Class Definition for Class 175 - BORING OR PENETRATING THE EARTH

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CLASS 175,	BORING OR PENETRATING THE EARTH
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SECTION I - CLASS DEFINITION

A. This class relates to processes and means for initially forming or radially enlarging an elongated hole in the earth in situ by dislocating the solid material of the earth.

1. The means forming the hole is of the type which advances inwardly into the earth from the point at which the earth is pierced and acts on the entire peripheral extent of the hole as it advances.

2. Dislocating of the earth formation may be achieved by any action, such as disintegrating, compacting, chipping, cutting, severing, splitting, spalling, piercing, burning, decomposing or eroding, for example, so long as the purpose is to form a hole.

B. This class also takes tools not elsewhere classified specifically described as for forming bores in masonry, concrete, cement, glass or similar materials having a brittle frangible character similar to rock.

C. This class is also the locus for below ground impact connections. Such devices, commonly called "Jars" are defined as a means forming a lost motion connection in a shaft or cable, and are provided with impacting faces which are described as generating a blow to be delivered to some device connected to the rod or cable and located in a hole in the earth. Combinations involving below ground impact connection and a specifically claimed art device which forms subject matter for another class will be found in such other class.

However, the combination of the below ground impact connection and a specific joint for joining the shaft or cable to an art device which forms subject matter for another class is classifiable in Class 175.

D. This class includes subject matter relating to devices for firing a bullet or exploding a shaped charge from an inaccessible hole to penetrate the formation (See Subclass References to the Current Class, below.). Also included are such devices which are limited by disclosure to perforating or cutting a casing or other hole lining in an inaccessible hole but which would inherently function to direct a bullet or charge in the same manner as a formation cutter or perforator.

SECTION II - LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS

RELATIONSHIP TO CLASS 166, WELLS

Classes 166 and 175 are very closely related since the majority of the wells classifiable in Class 166 are made by the processes or apparatus of Class 175 and much of the apparatus of Class 166 used in operating wells is also useful in operating Class 175 apparatus. In view of this fact, the general lines between these two classes are different with respect to processes and apparatus.

A. Process

Processes of making, using or treating a well which as a whole are more comprehensive than an earth boring or penetrating process and which include a step of earth boring or penetrating, which step alone would be classifiable in the processes of Class 175, are classified in the appropriate process subclasses of Class 166, except as noted below.

A well fluid sampling process including a step of earth boring or penetrating is classifiable in Class 166, unless a step of sampling the earth formation solids is included in such a fluid sampling process, then classification is in Class 175. (See Subclass References to the Current Class, below.)

Generally, processes of cementing a well are classified in Class 166 while processes of boring the earth with fluid containing a plugging or cementing type constituent are classified in Class 175. Also see References to Other Classes, below, for the reference to Class 166.

Processes for cleaning the wall of a well or earth bore in which the material being removed has been deposited in the well are classified in Class 166. Processes in which the well bore is enlarged or acted upon to remove the natural solid earth formation (e.g., reaming), are classified in Class 175. In a process of cleaning a well bore which includes a step of drilling or boring, the step of the removal of the deposited material from the wall of a well or earth bore must be specifically recited in the claim to be classifiable in Class 166 since practically all drilling processes would inherently result in cleaning of the well bore.

Processes of casing or lining well bores are generally classifiable in Class 166 even though an earth boring step is claimed. However, drilling a well generally involves the use of a tubing, particularly in rotary drilling operations, which may in some instances be left in the bore to form a casing or lining. Therefore, a patent which claims in a boring process the formation of a cased or lined well by merely leaving the tubing or the like used in the boring operation in the well, will be classified in Class 175.

If, however, a drill tubing or shaft and a separate well lining or casing are specifically described, and steps are claimed of boring and lining or casing, classification will be in the processes of Class 166 even if the separate casing or lining is specifically described as including an earth cutting shoe and the step of cutting with the casing or lining is claimed.

B. Apparatus

In general, Class 175 is more comprehensive than Class 166 with respect to apparatus when an earth boring tool is claimed in combination with a well feature except as noted below.

Cutters specifically described as perforating or cutting well pipe in situ as defined in Class 166 are classified in such subclass even though such cutter may be incidentally described as also cutting the earth. For such cutters to be classified in Class 175, there must be a cutter element which is specifically described as a rock or earth cutting element in addition to the pipe cutter and such earth cutting element must be claimed. However, devices for firing a bullet or exploding a shaped charge to perforate or cut well pipe in situ are classified in Class 175 even though the disclosure is limited to perforating or cutting casing or a wall member in a bore if the device inherently functions to form a bore in the earth formation.

A lateral probe extending from a tubular well member to engage and penetrate the earth formation to form a fluid passage is classified in Class 166. If the probe removes any of the earth formation, for a sample or otherwise, classification will be in Class 175. See Subclass References to the Current Class, below.

Class 166 is more comprehensive than Class 175 when an earth boring tool is not claimed; Class 166 taking subcombinations of Class 175 subject matter, such as a below ground impact connection claimed in combination with a well feature.

RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER CLASSES WHICH INCLUDE SUBJECT MATTER CLOSELY RELATED TO CLASS 175.

A. Processes

Processes for forming a hole in stone or a stone like substance which has been previously removed from its relative position, and processes for precious stone working are classified elsewhere. (See References to Other Classes, below.)

Processes of forming holes in the earth for agricultural purposes such as, for example, aerating the soil are classified elsewhere. (See References to Other Classes, below.)

Processes for forming openings in the earth while recovering in desirable sizes or shapes a valuable material which naturally occurs in the solid state are classified elsewhere. However, merely forming a hole in valuable material for a purpose other than recovery of the material removed, such as to form a hole to receive a blasting charge or for ventilation is classified in Class 175. Disintegrating hard material in situ where the area worked is of larger surface extent than the working extent of the tool, and forming a large horizontal opening in the earth by following a cutting means into an opening with a horizontally operating vehicle support therefor is elsewhere. (See References to Other Classes, below.)

methods and apparatus for installing water or earth control structures or piles or the like in the earth which may include a hole forming step or means are classified elsewhere as are methods or apparatus for forming an underground fluid storage cavity, or a shaft or tunnel, which go beyond merely removing the material to form the hole. However, boring generally involves the use of tubing, and such tubing may, in some instances, be left in the bore to form a cased hole which may be described as a shaft, tunnel, or conduit for fluid, etc. Therefore, a patent which claims in a boring process, the formation of a cased or lined hole by merely leaving the tubing or the like used in the boring operation in the hole, will be classified in Class 175. (See References to Other Classes, below.)

Processes where boring or penetrating the earth is employed as part of a process within the Class 588 definition. (See References to Other Classes, below.)

B. Tool driving or impacting;

Means to drive or impact a tool, when such means includes combined features, such as driving and advancing, driving and cleansing or specific impact relationship to a tool, but which means is not limited to specific art use are elsewhere. Class 175 includes combinations of such means with means such as the specific structure of the work contacting portion of a tool, a fluid head adapted to engage a bore entrance, or a bore wall engaging guide or packer on a shaft being used in a boring operation. Class 175 also provides for below ground impacting devices comprising lost motion connectings as described in C, Tools, below, even when such impacting devices are not combined with any other specific feature for Class 175. (See References to Other Classes, below.)

C. Tools

Class 175 takes the terminal or work performing element for forming a bore in the earth which is generically called a tool, and includes bits, nozzles, drive points, heaters, etc., and analogous and similar tools elsewhere provided for are noted as follows:

Tools for boring gem stones, and also the combination of a tool for boring stone or stone-like material when the tool is claimed in combination with a work support or work holder are elsewhere as are sawing or splitting tools for working blocks of stone and stone-like materials, and for stone surface working tools and miscellaneous stone working tools (e.g., miners picks). (See References to Other Classes, below.)

Tools for boring or penetrating into the earth, when the boring is done to recover valuable cuttings from a borehole in desirable size or shape, and also includes earth boring or penetrating tools which are specifically described as being adapted to follow a boring movement with a lateral movement relative to the surface of a hard material which is being worked to form a channel or kerf are elsewhere. However, Class 175 takes such channeling cutters which are described as functioning completely below the surface of the earth in an inaccessible hole. Apparatus for forming a large horizontal passageway into the earth by continuously advancing a cutting device by means of a horizontally operating vehicle which forms a passageway as the vehicle follows the cutting means into and along the passageway are elsewhere. (See References to Other Classes, below.)

Rotary boring bits not otherwise classifiable are elsewhere. (See References to Other Classes, below.)

Soft earth removing tools such as ditchers, dredgers and clam shells, which are adapted to form a hole of greater peripheral extent than the tool by lateral movement which may or may not follow a boring advance, or by repeated laterally displaced excavatory grabs are elsewhere. (See References to Other Classes, below.)

A tool which is provided with a cutting edge adapted for boring or penetrating into the earth, but which is solely disclosed as for boring into the earth around a living plant for the purpose of removing the plant from the earth as the tool is extracted, is classified in the appropriate agricultural or material handling class.

A tool such as a drive point or nozzle which assists in the placement or construction of an earth embedded structure and forms part of the completed structure is classified in the appropriate building art.

A device which is disclosed as a tool to bore or penetrate the earth by directly applying heat to fluidize or comminute, but which is merely a heater of general utility (e.g., does not claim bit elements, drilling fluid discharge port, etc.), is classified in the appropriate heating class.

In the References to Other Classses, below, search notes to classes which provide for processes for boring or penetrating the earth, or apparatus or processes relating to subject matter which is described for use in connection with a process or apparatus for boring or penetrating the earth, including a statement of the line with the most closely related classes.

SECTION III - SUBCLASS REFERENCES TO THE CURRENT CLASS

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:

2+,	for subject matter relating to devices for firing a bullet or exploding a shaped charge from an inaccessible hole to penetrate the formation.
2+,	for a mechanical earth boring means or step combined with an explosive means or step ancillary to the boring.
59,	for a step of sampling earth formation solids.
65+,	for processes of boring the earth with fluid containing a plugging or cementing type constituent.
77,	78 and 79+. A lateral probe extending from a tubular well member to engage and penetrate the earth formation to form a fluid passage is classified elsewhere. If the probe removes any of the earth formation, for a sample or otherwise, classification will be in this class (175).
90,	for channeling cutters which are described as functioning completely below the surface of the earth in an inaccessible hole.
327+,	for the definition of "bit."

SECTION IV - REFERENCES TO OTHER CLASSES

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:

29,	Metal Working, appropriate subclasses for metal working apparatus and processes of mechanical manufacture, and particularly subclasses 95+ for cutters for metal working. Class 29 takes a cutter for use in a bore hole where the sole disclosed use of the cutter is to mill away metallic objects in a bore hole.
33,	Geometrical Instruments, subclasses 302 and 304+ for methods of and apparatus for indicating borehole direction by utilizing forces such as terrestrial gravitation or magnetism.
37,	Excavating, appropriate subclasses for processes and apparatus for making an opening in the earth by the removal or displacement of material. The line between Class 37 and Class 175 being generally related to the peripheral extent of the opening at the surface of the earth. Class 37 taking subject matter relating to forming an opening wherein the periphery of said opening greatly exceeds the cross-sectional area of the tool or cutting organization. (Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Relationship to Other Classes" ).
37,	Excavating, for soft earth removing tools such as ditchers, dredgers and clam shells, which are adapted to form a hole of greater peripheral extent than the tool by lateral movement which may or may not follow a boring advance, or by repeated laterally displaced excavatory grabs. (Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Relationship to Other Classes" ).
52,	Static Structures (e.g., Buildings), subclass 40 for a shaft or tower merely holding a named article or support means, subclasses 111+ for mechanism operated or relatively movable shaft, e.g., a tower, subclasses 155+ for land anchors, subclasses 651.01+ for three-dimensional openwork, e.g., a mast, subclasses 720.1+ for a residual elongated structural unit.
60,	Power Plants, appropriate subclasses for power plants and motors of the type provided for in Class 60 for operating earth boring or penetrating means. The nominal recitation of an earth boring or penetrating load (e.g., boring tool) will not preclude classification in Class 60.
73,	Measuring and Testing, appropriate subclasses and particularly subclasses 152.01+ for a nominal drilling step or apparatus combined with a step or apparatus for measuring or testing.
74,	Machine Element or Mechanism, appropriate subclasses for mechanical movements, gearing, and elements provided for therein which are described for use in earth boring or penetrating apparatus.
76,	Metal Tools and Implements, Making, appropriate subclasses, and particularly subclass 102 and 108 for blanks and processes for making drilling tools. Patents including claims to blanks or processes for making drills and claims to the drill as an article of manufacture are classified with the article in Class 175.
81,	Tools, appropriate subclasses for tools for connecting elements of boring means and particularly subclasses 53+ for wrenches.
89,	Ordnance, appropriate subclass for a expelled projectile or firing control of general utility.
91,	Motors: Expansible Chamber Type, appropriate subclass for an expansible chamber fluid motor, including such a motor for operating an earth boring means.
92,	Expansible Chamber Devices, appropriate subclass for an expansible chamber device, including such device which may be described as used in operating an earth boring means.
95,	Gas Separation: Processes, for processes of gas separation, particularly subclasses 241+ for degasification of liquid.
96,	Gas Separation: Apparatus, for apparatus for gas separation, particularly subclasses 155+ for degasifying means for liquid.
102,	Ammunition and Explosives, appropriate subclass for a process of apparatus relating to an explosive charge of general utility and particularly subclasses 301+ for blasting and well torpedoes. Class 175 provides for subject matter for extending or enlarging a bore or perforating a formation from an inaccessible hole or penetrating a casing or other wall member in an inaccessible hole by means of a gun or shaped charge device which would inherently penetrate the formation. However, Class 102 provides for subject matter relating to merely causing an explosion in a hole where such explosion is not directed in a particular manner relating to a shaped charge or cartridge, per se. Also, Class 102 includes blasting of general utility to break up earth formation, even though mechanical earth boring steps or means to position the charge are included. However, a mechanical earth boring means or step combined with an explosive means or step ancillary to the boring is classifiable in Class 175. See Subclass References to the Current Class, above.
111,	Planting, appropriate subclasses for agricultural type planting including a step or means for boring or penetrating the earth combined with depositing an object in the bore (usually a seed or living plant).
123,	Internal-Combustion Engines, appropriate subclasses for internal-combustion engines and including such engines for operating earth boring means.
125,	Stone Working, appropriate subclasses for processes and apparatus for working stone and stone-like material, which is not in situ in the earth. Boring or penetrating tools which are described for working materials (e.g., glass, ceramics, concrete) which are not normally in situ will, nevertheless, be classified in Class 175 if the claims are limited to the boring tool. (Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Relationship to Other Classes").
125,	Stone Working, for processes for forming a hole in stone or a stone like substance which has been previously removed from its relative position, and for processes for precious stone working. (Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Relationship to Other Classes").
125,	Stone Working, provides for tools for boring gem stones, and also the combination of a tool for boring stone or stone-like material when the tool is claimed in combination with a work support or work holder. Class 125 also provides for sawing or splitting tools for working blocks of stone and stone-like materials, and for stone surface working tools and miscellaneous stone working tools (e.g., miners picks). (Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Relationship to Other Classes").
137,	Fluid Handling, appropriate subclasses for fluid handling means and including such means for use in earth boring apparatus.
138,	Pipes and Tubular Conduits, for pipe structure of general utility.
144,	Woodworking, for apparatus for boring wood including wood (e.g., trees) which may be in situ in the earth.
166,	Wells, appropriate subclasses for processes and apparatus including steps or means for making or operating wells. The line between Class 166 and Class 175 is set forth in Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, in this class definition.
166,	Wells, subclasses 285+ for processes of cementing a well. The line between Class 166 and Class 175, when cementing or boring with fluid is concerned, is set forth in Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class in the class definition of Class 166 and the definition of subclass 285+ of the same class. (Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Relationship to Class 166, Wells") .
166,	Wells, subclass 55 for cutters specifically described as perforating or cutting well pipe in situ and subclass 100 for a lateral probe extending from a tubular well member to engage and penetrate the earth formation to form a fluid passage. (Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Relationship to Class 166, Wells").
171,	Unearthing Plants or Buried Objects, appropriate subclasses for processes or apparatus for unearthing buried objects which may include boring steps or means.
172,	Earth Working, for processes or means for working the earth, and particularly subclass 21 for earth perforators. (Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Relationship to Other Classes").
172,	Earth Working, for processes of forming holes in the earth for agricultural purposes such as, for example, aerating the soil. (Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Relationship to Other Classes").
173,	Tool Driving or Impacting, appropriate subclass for subject matter directed to driving or impacting a tool, when such subject matter includes combined features peculiar to tool driving, but which does not include features limiting the subject matter to a specific tool art, such as specific shape of the work contacting portion of a tool, related tools, or an opposed work support. (Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Relationship to Other Classes").
173,	Tool Driving or Impacting, for means to drive or impact a tool, when such means includes combined features, such as driving and advancing, driving and cleansing or specific impact relationship to a tool, but which means is not limited to specific art use. Class 175 includes combinations of such means with means such as the specific structure of the work contacting portion of a tool, a fluid head adapted to engage a bore entrance, or a bore wall engaging guide or packer on a shaft being used in a boring operation. Class 175 also provides for below ground impacting devices comprising lost motion connectings as described in Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, C, Tools, above, even when such impacting devices are not combined with any other specific feature for Class 175. (Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Relationship to Other Classes").
174,	Electricity: Conductors and Insulators, appropriate subclasses for a combined tool shaft and electrical conductor, and particularly subclass 47 for a combined fluid conduit and electrical conductor.
185,	Motors: Spring, Weight, and Animal Powered, for animal, spring, or weight powered devices which may be used for operating boring means.
188,	Brakes, particularly subclass 67 for a brake (e.g., a clasp) mechanically connected to a relatively stationary structure and which holds a pipe or rod at various locations along the pipe"s or rod"s length for short, quick linear assembly or disassembly during a work or manufacturing operation, or preparation to a working operation done by the pipe, rod, or a pipe supported tool.
209,	Classifying, Separating, and Assorting Solids, appropriate subclasses for processes and apparatus for selectively separating solids from solids including solids in drilling fluids.
210,	Liquid Purification or Separation, appropriate subclasses for processes or apparatus for separating a material from a fluid including a drilling fluid.
248,	Supports, appropriate subclasses, and particularly subclasses 637+ for machinery supports. The inclusion of a nominal boring means in a claim does not preclude classification in Class 248.
250,	Radiant Energy, subclass 254 for methods and apparatus where a nominal drill apparatus or drilling step combined with a geological invisible radiation test, or earth formation or well material irradiation method or apparatus, and subclasses 256+ for methods and apparatus to detect or utilize invisible radiation to test material in or about a well.
251,	Valves and Valve Actuation, appropriate subclasses for valve means including valves for use in earth boring.
254,	Implements or Apparatus for Applying Pushing or Pulling Force, appropriate subclasses including means to advance or retract a boring means.
277,	Seal for a Joint or Juncture, for a generic sealing means or process, subclasses 322+ for a seal for a well apparatus, subclasses 358+ for a relatively rotatable radially extending sealing face member (e.g., face, mechanical, etc.) or subclasses 500+ or a dynamic circumferential contact seal for other than a piston.
279,	Chucks or Sockets, appropriate subclasses, including chucks and sockets for drilling tools, and particularly subclass 20 for a socket type, fluid conducting, drill holding chuck. The inclusion of details of the portion of the boring tool that cooperates with the chuck or socket does not preclude classification in Class 279. However, claims reciting plural boring tool elements which are simultaneously received in a chuck or socket are classified in Class 175.
285,	Pipe Joints or Couplings, appropriate subclasses including pipe joints or couplings for earth boring or penetrating means, and particularly for joints or couplings for tool shafts. The nominal recitation of one joint or coupling member as being a boring tool does not preclude classification in Class 285.
294,	Handling: Hand and Hoist-Line Implements, subclasses 49+ for hand type, nonrotary tools for boring post holes, and subclasses 86.1+ for grapples for removing or placing earth boring tools and other objects from or into a borehole and particularly subclass 86.34 for a means for retrieving a stuck object from a borehole combined with a means to remove material from around the stuck object, which means may include a nominally claimed earth boring bit, though if specific structure of a cutting edge for earth boring is claimed, classification is in Class 175. The term "stuck object" does not include a core of earth material. A core removing means is classifiable in Class 175 even if an earth boring feature is only nominally claimed. In the absence of an earth boring feature, a grapple for retrieving a core is classifiable in Class 294, subclasses 86.1+. As between Class 294 and Class 175, generally any claiming of an earth boring feature causes classification in Class 175, except for the subject matter of Class 294, subclass 86.34. Hand type, post hole boring tools which are described as being rotated in forming a hole are classified in Class 175.
299,	Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material, for processes for forming openings in the earth while recovering in desirable sizes or shapes a valuable material which naturally occurs in the solid state. However, merely forming a hole in valuable material for a purpose other than recovery of the material removed, such as to form a hole to receive a blasting charge or for ventilation is classified in Class 175. Class 299 further provides for disintegrating hard material in situ where the area worked is of larger surface extent than the working extent of the tool, and forming a large horizontal opening in the earth by following a cutting means into an opening with a horizontally operating vehicle support therefore. (Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Relationship to Other Classes").
299,	Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material, provides for tools for boring or penetrating into the earth, when the boring is done to recover valuable cuttings from a borehole in desirable size or shape, and also includes earth boring or penetrating tools which are specifically described as being adapted to follow a boring movement with a lateral movement relative to the surface of a hard material which is being worked to form a channel or kerf. However, Class 175 takes such channeling cutters which are described as functioning completely below the surface of the earth in an inaccessible hole. Class 299 also takes apparatus for forming a large horizontal passageway into the earth by continuously advancing a cutting device by means of a horizontally operating vehicle which forms a passageway as the vehicle follows the cutting means into and along the passageway. (Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Relationship to Other Classes").
310,	Electrical Generator or Motor Structure, appropriate subclasses including an electric motor for operating an earth boring means, and which may be described as entering a bore hole.
318,	Electricity: Motive Power Systems, appropriate subclasses for electric motor power plants, and particularly subclass 39 for plural motors which may broadly be combined with feed and drive loads.
324,	Electricity: Measuring and Testing, subclasses 323+ for a step or means for measuring an electrical property of the formation. The combination of nominal earth boring steps or means and a step or means for measuring an electrical property of the formation is classified in Class 324.
340,	Communications: Electrical, subclasses 853.1+ for well bore electrical communications, including telemetering in a well bore.
367,	Communications, Electrical: Acoustic Wave Systems and Devices, subclasses 14+ for acoustic wave seismic prospecting systems; and subclasses 81+ for acoustic wave wellbore telemetering.
384,	Bearings, appropriate subclasses for bearing of general utility.
403,	Joints and Connections, appropriate subclasses for rod couplings or joints for earth boring means. The nominal inclusion of one joint or coupling member as being a boring tool does not preclude classification in this class (403).
404,	Road Structure, Process, or Apparatus, appropriate subclasses for (1) highway, pathway or walkway structure, per se; and (2) process and apparatus for making, installing, repairing or maintaining such structure where such structure, process or apparatus is not otherwise classifiable as either (a) specifically provided for in other loci or (b) of such general utility as to be provided for on that basis (See Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class in Class 404, class definition, for known collections of such nature and the particular lines of demarcation).
405,	Hydraulic and Earth Engineering, appropriate subclasses for the combination of an earth boring process or apparatus and a process step or apparatus classifiable in Class 405. In the process of installing hydraulic and earth engineering structure, Class 405 is clearly superior, a mere recitation in a process claim preamble (e.g., in a process of driving a pile) being sufficient to control classification. (Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Relationship to Other Classes").
405,	Hydraulic and Earth Engineering, for methods and apparatus for installing water or earth control structures or piles or the like in the earth which may include a hole forming step or means. Further, Class 405 provides for methods or apparatus for forming an underground fluid storage cavity, or a shaft or tunnel, which go beyond merely removing the material to form the hole. However, boring generally involves the use of tubing, and such tubing may, in some instances, be left in the bore to form a cased hole which may be described as a shaft, tunnel, or conduit for fluid, etc. Therefore, a patent which claims in a boring process, the formation of a cased or lined hole by merely leaving the tubing or the like used in the boring operation in the hole, will be classified in Class 175. (Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class"Relationship to Other Classes").
408,	Cutting by Use of Rotating Axially Moving Tool, appropriate subclasses for processes and apparatus for boring or reaming bores by a rotating tool, not elsewhere provided for. Class 408, for example, takes steps and means for boring or reaming bores solely in metallic objects even though the metallic object may be embedded in the earth, and boring bits which are described as equally well suited for boring rock, etc., and either wood or metal. (Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Relationship to Other Classes").
408,	Cutting by Use of Rotating Axially Moving Tool, is the generic home for rotary boring bits not otherwise classifiable. (Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Relationship to Other Classes").
414,	Material or Article Handling, for material handling of general utility, and particularly subclasses 22.51+ for a well pipe or rod including tool shaft racking mechanism.
415,	Rotary Kinetic Fluid Motors or Pumps, subclass 903 for a fluid motor disclosed as a well bit drive turbine.
417,	Pumps, appropriate subclasses for pumps for circulating drilling mud.
418,	Rotary Expansible Chamber Devices, appropriate subclasses for a rotary expansible chamber device, per se, or in combination with a nominally claimed Class 175 structure.
464,	Rotary Shafts, Gudgeons, Housings, and Flexible Couplings for Rotary Shafts, appropriate subclasses for rotary shafts and flexible shaft couplings for transmitting rotary drive to a boring tool; and particularly subclasses 18+ for a flexible coupling between fluid conducting rotary shaft; subclasses 163+ for a coupling between a rotary drive table and axially movable drill string; and subclass 183 for a hollow torque transmitting shaft.
507,	Earth Boring, Well Treating, and Oil Field Chemistry, subclasses 100+ for earth boring (e.g., drilling fluid) compositions. The inclusion of an inherent fluid handling step of; e.g., circulating fluid or injecting while boring, preparative step, or mixing, of a specific drilling fluid composition does not preclude classification in Class 507.
520,	Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers, appropriate subclasses, particularly Class 523, subclasses 130+ for a composition containing a synthetic resin or natural rubber having utility in sealing fissures or crevices in stone, rock, or other subterranean formations or in consolidating a formation in a well or in cementing a well or to processes of preparing said composition.
588,	Hazardous or Toxic Waste Destruction or Containment, subclasses 249 and 250 for processes where boring or penetrating the earth is employed as part of a process within the Class 588 definition. (Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, "Relationship to Other Classes").

SECTION V - GLOSSARY

ABOVE GROUND

The term "Above Ground" denotes any point which lies outside of a hole being formed in the earth, this may be either in the open (e.g., on the surface of the earth) or a cellar, tunnel or other hole in the earth from which a hole is being formed.

ADVANCE

Motion in a direction towards the desired depth or direction of a hole being formed.

BELOW GROUND

"Below Ground" denotes any point within a hole being formed in the earth from the point at which the earth is pierced by the means forming the hole.

BORE

The hole formed by the boring means. It is not limited to a vertically extending hole, but can extend at any angle into the earth.

BOREWALL

The wall which forms the periphery of a hole in the earth. In the case of a lined hole the inside wall of the lining constitutes a borewall for purposes of classification.

BORING MEANS

A combination of parts comprising an earth boring or drilling device. It may comprise merely a tool provided with a handle for manipulating the same to form a hole in the earth, or a complex combination of parts including above ground structure for supporting, feeding and driving a tool for boring a hole in the earth.

CASING

A tube which is introduced in a preformed bore and forms a lining for the bore.

CONVEYOR

A mechanical device for receiving and carrying cuttings, for example, it may consist of a simple chute for directing cuttings away from the bore entrance, a helical screw fixed to the tool shaft, or a power-driven endless carrier type device extending between any two points within the bore or from any point within the bore to any location above ground.

DRILLING FLUID

Any fluid, gaseous or liquid, which is introduced into the bore for the purpose of lubricating or cleaning any part of the boring means, or to displace or assist the tool in displacing the formation, or to flush or clean the bore of cuttings.

DRIVE

A part of the boring means which comprises a motion generating, applying, or transmitting means which is specifically adapted to repeatedly or continuously act upon a boring tool to cause the tool to bore by cutting or penetrating into the earth. Drive is divided into the following major categories: (1) Feed. The sustained forced advance of a boring tool by means other than mere gravity, adapted to cause the tool to cut or penetrate either with or without another type of drive means; (2) Impact Drive. The actuation of a boring tool by a means adapted to deliver a series of blows upon a tool or tool shaft, said impact delivering means being adapted to move relative to said tool or tool shaft; (3) Reciprocating Drive. The actuation of a boring tool by means adapted to cause the tool to partake of to and fro axial movement, at least one direction of axial movement being caused by the drive; (4) Rotary Drive. The actuation of a boring tool by means causing the tool to continuously rotate about its own axis, and includes uniform or step by step unidirectional or oscillatory motion.

INACCESSIBLE HOLE

A hole or cavity in the earth which is not large enough to permit both a human operator and a boring means to be located therein. A specific disclosure that the hole or cavity is a well or borehole and that the supporting or carrying means for the boring means substantially fills said hole or cavity will be considered an inaccessible hole.

MOTIVE FLUID

Any fluid which is derived from a pressurized stream which operates a drive motor for the boring means. Motive fluid when exhausted into the bore is also considered to be drilling fluid.

RETRACTION

Motion in a direction away from the bottom of a hole being formed.

SHAFT

A part of the boring means which comprises an elongate, relatively slender structure (e.g., rod, tube, casing, strand, cable, etc., or any combination thereof), which is connected to another part of the boring means for manipulating, supporting or driving said other part. (1) Actuating Shaft. A shaft connected to another part of the boring means for modifying or controlling said other part (e.g., cutter expansion shaft). (2) Shaft Section. One of the individual elements of a multipart shaft. (3) Tool Shaft. A shaft which is connected to the boring tool and extends above ground, or to another part of the boring means (e.g., to the drive or advance means. (4) Tool Drive Shaft. A tool shaft connecting the tool to the drive means, to transmit mechanical movement from the drive to the tool.

TOOL

Comprises the terminal or work applying element of the boring means including bits, nozzles, drive points, projectiles, explosives, etc., which disintegrates, dislocates, erodes or compresses the earth to form a bore. See the appropriate subclasses for the definition of particular tools, and particularly Subclass References to the Current Class, above, for the definition of "bit".

SUBCLASSES

[List of Patents for class 175 subclass 1]

WITH SEISMIC SHOCK GENERATING:

This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process or apparatus which includes a step or means for boring a hole in the earth, combined with a step or means located within the hole relating to subjecting the earth to a force to initiate a seismic wave in the earth.

(1) Note. For classification in this subclass, the process or means causing the force must be specifically described as for generating a seismic shock and not left to inference.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:

2+,	and the search there noted for boring by explosion.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:

166,	Wells, appropriate subclasses for processes and apparatus which may cause seismic wave generation, and particularly subclasses 177.1+ and 308 and the search notes there noted for processes and apparatus respectively, for fracturing the formation.
181,	Acoustics, subclasses 101+ , for geophysical exploration involving seismic wave generating or detecting.
367,	Communications, Electrical: Acoustic Wave Systems and Devices, subclasses 140+ for compressional wave detectors.

[List of Patents for class 175 subclass 2]

BORING WITH EXPLOSION IN INACCESSIBLE HOLE:

This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process or apparatus comprising subject matter directed to exploding a charge in an inaccessible hole to directly attack the formation or to propel an object such as a bullet into the formation.

(1) Note. Internal combustion motors and similar devices operating below the surface of the ground are excluded and found in subclasses 92+.

(2) Note. Subject matter directed to a device described as for causing a below ground explosive charge or projectile to extend or enlarge a bore or perforate the formation or a wall member in the hole is classified under this definition if (1) the sole disclosure is for use in an in-accessible hole or (2) there is a specific disclosure for use in an inaccessible hole. However, an explosive device which is described as adapted to cause a blast of general utility or a gun or general utility even though incidentally described as usable to extend, enlarge or perforate the formation or a wall member in the hole is classified in the appropriate subclasses.

(3) Note. Devices which fire bullets or charges in a manner that would inherently penetrate an earth formation in an inaccessible hole are included under this definition even though the specific disclosure for use in an inaccessible hole is limited to perforating or severing a casing or a wall member in the hole.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:

89,	Ordnance, appropriate subclasses for means for firing explosive projectiles.
102,	Ammunition and Explosives, appropriate subclasses and particularly subclasses 20+ and 22+ for an explosive charge below ground for fracturing or breaking up the formation.
166,	Wells, subclass 299 for a well process including an explosive step, subclasses 55+ for means for perforating or cutting pipe at an unprepared point including explosive means which does not inherently cause penetration of an earth formation to form a bore, and subclass 63 for a well apparatus with explosive means.
299,	Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material, subclass 13 for a process including a blasting step for recovering valuable material from the earth or breaking up hard material in situ.

[List of Patents for class 175 subclass 3]

Severing formed core by explosion:

This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Process or apparatus involving a step or means utilizing an explosive charge to separate a previously formed undisturbed core from the formation.

(1) Note. For classification in this subclass the charge must be set off before the core is fully formed.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:

244+,

and the search there noted for other type core severing means.

3.5	Explosive charge carried by projectile:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Subject matter in which a projectile containing an explosive charge is described as forming a bore as it is projected into the formation by an explosive charge and the explosive charge carried by the projectile is then fired.

[List of Patents for class 175 subclass 4]

Driving core receiver by explosion or with receptacle collecting material in bore:

This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Subject matter directed to an explosive apparatus which includes or is combined with (1) a core receiving barrel or tube which is propelled into the formation by an explosive charge or (2) a receptacle or the like which is described as adapted to collect and remove a sample of the formation from the hole.

(1) Note. An apparatus having a receptacle or the like described as adapted to collect only fluid is included under this definition, as well as a receptacle adapted to collect solid formation material or both fluid and solid formation material.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:

166,	Wells, subclass 264 for a process of sampling only fluid from a well, and including an explosive boring step.

4.5	Directing successive projectiles or charges in same path:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Subject matter directed to plural charges or bullets which are fired through the same gun barrel and/or in succession in the same direction and along the same line into the formation without removing the firing apparatus from the hole.

[List of Patents for class 175 subclass 4.51]

4.51

With position orienting or indicating:

This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Subject matter directed to (1) means to position or aim an explosive charge or projectile relative to a predetermined point or direction in the hole, (2) means to enable an operator at the surface to determine where something (e.g., the explosive charge or projectile) is located in the hole or (3) means to place an indicator (e.g., reference bullet) in the formation or hole wall.

(1) Note. A means which merely centralizes the device in the hole or holds the device against an undetermined point at the side of the hole, or is merely described as engaging the hole bottom is not included as a positioning or aiming means under this definition and is classified on other features.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:

4.5,	for subject matter directed to orienting means for directing successive projectiles or charges along the same path.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:

166,	Wells, subclasses 255.1+ for a well process including a step of determining the position of an object in the well.

[List of Patents for class 175 subclass 4.52]

4.52

With wall engaging packer or anchor:

This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Subject matter directed to means engaging the hole wall or a tubular member in the hole to (1) block fluid flow between the explosive apparatus and the hole wall or member or (2) attach the explosive apparatus to the hole wall or other wall in the hole so as to resist the action of gravity or a lifting force.

(1) Note. The means to block fluid flow or attach the explosive apparatus must be insertable from above ground to coact with the hole wall or a prepositioned tubular member in the hole.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:

102,	Ammunition and Explosives, subclass 319 for a well torpedo with anchoring means or a well wall contacting guide or buffer.

4.53	Firing chamber movable in bore relative to carrier or another firing chamber:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Subject matter directed to (1) a chamber for an explosive charge which is movable while it is in the hole relative to a body or frame which supports the chamber in the hole or (2) plural chambers which are connected together so as to permit relative movement between the chambers while they are in the hole.

4.54	With bore condition firing control, or compensating means:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Subject matter directed to means provided in the apparatus to (1) start, stop or modify operation of an explosive firing means in response to a sensed condition within the hole or (2) compensate for change in a hole condition due to exploding of a charge.

[List of Patents for class 175 subclass 4.55]

4.55

Independent firing of plural charges:

This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Subject matter directed to means including plural charges and a control to separately fire the charges.

(1) Note. Charges which are consecutively or train fired due to the single actuation of a control means are not included under this definition unless the firing can be interrupted so as to control the firing of one charge separately from another, such train firing being classified on other features.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:

4.5,	for subject matter directed to separately controlled firing in which successive projectiles or charges are directed in the same path.

[List of Patents for class 175 subclass 4.56]

4.56

Firing control mechanically actuated in bore:

This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Subject matter directed to a mechanical control means which is actuated in the hole to explode the charge.

(1) Note. For purposes of this definition, mechanical control comprises any relative movement of mechanical parts which takes place below ground or in an inaccessible hole. For example, merely an electrical switch blade which is moved by some means in the hole relative to a contact is considered mechanical control for this definition.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:

4.55,

for subject matter directed to independent firing of plural charges or projectiles and which may include a firing control mechanically actuated in the hole.

[List of Patents for class 175 subclass 4.57]

4.57

Projectile forms bore:

This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Subject matter comprising an apparatus or process for firing a missile.

(1) Note. A mere missile or projectile, per se, is not classified under this definition. It is classified in the appropriate ordnance class if the disclosure is not limited to earth boring and no specific earth boring feature is claimed. However, if the disclosure is limited to earth boring or a specific earth boring feature is claimed, classification is in the appropriate subclass herebelow in Class 175.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:

3.5,	for subject matter directed to a projectile which carries an explosive charge.

4.58	With means to initially restrain projectile for pressure build-up:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 4.57. Subject matter directed to means which are provided to temporarily hold back the missile at the time of firing the explosive charge so as to build up pressure behind the missile and propel the missile with high initial acceleration when the holding means is overcome.

[List of Patents for class 175 subclass 4.59]

4.59

With means to prevent preliminary bore fluid contact:

This subclass is indented under subclass 4.57. Subject matter directed to means which are provided to prevent ambient fluid in the hole from coming in contact with the missile until propulsion of the missile commences.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:

4.58,

for subject matter directed to a device in which a means is adapted to initially restrain a projectile for pressure buildup and also prevent preliminary bore fluid contact.

4.6	Concave-shaped charge:
	This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Subject matter directed to means in which the explosive charge is hollowed or dished inwardly toward a central point to give a focused pressure to directly attack the formation or a wall member in the hole.

[List of Patents for class 175 subclass 5]

BORING A SUBMERGED FORMATION:

This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process or apparatus comprising a step or means for sinking a well, shaft or deep boring in the surface of the earth lying below a body of water, (e.g., ocean, lake or river).

(1) Note. Included under this definition are patents in which the sole specific disclosure or a claim is directed to subject matter for boring in strata located below a body of water. Excluded from this subclass are subcombinations of a boring apparatus such as a tool, disclosed as being part of an underwater drilling apparatus, but which has no structure specially adapting the tool to under water boring. Such structure is classified in the appropriate subclasses below.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:

37,	Excavating, subclass 307 for dredges for excavating below a body of water.
114,	Ships, appropriate subclasses for floating supports, per se. Class 175 takes patents relating to a floating support for an earth boring apparatus where some element of the earth boring apparatus is claimed. Nominal recitation of a drill rig, or details of a derrick or draw works have not been considered to involve specialized drilling features and are classified in Class 114.
166,	Wells, subclasses 300+ for a process or apparatus relating to forming or producing a well which is located in the earth"s surface below a body of water.
405,	Hydraulic and Earth Engineering, subclasses 158+ for a process of apparatus for laying a pipe or cable into a submerged location.

[List of Patents for class 175 subclass 6]

Boring with underwater tool drive prime mover:

This subclass is indented under subclass 5. Subject matter including a drive means for a boring tool, and in which said drive means is located below the surface of the water during the boring operation.