Abstract: A pitch sensor tool for a stem boring or drilling machine, for example a sub-surface directional drilling machine having a stem and a drilling head. The pitch sensor tool includes a generally cylindrical housing adapted to be mechanically coupled to the stem and to the drilling head, and a pitch sensing device disposed in or on the housing and adapted to transmit a reading of the second pitch of the pitch sensor tool. In one example, the pitch sensing device is housed in a compartment in the pitch sensor tool. A boring or drilling tool incorporates the pitch sensing tool and a drilling head, and a stem boring or drill machine incorporates the pitch sensing tool. By separating of the pitching sensing device from the rotating parts (i.e., drilling head or guide head) the pitch reading can be measured accurately and during a drilling procedure, as well as after it.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for connecting a lateral pipe to a main pipe are provided by a tool having a first end within the main pipe and a second end outside the lateral pipe so as to apply pressure to the below-ground connection of the main and lateral pipes from an above-ground location. The entire operation may be done without a person having to enter into an access opening in the ground to connect the lateral pipe to the main pipe. A laser is used to determine the depth of the access hole relative to the surface of the ground and the main sewer pipe.

Abstract: A pitch sensor tool for a stem boring or drilling machine, for example a sub-surface directional drilling machine having a stem and a drilling head. The pitch sensor tool includes a generally cylindrical housing adapted to be mechanically coupled to the stem and to the drilling head, and a pitch sensing device disposed in or on the housing and adapted to transmit a reading of the second pitch of the pitch sensor tool. In one example, the pitch sensing device is housed in a compartment in the pitch sensor tool. A boring or drilling tool incorporates the pitch sensing tool and a drilling head, and a stem boring or drill machine incorporates the pitch sensing tool. By separating of the pitching sensing device from the rotating parts (i.e., drilling head or guide head) the pitch reading can be measured accurately and during a drilling procedure, as well as after it.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for boring a close tolerance on-grade subsurface borehole. A downhole tool assembly for use with a dual member drill string comprises a directional boring tool. The dual member drill string comprises an outer member and an inner member disposed within the outer member and rotatable independently of the outer member. The downhole tool assembly permits the directional boring tool to be connected to the inner member of the drill string. Rotation of the inner member of the drill string causes rotation of the boring tool. The borehole is drilled in a straight manner by rotating the boring tool with the inner member of the drill string and simultaneously advancing the drill string through the earth. The borehole direction is changed by orienting the directional boring tool with the inner member of the drill string and then advancing the drill string without rotation.