Pilot Bore Profile Logging via RF Drill Rod Pitch
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for logging pilot bore profiles in horizontal directional drilling (HDD) are tedious and difficult to use, leading to a low percentage of users implementing this method effectively.
Innovation Solution
A systematic approach is introduced to log pilot bore profiles using an HDD system, which determines the profile based on the number of drill rods added and the pitch reading from the underground transmitter, allowing calculations to be made at the HDD drill rig and/or remote display, and includes features like RF communication and a display unit for real-time data display.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional manual logging methods are used for pilot bore profiles, then the process is simple to implement, but the logging is tedious and difficult to use effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical logging processes with an automated electronic system that uses RF communication to automatically capture and transmit drilling data from the drill head to the surface, eliminating the need for manual data collection and recording
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service logging where the drilling equipment automatically logs its own operational parameters (depth, pitch, roll, yaw) through onboard sensors and transmitters, without requiring external manual intervention for data collection
2Productivity
If automated logging systems are implemented, then logging efficiency is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into a single universal system that combines RF communication, electronic sensing, data processing, and display capabilities within the drill head assembly, allowing one system to perform logging, transmission, and monitoring functions simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs a nested architecture where sensors are integrated within the drill head, which is attached to the drill string, and data is transmitted through nested communication protocols from the drill head to the surface display system
3Speed
If RF communication is used for data transmission, then real-time data display is achieved, but magnetic interference affects measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses RF waves as an intermediary medium for data transmission between the underground drill head and the surface display system, enabling communication through earth formations without direct physical contact or vulnerable electrical connections
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces magnetic-based measurement and transmission methods with RF-based communication, substituting the vulnerable magnetic field interaction with radio frequency waves that are less susceptible to magnetic interference from drill string metals
4Reliability
If surface obstructions are present, then walk-over locator method is blocked, but the RF system continues to transmit data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs RF waves as an intermediary that can penetrate through surface obstructions and earth formations to transmit data from the drill head to the surface display system, bypassing the need for clear line-of-sight or unobstructed surface access
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 method allows for accurate and efficient logging of pilot bore profiles, even in conditions with surface obstructions or magnetic interference, improving the usability and effectiveness of HDD operations.
Implementation Method 1
determines the profile based on the number of drill rods added and the pitch reading from the underground transmitter, allowing calculations to be made at the HDD drill rig and/or remote display, and includes features like RF communication
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment, the present system can primarily determine the pilot bore profile of a horizontal directional drill (HDD) based on the number of rod sections added and the pitch reading from the underground transmitter at the front of the drill string (as communicated to the HDD drill rig via the walk-over locator), with such calculations being able to be made at the HDD drill rig and/or related remote display on the HDD drill rig. That is, since the length of a given rod section is known and the pitch readout is provided by the underground transmitter, the change in the overall depth of the drill string can be calculated, for example, on drill rod to drill rod basis based on rise over run geometry. The walk-over locator can then be used for a secondary confirmation of the actual depth, if conditions permit (e.g., in range of a direct walk-over).