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AssigneeMerlin Technology, Inc.
InventorsAlbert W. Chau, Benjamin John Medeiros, Craig Caswell
Estimating the term…
Systems, apparatus and methods are described for purposes of initiating a response to detection of an adverse operational condition involving a system including a drill rig and an inground tool. The response can be based on an uphole sensed parameter in combination with a downhole sensed parameter. The adverse operational condition can involve cross-bore detection, frac-out detection, excessive downhole pressure, a plugged jet indication and drill string key-holing detection. A communication system includes an inground communication link that allows bidirectional communication between a walkover detector and the drill rig via the inground tool. Monitoring of inground tool depth and/or lateral movement can be performed using techniques that approach integrated values. Bit force based auto-carving is described in the context of an automated procedure.
A method for use in conjunction with a horizontal directional drilling system that includes a drill string having a length that extends from a drill rig to a boring tool having a drill bit such that extension of the drill string advances the boring tool through the ground during a drilling operation to form a pilot bore, said method comprising:
An apparatus for use in conjunction with a horizontal directional drilling system that includes a drill string having a length that extends from a drill rig to a boring tool having a drill bit such that extension of the drill string advances the boring tool through the ground during a drilling operation to form a pilot bore, said apparatus comprising:
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.