Patent · US Expired

Mapping tool for tracking and/or guiding an underground boring tool

US6640907B2 · kind B2 · utility

14Cited by
18References
5Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateAug 27, 2002
Grant dateNov 4, 2003
Priority date
Expiry dateAug 27, 2022

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
  • CPC primaryH01Q21/29
  • WIPO fieldTelecommunications
  • WIPO sectorElectrical engineering

Abstract

A portable mapping tool for use in a horizontal drilling system and associated methods use a boring tool configured for transmitting a locating signal. The mapping tool also includes at least one electromagnetic field detector which is configured for measuring the locating signal from a fixed position proximate to the surface of the ground in a drilling area. The mapping tool includes a housing and a transmitter arrangement supported by the housing for transmitting a setup locating signal for reception by the detector in the region for use in determining certain initial conditions at least prior to drilling. The associated methods include the step of configuring the mapping tool for transmitting a setup locating signal for reception by the detector in the region and using the received setup locating signal in determining certain initial conditions at least prior to drilling.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.