Method and Means for Drilling an Earthen Hole

Abstract

An earthen hole drilling device having an elongated tube with first and second ends where a source of vacuum pressure is connected to the first end and shroud is connected to the second end. A waterline is connected to a source of pressurized water at one end and extends into an interior of the shroud through an opening where the line is connected to a nozzle that is angled at 45°. The shroud additionally has at least one opening that allows air induction / conduction through the shroud in order to dislodge material that accumulates within the shroud.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]This invention is directed to a device for drilling an earthen hold and more particularly to an improved air induction jet gun.[0002]Drilling small diameter holes for fence posts, wells and the like are commonly accomplished by mechanical means, such as augers, which leave a substantial amount of residue on the ground surface where the hole is created. This residue is usually present also when hydraulic means are used to create the hole. Mechanical means are unsatisfactory for use in exploratory drilling to locate the position of an underground line, because the drilling apparatus may sever or damage the line when the line is located. Also, hole digging typically consumes considerable labor and either mechanical or hydraulic power.[0003]To improve upon these methods, air induction jet guns have been used so as not to damage underground lines, remove residue, and reduce labor. An example is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,887,667 by Van Zante et al., incorpo...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The patent describes a device for drilling holes in the ground. It has a long tube with a vacuum pressure source and a shroud. It also has a waterline connected to a source of pressurized water and an opening for air to flow in and help remove any material that accumulates on the shroud. The technical effect of this device is to make drilling holes in the ground easier and more efficient."

Problems solved by technology

Mechanical means are unsatisfactory for use in exploratory drilling to locate the position of an underground line, because the drilling apparatus may sever or damage the line when the line is located.

Also, hole digging typically consumes considerable labor and either mechanical or hydraulic power.

While this device was an improvement over mechanical and hydraulic means occasionally mud created in the hole could clog the gun or the gun could become stuck in the mud due to suction.

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