Boring tool tracking/guiding system and method with unconstrained target location geometry
US6727704B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 20, 2001 |
| Grant date | Apr 27, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 27, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01V3/081
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Tracking a boring tool is performed within an underground region using a locating signal. The boring tool is moved through the ground during a series of distance movements such that potential movement of the boring tool during any one of the distance movements is less than a maximum movement value. A current positional relationship is determined for a current one of the distance movements based on: a last-determined positional relationship established for an immediately preceding one of the distance movements, certain orientation parameters, the maximum movement value and the determined signal strength of the locating signal in the current positional relationship. Target coordinates are accepted and a target position, based on the target coordinates, is included as part of the current positional relationship. The position of the target is unconstrained with respect to system geometry. Steering command features are provided along with steering warnings.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.