Drilling tool and system for drilling tool identification

Abstract

The present disclosure relates generally to the field of drill tool identification. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a drill tool and a system configured for such drill tool identification. The drill tool comprises a machined marking on a peripheral surface, wherein the machined marking is positioned on a section of the peripheral surface and comprises a matrix of recesses having predetermined column and row positions to convey an identity of the drill tool, and wherein the machined marking is optically readable from a plurality of single directions when installed in a drilling rig.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to the field of drill string identification. More specifically, this disclosure relates to drill strings and systems configured for such drill string identification. Background Technology

[0002] Various types of drilling rigs are used when performing drilling operations, such as in rock materials, for mining or tunneling. In many cases, drilling rigs use attachments while performing drilling functions. For example, a crusher attachment can be used to remove concrete or rock by using hydraulic devices to deliver impact force to the concrete or rock. Different types of drilling rigs exist, among which "DTH" (downhole) drilling rigs and top hammer drilling rigs are two commonly used types for drilling. Drilling operations can be performed vertically or in a near-vertical direction, but upward and horizontal drilling are also possible. Other applications require other types of drilling equipment; drilling rigs suitable for operations also in other directions are known in the art.

[0003] Because rock drilling is carried out in hard materials, special types of drilling tools are used for this operation. Examples of such tools include drill bits, shank adapters, rods, and tubing. During operation, the drilling tools are exposed to harsh conditions. This is especially true for drill bits, which will undergo significant wear during operation and will require maintenance in the form of replacement and / or regrinding, which in turn necessitates the removal and attachment of the drilling tools to the drilling rig. Drill bits are replaced due to damage, aging, and normal wear.

[0004] A common drilling technique is percussion drilling, in which impact devices, such as hammers, repeatedly strike the drill bit directly or via the drill string to transmit impact pulses to the drill bit and further into the rock. Percussion drilling can be combined with rotary drilling to achieve drilling in which the ball teeth or inserts of the drill bit strike new rock with each stroke, thereby increasing drilling efficiency. High-energy pulses are transmitted through the drill string at frequencies of approximately 20 Hz to 200 Hz and peak forces of approximately 200 kN to 900 kN.

[0005] Because different drilling tools are configured for different applications, it is essential to match the drilling tools to the equipment and operational requirements. This means ensuring that drilling rigs and other types of drilling equipment are configured with the appropriate drilling tools for the intended operation. Furthermore, it is necessary to ensure that drilling tool replacements are performed using replacement parts that meet the intended application requirements, such as those specified by the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). If operators choose to install drilling tools in the rig that do not meet OEM standards, these tools may not meet specifications and required quality; this can negatively impact the performance and reliability of drilling operations if the replaced tools cannot maintain the required performance level without failure. Reliably identifying the drilling tools that need replacement is a critical aspect of ensuring proper replacement procedures. It is also necessary to identify and track drilling tools from the manufacturing facility through the logistics chain to the customer, as well as in the operational chain including service and recycling or disposal. This will improve understanding of customer consumption rates and can be used for forecasting.

[0006] The identification process typically involves matching drill string tags with drill string-specific information, such as information stored in a database. The process of retrieving this drill string-specific information can be facilitated by using machine reading and automated information retrieval from databases.

[0007] US2016 / 0194950 A1 discloses a drill pipe identification system capable of matching drill pipe identifiers with information stored in a database. In the proposed drill pipe identification system, the identifier is embedded in the pipe by milling / cutting it in. The identifier is arranged in one or more rows along the circumference of the pipe, and reading is achieved through one or more sensors installed within the drilling rig. Reading is performed by rotating the drill pipe in front of one or more sensors to achieve remote reading of the identifier code.

[0008] US 9,611,703 B2 discloses another drill pipe identification system in which drill pipe history can be retrieved from a central memory. The compiled history can be accessed by reading an identification code on the drill pipe and using it to retrieve data corresponding to a specific identification code. The drill pipe identification code is welded or stamped along the circumference of the drill pipe and extracted by means of one or more sensors installed at predetermined locations within the drilling rig.

[0009] Therefore, solutions capable of identifying drill pipes and retrieving related data are part of the background technology. Known solutions use setups with permanent sensors mounted at predetermined fixed locations to extract barcode data etched or imprinted around the circumference of the drill pipe. A drawback of these setups is the requirement to align one or more sensors with the drill pipe. Even a small misalignment between the sensor and the circumferentially positioned identifier can disable reading / identification. Furthermore, installing sensors in the drilling rig environment has the disadvantage of exposing them to harsh conditions and potentially requiring regular maintenance / replacement.

[0010] In the background art, attempts have been made to overcome the disadvantages of having permanent sensor reading devices by using barcode tags or NFC / RFID tags on drill bits and using associated readers.

[0011] However, despite offering high reliability in machine reading of unused drill strings and in the ability to read them using non-fixed sensors, barcode tags and NFC / RFID tags have proven unsuitable for harsh conditions and the high energy transfers experienced by drill strings during operation. Therefore, prior art attempts to configure drill string identification systems using machine reading of barcode tags or NFC / RFID tags have failed to provide a solution for identifying drill strings that have been in long-term use or are at the end of their lifespan.

[0012] Therefore, a robust and wear-resistant solution is needed for machine-readable identification of drill bits. Summary of the Invention

[0013] Therefore, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide a drill string and a drill string identification system that are designed to mitigate, alleviate or eliminate all or at least some of the disadvantages of currently known solutions described above.

[0014] These and other objectives are achieved by means of the drill string and drill string identification system as defined in the appended claims.

[0015] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, a drill bit is provided configured for use in a drilling rig arranged to perform rock drilling operations. The drill bit includes machined markings located on a peripheral surface of the drill bit, wherein the machined markings are positioned on a portion of the peripheral surface and include a matrix of recesses having predetermined column and row positions to convey identification of the drill bit. When mounted in the drilling rig, the machined markings are optically readable from multiple single directions.

[0016] Drill strings that include machined markings offer the following specific advantages: they provide identification that will withstand drill string wear and can be remotely identified throughout the drill string's lifespan, eliminating the need to mount sensors on the drilling rig or in a fixed position relative to the drill string. Machined markings are suitable for conveying drill string identification, providing a unique identification code that allows the drill string to be uniquely identified by means of image detection.

[0017] In some examples, machining marks are positioned on segments having an angle range of 30° to 120°, and preferably 30° to 90°.

[0018] In some examples, the matrix of recesses includes at least three recesses, wherein the at least three recesses are arranged to have corner positions in the matrix, and any additional one or more recesses are arranged to have non-corner positions.

[0019] In some examples, the recesses are located in columns and rows arranged in matrices such as 3x3, 3x4, 4x3, 4x4, 4x5, 5x4, 5x5, 5x6, 6x5, or 6x6 matrices. According to a second aspect, a system for identifying drill bits is provided. The drill bit is configured for use in a drilling rig arranged to perform earthmoving or drilling operations on rock materials. The system includes a drill bit comprising machined markings located on its peripheral surface, wherein the machined markings are adapted to convey identification of the drill bit, and the machined markings are disposed on a drill bit surface that is optically readable from multiple unidirectional directions when mounted in a drilling rig. The machined markings are located on a segment of the peripheral surface and comprise a matrix of recesses having predetermined column and row positions. The system also includes: a portable image detection reader adapted to obtain one or more optical images of the machining mark from at least one of a plurality of single directions, i.e., the image detection reader is positioned at a corresponding location away from the drilling rig and has a line-of-sight direction to the machining mark; and processing circuitry configured to retrieve identification data for the drilling tool based on the obtained one or more optical images of the machining mark.

[0020] Therefore, a drill bit identification system with several advantageous features is provided. The machined markings on the drill bit surface, conveying the drill bit's identification, provide highly robust and wear-resistant identification of the drill bit throughout its entire lifespan, including at the end of its life cycle. Furthermore, the system offers the advantage of highly automated drill bit identification through image detection, such as image detection using state-of-the-art camera equipment, subsequent image processing operations, and retrieval of identification data based on the acquired optical images.

[0021] In some examples, the processing circuitry is at least partially included in a centralized data management center or server, which includes identification data and other types of supplementary data provided to drill bit users. The processing circuitry can also be integrated with an image detection reader in a portable unit, such as a smartphone, tablet, or other portable programmable device. Identification data can be stored in a cloud application or downloaded to local memory associated with the processing circuitry, for example, stored as a smartphone application.

[0022] In some examples, the image detection reader is configured to communicate wirelessly with the processing circuitry. This has the advantage of allowing a larger dataset to be used for processing by the image detection reader. Furthermore, data from the image processing reader can be uploaded for data analysis in the processing circuitry, enabling wear analysis of specific drill bits used in traceable applications.

[0023] In this example, a method for identifying machining marks is provided. The method is applicable to drill bits suitable for use in a drilling rig arranged to perform earthmoving or drilling operations on rock materials. The method includes obtaining optical images of the machining marks located on the surface of the drill bit from at least one of a plurality of single directions, i.e., from one or more image detection reader positions having a line-of-sight direction to the machining marks, and retrieving identification data based on the obtained optical images of the machining marks. The machining marks comprise a matrix of recesses with predetermined column and row positions to convey the identification of the drill bit, and the machining marks are disposed on the drill bit surface that is optically readable from multiple single directions when mounted in or on the drill bit surface.

[0024] The advantages of any of the aspects and examples disclosed above provide highly robust and wear-resistant identification of the drill string throughout its entire lifespan, i.e., at the end of its life cycle. Furthermore, the system offers the advantage of highly automated identification through image detection, such as image detection using state-of-the-art camera equipment, subsequent image processing operations, and retrieval of identification data based on the acquired optical images. Therefore, the disclosed embodiments not only provide robust and wear-resistant identification of the drill string or drilling rig, but also enable identification from a distance, thereby eliminating the need for physical alignment of one or more sensors mounted near the drill string. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Further objects, features, and advantages will become apparent from the following detailed description of the embodiments, with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, but rather focus on illustrating exemplary embodiments.

[0026] Figure 1 An exemplary drilling rig that can utilize embodiments of the present invention is illustrated;

[0027] Figure 2 An example system for identifying drill strings is illustrated schematically;

[0028] Figure 3 An example drill string is illustrated schematically;

[0029] Figure 4A The diagram illustrates how a 4x4 matrix is ​​labeled.

[0030] Figure 4B An alternative notation for a 4x4 matrix is ​​illustrated schematically.

[0031] Figure 5A A schematic flowchart illustrating an example method for identifying drill strings;

[0032] Figure 5B express Figure 5A Detailed flowchart illustration of the example method;

[0033] Figure 5C express Figure 5B A detailed flowchart of filter 1 in the diagram;

[0034] Figure 6 The illustration shows an example drill string before and after wear. Detailed Implementation

[0035] In the following, various aspects of this disclosure will be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the systems, arrangements, and methods disclosed herein can be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples shown herein. The same reference numerals in the drawings refer to the same elements throughout the disclosure.

[0036] It should be emphasized that, when used in this disclosure, the term “comprising / including” is used to specify the presence of the stated features, steps, or components, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well.

[0037] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to specific types of drilling rigs in which drilling is performed using an impact device in the form of a downhole (DTH) / in-hole (ITH) hammer. However, the present invention is also applicable to other types of drilling rigs, such as top hammer or open-pit drilling rigs and mining machines. According to embodiments of the present invention, the drilling rig may also be in the form of a top hammer.

[0038] Figure 1The illustration depicts a rock drilling rig 100, configured to include a drill bit or other type of drilling tool or drilling component with a shorter lifespan than the rock drilling rig's lifespan. The illustrated drilling rig 100 is in the process of drilling a hole with a desired completion depth d, and wherein the current drilling has reached a depth x.

[0039] The rock drilling rig 100 according to this example constitutes an open-pit drilling rig; however, it should be understood that the drilling rig may also be a type of rig primarily intended for, for example, underground drilling or for any other purpose. The rock drilling rig 100 includes a carrier 101 that conventionally carries a boom 102. Furthermore, a feed beam 103 is attached to the boom 102. The feed beam 103 carries a bracket 104, which is slidably arranged along the feed beam 103 to allow the bracket 104 to travel along the feed beam 103. The bracket 104 further carries a rotating unit 105, which can therefore travel along the feed beam 103 by sliding the bracket 104.

[0040] In use, the rotary unit 105 provides rotation for the drill bit 108, and the rotary unit 105 is connected to an impact device in the form of a downhole (DTH) hammer 106 via the drill string 107. In addition to rotating the drill string 107, the rotary unit 105 also provides a feed force acting on the drill string 107, thereby pressing the drill bit 108 against the rock surface being drilled.

[0041] As its name suggests, the DTH hammer (impact device) 106 operates by penetrating the hole at the end of the drill string 107. The impact piston (not shown) of the DTH hammer 106 strikes the drill bit 108 to transfer shock wave energy to the drill bit 108 and further into the rock to break it. The DTH hammer is useful, especially because the drilling rate is not significantly affected by the length / depth of the hole being drilled. The length / depth of the hole can range, for example, from 3 meters to 300 meters, but can also be less or more.

[0042] Therefore, the rotation provided by the rotating unit 105 is transmitted to the hammer 106 via the drill string 107, and from there to the drill bit 108.

[0043] The rock drilling rig 100 also includes a drilling rig control system, which includes at least one control unit 120. The control unit 120 is configured to control various functions of the drilling rig 100, such as controlling the drilling process, and may also be configured to include processing circuitry configured for processing and retrieving component information, as will be further described below.

[0044] Figure 2An example identification system 200 for identifying drill string 210 is schematically illustrated. System 200 includes an image detection reader 220, processing circuitry 230, and optionally a display device 240. Drill string 210 is configured for use in mining machinery, for example in… Figure 1 The rock drilling rig shown is used. Drill string 210 includes machined markings 211, such as machined codes, located on the peripheral surface of the drill string. The machined markings are positioned on a segment of the peripheral surface and include a matrix of recesses with predetermined column and row positions to convey the identification of the drill string, i.e., an identification code that may be unique to a particular drill string sample. When mounted in the drilling rig, the segment including the machined markings is optically readable from multiple single directions. Therefore, the machined markings are configured to allow remote reading from any single remote reader position among multiple single remote reader positions. Thus, when reading the machined markings, it is not necessary to keep the reader in the same position each time. Reading can be performed, for example, by a person using a handheld device and moving around the area of ​​the drill string from any single direction among multiple single directions. The reader's positioning can change each time a reading is performed. Drill strings including machined markings offer the specific advantages of providing identification that will withstand wear on the drill string and will be able to be remotely identified throughout the drill string's lifespan, i.e., identification that does not require mounting sensors on the drilling rig or in a fixed position relative to the drill string.

[0045] The disclosed system can also be used to identify drilling rigs and / or drilling components bearing the same type of machining marks on visually perceptible, i.e., optically detectable surfaces.

[0046] Machining marks 211 are affixed to a section of the drill bit perimeter surface, i.e., the surface of the section, which is optically readable from multiple single directions when mounted in a drilling rig, for example, on a portion of the joint 212 or on the drill bit shaft. The machining marks are positioned on the section that is optically accessible from a remote, single location; wherein the single location can be selected from multiple single locations within an angular range of the section. The machining marks can be positioned on the joint and can have an angular range of approximately 30° to 120°, and preferably an angular range of approximately 30° to 90°.

[0047] The same type of machining markings can also be set on optically readable surfaces of the drilling rig and / or drilling components, and the same encoding system (described below) is also applicable to machining markings set on the drilling rig or other drilling components. Therefore, the disclosed system using a combination of image detection reader and processing circuitry is broadly applicable to the identification of machining markings, regardless of which item undergoes this encoding.

[0048] The machining marks 211 include a plurality of recesses arranged in a matrix on the peripheral surface of the drill bit 210, for example, on the engagement portion 212. As will be explained further below, the machining marks are arranged in a pattern and have a depth that makes the machining marks optically readable even after significant wear of the drill bit, i.e., at the end of the drill bit's life cycle.

[0049] The matrix of recesses may include at least three recesses, wherein the three recesses are arranged to have corner positions within the matrix, and any additional one or more recesses are arranged to have non-corner positions. A fourth corner position has no recess, such that this corner position can be used as a reference during optical reading of the machined mark. The arrangement of the three corner recesses enables remote reading from a reader located at any line-of-sight position within the matrix.

[0050] In some examples, the recess is machined to have a non-through hole, such as a non-penetrating drill hole, with a width or diameter D ranging from 0.5 mm to 10 mm, and preferably from 1 mm to 4 mm. The recess can be machined to have a distance between its center points that is twice the width or diameter D of the recess, i.e., 2 x D. Non-penetrating holes can also be obtained through milling operations and machining during the casting operation of the drill bit rod. The non-penetrating hole is machined to have a depth of 1 mm to 10 mm, and preferably 1 mm to 3 mm, when measured from the surface of the drill bit before use. At the end of the drill bit's life cycle, the depth of the non-penetrating hole may decrease compared to its original depth due to significant wear of the drill bit during drilling operations. The machining mark can have a variety of geometries, such as a circular recess obtained after drilling operations, a milled quadrilateral recess, or any other type of shape that can be obtained from machining operations and has the dimensions mentioned above.

[0051] The system also includes an image detection reader 220 adapted to obtain an optical image of the machining mark 211. In some embodiments, the image detection reader 220 includes a camera from a smartphone or tablet, or a smart camera for obtaining optical images. Figure 2As shown, the image is processed in processing circuitry 230, for example, in processing circuitry of a cloud-based server, to retrieve identification data for the drill bit based on the acquired optical image of the machining marks. Image preprocessing can also be performed at least partially using the processing circuitry of an image detection reader, such as the data processing unit of a smartphone or tablet. The processing circuitry of the image detection reader includes a processor coupled to memory. A display screen and communication circuitry, such as a wireless transceiver, may also be associated with the image detection reader. The processor may be a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or other suitable device. The memory stores instructions and data used by the processor to perform image detection, drill bit identification, and presentation of results on the display screen. In one embodiment, the reader memory is a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

[0052] The retrieved identification data for the drill bit can be presented on the display device 240. In some embodiments, a mobile phone or wireless device is configured to include an image detection reader 220 and a display device 240, such that the acquisition of visual images of machining marks and the presentation of identification are performed using the same entity. The reader may include one or more displays configured to display data to a user and provide a graphical user interface for the user to interact with the reader device. The reader display may be a liquid crystal display (LCD) screen, a light-emitting diode (LED) screen (e.g., a head-up display), a projection screen, a touch screen, etc. In other words, the user can operate the reader device to control it via a graphical user interface provided on the display screen.

[0053] In some embodiments, the identification results are provided to a separate display device 240 capable of outputting identification data to the drill operator.

[0054] The identification data includes identifiers for drill bits, drilling components, or drilling rigs. For drill bits, drilling components, or drilling rigs, visual images of the machined markings are obtained by an image detection reader. A database associated with the processing circuitry stores the identification data relevant to each specific item.

[0055] Image processing features will be Figures 5A to 5C Further explanation is provided in the detailed description.

[0056] Turning Figure 3 The example drill string is schematically illustrated as a drill bit. Figure 3 An example drill bit 210 suitable for use in earthmoving or drilling operations on rock materials is schematically illustrated. The drill bit 210 includes at least one machined mark 211 on the surface of the drill bit, wherein the machined mark is adapted to convey the identification of the drill bit, and the machined mark is disposed on the surface of the drill bit that is optically readable from multiple unidirectional directions when mounted in a drilling rig.

[0057] Machining markings are provided on the drill string surface, which is optically readable from multiple unidirectional directions when mounted in a drilling rig, for example, in a visible exposed portion of the engagement portion 212 of the drill string. In the disclosed example, a first portion 212a of the engagement portion 212 is configured for mounting in a drilling rig, i.e., received within the drilling rig. A second portion 212b of the engagement portion 212 includes machining markings 211 and is optically readable from multiple unidirectional directions when the first portion is mounted in the drilling rig. Machining markings using the same type of machining code can also be provided on other types of drilling components, particularly drill bit components with a lifespan shorter than the expected lifespan of the drilling rig, resulting in more or less frequent component replacements. In some examples, machining markings using the same type of machining code can be provided on the drilling rig. Therefore, the image detection reader of the previously disclosed system can also be used to obtain visual images of machining markings in the drilling rig or other types of drilling components, and the processing circuitry can be configured to also retrieve identification data for the drilling rig or drilling component. The presence of the same code on the drilling rig further enhances safety when replacement parts need to be ordered, as the operator can use an image detection reader to identify the rig from a remote location and process replacement requests remotely until the mechanical replacement is initiated. When a larger surface is available to support the machining marks, the marks can be scaled so that they are sized such that the image detection reader can also operate from a safe distance during rig operation.

[0058] In some examples, machining marks 211 may be arranged on the envelope or periphery of the drill bit, for example, on a curved portion of a joint 212, also known as a rod, which is configured to at least partially engage with, for example, a gripping tool of a drill rig or the body of a breaker. Figure 3 In the example shown, machining marks are provided on a portion of the rod, which is visible after engagement with the tool holder. The machining marks can be made on a curved surface that may be captured in a static image retrieved by an image detection reader, for example, on a segment of an envelope or perimeter surface, such as 10% to 35% of the envelope circumference, and preferably 15% to 25% of the envelope circumference, but machining can also be made on a larger portion of the curved surface. In some examples, the machining marks can be obtained using a video stream. Therefore, the machining marks can be configured such that visual images can be obtained from multiple single directions, i.e., multiple single line-of-sight positions of the visual detection reader.

[0059] The visual inspection reader can be any type of known visual inspection reader, such as a camera included in a smartphone or tablet. While machining marks are set on the drill string surface that is optically readable from multiple single directions when mounted in a drilling rig, operational situations may also exist where machining marks are not easily visually inspected by an image inspection reader. This is certainly the case during downhole drilling operations, but it can also occur when the drill string is mounted in a breaker head configured to engage a large portion of the engagement portion. Therefore, while machining marks are suitable for easily conveying identification when mounted in a drilling rig, the system is also applicable to drill strings that are at least partially obscured when mounted in some drill strings and breaker heads, and for these drill strings, it is necessary to at least partially disengage from the drill string or breaker head to make the machining marks optically readable.

[0060] In some embodiments, the machining mark includes a plurality of recesses arranged in a binary pattern, such as recesses positioned at predetermined column and row positions, i.e., a matrix. The machining mark is positioned on a segment of the perimeter surface and includes a matrix of recesses with predetermined column and row positions to convey the identification of the drill string, i.e., a unique identification code representing a particular drill string. When installed in a drilling rig, the segment including the machining mark is optically readable from multiple single directions. Thus, the machining mark is configured to enable remote reading from any single remote reader position among multiple single remote reader positions. The recesses may be machined into drill cavities in the drill string. In some examples, the recesses are machined into non-through holes with a diameter ranging from 1 mm to 10 mm, preferably from 2 mm to 4 mm, wherein a diameter of 3 mm is used during testing to obtain the results reflected herein. The non-through holes are machined to have a depth of 0.5 mm to 10 mm, preferably from 1 mm to 7 mm, and most preferably from 2 mm to 5 mm when measured from the surface of the drill string before use. At the end of the drill bit's lifespan, the depth of the non-through hole may decrease compared to its original depth due to significant wear during drilling operations. Tests have shown that the drill bit may wear down to approximately 5 mm in diameter at the end of its lifespan, resulting in a radius reduction of approximately 2.5 mm. Therefore, for such applications, the depth of the non-through hole is preferably greater than 1 mm. However, for other drill bit applications subjected to different operating conditions, the depth of the non-through hole should be adapted to the lifespan wear of the specific drill bit.

[0061] The matrix of recesses may include at least three recesses, wherein the at least three recesses are arranged to have corner positions in the matrix, and any additional one or more recesses are arranged to have non-corner positions. A fourth corner position has no recess, such that this corner position can be used as a reference during optical reading of the machined mark.

[0062] Figure 4A and Figure 4B An example of machining marks arranged in a 4x4 matrix is ​​disclosed. For example... Figure 4A As shown, each recess / hole location is identified by a number, for example, starting with 1 in the top left corner and ending with 16 in the bottom right corner. In some examples, corner positions 4, 13, and 16 are machined recesses in the matrix pattern, while corner position 1 has no recess. Figure 4A As shown, positions 2, 5, 10, 14, and 15 may also include recesses, i.e., recesses with predetermined column and row positions, which reflect optically readable identification codes of the drill bit used to carry machining marks. (Turn) Figure 4B This reflects a similar solution where four corner positions provide references for matrix reading. In the disclosed example, positions 4, 13, and 16 are filled recesses in the matrix pattern, while position 1 is unfilled. In all applications of the matrix pattern, known combinations of pre-determined column and row positions with or without recesses, filled or unfilled, provide the ability to use these positions as references when processing visual images obtained from a visual image reader. A test pattern of 4 rows and 4 columns using 4 specified reference positions provides drill bit identification from any of the 2^12 (4096) possible combinations that can be used to reflect drill bit identification. In some embodiments, the recesses are arranged in columns and rows in a 3x3, 3x4, 4x3, 4x4, 4x5, 5x4, 5x5, 5x6, 6x5, or 6x6 matrix arrangement.

[0063] Turning Figures 5A to 5C A method for identifying drilling tools is presented. This method involves identifying drilling tools suitable for use in a drilling rig arranged to perform earthmoving or rock drilling operations. The method includes obtaining a visual image of machining marks on the surface of the drilling tool (S51) and retrieving identification data of the drilling tool (S53) based on the obtained visual image of the machining marks, wherein the machining marks are adapted to convey the identification of the drilling tool, and the machining marks are disposed on the surface of the drilling tool that is optically readable from multiple unidirectional directions when mounted in the drilling rig, i.e., optically readable from multiple line-of-sight positions of a remote optical reader. The retrieval of identification data is based on the obtained visual image of the machining marks, but can be performed after the intermediate step of image processing (S52) on the obtained visual image. In an optional concluding step, the retrieved identification data is verified.

[0064] Drill string or drilling component-specific data, i.e., identification data, is stored in a database accessible to the processing circuitry. The identification can be retrieved after the acquired visual image is converted into binary code representing the drill string identifier. The drill string identifier enables retrieval from a database of data associated with a specific drill string. Such data includes project identification, but may also include the date the drill string was installed in the drilling rig, information related to operating time, etc. Identification data can also be updated when the drill string is installed or removed from the drilling rig.

[0065] Figure 5B It was made public. Figure 5A An example implementation of the method is as follows: Initially, a visual image of the machining marks in the S52 drill bit is obtained, for example, using a camera. In a subsequent optional step, the obtained visual image can be processed by the processing circuitry of a visual image reader so that the obtained visual image can be mapped to the corresponding recognition data.

[0066] Image processing may include preprocessing, wherein, before performing such... Figure 5C Before the disclosed filtering, the obtained visual image is converted to grayscale and its size is rescaled in the image scaling step. Filtering can utilize... Figure 5C The steps and apparatus illustrated herein are performed and will be discussed further below, but this disclosure is not limited to performing such filtering.

[0067] Back Figure 5B The image processing steps also include identifying contours in the acquired visual image, such as... Figure 5C The steps for preprocessing contours in a visual image as suggested in the description are as follows: Image processing software is used to identify contours and average contour dimensions in the image. Mapping the contours to a reference structure, such as a two-dimensional mesh structure, can be performed to achieve recognition. Outliers are removed, for example, by mapping the contour locations to a two-dimensional mesh, before contour location recognition. Fitting the contours to the mesh provides the recognition locations of the contour identifiers. After mapping the contour identifiers, the mapping results are used to retrieve the recognition data. While the above-disclosed solution presents a feasible example of retrieving recognition data based on an acquired visual image, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and many types of background image recognition techniques can be applied to retrieve recognition data based on images of acquired machining marks in a drill bit.

[0068] Optionally, the method for identifying drilling tools suitable for use in drilling rigs arranged to perform earthmoving or drilling operations on rock materials may also include a step of verifying the identification data retrieved in S54 to avoid ambiguity or misidentification. In some examples, the step of verifying the identification data in S54 includes checking for, for example, repetitions represented by multiple contours in each grid cell. Furthermore, verification may include checking for, for example,... Figure 4A and Figure 4B The outlines in the checksum positions explained in the disclosure are identified. Outlines in grid rows and columns are identified. If some verification steps fail, the image can be rotated, for example, by 5 degrees, and the disclosed method steps can be repeated on the rotated visual image; for example, after image scaling S521. Image rotation can continue until a 360-degree rotation is achieved. If problems still exist in obtaining verification results, processing can continue using any of filters 2 to 4.

[0069] Turning Figure 5C The filtering process is disclosed. The main purpose of filtering is to clean and enhance the image during the preprocessing step before performing the data retrieval and recognition step. The aim of filtering is to obtain a noise-free, high-contrast image, such as a black and white image, and to reduce the risk of blurred or erroneous results in the data retrieval and recognition step. Figure 5C Details of filter 1 have been disclosed, but Figure 5B Filters 2 through 4 are arranged to operate in a similar manner using different parameters.

[0070] The filtering in filter 1 is performed on a resized grayscale image, which can be... Figure 5B The image scaling step S521, which is performed as shown, is generated.

[0071] Filtering S522 includes the step of smoothing the image by applying blurring, such as Gaussian and / or Median. Filtering also includes one or more threshold applications to distinguish contrast, reduce the image spectrum, and remove isolated pixels from the image, for example, by inverting colors, i.e., black and white pixels, thereby obtaining a binary image, wherein the obtained visual image has been transformed into a contour image comprising black and white, clustered pixels.

[0072] The above-disclosed example image processing method implements hole identification, for example... Figure 4A and Figure 4B The identification of the suggested digital identifier is then performed. The hole identifier can then be converted into binary or decimal numbers corresponding to the drill string's identification data. A reference list of this identification data is stored in the system's processing circuitry, such as in a cloud-based server. In addition to product identification, the identification data can also be used to retrieve additional lifecycle information about the drill string. Such lifecycle information may include operational data retrieved from systems included in the drilling rig.

[0073] In some aspects of this disclosure, the method is performed by a wireless device, such as a smartphone or tablet, which includes application software developed for the purpose of drill string identification. The application can be developed to acquire a visual image (S51), i.e., a camera image using the digital camera of the smartphone or tablet. In a subsequent step, the acquired visual image can be forwarded to processing circuitry to perform a retrieval of identification data (S53). In one example application, the smartphone or tablet application includes software whereby the processing circuitry of the smartphone or tablet is used to retrieve the identification data. In such an application, database information associated with the drill string identification is stored locally in association with the application. In another example application, the processing circuitry is at least partially included in a cloud server or another type of remote server that includes identification data for the drill string user and other types of additional data. Therefore, the method and system proposed herein can be enabled at least partially as a cloud application. After the step of acquiring the visual image (S51), the digitally acquired visual image is transmitted to a remote server, for example, using a wireless transmission circuitry of a smartphone or tablet. The processing circuitry performs a retrieval of identification data (S53), for example, after image processing of the visual image acquired in the cloud application. Once the identification data has been retrieved, the results can be transmitted to a smartphone or tablet and displayed to the user.

[0074] Figure 6 Images of a drill string including corresponding machining marks are disclosed, captured at the beginning and end of the drill string's life cycle. As demonstrated by these images, the machining marks can withstand significant wear during the drill string's operation, enabling remote drill string identification even at the end of its life cycle and safe operation while the drill rig is in operation.

[0075] Back Figure 1 The rock drilling rig disclosed in the article, the identification system 200 may also include Figure 1 The rock drill or any other type of rock drilling machine or drilling equipment. Rock drills and / or rock rigs configured to hold the drill string may optionally include machining markings, such as machining codes, located on visible surface portions of the rock drill and / or rock rig. The machining markings are adapted to convey the identification of the rock drill and / or rock rig. Therefore, the disclosed system can also be used to identify rock drills, rock rigs, and / or other drilling components bearing the same type of machining markings on visually accessible surfaces.

[0076] When carried by a rock drill, rock rig, and / or other drilling component, machining marks are affixed to a surface that is optically readable from multiple unidirectional directions when mounted in the drill rig. A first portion of the joint may be configured for mounting in the drill rig, and a second portion of the joint may include machining marks that are optically readable from multiple unidirectional directions when the first portion is mounted in the drill rig, for example, located on the first portion of the joint or on the rod of the drill bit. The same type of machining marks can also be affixed to optically readable surfaces of the drill rig and / or drilling component, and the same encoding system (described below) is also applicable to machining marks affixed to the drill rig or other drilling component. Therefore, the disclosed system using a combination of image detection reader and processing circuitry is broadly applicable to the identification of machining marks, regardless of which item undergoes such encoding.

[0077] The descriptions of the exemplary embodiments provided herein are presented for illustrative purposes. The descriptions are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the exemplary embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. Modifications and variations are possible based on the teachings above, and can be derived from the practice of various alternatives to the provided embodiments. The examples discussed herein were chosen and described to explain the principles and nature of the various exemplary embodiments and their practical applications, enabling those skilled in the art to use the exemplary embodiments in various ways and through various modifications as suited to the particular intended use. Features of the embodiments disclosed herein can be combined in all possible combinations of systems, corresponding drill strings, methods, and computer program products for identifying drill strings.

Claims

1. A drill tool (210) configured for use in a drilling rig arranged to perform a rock drilling operation, the drill tool comprising a machined marking (211) on a peripheral surface of the drill tool, wherein, The machining mark is positioned on a section of the peripheral surface; wherein the machining mark is arranged on a cylindrical engagement portion (212); wherein a first portion (212a) of the engagement portion is configured for mounting in a drilling machine and a second portion (212b) of the engagement portion comprises the machining mark; wherein the machining mark comprises a matrix of recesses with predetermined column positions and row positions to convey an identity of the drilling tool; and wherein the machining mark is optically readable from a plurality of single directions when the first portion is mounted in the drilling machine.

2. The drill tool (210) of claim 1, wherein, The machining mark is positioned on a section having an angular range of 30° to 120°.

3. The drill tool (210) of claim 2, wherein, The angular range is 30° to 90°.

4. The drill tool (210) of claim 1, wherein, The matrix of recesses comprises at least three recesses, and wherein the three recesses are arranged to have a corner position in the matrix, and any further recess or recesses are arranged to have a non-corner position.

5. The drill tool (210) of claim 1, wherein, The matrix of recesses is a 3x3, 3x4, 4x3, 4x4, 4x5, 5x4, 5x5, 5x6, 6x5 or 6x6 matrix.

6. The drill tool (210) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The recesses in the matrix of recesses are non-through cavities in the drilling tool.

7. The drill tool (210) of claim 6, wherein, The non-through cavities have a depth of 1 mm to 10 mm, have a diameter D of 0.5 mm to 10 mm, and have a mutual center point distance greater than or equal to 2D.

8. The drill tool (210) of claim 7, wherein, The depth is 1 mm to 3 mm.

9. The drill tool (210) of claim 7, wherein, The diameter D is 1 mm to 4 mm.

10. A system (200) for identifying a drilling tool, the drilling tool being adapted for use in a rock drill or rock drilling machine arranged to perform an earth boring operation or a drilling operation of rock-like material, the system comprising: - a drilling tool (210) according to any one of claims 1 to 9; - a portable image detection reader (220) adapted to obtain one or more optical images of the machining mark from at least one of a plurality of single directions; and - a processing circuit (230) configured to retrieve identification data of the drilling tool based on the obtained one or more optical images of the machining mark.

11. The system (200) of claim 10, wherein, The portable image detection reader (220) is comprised in a wireless device.

12. The system (200) of claim 11, wherein, The wireless device is a smartphone, a smart camera or a tablet computer.

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