Patents by Inventor Michael R. Inggs

Michael R. Inggs has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Obstacle detection system for underground operations
    Patent number: 7013991
    Abstract: An obstacle avoidance system for obstacle detection in an opaque material. The system includes at least one electromagnetic signal source adapted to produce an electromagnetic source signal suitable for transmission through the opaque material, at least one electromagnetic signal detector adapted to receive reflected electromagnetic energy signals from discontinuities in the opaque material encountered by the electromagnetic source signal, and a reflected electromagnetic energy signal processor suitable for determining a presence of obstructions and/or strata variations within the opaque material. The system is preferably integral with a head element suitable for traversing the opaque material, for example a subterranean drill bit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: Gas Technology Institute
    Inventors: Alan Wilson-Langman, Michael R. Inggs, Leendert Johannes du Toit, Kirankumar M. Kothari, David R. Hanson