Latching configuration for a microtunneling apparatus
US8839885B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 6, 2011 |
| Grant date | Sep 23, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 22, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B17/18
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A drill rod is disclosed. The drill rod includes a casing assembly defining a length that extends axially between a first end and an opposite second end of the drill rod, and a drive shaft rotatably mounted within the casing assembly. The drive shaft extends axially along the drill rod generally from the first end of the casing assembly to the second end of the casing assembly. The drill rod also includes latching pins at the first end of the drill rod and latching pin receivers at the second end of the drill rod. The drill rod further includes latches provided adjacent the latching pin receivers. The latches are movable between latching and non-latching positions. The latches move along an orientation of movement then the latches between the latching and non-latching positions. The drill rod may also include biasing structures that apply retention forces to the latches for retaining the latches in the non-latching position. The retention forces have at least components that extend in directions perpendicular to the orientation of movement of the latches. The drill rod may further include cam arms for moving the latches into a latching position and for retaining the latches in a la…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.