Boring tool control using remote locator
US6079506A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 27, 1998 |
| Grant date | Jun 27, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 27, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B47/13
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A locator/control arrangement forms part of a drilling apparatus which also includes a boring tool that emits a locating signal. The locator/control arrangement is used for locating and controlling underground movement of a boring tool which is operated from a drill rig. The locator/control arrangement includes a portable device for generating certain information about the position of the boring tool in response to the locating signal. In addition, the portable device generates command signals based on operator input in view of the generated certain information and transmits the command signals to the drill rig. An arrangement located at the drill rig then receives the command signals so that the command signals can be used to control the boring tool. In one feature, the arrangement located at the drill rig for receiving the command signals may indicate the command signals to a drill rig operator. In another feature, the arrangement located at the drill rig for receiving the command signals may automatically execute the command signals at the drill rig in a way which eliminates the need for a drill rig operator. Drill rig monitoring may be provided for monitoring particular operati…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.