公开(公告)号：US20060158193A1

公开(公告)日：2006-07-20

申请号：US11369404

申请日：2006-03-07

Applicant: John Mercer

Inventor： John Mercer

IPC: G01V3/08

CPC classification number: E21B47/02216 ,  E21B47/02224 ,  G01C9/06 ,  G01C9/20 ,  G01V3/08 ,  G01V3/081 ,  G01V3/15 ,  G01V3/165

Abstract: An above ground locator includes an apparatus for determining the strength of the locating signal at a selected point relative to the boring tool. The apparatus includes an antenna arrangement configured for measuring the strength of the locating signal at the selected point along first and second orthogonally opposed receiving axes to produce first and second received signals. A phase shifting arrangement phase shifts the first and second received signals in a predetermined way to generate first and second phase shifted signals, respectively. Thereafter, a summing arrangement adds the first and second phase shifted received signals to generate an output signal which is a vector sum of the first and second received signals. In one feature, third and fourth signals derived from the first and second signals are used to eliminate balance point ambiguity which is present using the first and second signals alone. In another feature, signals corresponding to first, second, third and fourth axes are compared in a way which confines the possible locations of an above ground point to one particular type of region out of a plurality of different types of regions. Tracking of the boring tool may be accomplished in a number of described ways since the regions occur in a specific sequence along the intended path with respect to the location of the boring tool.

公开(公告)号：US20060087447A1

公开(公告)日：2006-04-27

申请号：US11281969

申请日：2005-11-16

Applicant: Guenter Brune ,  John Mercer

Inventor： Guenter Brune ,  John Mercer

IPC: G01V3/10 ,  G01V3/00

CPC classification number: G01V3/081 ,  E21B47/02 ,  E21B47/02224 ,  E21B47/024 ,  E21B47/0905 ,  E21B47/12 ,  G01V3/08

Abstract: Arrangements, apparatus and associated methods are described for use in a multi-frequency boring tool locating system. The boring tool includes a transmitter for transmitting a locating signal at two or more selectable frequencies. One set of above ground procedures may be applied to the transmitter in order to change the frequency of the boring tool transmitter. Another set of procedures is applicable for changing the frequency during below ground drilling operations, for example, by subjecting the boring tool to a predetermined roll orientation sequence. An enhanced portable locator operates in a manual or automatic mode to receive locating frequency information transmitted from the boring tool transmitter including frequency updates. Boring tool transmitter, as well as above ground locator shutdown/restart procedures are described relating to multi-frequency operation. A tone detector is described which implements one or more digital match filters.

公开(公告)号：US20050247484A1

公开(公告)日：2005-11-10

申请号：US11168108

申请日：2005-06-27

Applicant: Guenter Brune ,  John Mercer ,  Albert Chau ,  Rudolf Zeller

Inventor： Guenter Brune ,  John Mercer ,  Albert Chau ,  Rudolf Zeller

IPC: H01Q1/04 ,  H01Q7/00 ,  H01Q9/28 ,  E21B47/02

CPC classification number: H01Q9/28 ,  H01Q1/04 ,  H01Q7/00

Abstract: Location determination is performed using a transmitter including an elongated generally planar loop antenna defining an elongation axis. The elongation axis is positioned along at least a portion of a path. A magnetic field is then generated which approximates a dipole field. Certain characteristics of the magnetic field are then determined at a receiving position radially displaced from the antenna elongation axis. Using the determined certain characteristics, at least one orientation parameter is established which characterizes a positional relationship between the receiving position and the antenna on the path. The magnetic field may be transmitted as a monotone single phase signal. The orientation parameter may be a radial offset and/or an angular orientation between the receiving position and the antenna on the path. The antenna of the transmitter may be inserted into a first borehole to transmit the magnetic field to a receiver inserted into a second borehole.

公开(公告)号：US20050212519A1

公开(公告)日：2005-09-29

申请号：US11135968

申请日：2005-05-24

Applicant: Guenter Brune ,  John Mercer ,  Albert Chau

Inventor： Guenter Brune ,  John Mercer ,  Albert Chau

IPC: E21B7/00 ,  E21B7/04 ,  E21B47/024 ,  G01V3/08 ,  G01V3/10

CPC classification number: G01V3/08 ,  E21B7/04 ,  E21B47/024 ,  G01V3/081

Abstract: Tracking a boring tool is performed within an underground region using a locating signal. The boring tool is moved through the ground during a series of distance movements such that potential movement of the boring tool during any one of the distance movements is less than a maximum movement value. A current positional relationship is determined for a current one of the distance movements based on: a last-determined positional relationship established for an immediately preceding one of the distance movements, certain orientation parameters, the maximum movement value and the determined signal strength of the locating signal in the current positional relationship. Target coordinates are accepted and a target position, based on the target coordinates, is included as part of the current positional relationship. The position of the target is unconstrained with respect to system geometry. Steering command features are provided along with steering warnings.

Abstract translation: 使用定位信号在地下区域内执行钻孔工具的跟踪。 钻孔工具在一系列距离移动期间移动通过地面，使得镗孔工具在任何一个距离移动期间的潜在运动小于最大移动值。 基于以下方式确定当前位置关系：对于距离移动之前的一个建立的最终确定的位置关系，确定方向参数，最大移动值和确定的定位信号强度 信号处于当前位置关系。 目标坐标被接受，并且基于目标坐标的目标位置被包括在当前位置关系的一部分中。 目标的位置相对于系统几何是不受约束的。 提供转向指令功能以及转向警告。

公开(公告)号：US20050073313A1

公开(公告)日：2005-04-07

申请号：US10996851

申请日：2004-11-24

Applicant: John Mercer

Inventor： John Mercer

IPC: E21B47/022 ,  E21B47/024 ,  G01C9/06 ,  G01C9/20 ,  G01V3/11 ,  G01V3/15 ,  G01V3/165 ,  G01V3/08

CPC classification number: G01V3/165 ,  E21B47/02216 ,  E21B47/02224 ,  E21B47/024 ,  G01C9/06 ,  G01C9/20

Abstract: The present invention provides a locator/monitor capable of locating a boring tool and monitoring the progress of the tool for control purposes. The locator/monitor may be used in expedited locating methodology and straightforward calibration techniques of the present invention. A durable and cost effective pitch sensor is also provided by the present invention. In addition, the present invention provides a slotted transmitter housing formed of an electrically conductive material, where the magnetic field generated by the transmitter is capable of penetrating to the surface.

Abstract translation: 本发明提供了一种定位器/监视器，其能够定位钻孔工具并监视工具的进度以用于控制目的。 定位器/监视器可以用于本发明的快速定位方法和简单的校准技术。 本发明还提供了耐用和成本有效的俯仰传感器。 此外，本发明提供了一种由导电材料形成的开槽发射机壳体，其中由发射机产生的磁场能够穿透到表面。

公开(公告)号：US5155442A

公开(公告)日：1992-10-13

申请号：US662939

申请日：1991-03-01

Applicant: John Mercer

Inventor： John Mercer

IPC: E21B47/022 ,  G01C9/06 ,  G01C9/20 ,  G01V3/11 ,  G01V3/15 ,  G01V3/165

CPC classification number: G01V3/165 ,  E21B47/02216 ,  E21B47/02224 ,  G01C9/06 ,  G01C9/20 ,  G01V3/15

Abstract: The present invention provides a locator/monitor capable of locating a boring tool and monitoring the progress of the tool for control purposes. The locator/monitor may be used in expedited locating methodology and straightforward calibration techniques of the present invention. A durable and cost effective pitch sensor is also provided by the present invention. In addition, the present invention provides a slotted transmitter housing formed of an electrically conductive material, where the magnetic field generated by the transmitter is capable of penetrating to the surface.

Abstract translation: 本发明提供了一种定位器/监视器，其能够定位钻孔工具并监视工具的进度以用于控制目的。 定位器/监视器可以用于本发明的快速定位方法和简单的校准技术。 本发明还提供了耐用和成本有效的俯仰传感器。 此外，本发明提供了一种由导电材料形成的开槽发射机壳体，其中由发射机产生的磁场能够穿透到表面。

公开(公告)号：US4787463A

公开(公告)日：1988-11-29

申请号：US183414

申请日：1988-04-18

Applicant: Edward Geller ,  Mike Kirby ,  John Mercer ,  Tom O'Hanlon ,  Jim Reichman ,  Ken Theimer ,  Robert Svendsen

Inventor： Edward Geller ,  Mike Kirby ,  John Mercer ,  Tom O'Hanlon ,  Jim Reichman ,  Ken Theimer ,  Robert Svendsen

IPC: E21B7/06 ,  E21B7/18 ,  E21B47/022 ,  E21B47/12 ,  E21B7/08 ,  E21B10/60 ,  E21B47/024

CPC classification number: E21B7/18 ,  E21B47/02224 ,  E21B47/122 ,  E21B7/065

Abstract: A method and apparatus for installing underground utilities using an offset head fluid jet drilling and reaming apparatus. The drill is maneuverable and provides means for remote sensing of orientation and depth. Embodiments are illustrated with single and multiple jet cutting orifices.

Abstract translation: 一种使用偏移头流体喷射钻孔和铰孔装置安装地下公用设施的方法和装置。 该钻机是可操纵的，并且提供用于遥感方向和深度的手段。 使用单个和多个喷射切割孔来示出实施例。

公开(公告)号：US20080047750A1

公开(公告)日：2008-02-28

申请号：US11930483

申请日：2007-10-31

Applicant: James Burrows ,  Guenter Brune ,  John Mercer

Inventor： James Burrows ,  Guenter Brune ,  John Mercer

IPC: E21B44/00 ,  E21B7/08

CPC classification number: E21B44/00 ,  E21B7/04 ,  E21B7/046 ,  E21B7/10 ,  E21B47/02224 ,  E21B47/024 ,  G01V3/081 ,  G01V3/38

Abstract: A boring tool moves having a pitch orientation, a yaw orientation and a roll orientation and is steerable underground using the roll orientation. A maximum drill string curvature is established for steering. The boring tool is advanced over a path segment. An averaged roll characteristic is determined for movement of the boring tool along the path segment. A path segment pitch orientation is established based on at least one measured pitch orientation along the path segment. Using the maximum drill string curvature in combination with the averaged roll characteristic and the path segment pitch orientation, the yaw orientation is determined. The averaged roll characteristic is determined based on a series of incremental roll measurements that are spaced across the path segment. A set of coupled ordinary differential equations is used to characterize movement of the boring tool.

Abstract translation: 镗削刀具具有俯仰方位，偏转方向和滚动方位，并且可使用滚动方向在地下方向转向。 建立最大的钻柱曲率用于转向。 无聊工具在路径段上前进。 确定镗刀沿着路径段的移动的平均辊特性。 基于沿着路径段的至少一个测量的俯仰方向来建立路径段俯仰取向。 使用最大钻柱曲率与平均辊特性和路段段俯仰方向相结合，确定偏航方向。 基于在路径段上间隔的一系列增量滚动测量来确定平均滚动特性。 一组耦合的常微分方程用于表征钻孔工具的运动。

公开(公告)号：US20070176603A1

公开(公告)日：2007-08-02

申请号：US11697969

申请日：2007-04-09

Applicant: Guenter Brune ,  John Mercer ,  Albert Chau

Inventor： Guenter Brune ,  John Mercer ,  Albert Chau

IPC: G01V3/08

CPC classification number: G01V3/08 ,  E21B7/04 ,  E21B47/024 ,  G01V3/081

Abstract: Tracking a boring tool is performed within an underground region using a locating signal. The boring tool is moved through the ground during a series of distance movements such that potential movement of the boring tool during any one of the distance movements is less than a maximum movement value. A current positional relationship is determined for a current one of the distance movements based on: a last-determined positional relationship established for an immediately preceding one of the distance movements, certain orientation parameters, the maximum movement value and the determined signal strength of the locating signal in the current positional relationship. Target coordinates are accepted and a target position, based on the target coordinates, is included as part of the current positional relationship. The position of the target is unconstrained with respect to system geometry. Steering command features are provided along with steering warnings.

Abstract translation: 使用定位信号在地下区域内执行钻孔工具的跟踪。 钻孔工具在一系列距离移动期间移动通过地面，使得镗孔工具在任何一个距离移动期间的潜在运动小于最大移动值。 基于以下方式确定当前位置关系：对于距离移动之前的一个建立的最终确定的位置关系，确定方向参数，最大移动值和确定的定位信号强度 信号处于当前位置关系。 目标坐标被接受，并且基于目标坐标的目标位置被包括在当前位置关系的一部分中。 目标的位置相对于系统几何是不受约束的。 提供转向指令功能以及转向警告。

公开(公告)号：US20070103158A1

公开(公告)日：2007-05-10

申请号：US11619851

申请日：2007-01-04

Applicant: Guenter Brune ,  Albert Chau ,  John Mercer

Inventor： Guenter Brune ,  Albert Chau ,  John Mercer

IPC: G01V3/08 ,  G01V3/10

CPC classification number: E21B47/0905 ,  E21B47/024 ,  G01C9/02 ,  G01V3/08 ,  G01V3/15 ,  G01V3/165 ,  G01V3/28

Abstract: A portable locator and method for establishing the location of the cable line in a region which includes at least one generally straight electrically conductive cable line extending across the region from which cable line a locating signal includes a first arrangement for measuring a local flux intensity of the locating signal at a first above ground point within the region with the portable locator in a particular orientation at the first above ground point. A second arrangement uses the local flux intensity to establish a cable line angular orientation which limits the possible directions to the cable line relative to the particular orientation of the portable locator at the above ground point. A third arrangement uses the measured local flux intensity to establish an actual direction of the cable line that is selected from the possible directions based on certain characteristics of the locating signal.

Abstract translation: 一种便携式定位器和方法，用于在包括至少一个大致直的导电电缆线的区域中建立电缆线的位置，该电缆线延伸穿过电缆线的区域，定位信号包括用于测量电缆线的局部通量强度的第一布置 将定位信号放置在该区域内的第一个地上点，便携式定位器在第一个地面上处于特定取向。 第二种方案使用局部通量强度来建立电缆线角度取向，其限制相对于便携式定位器在上述地面点的特定取向的电缆线的可能方向。 第三布置使用测量的局部通量强度来建立从基于定位信号的某些特性的可能方向中选择的电缆线的实际方向。