Boring tool control using remote locator

摘要

A drilling system performs underground boring using a drill rig and a boring tool which is configured for moving through the ground under control of the drill rig to form an underground bore. A monitoring arrangement, forming part of the system, includes a detection arrangement at the drill rig for monitoring at least one operational parameter to produce a data signal relating to at least one of a utility to be installed in the underground bore, the drill rig and the boring tool. A portable device forms another part of the system for receiving the data signal relating to the operational parameter for use by the portable device. A communication arrangement, for example using telemetry, transfers the data signal from the drill rig to the portable device. The operational parameter may be monitored for the purpose of preventing equipment failure.

主权项

1. In a system for performing underground boring including a handheld portable device, said system also including a drill rig and a boring tool which is configured for moving through the ground to form an underground bore, said boring tool including a transmitter for emitting a locating signal, said handheld portable device comprising:
a housing configured for handheld movement by an operator; a receiver supported by the housing for receiving the locating signal; a processor configured to generate certain information about the position of the boring tool in response to said locating signal and to issue operator determined command signals in view of said certain information; and a transmitter for transmitting the command signals to the drill rig such that the command signals can be used to control the boring tool.