Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for substantially continuously drilling and disposing of drill cuttings and dust to minimize airborne contamination while providing protection against overload. A drill stem with a bit is advanced by a drill head to form the drill hole. A flushing mechanism utilizes vacuum or pressurized water for flushing the cuttings and dust from the drill hole for disposal. A transducer monitors the negative or positive gauge pressure. A controller is utilized to regulate the rate of drilling dependent on the signal level of the pressure being monitored. In the preferred embodiment utilizing air, the passage in the drill stem removes the cuttings/dust and is connected to a transfer duct, which in turn is connected to a filter and the intake side of a blower. The controller is programmable to establish the optimum rate of feed of the drill head. The rotary motion of the drill bit can also be regulated by the controller.

Abstract: Apparatus for controlling a diamond drill feed cylinder which includes a linear position sensor coupled to the feed cylinder for generating a position signal, a positioning module for generating a feed control signal in dependence upon the position signal, a proportional flow control valve having two hydraulic ports for connecting to the feed cylinder and responsive to the feed control signal for controlling flow rate of the two hydraulic ports, a plurality of operation sensors coupled to the diamond drill for generating operation status signals, a plurality of input modules for receiving the operation status signals and converting them to digital operation status signals and a programmable logic controller connected to the plurality of input modules for modifying the feed control signal in dependence upon the digital operation status signals. The rate of penetration of the diamond drill is controlled by controlling the flow rate applied to the feed cylinder.

Abstract: A method of and system for optimizing bit rate of penetration while drilling substantially continuously determine an optimum weight on bit necessary to achieve an optimum bit rate of penetration based upon measured conditions and maintains weight on bit at the optimum weight on bit. As measured conditions change while drilling, the method updates the determination of optimum weight on bit.

Abstract: A closed loop control system for a core drilling mechanism automatically controls the penetration rate, the weight on the drill bit, and the torque load applied to the drill string, and maintains all three at or below preselected maximum values. The closed loop control system incorporates a controller that receives sensed information and generates corresponding control signals to control the penetration rate and thus the weight on the drill bit and the torque load through a servo valve in a hydraulic drive circuit. One or more sensors are provided to sense the penetration rate of the drill bit, and are coupled with the controller. Similarly, sensors are provided to determine the weight on the drill bit and the torque load applied to the drill string.

Abstract: A method of predicting the walk rate of a design of rotary drag-type drill bit of the kind where the leading face of the bit body is formed with a central depression, or cone, comprises the steps of: calculating the cone volume V.sub.cone of the bit; calculating that ratio ##EQU1## of the total torque generated by the cutters on the bit which is attributable to those cutters which are mounted in said cone; calculating a Walk Factor ##EQU2## and then determining the predicted walk rate W of the bit from a graph, or other database, relating previously established values of F for other drill bits to the respective walk rates W for those drill bits.

Abstract: A method of and system for optimizing bit rate of penetration while drilling substantially continuously determine an optimum weight on bit necessary to achieve an optimum bit rate of penetration based upon measured conditions and maintains weight on bit at the optimum weight on bit. As measured conditions change while drilling, the method updates the determination of optimum weight on bit.

Abstract: A system includes a database that is adapted to store substantially continuously measured or calculated drilling parameters. At least one computer can access the database to display simultaneous user configurable graphical representations of selected drilling parameters. A user can observe multiple parameters graphically in real time.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling an underground boring machine during boring or reaming operations. A boring tool is displaced along an underground path while being rotated at a selected rate of rotation. In response to variations in underground conditions impacting boring tool progress along the underground path, a control system concurrently modifies the rate of boring tool displacement along the underground path while rotating the boring tool at the selected rotation rate. The controller monitors the rate at which liquid is pumped through the borehole and automatically adjusts the rate of displacement and/or the liquid flow rate so that sufficient liquid is flowing through the borehole to remove the cuttings and debris generated by the boring tool. Sensors are provided to sense pressure levels in the rotation, displacement, and liquid dispensing pumps and an electronic controller continuously monitors the levels detected by the sensors.

Abstract: An actively controlled rotary steerable drilling system for directional drilling of wells having a tool collar rotated by a drill string during well drilling. A bit shaft has an upper portion within the tool collar and a lower end extending from the collar and supporting a drill bit. The bit shaft is omni-directionally pivotally supported intermediate its upper and lower ends by a universal joint within the collar and is rotatably driven by the collar. To achieve controlled steering of the rotating drill bit, orientation of the bit shaft relative to the tool collar is sensed and the bit shaft is maintained geostationary and selectively axially inclined relative to the tool collar during drill string rotation by rotating it about the universal joint by an offsetting mandrel that is rotated counter to collar rotation and at the same frequency of rotation.

Abstract: The system and method for use with a drawworks having a rotatable drum on which a line is wound, wherein the drawworks and the line are used for facilitating movement of a load suspended on the line, includes a drawworks control system for monitoring and controlling the drawworks. A brake arrangement is connected to the rotatable drum for limiting the rotation of the rotatable drum and at least one electrical motor is connected to the rotatable drum for driving the rotatable drum. A load signal representative of the load on the line is produced and a calculated torque value based on the load signal and electrical motor capacity is provided. The drawworks control system provides a signal representative of the calculated torque value to the electrical motor wherein pre-torquing is generated in the electrical motor in response to the signal.

Abstract: A drilling device comprises a drive motor (22), which sets a tool (36) in rotation, and a feed motor (14) which axially displaces the tool. Load sensors (12, 18, 20, 24) detect not only the tool feedrate (V) but also at least two of the three parameters, tool feed force (F), tool torque (M) and tool speed (U). An evaluation and control unit (70) evaluates the above-mentioned parameters and via control units (38, 42) activates the drive motor (22) and the feed motor (14) in such a way that the tool feed force (F) and the tool speed (U) or the tool torque (M) assume values at which the tool feedrate (V) for a specific ground hardness (H) is maximized.

Abstract: A method of and system for optimizing bit rate of penetration while drilling substantially continuously determines an optimum weight on bit necessary to achieve an optimum bit rate of penetration based upon measured conditions and maintains weight on bit at the optimum weight on bit. As measured conditions change while drilling, the method updates the determination of optimum weight on bit.

Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for drilling with impregnated diamond drill bits in which the drill bit (30) automatically continues cutting. The speed of a drilling device (3) along a feed device (2) is determined, and the measured value is used for continuously controlling the feed cylinder (10) and a flushing medium pump (29) such that a substantially constant feed rate is achieved while simultaneously maintaining the rotational speed of the drill bit (30) within predetermined limits.

Abstract: A downhole tool for providing a thrust force to an elongate body extending in a borehole formed in an earth formation is provided. The tool comprises at least one rotatable body provided with a plurality of rollers, each roller being expandable against the borehole wall at a selected contact force between the roller and the borehole wall. The rollers are oriented when expanded against the borehole wall so as to roll along a helical path on the borehole wall, and a motor is provided to rotate each rotatable body. The tool further comprises a device to measure the thrust force provided by the tool and a control system to control the thrust force provided by the tool by regulating the rotative torque of the rotatable body, in response to the measured thrust force.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling an underground boring machine during boring or reaming operations. A boring tool is displaced along an underground path while being rotated at a selected rate of rotation. In response to variations in underground conditions impacting boring tool progress along the underground path, a control system concurrently modifies the rate of boring tool displacement along the underground path while rotating the boring tool at the selected rotation rate. The controller monitors the rate at which liquid is pumped through the borehole and automatically adjusts the rate of displacement and/or the liquid flow rate so that sufficient liquid is flowing through the borehole to remove the cuttings and debris generated by the boring tool. Sensors are provided to sense pressure levels in the rotation, displacement, and liquid dispensing pumps and an electronic controller continuously monitors the levels detected by the sensors.

Abstract: An underground directional boring machine includes a frame and a drive mechanism slidably mounted on the frame. A drill string is coupled to the drive mechanism for rotation and longitudinal advancement and retraction. A drive assembly moves the drive mechanism along the frame. The drive assembly includes two hydraulic cylinders coupled to the drive mechanism and extending in opposite directions. Free ends of the hydraulic cylinders are releasably secured to the frame at any one of a plurality of positions along the length of the frame. Selective pressurization of the cylinders results in sequential movement of the drive mechanism along the frame by alternative extension and retraction of the cylinders.

Abstract: A control is provided for a drill head that is mounted on a drill mast. Hydraulic motors raise and lower the drill head and a hydraulically releasable brake holds the drill head in position on the mast. The control has a hoist line that connects the hydraulic motors to a source of hydraulic fluid under pressure. A brake release line is connected to the brake and a brake release valve normally connects the brake release to a tank. The brake release valve is electrically actuated to connect the brake release line to a source of hydraulic fluid under pressure to release the brake. A programmable logic controller with a memory storage controls the actuation of the brake release valve. A pressure transducer is connected to the hoist line and to the controller for providing a signal to the controller representative of the hoist line pressure and this signal is storable in the memory.

Abstract: In a preferably hydraulic control for a preferably hydraulically-driven earth boring mechanism, whereby a boring rod equipped with a boring tool is fed into and out of the earth with simultaneous rotation, the feed speed of the rod is regulated automatically in dependence on the rotational movement applied to the boring rod and/or on the feed force applied to the boring rod to optimize the speed of the boring process and to prevent overload damage to the boring rod, boring tool and other parts of the boring mechanism.

Abstract: A device for controlling weight on bit of a drilling assembly for drilling a borehole in an earth formation, is provided. The device includes a fluid passage for the drilling fluid flowing through the drilling assembly, and control means for controlling the flow resistance of drilling fluid in the passage in a manner that the flow resistance increases when the fluid pressure in the passage decreases and that the flow resistance decreases when the fluid pressure in the passage increases.

Abstract: Arrangement in a hydraulically operated rock drilling equipment comprising a feed motor (3), a percussion device (2), and a hydraulic pump (1) for feeding hydraulic fluid to the feed motor (3) and the percussion device (2). The arrangement comprises a pressure control valve (17) connected to be controlled on the basis of the control signal of the feed regulation valve (8) when starting the drilling so that when the value of the control signal is below a predetermined switching value, the pressure relief valve (18) is connected to the percussion pressure line (13) of the percussion device (2), and when the control signal exceeds the switching value, the pressure control valve (17) disconnects the pressure relief valve (18) from the percussion pressure line (13) and connects the pressure difference valve (20) in communication with the percussion pressure line (13).

Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling an underground boring machine during boring or reaming operations. A boring tool is displaced along an underground path while being rotated at a selected rate of rotation. In response to variations in underground conditions impacting boring tool progress along the underground path, a control system concurrently modifies the rate of boring tool displacement along the underground path while rotating the boring tool at the selected rotation rate. The controller monitors the rate at which liquid is pumped through the borehole and automatically adjusts the rate of displacement and/or the liquid flow rate so that sufficient liquid is flowing through the borehole to remove the cuttings and debris generated by the boring tool. Sensors are provided to sense pressure levels in the rotation, displacement, and liquid dispensing pumps and an electronic controller continuously monitors the levels detected by the sensors.

Abstract: Bit instrumentation and method for controlling drilling are disclosed that include multiple resistivity sensors 5B and accelerometer sensors 4 disposed within an insert portion 1B of the drill bit 1. The resistivity sensors have a beveled portion to provide an interference fit with a cavity formed within the insert portion 1B of the drill bit. Resistivity sensors 5B may be used to determine the motion of the bit 1 within the wellbore 106 including unstable bit operation such as bit whirling and bit tilting. As well, accelerometer sensors 4 may also be provided in conjunction with the resistivity sensors 5B to provide information concerning motion, accelerations and stresses applied to or within the drill bit 1.

Abstract: The present invention provides a drilling system for drilling a borehole. A motor continuously coupled to the drawworks may be utilized to raise and lower a drill stem to continuously control the weight on bit at a desired value. A second motor rotates the drill stem. A control circuit is coupled to both the motors and receives information from various sensors which includes information about the rate of penetration, weight on bit; hook load, and rotational speed of the drill bit. The control circuit controls the drawworks motor to control the drill stem motion in both directions. In one mode the a desired rate of penetration is maintained by controlling the weight on bit. In another mode, the control circuit causes the drilling to start at an initial rate of penetration and then it starts to vary the rate of penetration according to programmed instructions to optimize the drilling efficiency.

Abstract: A method of regulating drilling conditions applied to a given well bit comprises assaying the compressive strength of the formation in an interval to be drilled by said bit. Wear of critical bit structure of the same size and design as in said given bit and which structure has drilled material of approximately the same compressive strength as that so assayed, is analyzed along with respective drilling data for the worn structure. From said analysis, a power limit for the respective compressive strength, above which power limit excessive wear is likely to occur is determined. Drilling conditions, such as rotary speed and weight-on-bit, at which the given bit is operated are regulated to maintain a desired operating power less than or equal to the power limit. Where several feasible rotary speed/weight-on-bit combinations may result in the desired operating power, these conditions are optimized.

Abstract: A method and a system suited for controlling the behavior of a drill bit includes an additional resistant torque added to the torque about the drill bit so that the overall torque about the drill bit is an increasing function of the rotary speed of the bit. The system includes control means suited for creating an additional resistant torque about the bit.

Abstract: Electrodes are provided in a drill bit, or alternatively, in a coring bit, to measure variations in formation resistivity surrounding an earth borehole. Three orthoganal accelerometers are also provided in the drill bit, or in the coring bit, to monitor the dynamic behavior of the bit as functions of radial, axial and tangential accelerations.

Abstract: An automated burner system for channeling a mineral body consisting of a burner staff carrying a burner at one end, a guide shaft adapted to carry the burner staff for reciprocating motion, a support shaft adapted to mount the guide shaft for oscillating motion, and a carriage adapted to carry said support shaft. A carrying frame is provided to carry the carriage for longitudinal movement. A first drive provides positive reciprocal movement of the burner staff, a second drive provides positive oscillating movement for the guide shaft and the burner staff, and a third drive provides positive longitudinal movement of the carriage along the carrying frame. An electronic control is connected with the first, second and third drives. The electronic control includes a repeating program which controls the burner staff to move a desired distance in each direction of reciprocal movement, the burner staff to oscillate at a prescribed angle and through a prescribed length of oscillation.

Abstract: A tool for connection in a wellbore drill string for maintaining penetration of a drilling bit attached to the drill string when the drill string becomes stuck or hung up during drilling operations. The tool has a telescoping outer member and inner member which form an annular chamber between them which contains a plurality of springs that are selected to provide a desired amount of contraction of the tool when a predetermined axial compressive load is applied through the tool to the drilling bit. The tool also includes interlocking splines on the outer member and the inner member which inhibit rotational movement of the outer member and inner member relative to each other, and the chamber is filled with hydraulic fluid which is pressurized to the hydrostatic pressure of the wellbore adjacent the tool by a floating piston which is movably located in the chamber. In operation, the tool contracts when an axial compressive load is applied through the tool during drilling operations.

Abstract: An automatic drilling system regulates the drill string of a drilling rig in response to any one of, any combination of, or all of drilling fluid pressure, bit weight, drill string torque, and drill string RPM to achieve an optimal rate of bit penetration. The automatic drilling system includes a drilling fluid pressure sensor, a bit weight sensor, a drill string torque sensor, and a drill string RPM sensor which deliver a drilling fluid pressure signal, a bit weight signal, a drill string torque signal, and a drill string RPM signal to a drilling fluid pressure regulator, a bit weight regulator, a drill string torque regulator, and a drill string RPM regulator. The regulators control a drill string controller in response to the above signals so that it manipulates the drilling rig to release the drill string at a rate which maintains the maximum rate of bit penetration.

Abstract: A rotary blasthole drilling apparatus comprises a rotary blasthole drill and a drill automation control system. The apparatus includes a pull-down motor and a drill motor. The pull-down motor is driven by a pump to provide a pull-down force to a drill string, and the drill motor is used to provide rotary force to rotate a drill bit of the drill string. The drill automation control system includes a number of functional components including a user interface. Through the user interface, an operator sets a rotary torque set point that determines an amount of torque applied to the drill bit by the drill motor. The control system further includes a detector, for detecting pressure in the pump during a drilling operation, and a processor, which is operative under the control of a program stored therein and responsive to the rotary torque set point and signals from the pull-down pressure sensor for generating an error signal.

Abstract: A method for optimizing rock drilling, wherein the drilling is adjusted by means of one or more adjustable parameters such as the feed rate and the rotation rate. In the method, a set value (H.sub.s) of each adjustable parameter is deviated in accordance with a sinusoidal curve while integrating a change caused by the deviation in the penetration rate (x) and adding it to the set value (H.sub.s) so that the set value (H.sub.s) shifts closer to an optimum penetration rate (x.sub.opt).

Abstract: A blasthole drill is provided with sensors for sensing the pressure (AP) applied to and through a drill bit to convey cuttings from the drill hole, the rate of rotation (N) of the drill bit, the torque (RT) required to rotate the bit, the force (FB) applied axially to the bit and the instantaneous vertical position (Y) of the bit. Output signals from the sensors are applied to a microprocessor-based controller which computes the penetration of the drill bit per revolution of the bit (P/R) and the rock specific fracture energy (Es). Using the sensed values and the computed values, the controller produces output signals to increment/decrement the force (FB) applied axially to the drill. The applied axial force is controlled such that the penetration of the bit per revolution remains substantially constant for a given range of values of the rock specific fracture energy but varies for different ranges of the rock specific fracture energy. The rate of rotation of the drill bit is controlled to a reference value.

Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for automatically controlling the direction of advance of a rotary drill to produce a borehole profile substantially as preplanned with minimal curvature while maintaining optimum drilling performance. The preferred embodiment of the system comprises a drill string; a drill bit; an appropriate motor for rotating said drill bit; a data processing system for storing a planned path; sensors for obtaining information for providing a profile of a drilled path of the borehole; a data processing system for comparing the drilled path with the planned path and for generating a correction signal representing the difference between the drilled path and the planned path; and a control system responsive to the correction signal to cause the drill string to follow a corrected path to cause the drilled borehole to coincide with the planned path.

Abstract: An apparatus comprising a rotatable tool having a drill head and a method for regulating the penetration of the apparatus in rock or soil are disclosed. In particular, the apparatus and method of the invention are designed to prevent damage to drill bits mounted on the drill head when any one of the drill bits encounters an excessive opposing force as, for example, would result if the drill bits impacted a rock when drilling in soil. The apparatus includes mechanism for detecting the excessive force acting on one or more drill bits and automatically restricts the driving force which moves the tool forward.

Abstract: A rotary blasthole drilling apparatus comprises a rotary blasthole drill and a drill automation control system. The apparatus includes a pull-down motor and a drill motor. The pull-down motor is driven by a pump to provide a pull-down force to a drill string, and the drill motor is used to provide rotary force to rotate a drill bit of the drill string. The drill automation control system includes a number of functional components including a user interface. Through the user interface, an operator sets a rotary torque set point that determines an amount of torque applied to the drill bit by the drill motor. The control system further includes a detector, for detecting pressure in the pump during a drilling operation, and a processor, which is operative under the control of a program stored therein and responsive to the rotary torque set point and signals from the pull-down pressure sensor for generating an error signal.

Abstract: A method of controlling a rock drilling process by adjusting the percussion power and the feed force of a drilling machine. In the method, the drilling is carried out automatically in stages so that the percussion power and the feed force as well as drilling time or drilling depth are adjusted at a start-up drilling stage, and the ratio between the percussion power and the feed force is adjusted at a transition stage while increasing them until the set value of normal drilling is achieved. In normal drilling, the feed force is adjusted so that the rotation power remains at the set value.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for actuating one or more downhole well tools carried by a production or workstring conduit having an imperforate wall and for blocking fluid communication between an activating fluid body and a second fluid source within said well across dynamic seals between actuating members of the well tool, by producing selective signals through the conduit wall detectable by a member to produce an activating signal for actuating the downhole well tool by a downhole energy source.

Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for controlling the direction of advance of a rotary drill to produce a borehole profile substantially as preplanned with minimal curvature while maintaining optimum drilling performance. The preferred embodiment of the system comprises a drill string, a rotatable drill bit carried on said drill string, and a compliant subassembly in said drill string, said compliant subassembly facilitating changes in the direction of drilling of said borehole. The system further comprises a plurality of sensors for measuring strains within the compliant subassembly and for producing data signals corresponding to the strain measurements. A control system is operable to use the data signals to change the direction of the borehole by applying a shear force to the drill bit.

Abstract: Mining apparatus is disclosed in which a cutting wheel supporting a plurality of roller-cutters rotates about a horizontal axis and is supported on a slewing boom for cutting a tunnel with a flat floor and roof and elliptical walls as it slews across a mining face. The slewing boom is supported on a main beam assembly, the front end of which rests on powered crawler tracks and the rear end of which passes through a gripper assembly which may be clamped between the floor and roof of the tunnel, and against which the main beam assembly may be urged forward for engaging the roller-cutters with the mining face. A preload crawler is urged against the roof of the tunnel above the powered crawler tracks to locate the main beam assembly rigidly relative to the tunnel such that the roller-cutters may cut the rock in the mining face with minimal loss of cutting force due to vibration.

Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for automatically controlling the direction of advance of a rotary drill to produce a borehole profile substantially as preplanned with minimal curvature while maintaining optimum drilling performance. The system is capable of storing a planned path for the borehole. Information relating to the profile of the actual drill path is compared to the planned path and an appropriate correction signal is generated and used to cause the borehole to be drilled in accordance with the planned path.

Abstract: The drill rate calculator is used to test seeds per acre population settings for agricultural grain drills. The improvement is comprised of five parts. The two positioning springs are attached to the seed metering cup mounting bolts, and generally are not removed after completed tests. The base cone, which has detents on each side for positioning, confines measured seed to a particular seed metering cup. The seed measuring tube has predetermined seed measuring lines strategically located above a base line from which all measurements begin and test results are determined. A top funnel is used to assist in filling.

Abstract: A device for guiding a drilling tool into a well and for exerting a hydraulic force on the drilling tool includes a tubular body and an outer sleeve rotating about the body and longitudinally displaceable with respect to the body. Also, the device includes radially displaceable pistons, in an extension position, that come into anchoring engagement with the wall of the well and immobilize the external sleeve, as well as a jack to displace the body and the drilling tool integral therewith with respect to the external sleeve and to exert a pushing force onto the tool. Hydraulic circuits and appropriate control assembly are also provided for controlling the execution of a series of successive cycles of anchoring of the external sleeve in the well and of displacement of the drilling tool with respect to the external sleeve.

Abstract: A control system for a hydraulic percussion mechanism (6) is based on the continuous measurement of the striking rate (z) of the striking piston, or on the continuous measurement of the striking rate (z) of the striking piston together with the quantity per unit time (Q.sub.e) of the hydraulic driving medium coming into the percussion mechanism (6). One, or possibly both, of these parameters is measured from outside the percussion mechanism itself. The control system is configured in such a way that the internal resistance of the percussion mechanism or the hydraulic pump which powers it is increased if there is an increase in the striking rate (z) or the ratio z/Q of the striking rate to the incoming stream rate beyond respective limit values.

Abstract: A telescoping drill has a base, a guideway displaceable longitudinally forwardly and rearwardly on the base, a guideway actuator braced between the guideway and the base and energizable for longitudinal forward displacement of the guideway on the base, a guideway source of energy connected to the guideway actuator for longitudinally forwardly displacing the guideway on the base, a drill carriage displaceable longitudinally on the guideway between a front position and a rear position, a drill actuator braced between the drill carriage and the guideway for longitudinal forward displacement of the carriage on the guideway, and a drill source of energy independent of the guideway energy source and connected to the drill actuator for longitudinally forwardly displacing the drill carriage on the guideway. A sensor detects when the drill carriage is in the rear position.

Abstract: A rock drill has a normally stationary base, a support movable longitudinally on the base forward toward and backward away from a rock face adjacent the base and having a part engageable forwardly with the face, a base actuator braced longitudinally between the base and the support for longitudinally moving the support on the base and for pressing the part of the support forward against the face with a predetermined anchoring force, a drill movable longitudinally on the support and having a drilling tool engageable in the face for drilling a longitudinal hole therein, and a drill actuator braced longitudinally between the drill and the support for longitudinally moving the drill on the support and for pressing the drilling tool longitudinally forward against the face adjacent the part with a predetermined drilling force. A pressure detector or sensor is provided on the part for producing an actual-value output corresponding to the reaction force or pressure exerted axially backward on the support by the face.

Abstract: An automated burner for channelling a mineral body, including, a guide shaft assembly having a guide shaft adapted to receive a burner staff for reciprocal movement. A first drive means is connected to the burner staff and is operative to reciprocally move the staff through a positive stroke in one direction and a gravity urged stroke in the opposite direction. A first control means is associated with the first drive means to reverse the direction of the reciprocal movement upon completion of positive stroke, upon completion of a gravity urged stroke and upon premature cessation of a gravity urged stroke. A second drive means connected to the guide shaft to impart oscillating motion thereto. So that the burner head is moved with a simultaneous reciprocating and oscillating movement through controlled cycles.

Abstract: A drilling method and apparatus for directional drilling of a borehole. The apparatus includes a retrievably mounted downhole monitor for sensing parameters of the drill rod to which a drill bit is attached. A bent-sub is connected with said drill rod behind the drill bit to position the drill bit to extend angularly with respect to the drill rod. An actuator such as a hydraulic ram is provided for exerting thrust along the axis of the drill rod on said drill bit. The drill rod and drill bit is not rotated with the use of a downhole motor. Based upon the signals received from the downhole monitor, the drill rod and bit are pulsed to effect the desired trajectory of the drilling.

Abstract: An earth boring apparatus is illustrated including an engine and an earth boring string wherein a hydraulic clutch driven by the engine is supplied with hydraulic fluid through an electrically operated valve controlled by a manually operated trigger so that release of the trigger resulting from a torque as may be occasioned by encountering a rock or other obstruction interrupts manual operation of the trigger disabling the clutch.

Abstract: In a rotary drilling apparatus, a rotary head is advanced against an object to be drilled and a neck element included in the rotary head and connected with drilling member is rotated around its longitudinal axis relative to a rotary head body. The neck element is subjected, in a normal drilling situation to the action of two oppositely-directed forces produced by means of a pressure medium, the first force acting in the drilling direction and the second force acting in the direction opposite to the drilling direction, the first force being greater and the difference between the forces producing a feeding force. The neck element is movable in the direction of the feeding force. In a drilling situation, when the force acting in the direction opposite to the feeding force is greater than the feeding force, the neck element moves in the direction opposite to the drilling direction relative to the rotary head body.

Abstract: A motion compensation system is provided for use on a drilling vessel that is subject to heaving due to wave action, and wherein a motion compensator associated with a derrick supports a drill string that extends from the vessel downwardly through the seabed and into a drilled hole in the sub-sea formation, the system including a first encoder for sensing vertical motion of the vessel, due to sea heaving, and for producing an electrical signal that varies in response to such sensing, a device on the vessel for producing hydraulic fluid displacement corresponding to variations of the signal, and an hydraulic fluid responsive manipulator in the form of an actuator or actuators carried by the derrick for lifting and lowering the compensator in correspondence to such hydraulic fluid displacement, thereby to maintain the drill string substantially motionless, vertically.