Patent · US Expired

Laser boring method and system

US6870128B2 · kind B2 · utility

49Cited by
28References
14Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateJun 10, 2002
Grant dateMar 22, 2005
Priority date
Expiry dateJun 24, 2023

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
  • CPC primaryB23K26/382
  • WIPO fieldMachine tools
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

A method for boring a well with a laser beam is provided, the method comprising: shining the laser beam into a conduit, wherein the laser beam is guided through the conduit by the internal reflectivity of said conduit; and extending the conduit into the well, so that the laser beam exiting the conduit shines onto an area in the well to be bored. A system for boring a well with a laser beam is also provided, the system comprising: a means for shining the laser beam into a conduit; wherein the laser beam is guided through the conduit by the internal reflectivity of said conduit; and a means for extending the conduit into the well, so that the laser beam exiting the conduit shines onto an area in the well to be bored. An apparatus is provided as well, comprising a conduit that is extendable into the well, and an inner surface inside of the conduit, wherein the inner surface is reflective to the laser beam.

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