Abstract: An adjustable bent drilling tool capable of changing in situ drilling direction to facilitate horizontal drilling. The drilling tool may be controlled from the surface and eliminates the need to bring the tool to the surface for reconfiguration. In one embodiment, the drilling tool utilizes a communications module to communicate with upstream sections of the tool. The communications module is connected to a programmable electronic control module which controls an electric motor. A hydraulic valve assembly follows the control module, which receives input signals and controls a pilot piston between two fixed points of a mid-assembly typically located adjacent to and downstream of the hydraulic valve assembly on the drill tool. A lower assembly is attached to the drill tool immediately following the mid-assembly, and provides both a safety release sub-assembly as well as a bendable sub-assembly which directs the adjustable drill tool to change drilling angle and direction.

Abstract: The present invention provides a cushioned impervious flooring usually formed in place. At least one layer of closed cell cushion is overlaid with a reinforcing mesh having interstitial spaces, a layer of adhesive is applied to adhere the reinforcing mesh to the cushion and to adhere the reinforcing layer to a layer of sheet flooring. Tapered edges provide gentle transition from the cushioned impervious flooring to adjacent surfaces at a different elevation. Joints in the closed cell cushion, reinforcing layer and sheet flooring are offset from each other to provide smooth installation and more strength.

Abstract: A hydraulic jarring tool for imparting up-jarring impacts to release a stuck earth boring drill string component is shown. The tool defines upper and lower closed fluid chambers between telescopically moveable concentric cylinders. A fluid metering valve in one fluid passage between the chambers provides limited flow from one chamber to the other and permits telescopic movement at a rate which establishes tension on the drill string and causes the tool to jar. A normally open valve is provided in a by-pass passage between the chambers and is responsive to the fluid velocity therethrough to move to a closed position, restricting fluid flow to pass through the metering valve. However, the tool can be telescopically extended at a somewhat lesser rate insufficient to cause the velocity responsive valve to close thereby permitting the tool to be extended smoothly without a jarring impact.

Abstract: A design for a drill bit (10) is provided. The design permits placement of a plurality of cutters (14) in a pattern approaching an ideal equal volume cutting arrangement while minimizing the mathematical steps necessary to calculate the desired positions. The design positions the cutters so that the annular area between radially adjacent cutters is a constant. Certain groups of cutters can also be positioned to prevent a central core in the material drilled and to provide a desired kerf overlap.

Abstract: A sealing system provides a metal-to-metal barrier to the drilling fluid, pulverized cuttings and other materials in the borehole preventing the materials from entering the bearing area of an earth boring bit and a positive elastomer seal retains lubricant inside the bearing area. The body of the bit includes a bearing pin and a rolling cone cutter is mounted to rotate about the bearing pin. A sealing surface is provided on the bit body. An annular metal seal ring is positioned around the bearing pin adjacent the sealing surface. An elastomeric ring is positioned around the bearing pin and compressed or deformed axially to urge the metal seal ring into sealing engagement with the sealing surface. A lip projects from the elastomeric ring and contacts the sealing surface to provide a positive initial seal for filling and testing.

Abstract: One or more holes are drilled into the crest of the tooth-shaped cutting structure of a milled steel tooth rotary rock bit. Tungsten carbide rods are positioned in the holes and hardfacing is applied to the tooth. The hardfacing is applied across the top of the tooth crest and acts to hold the tungsten carbide rods in place. The rods are inserted in holes parallel and close to one flank of the tooth so that the entire length of the carbide rods can be attached to the hardfacing by burning the hardfacing through to the carbide rods. Wear on the tooth will proceed along the side of the tooth not reinforced with the carbide rods and a self-sharpening effect is enhanced by the strength of the carbide rods. The carbide rods and holes therefore can be relatively inexpensive, since close tolerance finishing is not required.

Abstract: An improved assembly seal acts as a barrier to the drilling fluid, pulverized cuttings and other materials in a borehole preventing the materials from entering the bearing area of a rolling cone cutter earth boring bit and retaining lubricant within the bearing area. The rolling cone cutter is rotatably mounted on a cantilevered bearing pin extending from the body of the bit. A symmetrical seal assembly is positioned between the cutter and bearing pin. The seal assembly is the same on both ends and can rotate against either the rotating cutter or stationary bearing pin. The seal assembly provides a metal-to-metal seal which is resistant to entry of abrasives and also provides a rubber-to-metal seal that provides an initial positive seal for filling and testing. The seal assembly includes a first annular rigid ring and a matching second annular rigid ring positioned between said bearing pin and said rolling cone cutter.