Modular Drill Head Steering for Microtunneling Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current microtunnelling technologies are cumbersome, inaccurate, and prone to component breakage due to excessive strain on elongated drive shafts, and they require repeated halting for waste removal and heating effects, leading to inefficiencies and safety concerns during underground boring operations.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an external casing with flow channels for cabling, a vacuum chamber for heat removal and increased productivity, a radially protruding steering mechanism to prevent undue force on the drill head, and a modular drill head design with interchangeable rotational units for push and pull capabilities, allowing for precise directional control and versatile pipe installations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If horizontal directional drilling is used to bore underground holes, then the method overcomes disruption to roads and infrastructure, but the steering mechanism is extremely inaccurate and unsuitable for applications on grade
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical steering mechanism of conventional HDD with a laser-guided system. A laser beam provides a precise visual reference for the operator to follow, eliminating reliance on imprecise mechanical steering components. The laser target mounted on the drill head allows the operator to accurately maintain the bore path on grade by visually aligning with the laser beam rather than relying on mechanical steering adjustments.
2Adaptability or versatility
If pilot displacement method is used with short drill strings, then the method can adapt to ground conditions, but the time to drill is slow with repeated connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous drilling operations by eliminating the need for repeated drill string connections. The extended drill string design allows the drill head to reach greater depths without requiring frequent stoppage for connection adjustments. This maintains continuous drilling action, significantly improving productivity while preserving the ability to adapt to varying ground conditions through the extended reach capability.
3Measurement precision
If slurry style microtunnelling is used to transport spoil removal, then the system achieves good degree of accuracy, but requires a structural shaft that needs a massive amount of force to push the pipes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the drill head and drill string from the conventional slurry microtunnelling system that requires massive jacking forces. By using a drill string that can be rotated and advanced through the ground, the system eliminates the need for structural shafts and high-force jacking mechanisms. The drill string itself becomes the conduit for both drilling and spoil removal operations, significantly reducing the force requirements while maintaining accurate bore positioning.
4Length of moving object
If elongated drive shafts are used in microtunnelling systems, then the system can reach greater depths, but the components are prone to breakage due to excessive strain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static, strain-prone elongated drive shafts to a dynamic system where the drill string can be rotated. This rotation distributes mechanical stresses more evenly along the string length and prevents the concentration of strain that leads to breakage. The modular drill string design allows for flexible configuration that maintains reliability while achieving greater drilling depths through controlled rotational mechanics rather than relying solely on elongated static shafts.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enhances the accuracy and reliability of underground boring by maintaining laser precision, reducing the risk of drill head component breakage, and enabling continuous operation with automated steering and modular components that adapt to varying ground conditions and pipe sizes, improving safety and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum chamber for heat removal and increased productivity
Implementation Method 2
an external casing with flow channels for cabling
Data Source
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AI summary
A microtunnelling apparatus and system that includes an external drive system having rotational and linear thrust drive means, a drill head section (20) having drill rotor (21) and drill rod (22) and connecting to intermediate drill rods (41) allowing extension of the boring hole created by the drill head section drive system. The drill head (20) includes a modular construction having a plurality of circular disc like elements, a bearing module M1, a steering module M2, a spacer module M3, and a mounting module M4, for axial alignment and abutment and mounting within a cylindrical steering shell M6. Directional steering of the drill head (20) includes a plurality of substantially radially extending channels in steering module M2, each with an hydraulically movable protuberance movable by control means to redirect the outer steering casing M6 and thereby redirect the drill head section mounted on the distal end of the drill rods.