A down-the-hole drilling apparatus

Abstract

A down-the-hole drilling device (100a; 100b) comprises a top end (102) and a bottom end (104) and a coupling (106) for coupling to a drill string (202). The device (100a; 100b) is configured to hold a drill bit (108) and comprises a fluid-operated piston (110) for impacting the drill bit (108). A top working chamber (114) and a bottom working chamber (112) are configured to be alternately emptied and supplied with fluid for fluid operation of the piston (110). The device (100a; 100b) comprises a fluid supply system (116) for flowing a fluid flow (118) to the top working chamber (114) and / or the bottom working chamber (112), a fluid discharge system (120) for discharging a fluid flow (122) from the top working chamber (114) and / or the bottom working chamber (112), and a check valve (124a; 124b) configured as both a fluid inlet valve and a fluid discharge valve. The fluid discharge system (120) comprises one or more discharge ports (126a; 126b) to an ambient environment (204). The fluid discharge system (120) comprises one or more first channels (128a; 128b) for guiding the discharge fluid flow (122) from the top working chamber (114) and / or the bottom working chamber

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a down-the-hole drilling apparatus. Furthermore, this disclosure relates to a drilling rig including such a down-the-hole drilling apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] For breaking or fracturing rock, and for excavating and drilling tunnels or chambers underground or above ground, drilling rigs equipped with down-the-hole drilling devices for drilling into rock formations or rocks can be used. Some drilling rigs may be provided with a propulsion mechanism, such as wheels or tracks, while others may not have a propulsion mechanism. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The inventors have identified shortcomings in conventional methods for down-the-hole drilling. For example, some conventional methods are inefficient or lack robustness and can be further improved.

[0004] One object of embodiments of this disclosure is to provide a solution that mitigates or resolves the drawbacks and problems of conventional solutions.

[0005] The above and further objectives are achieved by the subject matter of the appended independent claims. Further advantageous embodiments can be found in the dependent claims.

[0006] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, the aforementioned and other objectives are achieved by a down-the-hole drilling apparatus.

[0007] The down-the-hole drilling device has a top end and a bottom end.

[0008] The down-the-hole drilling rig includes a connector for attaching the down-the-hole drilling rig to the drill string, the connector being positioned at the top end.

[0009] The down-the-hole drilling device is configured to hold the drill bit, which is to be positioned at the bottom, in place.

[0010] The down-the-hole drilling device includes a fluid-operated piston for directly or indirectly impacting the drill bit.

[0011] The piston is movable relative to the coupling.

[0012] The down-the-hole drilling device includes a bottom working chamber.

[0013] The down-the-hole drilling device includes a top working chamber positioned between the bottom working chamber and the connector.

[0014] The top and bottom working chambers are configured to be alternately emptied and supplied with fluid for the fluid operation of the piston.

[0015] The down-the-hole drilling apparatus includes a fluid supply system for supplying one or more inflow fluid flows to one or more of the top working chamber and the bottom working chamber.

[0016] The down-the-hole drilling apparatus includes a fluid discharge system for discharging fluid flows from one or more of the top working chamber and the bottom working chamber, the fluid discharge system being positioned at the top.

[0017] The down-the-hole drilling device includes check valves for both a fluid inlet valve configured as a fluid supply system and a fluid discharge valve configured as a fluid discharge system.

[0018] The check valve is movable relative to the connector.

[0019] The fluid discharge system includes one or more discharge ports leading to the surrounding environment outside the down-the-hole drilling rig, and

[0020] The fluid discharge system includes one or more first channels for guiding one or more discharge fluid flows from one or more of the top working chamber and bottom working chamber to one or more discharge ports outside the check valve.

[0021] One advantage of the down-the-hole (DH) drilling apparatus according to the first aspect is improved rock drilling compared to conventional methods. For example, one advantage of the DH drilling apparatus according to the first aspect is a significant reduction in wear on DH drilling equipment (such as drill bits), resulting in extended product life and maintenance intervals. Another advantage of the DH drilling apparatus according to the first aspect is more efficient rock drilling compared to conventional methods. Another advantage of the DH drilling apparatus according to the first aspect is improved control over rock drilling. Another advantage of the DH drilling apparatus according to the first aspect is improved fluid control of the piston. Another advantage of the DH drilling apparatus according to the first aspect is improved control of fluid flow from one or more of the top and bottom working chambers. Finally, one advantage of the DH drilling apparatus according to the first aspect is enhanced robustness and durability of the DH drilling apparatus compared to conventional methods.

[0022] Conventionally, the discharge fluid flow, or outflow fluid flow, can be directed from one or more of the top and bottom working chambers to the surrounding environment via one or more outflow ports located at the bottom end of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus (e.g., adjacent to or at the drill bit). If too much fluid is supplied to the down-the-hole drilling apparatus or at too high a flow rate, not all fluid can be properly discharged via the bottom end or via the drill bit. Therefore, a conventional approach is to discharge at least some fluid via a fluid discharge system located at the top of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus. The inventors have discovered that by directing one or more discharge fluid flows from one or more of the top and bottom working chambers to one or more discharge ports of the fluid discharge system outside the check valve, the check valve and / or fluid discharge system can be designed in a more robust manner, and thus the robustness and durability of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus can be improved or enhanced. For example, in some embodiments, because one or more discharge fluid flows are directed outside the check valve, the check valve can be solid rather than hollow. By innovatively guiding one or more discharge fluid flows and exiting through one or more discharge ports, one or more discharge fluid flows exiting one or more discharge ports will provide fluid flow around or along the exterior of the tip of the down-the-hole drilling rig. This fluid flow will protect the tip of the down-the-hole drilling rig from external abrasive flows from drill cuttings from the borehole, which can cause wear on the exterior of the down-the-hole drilling rig. An advantage of the down-the-hole drilling rig according to the first aspect, and more specifically, according to the innovative fluid discharge system, is the ability to reduce the velocity of the fluid passing through and along or around the exterior of the down-the-hole drilling rig, and this reduction in fluid velocity reduces wear on the down-the-hole drilling rig, such as external and / or internal wear. An advantage of the down-the-hole drilling rig according to the first aspect is the enhanced durability of the various parts of the down-the-hole drilling rig, as well as the durability of the drill bit and drill string, compared to conventional solutions, without negatively impacting the performance or function of the down-the-hole drilling rig during drilling.

[0023] In some embodiments, the fluid may include one or more of the following items, or one or more of the following items:

[0024] • Gases, such as pneumatic gases;

[0025] • Gas mixture;

[0026] • Air;

[0027] • Lubricant or lubricating oil;

[0028] • Liquid;

[0029] • water;

[0030] • Mud;

[0031] • Foam;

[0032] • Impact;

[0033] • Sludge; and

[0034] • Oil.

[0035] In some embodiments, the down-the-hole drilling apparatus may include a drill bit positioned at the bottom end of the apparatus. In some embodiments, a piston may also be defined as movable relative to the drill bit.

[0036] According to an advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, the fluid supply system includes one or more second channels for directing one or more inflowing fluid flows to one or more of the top working chamber and bottom working chamber outside the check valve. One advantage of this embodiment is further improved drilling and / or further improved control over drilling.

[0037] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, the check valve does not have any internal passage for directing one or more discharge fluid flows from one or more of the top working chamber and the bottom working chamber to one or more discharge ports. One advantage of this embodiment is further improved rock drilling and / or further improved control over rock drilling. Another advantage of this embodiment is the further enhanced robustness and durability of the check valve and / or fluid discharge system, and thus, the further enhanced robustness and durability of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus.

[0038] According to another advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, the check valve does not have any internal passages for directing one or more inflowing fluid flows to one or more of the top working chamber and the bottom working chamber. One advantage of this embodiment is further improved rock drilling and / or further improved control over rock drilling. Another advantage of this embodiment is the further enhanced robustness and durability of the check valve and / or fluid discharge system, and therefore, the further enhanced robustness and durability of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus.

[0039] According to another advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, the check valve does not have any internal passages for guiding fluid flow. One advantage of this embodiment is further improved rock drilling and / or further improved control over rock drilling. Another advantage of this embodiment is further enhanced robustness and durability of the check valve and / or fluid discharge system, and therefore further enhanced robustness and durability of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus.

[0040] According to another advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, the check valve includes a valve body movable relative to the connector, wherein the valve body is solid. One advantage of this embodiment is further improved rock drilling and / or further improved control over rock drilling. "Solid" means there is no internal cavity. Another advantage of this embodiment is further enhanced robustness and durability of the check valve and / or fluid discharge system, and therefore further enhanced robustness and durability of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus.

[0041] According to an advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, the check valve is solid. One advantage of this embodiment is that rock drilling is further improved and / or control over rock drilling is further improved. Another advantage of this embodiment is the further enhancement of the robustness and durability of the check valve and / or fluid discharge system, and thus the further enhancement of the robustness and durability of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus.

[0042] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, the down-the-hole drilling apparatus includes a compartment for holding a check valve. One advantage of this embodiment is that it further improves rock drilling and / or further improves control over rock drilling.

[0043] According to another advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, the compartment has a top section and a bottom section, wherein the bottom section of the compartment forms a section of one or more first channels. One advantage of this embodiment is further improvement in rock drilling and / or further improvement in control over rock drilling.

[0044] According to another advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, the top section of the compartment forms a section of one or more second channels. One advantage of this embodiment is that it further improves rock drilling and / or further improves control over rock drilling.

[0045] According to another advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, the compartment, as well as the top and bottom sections of the compartment, are at least partially defined by one or more inner surfaces.

[0046] The check valve includes a top part and a bottom part, and

[0047] One or more surface areas of the bottom portion of the check valve and one or more inner surfaces of the bottom section of the compartment form one or more sections of the first channel.

[0048] One advantage of this embodiment is that it further improves rock drilling and / or further improves control over rock drilling.

[0049] According to an advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, one or more surface areas of the top portion of the check valve and one or more inner surfaces of the top section of the compartment form a section of one or more second channels. One advantage of this embodiment is further improved rock drilling and / or further improved control over rock drilling.

[0050] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, the connector includes or forms one or more discharge ports. One advantage of this embodiment is further improved rock drilling and / or further improved control over rock drilling. Another advantage of this embodiment is further enhanced robustness and / or durability of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus.

[0051] According to another advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, the fluid discharge system includes two or more discharge ports leading to the surrounding environment. One advantage of this embodiment is further improved rock drilling and / or further improved control over rock drilling. Another advantage of this embodiment is further enhanced robustness and / or durability of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus.

[0052] According to another advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, the down-the-hole drilling apparatus has a longitudinal extension extending from the top end to the bottom end.

[0053] The longitudinal extension of the down-the-hole drilling device extends in the axial direction, and

[0054] Two or more discharge ports are distributed around the perimeter of the down-the-hole drilling device.

[0055] One advantage of this embodiment is that it further improves rock drilling and / or further improves control over rock drilling. Another advantage of this embodiment is that it further enhances the robustness and / or durability of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus.

[0056] According to another advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, the down-the-hole drilling apparatus has a longitudinal extension extending from the top end to the bottom end.

[0057] The longitudinal extension of the down-the-hole drilling device extends in the axial direction, and

[0058] One or more of the discharge ports include gaps extending around the periphery of the down-the-hole drilling device.

[0059] One advantage of this embodiment is that it further improves rock drilling and / or further improves control over rock drilling. Another advantage of this embodiment is that it further enhances the robustness and / or durability of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus.

[0060] According to an advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, the down-the-hole drilling apparatus includes a tubular housing that houses a piston and at least partially houses a connector, a fluid supply system, a fluid discharge system, and a check valve.

[0061] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, the connector and the tubular housing form one or more discharge ports. One advantage of this embodiment is further improved rock drilling and / or further improved control over rock drilling. Another advantage of this embodiment is further enhanced robustness and / or durability of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus.

[0062] According to another advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, the tubular housing has one or more inner surfaces, wherein the connector and one or more of the one or more inner surfaces of the tubular housing form sections of one or more first channels. One advantage of this embodiment is further improved rock drilling and / or further improved control over rock drilling. Another advantage of this embodiment is further enhanced robustness and / or durability of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus.

[0063] According to another advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, the connector is directly attached to the tubular housing. One advantage of this embodiment is that it further improves rock drilling and / or further improves control over rock drilling.

[0064] According to another advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, the check valve is spring-loaded. One advantage of this embodiment is that it further improves rock drilling and / or further improves control over rock drilling.

[0065] According to an advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, the check valve includes one or more first seals for closing one or more first channels. One advantage of this embodiment is that it further improves rock drilling and / or further improves control over rock drilling.

[0066] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, one or more first seals include a first annular sealing member extending around the periphery of the check valve. One advantage of this embodiment is that it further improves rock drilling and / or further improves control over rock drilling.

[0067] According to another advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, the check valve includes one or more second seals for closing one or more second channels. One advantage of this embodiment is that it further improves rock drilling and / or further improves control over rock drilling.

[0068] According to another advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, one or more second seals include a second annular sealing member extending around the periphery of the check valve. One advantage of this embodiment is further improved rock drilling and / or further improved control over rock drilling.

[0069] According to another advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, a check valve is configured to simultaneously open one or more first channels and one or more second channels when one or more inflowing fluid flows act on the check valve. One advantage of this embodiment is that it further improves rock drilling and / or further improves control over rock drilling.

[0070] According to an advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, a check valve is configured to simultaneously close one or more first channels and one or more second channels. One advantage of this embodiment is that it further improves rock drilling and / or further improves control over rock drilling.

[0071] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, a check valve is configured to close and open one or more first channels. One advantage of this embodiment is that it further improves rock drilling and / or further improves control over rock drilling.

[0072] According to another advantageous embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus of the first aspect, a check valve is configured to close and open one or more second channels. One advantage of this embodiment is that it further improves rock drilling and / or further improves control over rock drilling.

[0073] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, the aforementioned and other objectives are achieved by a drilling rig comprising:

[0074] A down-the-hole drilling apparatus according to any of the embodiments mentioned above or below; and

[0075] One or more compressors used to control the flow of one or more inflowing fluids.

[0076] The advantages of the drilling rig according to the second aspect correspond to the advantages of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus according to the first aspect and its embodiments mentioned above or below. In some embodiments, the drilling rig may include one or more pumps instead of one or more compressors.

[0077] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, the aforementioned and other objectives are achieved by a method for rock drilling, wherein the method comprises:

[0078] Drilling is performed using a down-the-hole drilling device;

[0079] The down-the-hole drilling device has a top end and a bottom end.

[0080] The down-the-hole drilling rig includes a connector for attaching the down-the-hole drilling rig to the drill string, the connector being positioned at the top end.

[0081] The down-the-hole drilling device is configured to hold the drill bit, which is to be positioned at the bottom, in place.

[0082] The down-the-hole drilling device includes a fluid-operated piston for directly or indirectly impacting the drill bit.

[0083] The piston is movable relative to the coupling.

[0084] The down-the-hole drilling device includes a bottom working chamber.

[0085] The down-the-hole drilling device includes a top working chamber positioned between the bottom working chamber and the connector.

[0086] The down-the-hole drilling apparatus includes a fluid supply system for supplying one or more inflow fluid flows to one or more of the top working chamber and the bottom working chamber.

[0087] The down-the-hole drilling apparatus includes a fluid discharge system for discharging fluid flows from one or more of the top working chamber and the bottom working chamber, the fluid discharge system being positioned at the top.

[0088] The down-the-hole drilling device includes check valves for both the fluid inlet valve of the fluid supply system and the fluid discharge valve of the fluid discharge system.

[0089] The check valve is movable relative to the connector.

[0090] The fluid discharge system includes one or more discharge ports leading to the surrounding environment outside the down-the-hole drilling rig, and

[0091] The fluid discharge system includes one or more first channels.

[0092] The method further includes:

[0093] Fluid is alternately emptied from and supplied to the top and bottom working chambers for the fluid operation of the piston; and

[0094] By using one or more first channels of the fluid discharge system, one or more discharge fluid flows are directed from one or more of the top working chamber and the bottom working chamber to one or more discharge ports outside the check valve.

[0095] The advantages of the method according to the third aspect correspond to the advantages of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus according to the first aspect and the embodiments mentioned above or below.

[0096] According to an advantageous embodiment of the method of the third aspect, the method includes:

[0097] By using one or more second channels of the fluid supply system, one or more inflow fluid flows are directed outside the check valve to one or more of the top working chamber and the bottom working chamber.

[0098] The above-described features and embodiments of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus can be combined in various possible ways to provide further advantageous embodiments.

[0099] Further advantageous embodiments of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus, rig, and method, as well as further advantages of these embodiments, will become apparent from the detailed description of the embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0100] Embodiments of this disclosure will now be illustrated in more detail by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which similar reference numerals are used for similar parts.

[0101] Figure 1 This is a schematic side view of a first embodiment of a drilling rig according to a second aspect of the present disclosure, which may include and / or use embodiments of a down-the-hole drilling apparatus according to a first aspect of the present disclosure;

[0102] Figure 2 This is a schematic side view of a second embodiment of a drilling rig according to a second aspect of the present disclosure, which may include and / or use embodiments of a down-the-hole drilling apparatus according to a first aspect of the present disclosure;

[0103] Figure 3A This is a schematic side view of a first embodiment of a down-the-hole drilling apparatus according to the first aspect of this disclosure.

[0104] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A A schematic combined cross-sectional view of a down-the-hole drilling device with the check valve in the closed position, wherein the side to the left of axis A shows a cross-section illustrating the first channel, while the side to the right of axis A shows another cross-section illustrating the second channel;

[0105] Figure 4 yes Figure 3A A schematic combined cross-sectional view of a down-the-hole drilling device with the check valve in the open position, wherein the side to the left of axis A shows a cross-section illustrating the first channel, while the side to the right of axis A shows another cross-section illustrating the second channel;

[0106] Figure 5 yes Figure 3AA schematic combined cross-sectional view of a down-the-hole drilling device with the check valve in the open position, wherein the side to the left of axis A shows a cross-section illustrating the first channel during the emptying of the bottom working chamber, while the side to the right of axis A shows another cross-section illustrating the second channel during the emptying of the bottom working chamber;

[0107] Figure 6 yes Figure 3A A schematic combined cross-sectional view of a down-the-hole drilling device with the check valve in the open position, wherein the side to the left of axis A shows a cross-section illustrating the first channel during the emptying of the top working chamber, while the side to the right of axis A shows another cross-section illustrating the second channel during the emptying of the top working chamber.

[0108] Figure 7 yes Figure 3A A schematic cross-sectional view of the top portion of a down-the-hole drilling device with the check valve in the closed position, wherein the cross-section illustrates the second channel;

[0109] Figure 8 yes Figure 3A A schematic cross-sectional view of the top portion of a down-the-hole drilling device with the check valve in the closed position, wherein the cross-section illustrates the first channel;

[0110] Figure 9 yes Figure 3A A schematic cross-sectional view of the top portion of a down-the-hole drilling device with the check valve in the open position, wherein the cross-section illustrates the second channel;

[0111] Figure 10 yes Figure 3A A schematic cross-sectional view of the top portion of a down-the-hole drilling device with the check valve in the open position, wherein the cross-section illustrates the first channel;

[0112] Figure 11 This is a schematic combined cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of a down-the-hole drilling apparatus according to the first aspect of this disclosure with the check valve in the closed position, wherein the side to the left of axis B shows a cross-section illustrating the first channel, while the side to the right of axis B shows another cross-section illustrating the second channel.

[0113] Figure 12A yes Figure 11 A schematic combined cross-sectional view of a down-the-hole drilling device with the check valve in the open position, wherein the side to the left of axis B shows a cross-section illustrating the first channel, while the side to the right of axis B shows another cross-section illustrating the second channel.

[0114] Figure 12B yes Figure 12A An enlarged view of the top portion of the down-the-hole drilling rig;

[0115] Figure 13 yes Figure 11 and Figures 12A to 12B A schematic perspective view of an embodiment of the connector of a down-the-hole drilling device;

[0116] Figure 14 These are illustrative flowcharts illustrating various aspects of embodiments of the method according to the third aspect of this disclosure; and

[0117] Figure 15 This is another illustrative flowchart illustrating a further aspect of an embodiment of the method according to the third aspect of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0118] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 Various aspects of embodiments of drilling rigs 200a and 200b are schematically illustrated. Refer to Figures 3 to... Figure 13 Various aspects of embodiments of down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a; 100b are schematically illustrated.

[0119] refer to Figure 1 A first embodiment of a drilling rig 200a is schematically illustrated. The drilling rig 200a may have equipment 206 or mechanism for propulsion. Figure 1 In some embodiments, the propulsion equipment 206 includes one or more tracks 208. However, the propulsion equipment 206 may include wheels or any other mechanism for propulsion instead of tracks 208. The drill rig 200a may include a feed beam 210 and a rotating unit 212 connected to the feed beam 210. The rotating unit 212 may hold the drill string 202. The drill rig 200a includes a down-the-hole drilling device 100a; 100b for drilling a borehole 214 according to any of the embodiments disclosed below or above. The drill rig 200a includes one or more compressors 216 for controlling one or more inflow fluid flows 118 disclosed further in detail below. In some embodiments, the drill rig 200a may include one or more battery units for driving and / or operating the drill rig 200a, and / or may include one or more internal combustion engines for the same purpose. For example, the drill rig 200a may be used for open-pit mining, underground mining, and raise drilling. Drilling rig 200a may include a cab 222 from which an operator can control the drilling process. Alternatively, drilling rig 200b may be remotely controlled or configured for autonomous operation. It should be understood that drilling rig 200b may include additional tools and equipment.

[0120] refer to Figure 2 The second embodiment of the drilling rig 200b is illustrated schematically. Figure 2 The 200b drilling rig can be referred to as a platform drilling rig. Figure 2The drilling rig 200b can be configured to be placed above and on the ground 224. The drilling rig 200b may include a guide 218 or turret for holding and guiding the drill string 202. The drilling rig 200b may include a rotating unit 212 connected to the guide 218. The rotating unit 212 can hold the drill string 202. The drilling rig 200b includes a down-the-hole drilling device 100a; 100b for drilling a borehole 214 in the rock formation 220 according to any of the embodiments disclosed below or above. The drilling rig 200a includes one or more compressors 216 for controlling one or more inflow fluid flows 118 disclosed further in detail below. The drilling rig 200b may include a cab 222 from which an operator can control the drilling process. Alternatively, the drilling rig 200b may be remotely controlled or configured for autonomous operation. The drilling rig 200b may include a carrier 226, from which the guide 218 and the cab 222 are attached. It should be understood that drilling rig 200b may include additional tools and equipment. For some embodiments, Figure 2 The drilling rig 200b can be moved by means of a suitable vehicle.

[0121] refer to Figures 3A to 10 This schematically illustrates aspects of a first embodiment of a down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a. In some embodiments, the down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a may be referred to as a down-the-hole drilling assembly. The down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a has a top end 102 and a bottom end 104. The down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a includes components for coupling the down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a to a drill string 202 (see...). Figure 1 and Figure 2 The connector 106 is positioned at the top end 102. In some embodiments, the connector 106 may be referred to as a rear connector. The down-the-hole drilling device 100a is configured to hold the drill bit 108. The drill bit 108 is to be positioned at the bottom end 104. Therefore, the down-the-hole drilling device 100a is configured to hold the drill bit 108 at the bottom end 104.

[0122] refer to Figures 3B to 10 The down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a includes a fluid-operated (or fluid-actuated) piston 110 for directly or indirectly impacting (or impinging) the drill bit 108. In some embodiments, one or more intermediate elements may be present positioned between the piston 110 and the drill bit 108, and the piston 110 may be configured to impact the intermediate elements and thus indirectly impact the drill bit 108. The piston 110 is movable relative to the coupling 106. The piston 110 may also be defined as movable relative to the drill bit 108 when the drilling apparatus 100a holds the drill bit 108.

[0123] refer to Figure 6 The down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a includes or forms a bottom working chamber 112, the bottom working chamber 112 in Figure 6 The center is indicated by a solid black dot. (Reference) Figure 5 The down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a includes or forms a top working chamber 114 positioned between the bottom working chamber 112 and the connector 106. The top working chamber 114 is... Figure 5 The solid black center indicates the position. The top working chamber 114 and the bottom working chamber 112 are configured to be alternately emptied and supplied with fluid for the fluid operation of the piston 110.

[0124] refer to Figures 3B to 10 The down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a includes a fluid supply system 116 for supplying one or more inflow fluid flows 118 to one or more of the top working chamber 114 and the bottom working chamber 112. The down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a includes a fluid discharge system 120 for supplying one or more discharge fluid flows 122 from one or more of the top working chamber 114 and the bottom working chamber 112. The fluid discharge system 120 is located at the top end 102.

[0125] refer to Figures 3B to 10 The down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a includes a check valve 124a, which is configured (or designed, constructed, or formed) as both a fluid inlet valve of the fluid supply system 116 and a fluid discharge valve (or fluid outlet valve) of the fluid discharge system 120. The check valve 124a is movable relative to the connector 106. In some embodiments, the check valve 124a may be referred to as a non-backflow valve or a one-way valve, i.e., a valve that typically or generally allows fluid to flow in only one direction. The fluid discharge system 120 includes one or more discharge ports 126a leading to the surrounding environment 204 (i.e., the environment outside the down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a). The fluid discharge system 120 includes one or more first channels 128a for guiding one or more discharge fluid flows 122 from one or more of the top working chamber and bottom working chamber 114 to one or more discharge ports 126a outside the check valve 124a. The fact that one or more discharge fluid flows 122 are directed outside the check valve 124a means that one or more discharge fluid flows 122 are not directed through the check valve 124a or are not directed inside the check valve 124a. In some embodiments, the check valve 124a may be defined as movable between a closed position and an open position. In some embodiments, when the check valve 124a is in the open position, one or more discharge fluid flows 122 from one or more of the top working chamber 114 and the bottom working chamber 112 to one or more discharge ports 126a; 126b may be directed outside the check valve 124a, passing beside the check valve 124a. In some embodiments, the first passage 128a may be referred to as the first path and may include one or more conduits.

[0126] refer to Figures 3B to 10 In some embodiments, the fluid supply system 116 may include one or more second channels 130a for guiding one or more inflow fluid flows 118 outside the check valve 124a to one or more of the top working chamber 114 and the bottom working chamber 112. The fact that one or more inflow fluid flows 118 are guided outside the check valve 124a means that one or more inflow fluid flows 118 are not guided through the check valve 124a or are not guided inside the check valve 124a. In some embodiments, it may be defined that when the check valve 124a is in the open position, one or more inflow fluid flows 118 supplied to one or more of the top working chamber 114 and the bottom working chamber 112 are guided outside the check valve 124a and pass beside it. In some embodiments, the second channel 128b may be referred to as a second path and may include one or more conduits.

[0127] refer to Figures 3B to 10 In some embodiments, check valve 124a may be defined as not having any internal passage for directing one or more discharge fluid flows 122 from one or more of the top working chamber 114 and bottom working chamber 112 to one or more discharge ports 126a. In some embodiments, check valve 124a may be defined as not having any internal passage for directing one or more inflow fluid flows 118 to one or more of the top working chamber 114 and bottom working chamber 112. In some embodiments, check valve 124a may be defined as not having any internal passage for directing fluid flows.

[0128] refer to Figures 3B to 10 In some embodiments, the check valve 124a may be defined as including a valve body 125a movable relative to the connector 106. In some embodiments, the valve body 125a may be solid. In some embodiments, the check valve 124a may be solid. Generally, "solid" means that the valve body 125a or the check valve 124a has no internal cavity.

[0129] refer to Figures 7 to 10In some embodiments, the down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a may include a compartment 132a for holding a check valve 124a. In some embodiments, the compartment 132a may have a top section 134a and a bottom section 136a. The bottom section 136a of the compartment 132a may form a section 138a of one or more first channels 128a. In some embodiments, the top section 134a of the compartment 132a may form a section of one or more second channels 130a. In some embodiments, the compartment 132a, and the top and bottom sections 134a and 136a of the compartment 132a, may be at least partially defined by one or more inner surfaces 140a. The check valve 124a may include a top portion 142a and a bottom portion 144a. One or more surface regions 146a of the bottom portion 144a of the check valve 124a and one or more inner surfaces 140a of the bottom section 136a of the compartment 132a may form one or more sections 148a of a first channel 128a. In some embodiments, one or more surface regions 150a of the top portion 142a of the check valve 124a and one or more inner surfaces 140a of the top section 134a of the compartment 132a may form one or more sections 152a of a second channel 130a.

[0130] refer to Figures 7 to 10 In some embodiments, the connector 106 may include or form one or more discharge ports 126a. The fluid discharge system 120 may include two or more discharge ports 126a leading to the surrounding environment 204. In some embodiments, the down-the-hole drilling device 100a may be defined with a longitudinal extension 154 extending from the top end 102 to the bottom end 104. The longitudinal extension 154 of the down-the-hole drilling device 100a extends in the axial direction 156 and / or the longitudinal direction. In some embodiments, two or more discharge ports 126a may be distributed around the periphery of the down-the-hole drilling device 100b, for example, around the longitudinal central axis of the down-the-hole drilling device 100a. In some embodiments, two or more discharge ports 126a may be evenly distributed around the periphery of the down-the-hole drilling device 100b.

[0131] refer to Figures 3A to 10The down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a may include a tubular housing 160 that houses a piston 110 and at least partially houses a connector 106, a fluid supply system 116, a fluid discharge system 120, and a check valve 124a. In some embodiments, the connector 106 may be directly attached to the tubular housing 160. In other embodiments, the connector 106 may be indirectly attached to the tubular housing 160 via one or more intermediate members. In some embodiments, the check valve 124a may be spring-loaded, for example, by means of a spring 161 or other biasing member. Therefore, the check valve 124a may be a spring-loaded check valve.

[0132] refer to Figure 8 In some embodiments, the check valve 124a may include one or more first seals 166a for closing one or more first passages 128a. The one or more first seals 166a may include a first annular sealing member 168a, such as an O-ring, extending around the periphery of the check valve 124a.

[0133] refer to Figure 7 In some embodiments, the check valve 124a may include one or more second seals 170a for closing one or more second passages 130a. The one or more second seals 170a may include a second annular sealing member 172a, such as an O-ring, extending around the periphery of the check valve 124a. For example, the seals 166a, 170a and the annular sealing members 168a, 172a may be made of materials comprising polymers or polymer composites or composed thereof. Generally, the materials of the seals 166a, 170a and the annular sealing members 168a, 172a may differ from the material of the valve body 125a.

[0134] refer to Figure 9 and Figure 10 In some embodiments, check valve 124a may be configured to simultaneously open one or more first channels 128a and one or more second channels 130a when one or more inflow fluid flows 118 act on check valve 124a. (See reference...) Figure 7 and Figure 8 In some embodiments, check valve 124a may be configured to simultaneously close one or more first channels 128a and one or more second channels 130a. (See reference...) Figures 7 to 10 In some embodiments, check valve 124a may be configured to close and open one or more first channels 128a. In some embodiments, check valve 124a may be configured to close and open one or more second channels 130a.

[0135] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6The evacuation of the top working chamber 114 and the bottom working chamber 112 are schematically illustrated respectively. Figure 5 In the diagram, the bottom working chamber 112 is emptied, and the fluid flow from the bottom working chamber 112 is indicated by an arrow, while the top working chamber 114, which is not emptied, is indicated by a solid black line. Figure 6 In the diagram, the top working chamber 114 is emptied, and the fluid flow from the top working chamber 114 is indicated by an arrow, while the bottom working chamber 112, which is not emptied, is indicated by a solid black line. The emptying of the bottom working chamber 112 and the top working chamber 114 can be performed accordingly by one or more conventional compressors 216 that control one or more inflow fluid flows 118. Figure 5 and Figure 6 As illustrated, in some embodiments, the down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a may include a fluid outflow system 174 for one or more outflow fluid flows 176 from one or more of the top working chamber 114 and the bottom working chamber 112 to one or more outflow ports 178 leading to the surrounding environment 204. The fluid outflow system 174 may be located at the bottom end 104 of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a. One or more outflow ports 178 may be located at the bottom end 104 of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a, for example, in or adjacent to the drill bit 108.

[0136] refer to Figures 11 to 13 The diagram schematically illustrates aspects of a second embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100b. Figure 11 and Figures 12A to 12B Several items or features of the second embodiment of the down-the-hole drilling device 100b correspond to those described above. Figures 3A to 10 The items / features of the first embodiment of the disclosed down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a are described, and therefore will not be repeated here to avoid repetition. Figure 11 and Figures 12A to 12B The down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100b also includes or may include:

[0137] • Check valve 124b;

[0138] • Valve body 125b;

[0139] • One or more emission ports 126b;

[0140] • One or more first channels 128b;

[0141] • One or more second channels 130b;

[0142] • Compartment 132b;

[0143] • The top section and bottom sections 134b and 136b of compartment 132b;

[0144] • A segment 138b of one or more first passageways 128b formed by the bottom segment 136b of compartment 132b;

[0145] • One or more inner surfaces 140b of the top and bottom sections 134b, 136b of compartment 132b;

[0146] • The top and bottom portions 142b and 144b of the check valve 124b;

[0147] • One or more surface areas 146b of the bottom portion 144b of the check valve 124b;

[0148] • A segment 148b of one or more first channels 128b formed by one or more of one or more surface regions 146b of the bottom portion 144b of check valve 124b and one or more inner surfaces 140b of the bottom section 136b of compartment 132b.

[0149] • One or more surface areas 150b of the top portion 142b of the check valve 124b;

[0150] • A section 152b of one or more second channels 130b formed by one or more of the surface regions 150b of the top portion 142b of the check valve 124b and one or more of the inner surfaces 140b of the top section 134b of the compartment 132b.

[0151] • One or more first seals 166b;

[0152] • First annular sealing component;

[0153] • One or more second seals 170b; and

[0154] • Second annular sealing member.

[0155] Figure 11 and Figures 12A to 12B Down-the-hole drilling device 100b and Figures 3A to 10 The difference between the down-the-hole drilling device 100a and the other is that... Figure 11 and Figures 12A to 12B The check valve 124b has the same characteristics as... Figures 3B to 10 The check valve 124a has a different shape. Furthermore, Figure 11 and Figures 12A to 12B Down-the-hole drilling device 100b and Figures 3A to 10 The difference in the down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a is that one or more discharge ports 126b include a gap 158b extending around the periphery of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100b (e.g., extending around the longitudinal central axis of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100b). Further, Figure 11 and Figures 12A to 12B Down-the-hole drilling device 100b and Figures 3A to 10 The difference between the down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a and the other is that the connector 106 and the tubular housing 160 form one or more discharge ports 126b. In some embodiments, the tubular housing 160 may be defined to have one or more inner surfaces 162. Figure 11 and Figures 12A to 12B Down-the-hole drilling device 100b and Figures 3A to 10 The difference of the down-the-hole drilling device 100a is that one or more of the inner surfaces 162 of the connector 106 and the tubular housing 160 form a segment 164b of one or more first channels 128b.

[0156] refer to Figure 13 This is an illustrative example. Figure 11 and Figures 12A to 12B One embodiment of the connector 106 of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100b. The connector 106 may have threads 180, 182 for connection or attachment to the tubular housing 160 and the drill string 202, respectively. The connector 106 may form a groove 184 extending transversely to the threads 180, which may engage with mating threads of the tubular housing 160. The groove 184, together with one or more inner surfaces 162 of the tubular housing 160, may form one or more segments 164b of the first channel 128b.

[0157] refer to Figure 14 and Figure 15 The flowchart schematically illustrates an embodiment of the method 400 for rock drilling.

[0158] refer to Figure 14 An embodiment of the rock drilling method 400 includes the following steps:

[0159] • Drill 401 using down-the-hole drilling rigs 100a and 100b;

[0160] The down-the-hole drilling devices 100a and 100b have a top end 102 and a bottom end 104.

[0161] The down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a and 100b include a connector 106 for connecting the down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a and 100b to the drill string 202, the connector 106 being positioned at the top end 102.

[0162] The down-the-hole drilling devices 100a and 100b are configured to hold the drill bit 108, which is to be positioned at the bottom end 104.

[0163] The down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a and 100b include a fluid-operated piston 110 for directly or indirectly impacting the drill bit 108.

[0164] The piston 110 is movable relative to the connector 106.

[0165] The down-the-hole drilling devices 100a and 100b include a bottom working chamber 112.

[0166] The down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a and 100b include a top working chamber 114 positioned between the bottom working chamber 112 and the connector 106.

[0167] The down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a and 100b include a fluid supply system 116 for supplying one or more inflow fluid flows 118 to one or more of the top working chamber 114 and the bottom working chamber 112.

[0168] The down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a and 100b include a fluid discharge system 120 for one or more discharge fluid flows 122 from one or more of the top working chamber 114 and the bottom working chamber 112, the fluid discharge system 120 being positioned at the top end 102.

[0169] The down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a and 100b include check valves 124a and 124b, which are configured as both fluid inlet valves of the fluid supply system 116 and fluid outlet valves of the fluid outlet system 120.

[0170] Among them, check valves 124a and 124b are movable relative to the connector.

[0171] The fluid discharge system 120 includes one or more discharge ports 126a and 126b leading to the surrounding environment 204 outside the down-the-hole drilling apparatus 100a and 100b, and

[0172] The fluid discharge system 122 includes one or more first channels 128a and 128b.

[0173] • Fluid 402a is alternately emptied from the top working chamber 114 and the bottom working chamber 112, and fluid 402b is supplied to the top working chamber 114 and the bottom working chamber 112 for the fluid operation of the piston 110; and

[0174] • By using one or more first channels 128a; 128b of the fluid discharge system 120, one or more discharge fluid flows 122 are directed 403 from one or more of the top working chamber 114 and the bottom working chamber 112 to one or more discharge ports 126a; 126b outside the check valves 124a; 124b.

[0175] refer to Figure 15 Some embodiments of method 400 may include the following steps:

[0176] • By using one or more second channels 130a, 130b of the fluid supply system 116, one or more inflow fluid flows 118 are directed 404 to one or more of the top working chamber 114 and the bottom working chamber 112 outside the check valves 124a; 124b.

[0177] The embodiments disclosed above can be applied to rock breaking, whether underground or above ground.

[0178] Finally, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but also relates to and is included within the scope of the appended independent claims.

Claims

1. A down-the-hole drilling device (100a; 100b). The down-the-hole drilling device (100a; 100b) has a top end (102) and a bottom end (104). The down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) includes a connector (106) for connecting the down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) to a drill string (202), the connector (106) being positioned at the top end (102). The down-the-hole drilling device (100a; 100b) is configured to hold the drill bit (108) to be positioned at the bottom end (104). The down-the-hole drilling device (100a; 100b) includes a fluid-operated piston (110) for directly or indirectly impacting the drill bit (108). The piston (110) is movable relative to the coupling (106). The down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) includes a bottom working chamber (112). The down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) includes a top working chamber (114) positioned between the bottom working chamber (112) and the connector (106). The top working chamber (114) and the bottom working chamber (112) are configured to be alternately emptied and supplied with fluid for the fluid operation of the piston (110). The down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) includes a fluid supply system (116) for supplying one or more inflow fluid flows (118) to one or more of the top working chamber (114) and the bottom working chamber (112). The down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) includes a fluid discharge system (120) for one or more discharge fluid flows (122) from one or more of the top working chamber (114) and the bottom working chamber (112), the fluid discharge system (120) being located at the top end (102). The down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) includes check valves (124a; 124b) configured as both the fluid inlet valve of the fluid supply system (116) and the fluid discharge valve of the fluid discharge system (120). The check valves (124a; 124b) are movable relative to the connector (106). The fluid discharge system (120) includes one or more discharge ports (126a; 126b) leading to the surrounding environment (204) outside the down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b), and The fluid discharge system (120) includes one or more first channels (128a; 128b) for guiding one or more discharge fluid flows (122) from one or more of the top working chamber (114) and the bottom working chamber (112) to the one or more discharge ports (126a; 126b) outside the check valve (124a; 124b).

2. The down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) according to claim 1, wherein the check valve (124a; 124b) does not have any internal passage for guiding the one or more discharge fluid flows (122) from one or more of the top working chamber (114) and the bottom working chamber (112) to the one or more discharge ports (126a; 126b).

3. The down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the check valve (124a; 124b) does not have any internal passage for guiding fluid flow.

4. The down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the check valve (124a; 124b) comprises a valve body (125a; 125b) movable relative to the connector (106), and wherein the valve body (125a; 125b) is solid.

5. The down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the check valve (124a; 124b) is solid.

6. The down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) includes a compartment (132a; 132b) for holding the check valve (124a; 124b).

7. The down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) according to claim 6, wherein the compartment (132a; 132b) has a top section (134a; 134b) and a bottom section (136a; 136b), and The bottom section (136a; 136b) of the compartment (132a; 132b) forms a section (138a; 138b) of the one or more first channels (128a; 128b).

8. The down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) according to claim 7, wherein the compartment (132a; 132b) and the top and bottom sections (134a; 136a; 134b; 136b) of the compartment (132a; 132b) are at least partially defined by one or more inner surfaces (140a; 140b), The check valve (124a; 124b) includes a top portion (142a; 142b) and a bottom portion (144a; 144b), and One or more surface regions (146a; 146b) of the bottom portion (144a; 144b) of the check valve (124a; 124b) and one or more inner surfaces (140a; 140b) of the bottom section (136a; 136b) of the compartment (132a; 132b) form sections (148a; 148b) of the one or more first channels (128a; 128b).

9. The down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the connector (106) includes the one or more discharge ports (126a; 126b).

10. The down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the fluid discharge system (120) includes two or more discharge ports (126a) leading to the surrounding environment (204).

11. The down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) according to claim 10, wherein the down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) has a longitudinal extension (154) extending from the top end (102) to the bottom end (104). The longitudinal extension (154) of the down-the-hole drilling device (100a; 100b) extends in the axial direction (156), and The two or more discharge ports (126a) are distributed around the periphery of the down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b).

12. The down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) has a longitudinal extension (154) extending from the top end (102) to the bottom end (104). The longitudinal extension (154) of the down-the-hole drilling device (100a; 100b) extends in the axial direction (156), and The one or more discharge ports (126b) include a gap (158b) extending around the periphery of the down-the-hole drilling device (100a; 100b).

13. The down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) comprises a tubular housing (160) that houses the piston (110) and at least partially houses the connector (106), the fluid supply system (116), the fluid discharge system (120), and the check valve (124a; 124b).

14. The down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) according to claim 13, wherein the connector (106) and the tubular housing (160) form the one or more discharge ports (126b).

15. The down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the tubular housing (160) has one or more inner surfaces (162), and One or more of the inner surfaces (162) of the connector (106) and the tubular housing (160) form a segment (164b) of the one or more first channels (128b).

16. A drilling rig (200a; 200b), comprising: The down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) according to any one of claims 1 to 15; and One or more compressors for controlling the flow of the one or more inflowing fluids (118).

17. A method (400) for rock drilling, wherein the method (400) comprises: Drilling (2) was carried out using down-the-hole drilling equipment (100a; 100b); The down-the-hole drilling device (100a; 100b) has a top end (102) and a bottom end (104). The down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) includes a connector (106) for connecting the down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) to a drill string (202), the connector (106) being positioned at the top end (102). The down-the-hole drilling device (100a; 100b) is configured to hold the drill bit (108) to be positioned at the bottom end (104). The down-the-hole drilling device (100a; 100b) includes a fluid-operated piston (110) for directly or indirectly impacting the drill bit (108). The piston (110) is movable relative to the coupling (106). The down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) includes a bottom working chamber (112). The down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) includes a top working chamber (114) positioned between the bottom working chamber (112) and the connector (106). The down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) includes a fluid supply system (116) for supplying one or more inflow fluid flows (118) to one or more of the top working chamber (114) and the bottom working chamber (112). The down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) includes a fluid discharge system (120) for one or more discharge fluid flows (122) from one or more of the top working chamber (114) and the bottom working chamber (112), the fluid discharge system (120) being located at the top end (102). The down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b) includes check valves (124a; 124b) configured as both the fluid inlet valve of the fluid supply system (116) and the fluid discharge valve of the fluid discharge system (120). The check valves (124a; 124b) are movable relative to the connector (106). The fluid discharge system (120) includes one or more discharge ports (126a; 126b) leading to the surrounding environment (204) outside the down-the-hole drilling apparatus (100a; 100b), and The fluid discharge system (122) includes one or more first channels (128a; 128b). The method (400) further includes: Fluid is alternately emptied (402a) from the top working chamber (114) and supplied (402b) to the top working chamber (114) and the bottom working chamber (112) for fluid operation of the piston (110); and By using the one or more first channels (128a; 128b) of the fluid discharge system (120), the one or more discharge fluid flows (122) are guided (403) from one or more of the top working chamber (114) and the bottom working chamber (112) to the one or more discharge ports (126a; 126b) outside the check valve (124a; 124b).

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