Systems and methods for directional drilling
US9528321B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 13, 2013 |
| Grant date | Dec 27, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 16, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B47/18
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
An underground directional drilling system can comprise a plurality of elongated dual-shaft segments coupled together end-to-end in a drilling string. The segments include an inner shaft that is independently rotable relative to an annular outer shaft, with the inner shafts being coupled together and the outer shafts being coupled together. The plurality of dual-shaft segments can comprise a communication segment that comprises a first electrode, a second electrode, a gap portion between the first and second electrodes that provides electrical insulation therebetween, and an electronic communication controller electrically coupled to the first and second electrodes. The communication controller is configured to generate voltage differences between the electrodes that cause electrical pulses to periodically transfer between the electrodes through the gap portion to wirelessly communicate drilling related data from underground to the surface.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.