Microwave linked laser control system, method, and apparatus for drilling and boring operations
US7931097B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 26, 2008 |
| Grant date | Apr 26, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 4, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B47/0232
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A laser control system and apparatus for guiding a drilling or boring operation during a trenchless technology implementation. In most if not all trenchless technology applications, direction of the pipe or utility structure through the earth is of utmost importance. Proper directional guidance throughout the trenchless technology implementation ensures not only that the resulting utility infrastructure is placed properly, but also ensures that the trenchless technology operation, does not hit or otherwise damage (such as through vibrations) existing utilities and other underground objects. The laser control system and apparatus of the present invention comprises a laser, a housing having a laser sight, a camera in optical communication with the laser sight a microwave transmitter having an antenna, with the transmitter being operatively coupled to the camera, and a microwave receiver.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.