Drill rod alignment device and systems and methods of using same

A drill rod alignment device for aligning a drill rod with a drill string supported by a drill mast, the drill mast having a longitudinal axis, the drill rod alignment device comprising:

• a feed frame assembly configured for operative coupling to the drill mast, wherein the feed frame assembly is configured for selective axial movement relative to the longitudinal axis of the drill mast;
• an arm assembly having at least one arm linkage that is pivotally coupled to the feed frame assembly to permit pivotal movement of the arm assembly about and between a parked position and a deployed position;
• a rod engagement assembly having:
• a carrier arm having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the carrier arm is pivotally coupled to the at least one arm linkage of the arm assembly;
• a rod-supporting subassembly secured to the carrier arm, wherein the rod-supporting subassembly defines a receiving channel;
• and
• a clamping subassembly having a guide arm and at least one roller, wherein the guide arm is pivotally coupled to the second end of the carrier arm, wherein the at least one roller is coupled to the guide arm,
• wherein, with the arm assembly in the deployed position, the rod-supporting subassembly is configured to contact a drill rod and effect pivotal movement of the carrier arm relative to the at least one arm linkage of the arm assembly, and
• wherein the guide arm is configured for pivotal movement relative to the carrier arm from an open position to a closed position in which the at least one roller secures the drill rod within the receiving channel.