Portable irrigation pipe installation system

Abstract

A portable pipe irrigation system that is used primarily for temporary drip and sprinkler installations includes a unique trailer that comprises a platform which simplifies installation and removal of the irrigation system. The trailer is either self propelled or pulled by a tractor. A magazine in the central portion of the trailer is of a sufficient length to accommodate pipe of various lengths and cross sections. A work platform is located at either end of the magazine, allowing workers to manipulate the pipe in the magazine and load the pipe into one of two installation chutes. Catwalks are located on one or both sides of the magazine. Two chutes or channels are located on the platform at a comfortable work level. A primary chute is located closest to the magazine and is fitted with a fixed stop on the front end and a pushing lever on the rear end. A secondary chute is provided for final assembly of the pipe sections. The secondary chute has a lever of a much longer radius that travels along the length of the chute. The two chutes define work areas where the pipe sections are assembled or disassembled. At the rear of the trailer/platform are outriggers that assist in the accurate placement of pipe in the field.

1 . A portable irrigation system, comprising: 
 a plurality of tubing segments, each said tubing segment comprising a smooth, preferably non-metallic, flexible material; and    a tubing coupler, preferably manufactured of a non-metallic material, said tubing coupler having an inside diameter which accepts an outside diameter of said tubing coupler including a seal for providing non-leak joints between said coupler and said tubing to allow ready pressurization and depressurization of an irrigation system comprised of said tubing and said couplers.    
     
     
         2 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein a groove is located at each end of each tube.  
     
     
         3 . The system of  claim 2 , wherein said coupler has grooves formed on an inside at each end; 
 wherein one of said grooves accommodates a gasket; and    wherein said other groove accommodates a locking device.    
     
     
         4 . The system of  claim 3 , wherein said coupler has a bottom portion that comprises a stabilizer/skid and a top portion equipped with an orifice/gasket assembly adapted to accept a sprinkler or sprinkler riser.  
     
     
         5 . The system of  claim 4 , wherein said seals comprise either of “O” rings and/or gaskets.  
     
     
         6 . The system of  claim 5 , wherein said locking device comprises a square cross section and is of a length such that it wraps around said tubing as it is inserted through said coupler and engages a groove formed on said pipe; and  
       wherein said locking device is preferably made of a non-metallic material.  
     
     
         7 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein said system is adapted for installation/removal from a pipe installation/removal system with which said coupler assembly is joined with said pipe to form pipe/coupler sections for installation and with which said pipe is separated from said coupler during removal.