, the process of installing pipes to increase stability in the ground <NUM> may be called pipe roofing. With reference to <FIG>, the apparatus <NUM> is configured to install pipes <NUM>, <NUM> mechanically connected to a drilling tool <NUM> (see <FIG>). The apparatus <NUM> is configured to drill the drilling tool <NUM> into the ground <NUM> together with the pipes <NUM>, <NUM>. Each pipe <NUM>, <NUM> may be made of a metal or a metal alloy, or any other suitable material or a mixture of materials. The apparatus <NUM> is configured to operate according to a process of drilling drill holes and filling the drill holes with pipes <NUM>, <NUM>. The process includes a series of sequences, one sequence for each drill hole. Each sequence includes a plurality of steps.

With reference to <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, the apparatus <NUM> includes a feed beam <NUM> attachable or mechanically connectable to a boom <NUM> of a drilling rig <NUM>. The feed beam <NUM> has a guide <NUM> extending in a longitudinal direction <NUM>. The apparatus <NUM> includes a feeder <NUM>. The feeder <NUM> may be called a carriage. The guide <NUM> is configured to hold and guide the feeder <NUM>. The feeder <NUM> is movable in the longitudinal direction <NUM> in relation to the feed beam <NUM>. The apparatus <NUM> has a drilling machine <NUM> attached to the feeder <NUM> and thus movable in relation to the feed beam <NUM>. The apparatus <NUM> includes a driving mechanism for driving the feeder <NUM> along the guide <NUM>. The driving mechanism may be a hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical and/or electrical driving mechanism, and may for example include a wire configured to pull the feeder <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the drilling machine <NUM> is configured to be attached to the drilling tool <NUM> by one or more drill rods <NUM>, <NUM> which in a drilling operation extend inside one or a plurality of the pipes <NUM>, <NUM> in the longitudinal direction <NUM>. It is to be understood that it is not necessary that the entire drill rod <NUM>, <NUM> extends inside the pipe <NUM>, <NUM> but it is enough that at least a portion of the drill rod <NUM>, <NUM> extends inside the pipe <NUM>, <NUM> during a drilling operation. This may especially be the case for the drill rod <NUM> directly attached to the drilling machine <NUM> during a drilling operation. However, in general, most of the drill rod <NUM>, <NUM>, i.e. a major portion of the drill rod <NUM>, <NUM>, extends inside the pipe <NUM>, <NUM> during a drilling operation. Portions of the drill rod <NUM>, <NUM> may extend or may be located in different pipes <NUM>, <NUM> during the drilling operation. For some drill rods <NUM>, the entire drill rod <NUM> may extend inside one or more pipes <NUM>, <NUM> during the drilling operations. The drilling machine <NUM> has a rotatable attachment shaft <NUM> attachable to the drill rods <NUM>, <NUM>. Each drill rod <NUM>, <NUM> may be made of a metal or a metal alloy, or any other suitable material or a mixture of materials.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the drilling tool <NUM> is rotatably attachable to a first drill rod <NUM> of the drill rods <NUM>, <NUM>, e.g. by means of bayonet mounts or threads. The other drill rods <NUM>, in this case one second drill rod <NUM>, are detachably attached to the first drill rod <NUM> and thus indirectly attached to the drilling tool <NUM>. In this embodiment, the drilling tool <NUM> includes an annular drill bit <NUM> rotatably attached to a first pipe <NUM> of the pipes <NUM>, <NUM> at an end of the first pipe <NUM>. Further, the drilling tool <NUM> includes a pilot drill bit <NUM> fixedly attachable to the annular drill bit <NUM>. Thus, the annular drill bit <NUM> and the pilot drill bit <NUM> rotate together in relation to the first pipe <NUM> when drilling. The annular drill bit <NUM> and the pilot drill bit <NUM> together drill the drill hole. The pilot drill bit <NUM> is advantageously detachably attached to the annular drill bit <NUM>, e.g. by means of threads or bayonet mounts. The pilot drill bit <NUM> is attachable, advantageously detachably attachable, to the drill rods <NUM>, <NUM>. The annular drill bit <NUM> is a single-use drill bit and is left in the drill hole after drilling. The pilot drill bit <NUM> may be re-used for consecutive pipe installation. It is to be understood that other designs of the drilling tool <NUM> are possible.

In general, the drill rods <NUM>, <NUM> are removed from the installed pipes <NUM>, <NUM> after drilling and re-used for consecutive pipe installation. The drill rods <NUM>,<NUM> are detachably attachable to one another, for example by means of threads, and during the drilling operation the active or operating drill rods <NUM>, <NUM> are attached to one another. The drilling machine <NUM> is detachably attachable to a drill rod <NUM>, <NUM>, for example by means of threads or bayonet mounts. With reference to <FIG>, each drill rod <NUM>, <NUM> has a female thread <NUM> at one end and a male thread <NUM> at the other end. The rotatable attachment shaft <NUM> of the drilling machine <NUM> has a male thread <NUM> (see <FIG>). As an alternative, the drill rods <NUM>,<NUM> could be detachably attachable to one another by means of bayonet mounts.

During the drilling operation the drilling machine <NUM> is attached to the drill rods <NUM>, <NUM> and may be configured to rotate and strike the drill rods <NUM>, <NUM>. With reference to <FIG>, each drill rod <NUM>, <NUM> has a longitudinal central axis <NUM>, <NUM>, and the drilling machine <NUM> is configured to rotate the drill rod <NUM>, <NUM> about the longitudinal central axis <NUM>, <NUM> of the drill rod <NUM>, <NUM>. When the drill rod <NUM>, <NUM> is mechanically connected or attached to the drilling machine <NUM> the drill rod <NUM>, <NUM> extends in the longitudinal direction <NUM>. When the drill rod <NUM>, <NUM> is in an operating or drilling position the drill rod <NUM>, <NUM> is configured to extend at least partly inside the pipe <NUM>, <NUM> in the longitudinal direction <NUM>, i.e. when the drill rod <NUM>, <NUM> is in the operating or drilling position at least a part or portion of the drill rod <NUM>, <NUM> extends inside the pipe <NUM>, <NUM> in the longitudinal direction <NUM>. In general, when the drill rod <NUM>, <NUM> is in an operating or drilling position, most of the drill rod <NUM>, <NUM> is located inside a pipe <NUM>, <NUM>. The pipes <NUM>, <NUM> are attachable to one another, which is described in further detailed hereinbelow. The drill rods <NUM>, <NUM> rotate, push and percuss/strike the drilling tool <NUM> and thus also pull the pipes <NUM>, <NUM> into the drill hole when drilling, since the first pipe <NUM> is attached to the annular drill bit <NUM> and the other pipes <NUM> are attached to the first pipe <NUM>. In general, the length of the drill rod <NUM>, <NUM> exceeds the length of the pipe <NUM>, <NUM>.

In <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, only two pipes <NUM>, <NUM> and only two drill rods <NUM>, <NUM> are shown. However, it is to be understood that more pipes <NUM>, <NUM> may be installed and that more drill rods <NUM>, <NUM> may be used for the installation of the pipes <NUM>, <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the feeder <NUM> and thus also the drilling machine <NUM> mounted thereto are movable along the guide <NUM> in the longitudinal direction <NUM> in relation to the feed beam <NUM> between a first position <NUM> (see <FIG>) and a second position <NUM> (see <FIG>). The first position <NUM> of the feeder <NUM> may be a first end position. The second position <NUM> of the feeder <NUM> may be a second end position. The first position <NUM> of the feeder <NUM> may be a rear or back position. The second position <NUM> of the feeder <NUM> may be a front position. When starting drilling, the feeder <NUM> is positioned at the first position <NUM> as shown in <FIG>, and a drill rod and <NUM> and pipe <NUM> are received and positioned in an operating or active position between the first and second positions <NUM>, <NUM> of the feeder <NUM>, for example as shown in <FIG>. During drilling, the feeder <NUM> (and the drilling machine <NUM>) is moved from the first position <NUM> (see <FIG>) to the second position <NUM> (see <FIG>). When drilling, the apparatus <NUM> is configured such that the second position <NUM> of the feeder <NUM> is closer to the drill hole being drilled, or closer to the ground formation being drilled, in relation to the first position <NUM> of the feeder <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the apparatus <NUM> includes a first arm <NUM> attached, for example directly or indirectly attached, to the feed beam <NUM>. In this embodiment, the first arm <NUM> is pivotally attached to the feed beam <NUM>. Thus, the first arm <NUM> is pivotable in relation to the feed beam <NUM>. The first arm <NUM> has a gripper <NUM> for gripping and/or holding the drill rod <NUM>, <NUM>. The first arm <NUM> is movable, in this embodiment pivotably movable, in relation to the feed beam <NUM> between an inactive position shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, and active positions shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. Thus, the first arm <NUM> is pivotable between the inactive position and the active position. With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, in the active position of the first arm <NUM> the gripper <NUM> of the first arm <NUM> is configured to grip and/or hold the drill rod <NUM>, <NUM>. Holding the drill rod <NUM>, <NUM> by means of the gripper <NUM> of the first arm <NUM> may involve supporting, pressing and/or guiding the drill rod <NUM>, <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, the first arm <NUM> is pivotable about a first pivot axis <NUM> of a first shaft <NUM>. The first shaft <NUM> is attached to the feed beam <NUM>. The first arm <NUM> is moved between the inactive position and the active by means of a first hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder <NUM> of the apparatus <NUM>. The gripper <NUM> of the first arm <NUM> has a first grip member <NUM> and a second grip member <NUM> movable in relation to one other to grip the drill rod <NUM>, <NUM> therebetween. The first grip member <NUM> is movable by means of a drive mechanism <NUM> of the first arm <NUM>. The gripper <NUM> of the first arm <NUM> includes one or more seats <NUM> or recesses for holding the drill rod <NUM>, <NUM>, for example for pressing, supporting and/or guiding the drill rod <NUM>, <NUM>. The apparatus <NUM> includes a pipe guide <NUM> configured to guide a pipe <NUM>, <NUM> carried by the feed beam <NUM> at an end of the feed beam <NUM>. The pipe guide <NUM> may be annular and thus form an opening through which the pipe <NUM>, <NUM> is guided. In general, when the apparat <NUM> is operating and installing pipes <NUM>, <NUM> in the ground <NUM>, the pipe guide <NUM> is located between the drilling machine <NUM> and the drill hole in which the pipes <NUM>, <NUM> are to be installed, for example located between the second position <NUM> of the feeder <NUM> and the drill hole in which the pipes <NUM>, <NUM> are to be installed.

With reference to <FIG>, the first pipe <NUM> has been drilled into the ground <NUM> by means of the first drill rod <NUM>. The second drill rod <NUM> is about to be attached to the first drill rod <NUM>. Subsequently, the second pipe <NUM> will be attached to the first pipe <NUM>, which is disclosed in further detail hereinbelow.

With reference to <FIG>, in the active position of the first arm <NUM> the gripper <NUM> of the first arm <NUM> is configured to support the first drill rod <NUM> and the second drill rod <NUM>, i.e. two drill rods <NUM>, <NUM>, in order to align the longitudinal central axes <NUM>, <NUM> of the drill rods <NUM>, <NUM> (see <FIG>) for aligning the drill rods <NUM>, <NUM>, whereupon the drilling machine <NUM> rotates the second drill rod <NUM>, and the second drill rod <NUM> is screwed into the first drill rod <NUM> by means of threads and they are attached. In other words, in the active position of the first arm <NUM> the gripper <NUM> of the first arm <NUM> is configured to hold an end portion <NUM> of the first drill rod <NUM> and hold an end portion <NUM> of the second drill rod <NUM> to be attached to the first drill rod <NUM> when the drilling machine <NUM> is attached to the second drill rod <NUM>. Advantageously, the gripper <NUM> of the first arm <NUM> is configured to push the end portion <NUM> of the first drill rod <NUM> and push the end portion <NUM> of the second drill rod <NUM> when holding the end portions <NUM>, <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, the first arm <NUM> is in another active position. Firstly, the first drill rod <NUM> and the pilot drill bit <NUM> have be detached from the annular drill bit <NUM> when the feeder <NUM> has been located at the second position <NUM>. Subsequently, the feeder <NUM> has been moved to the first position <NUM> and has pulled out the second drill rod <NUM> from the second pipe <NUM>. When the feeder <NUM> is located in the first position <NUM>, the first arm <NUM> is positioned in this other active position when the drill rods <NUM>, <NUM> are to be detached from one another and collected to be re-used for consecutive pipe installation. In the active position of the first arm <NUM> shown in <FIG>, the gripper <NUM> of the first arm <NUM> is configured to grip an end portion <NUM> of the first drill rod <NUM> when the feeder <NUM> is in the first position <NUM> and when the first drill rod <NUM> is to be detached from the second drill rod <NUM> attached to the drilling machine <NUM>. By means of the drilling machine <NUM> the second drill rod <NUM> is unscrewed from the first drill rod <NUM>, which is firmly held and gripped by the gripper <NUM> of the first arm <NUM>. In this manner, the second drill rod <NUM> is detached from the first drill rod <NUM>.

Additionally, in the active position of the first arm <NUM> the gripper <NUM> of the first arm <NUM> is configured to grip the first drill rod <NUM> when the feeder <NUM> and drilling machine <NUM> are in the second position <NUM> and when the drilling machine <NUM> is to be detached from the first drill rod <NUM>. This step will occur during operation when almost the entire first pipe <NUM> has been drilled and pulled into the drill hole and a second drill rod <NUM> is to be attached to the first drill rod <NUM> and a second pipe <NUM> is to be attached to the first pipe <NUM>. To mount the second drill rod <NUM> between the first drill rod <NUM> and the drilling machine <NUM>, the drilling machine <NUM> should first be detached form the first drill rod <NUM>. Thus, the first drill rod <NUM> is firmly gripped and held by the gripper <NUM> of the first arm <NUM>, and the drilling machine <NUM> is unscrewed from its engagement with the first drill rod <NUM> by rotation of the attachment shaft <NUM> of the drilling machine <NUM>, whereupon the feeder <NUM> and drilling machine <NUM> are moved to the first position <NUM>. When the feeder <NUM> and drilling machine <NUM> are in the first position, the apparatus <NUM> is ready to receive a second drill rod <NUM> and a second pipe <NUM> to be mounted.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the active position of the first arm <NUM> can be described as including a first active position, as shown in <FIG>, and a second active position, as shown in <FIG>. The first arm <NUM> is movable to the first active position and the second active position. With reference to <FIG>, in the first active position of the first arm <NUM> the gripper <NUM> of the first arm <NUM> is configured to grip one or two of the drill rods <NUM>, <NUM> located in a drill centre. With reference to <FIG>, in the second active position of the first arm <NUM> the gripper <NUM> of the first arm <NUM> is configured to interact with the first drill rod <NUM> and the second drill rod <NUM> to push the first drill rod <NUM> against an inner surface edge <NUM> of the first pipe <NUM> and push the second drill rod <NUM> against an inner surface edge <NUM> of the second pipe <NUM>. With further reference to <FIG>, in the second active position of the first arm <NUM> the gripper <NUM> of the first arm <NUM> is configured to interact with the first drill rod <NUM> and the second drill rod <NUM> to push the first drill rod <NUM> against an inner surface of the first pipe <NUM> or an edge <NUM> of an inner surface of the first pipe <NUM> and push the second drill rod <NUM> against an inner surface of the second pipe <NUM> or an edge <NUM> of an inner surface of the second pipe <NUM>. Advantageously, this takes place when the second drill rod <NUM> is attached to the drilling machine <NUM>. Further advantageously, this takes place when the first drill rod <NUM> is attached to the drilling tool <NUM> or another drill rod.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, in the active position of the first arm <NUM> the gripper <NUM> of the first arm <NUM> is configured to be adjacent to the pipe guide <NUM>. In the active position of the first arm <NUM> the gripper <NUM> of the first arm <NUM> is configured to be positioned between the pipe guide <NUM> and the drilling machine <NUM> when the feeder <NUM> and drilling machine <NUM> are located anywhere between the first position <NUM> of the feeder <NUM> and the second position <NUM> of the feeder <NUM>. The first arm <NUM> is attached, for example directly or indirectly attached, to the feed beam <NUM> at the second position <NUM> of the feeder <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the apparatus <NUM> includes a second arm <NUM> having a gripper <NUM> for gripping and holding the drill rod <NUM>, <NUM>. The second arm <NUM> is movable in relation to the feed beam <NUM> between an inactive position, which is shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, and an active position, which is shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. In the active position of the second arm <NUM> the gripper <NUM> of the second arm <NUM> is configured to grip and hold the drill rod <NUM>, <NUM>. The second arm <NUM> is attached, for example directly or indirectly attached, to the feed beam <NUM> at the first position <NUM> of the feeder <NUM>. In the shown embodiment, the second arm <NUM> is pivotably movable in relation to the feed beam <NUM> between the inactive position and the active position. Thus, the second arm <NUM> is pivotable between the inactive position and the active position.

With reference to <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, the apparatus <NUM> includes a pivot member <NUM> extending in the longitudinal direction <NUM>. The pivot member <NUM> is pivotable about its longitudinal central axis <NUM> (see <FIG>) and pivotable in relation to the feed beam <NUM>. The pivot member <NUM> is pivotably attached to the feed beam <NUM>. The longitudinal central axis <NUM> of the pivot member <NUM> may be substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction <NUM>. The apparatus <NUM> includes a drive mechanism <NUM>, for example a motor, such as an electrical motor, configured to rotate the pivot member <NUM> about the longitudinal central axis <NUM> of the pivot member <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, the second arm <NUM> is attached to the pivot member <NUM> of the apparatus <NUM>. The second arm <NUM> is pivotable about a second pivot axis of a second shaft <NUM>. More precisely, in the shown embodiments the second shaft <NUM> is pivotably attached the pivot member <NUM>, and the second arm <NUM> is thus pivotable in relation to the pivot member <NUM>. Thus, the second arm <NUM> is pivotable both about the longitudinal central axis <NUM> (See <FIG>) of the pivot member <NUM> and about the second pivot axis of the second shaft <NUM>. For example, the second arm <NUM> is movable between the inactive position and the active by means of a second hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder <NUM> of the apparatus <NUM>. The gripper <NUM> of the second arm <NUM> has a first grip member <NUM> and a second grip member <NUM> movable in relation to one other to grip the drill rod <NUM>, <NUM> therebetween. The first grip member <NUM> of the gripper <NUM> of the second arm <NUM> is movable by means of a drive mechanism <NUM> of the second arm <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, in the active position of the second arm <NUM> the gripper <NUM> of the second arm <NUM> is configured to grip the drill rod <NUM>, <NUM> when the feeder <NUM> is in the first position <NUM> and when the drilling machine <NUM> is to be attached to (or detached from) the second drill rod <NUM> by means of the attachment shaft <NUM> of the drilling machine <NUM>. Thus, the gripper <NUM> of the second arm <NUM> firmly grips the second drill rod <NUM>, and the drilling machine <NUM> is attached to the second drill rod <NUM> by rotating the attachment shaft <NUM> and the male thread <NUM> of the attachment shaft <NUM> engages the female thread <NUM> of the second drill rod <NUM>. <FIG> shows the second arm <NUM> in the inactive position after the drilling machine <NUM> has been attached to the second drill rod <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, an inactive position of the second arm <NUM> is illustrated. In this inactive position of the second arm <NUM> the gripper <NUM> of the second arm <NUM> is configured to grip the drill rod <NUM> before the drill rod <NUM> is moved from a resting position, which is shown in <FIG>, to an active or operating position between the first position <NUM> of the feeder <NUM> and the second position <NUM> of the feeder <NUM>. In this active or operating position of the drill rod <NUM> the drilling machine <NUM> is attachable to the drill rod <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, in the active position of the second arm <NUM> the gripper <NUM> of the second arm <NUM> is configured to grip the drill rod <NUM> when the drill rod <NUM> is to be moved away from an active or operating position between the first position <NUM> of the feeder <NUM> and the second position <NUM> of the feeder <NUM> to a resting position. Further, in the active position of the second arm <NUM> the gripper <NUM> of the second arm <NUM> is configured to grip the drill rod <NUM> when the drill rod <NUM> is attached to the drilling machine <NUM> and when the feed beam <NUM> is to be lowered to the ground or floor.

With reference to <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, the apparatus <NUM> includes a pipe feeding device <NUM> for feeding and moving the pipe <NUM>, <NUM> in relation to the feed beam <NUM>. In this embodiment, the pipes <NUM>, <NUM> are attachable to one another by means of threads. The apparatus has a third arm <NUM> attached, for example directly or indirectly attached, to the feed beam <NUM>. The pipe feeding device <NUM> is attached to the third arm <NUM>. The third arm <NUM> is movable in relation to the feed beam <NUM> between an inactive position, which is shown in <FIG> (also shown in <FIG> and <FIG>), and an active position, which is shown in <FIG>. With reference to <FIG>, the third arm <NUM> is attached to the pivot member <NUM> and thus pivotable together with the pivot member <NUM>. Thus, the third arm <NUM> is pivotably movable in relation to the feed beam <NUM> between the inactive position and the active position. Thus, the third arm <NUM> is pivotable between the inactive position and the active position.

In the active position of the third arm <NUM> the pipe feeding device <NUM> is configured to move the second pipe <NUM> in relation to the first pipe <NUM> to attach the second pipe <NUM> to the first pipe <NUM>. In the active position of the third arm <NUM> the pipe feeding device <NUM> is configured to rotate the pipe <NUM> about the longitudinal central axis <NUM> of the pipe <NUM> (see <FIG>) in relation to the feed beam <NUM>. Thus, in the active position of the third arm <NUM> the pipe feeding device <NUM> is configured to rotate the pipe <NUM> about the longitudinal central axis <NUM> of the pipe <NUM> in relation to an adjacent pipe <NUM>, in this case the first pipe <NUM>. In the active position of the third arm <NUM> the pipe feeding device <NUM> is also configured to move the pipe <NUM> in the longitudinal direction <NUM> in relation to the feed beam <NUM>. Thus, in the active position of the third arm <NUM> the pipe feeding device <NUM> is configured to move the pipe <NUM> in the longitudinal direction <NUM> in relation to the adjacent pipe <NUM>, i.e. the first pipe <NUM>. This is an efficient way to attach pipes <NUM>, <NUM> to one another which does not require any manual handling by an operator. Especially, this is an efficient way to attach pipes <NUM>, <NUM> to another when the pipes <NUM>, <NUM> are attachable to one other by means of threads. The third arm <NUM> is attached, for example directly or indirectly attached, to the feed beam <NUM> between the first position <NUM> of the feeder <NUM> and the second position <NUM> of the feeder <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the pipe feeding device <NUM> includes a gripper <NUM> for gripping and feeding the pipe <NUM>, <NUM> when the third arm <NUM> is in the active position. The gripper <NUM> of the pipe feeding device <NUM> comprises one or more drive wheels <NUM> for abutment against the pipe <NUM>, <NUM>. The drive wheels <NUM> are configured to abut against the pipe <NUM>, <NUM> when the third arm <NUM> is in the active position. The gripper <NUM> of the third arm <NUM> is configured to be positioned between the gripper <NUM> of the first arm <NUM> and the gripper <NUM> of the second arm <NUM> when the arms <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are in the active positions. In the inactive position of the third arm <NUM>, the gripper <NUM> of the third arm <NUM> is configured to grip the pipe <NUM>, <NUM> when the pipe <NUM>, <NUM> is in a resting position and move the pipe <NUM>, <NUM> to an operating position where the pipe <NUM>, <NUM> is ready to be fed, i.e. to an operating position between the first position <NUM> of the feeder <NUM> and the second position <NUM> of the feeder <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, the gripper <NUM> of the pipe feeding device <NUM> has three drive wheels <NUM> separated from one another in a circumference direction in relation to a central axis <NUM> which is substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction <NUM>. Thus, the three drive wheels <NUM> are spaced apart from one another. Each drive wheel <NUM> has an axis of rotation <NUM> about which the drive wheel <NUM> is rotatable. Each drive wheel <NUM> is connected to a drive mechanism <NUM> configured to drive and rotate the wheel <NUM> about the axis of rotation <NUM> of the wheel <NUM>. The axis of rotation <NUM> of the drive wheel <NUM> forms an acute angle <NUM> with the longitudinal direction <NUM> of the guide <NUM>. The acute angle <NUM> may be between (and including) <NUM> ° and <NUM>°, for example between (and including) <NUM>° and <NUM>°. The acute angle <NUM> may be <NUM>°. When the pipes <NUM>, <NUM> are attached to one another by means of threads, said acute angle <NUM> is advantageously adapted to the pitch of the threads of the pipes <NUM>, <NUM>.

Instead of the drive wheels <NUM> disclosed above, the gripper of the pipe feeding device could be configured to firmly grip the pipe <NUM>, and the pivot member <NUM> could be movable in the longitudinal direction <NUM> in relation to the feed beam <NUM>, for example by means of one or more telescopic cylinders, and thus configured to move the pipe <NUM> in the longitudinal direction <NUM> in relation to the feed beam <NUM> to attach the pipe <NUM> to another pipe <NUM>. For example, the telescopic cylinder may be located and/or attached between the pivot member <NUM> and the drive mechanism <NUM>, or between the drive mechanism <NUM> and the feed beam <NUM>. Alternatively, and instead of the drive wheels <NUM> disclosed above, the gripper of the pipe feeding device could be configured to firmly grip the pipe <NUM>, and the third arm could be movable in the longitudinal direction <NUM> in relation to the pivot member <NUM> and thus configured to move the pipe <NUM> in the longitudinal direction <NUM> in relation to the feed beam <NUM> to attach the pipe <NUM> to another pipe <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, the apparatus <NUM> comprises one or more pipe guiding elements <NUM>, <NUM> attached, for example directly or indirectly attached, to the feed beam <NUM>. In the shown embodiments, two pipe guiding elements <NUM>, <NUM> are provided. The pipe guiding element <NUM>, <NUM> is pivotable in relation to the feed beam <NUM> between an inactive position, which is shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, and an active position, which is shown in <FIG>. In the active position shown in <FIG>, the pipe guiding element <NUM>, <NUM> is configured to assist the pipe feeding device <NUM> in guiding the pipe <NUM>, <NUM>. In the inactive position of the pipe guiding element <NUM>, <NUM>, the pipe guiding element <NUM>, <NUM> is configured to assist the gripper <NUM> of the third arm <NUM> in moving the pipe <NUM>, <NUM> from the resting position to the operating position in which the pipe <NUM>, <NUM> is ready to be fed. When the arms <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and the pipe guiding elements <NUM>, <NUM> are positioned in the active positions a first pipe guiding element <NUM> of the pipe guiding elements <NUM>, <NUM> is configured to be positioned between the gripper <NUM> of the first arm <NUM> and the gripper <NUM> of the third arm <NUM>. When the arms <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and the pipe guiding elements <NUM>, <NUM> are positioned in the active positions a second pipe guiding element <NUM> of the pipe guiding elements <NUM>, <NUM> is configured to be positioned between the gripper <NUM> of the second arm <NUM> and the gripper <NUM> the third arm <NUM>. With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, each pipe guiding element <NUM>, <NUM> is attached to the pivot member <NUM>, whereby each pipe guiding element <NUM>, <NUM> is made pivotable.

With reference to <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, the apparatus <NUM> has a muck shield <NUM> attached, for example directly or indirectly attached, to the feeder <NUM> and movable in relation to the feed beam <NUM>. The muck shield <NUM> is configured to cover a portion of the guide <NUM> and configured to guide muck away from the guide <NUM>, whereby muck is prevented from entering the feed beam <NUM> which could impair the function of the guide <NUM> or even damage the guide <NUM>. The muck, i.e. the released ground material and slurry leaving the drill hole, enters the first pipe <NUM>, to which the drilling tool <NUM> is rotatably attached, and exits the last pipe <NUM> having an open end. In the beginning of the drilling when only one pipe <NUM> is connected to the drilling tool <NUM>, the first pipe <NUM> and the last pipe <NUM> are the same pipe <NUM>. The muck shield <NUM> is configured to be positioned between the feeder <NUM> and the second position <NUM> of the feeder <NUM> when the feeder <NUM> is located anywhere between the first position <NUM> and the second position <NUM>. Further, the muck shield <NUM> is configured to be positioned between the feeder <NUM> and the pipe guide <NUM> when the feeder <NUM> is located anywhere between the first position <NUM> and the second position <NUM>. With reference to <FIG>, the apparatus <NUM> may be configured such that a part or a portion <NUM> of the muck shield <NUM> extends or is located between an (open) end portion <NUM> of the last pipe <NUM> and the feed beam <NUM> during drilling operation, whereby muck is efficiently prevented from entering the feed beam <NUM>. With reference to <FIG>, at least a portion <NUM> or a part of the muck shield <NUM> may be made of a flexible material, for example an elastomer material, such as rubber. Advantageously, the portion <NUM> made of the flexible material faces away from the feeder <NUM>. This is advantageous when the feeder <NUM> is in the second position <NUM> and the muck shield <NUM> may abut against the pipe guide <NUM>. Alternatively, the entire muck shield <NUM> may be made of said flexible material.

With reference to <FIG>, a drilling rig <NUM> is schematically illustrated. The drilling rig <NUM> has a drilling rig body <NUM> to which wheels <NUM> are rotatably mounted. The drilling rig <NUM> is parked close to the ground <NUM> to be drilled and where the pipes <NUM>, <NUM> are to be installed. The drilling rig <NUM> has a boom <NUM> which is movable in relation to the drilling rig body <NUM>. The feed beam <NUM> and the apparatus <NUM> are attached, for example directly or indirectly attached, to the boom <NUM>.

The apparatus <NUM> may be configured to install pipes in rock or a rock formation, i.e. the ground <NUM> is rock or a rock formation. Then, the drilling machine <NUM> may be a rock drilling machine. The drilling machine <NUM> may be a percussive or percussion drilling machine. The apparatus <NUM> may be a top hammer apparatus for top hammer drilling, i.e. the drilling tool <NUM> is located at one end of a drill string and the drilling machine <NUM> is located at the other end of the drill string. The drill string is inter alia formed by the drill rods <NUM>, <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, a flow chart illustrates embodiments of the methods according to the fifths and sixth aspects of the present invention. The embodiments of the methods provide a method for installing pipes <NUM>, <NUM> mechanically connected to a drilling tool <NUM> in ground <NUM>. The embodiments of the method comprise drilling the drilling tool <NUM> into the ground <NUM> together with the pipes <NUM>, <NUM> by means of an apparatus <NUM> including a feed beam <NUM> attachable to a boom <NUM> of a drilling rig <NUM>, the feed beam <NUM> comprising a guide <NUM> extending in a longitudinal direction <NUM>, a feeder <NUM>, the guide <NUM> holding and guiding the feeder <NUM>, the feeder <NUM> moving in the longitudinal direction <NUM> in relation to the feed beam <NUM>, and a drilling machine <NUM> attached to the feeder <NUM> and movable in relation to the feed beam <NUM>. In these embodiments of the methods, the drill rods <NUM>, <NUM> and drilling machine <NUM> are attached to one another by means of threads, and the pipes <NUM>, <NUM> are attached to one another by means of threads.

For installing a subsequent drill rod <NUM>, such as a second drill rod <NUM>, and a subsequent pipe <NUM>, such as a second pipe <NUM>, before further drilling, an embodiment of the methods includes the following steps:.

With reference to <FIG>, a flow chart illustrates further embodiments of the methods according to the fifths and sixth aspects of the present invention. For detaching a drill rod <NUM>, such as the second drill rod <NUM>, to be re-used for consecutive pipe installation, an embodiment of the methods includes the following steps:.

When the pipes <NUM>, <NUM> have been installed in the ground <NUM>, the pipes <NUM>, <NUM> may be filled with cement or any other suitable material.

It is to be understood that one or more additional steps may be added and performed, and some of the above-mentioned steps may be repeated when mounting and attaching additional drill rods and additional pipes and when detaching additional rods. One or more of the above-mentioned steps may be excluded. When detaching the drill rods <NUM>, <NUM> for consecutive pipe installation, the last drill rod <NUM> may stay attached to the drilling machine <NUM>.

In some embodiments of the apparatus <NUM> according to the present invention, the second arm <NUM>, the third arm <NUM>, the pipe guiding elements <NUM>, <NUM> and the muck shield <NUM> may be excluded, letting the first arm <NUM> remain. In some other embodiments, the first arm <NUM>, the third arm <NUM>, the pipe guiding elements <NUM>, <NUM> and the muck shield <NUM> may be excluded, letting the second arm <NUM> remain. In some further embodiments, the first arm <NUM>, the second arm <NUM>, the pipe guiding elements <NUM>. <NUM> and the muck shield 208may be excluded, letting the third arm <NUM> remain. In some other embodiments, the first, second and third arms <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and the pipe guiding elements <NUM>, <NUM> may be excluded, letting the muck shield <NUM> remain.

The drill rods <NUM>, <NUM> may be hollow to feed a liquid, for example water, via the drilling machine <NUM> and the hollow drill rods <NUM>, <NUM> to the drilling tool <NUM>. However, other liquid feeding solutions are possible.

Claim 1:
An apparatus (<NUM>) for installing pipes (<NUM>, <NUM>) in ground (<NUM>), the apparatus (<NUM>) being configured to install pipes (<NUM>, <NUM>) connected to a drilling tool (<NUM>) and drill the drilling tool (<NUM>) into the ground (<NUM>) together with the pipes (<NUM>, <NUM>), the apparatus (<NUM>) comprising
a feed beam (<NUM>) attachable or connectable to a boom (<NUM>) of a drilling rig (<NUM>), the feed beam (<NUM>) comprising a guide (<NUM>) extending in a longitudinal direction (<NUM>),
a feeder (<NUM>), the guide (<NUM>) being configured to hold and guide the feeder (<NUM>), the feeder (<NUM>) being movable in the longitudinal direction (<NUM>) in relation to the feed beam (<NUM>),
a drilling machine (<NUM>) attached to the feeder (<NUM>) and movable in relation to the feed beam (<NUM>), the drilling machine (<NUM>) being configured to be attached to the drilling tool (<NUM>) by one or more drill rods (<NUM>, <NUM>) which in a drilling operation extend inside one or a plurality of the pipes (<NUM>, <NUM>) in the longitudinal direction (<NUM>), and
a first arm (<NUM>) attached to the feed beam (<NUM>), the first arm (<NUM>) having a gripper (<NUM>) for gripping and/or holding the drill rod (<NUM>, <NUM>), wherein the first arm (<NUM>) is movable in relation to the feed beam (<NUM>) between an inactive position and an active position, wherein in the active position of the first arm (<NUM>) the gripper (<NUM>) of the first arm (<NUM>) is configured to grip and/or hold the drill rod (<NUM>, <NUM>).