U.S. PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE
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U.S. Patent Classification System - Classification Definitions
as of June 30, 2000
Patents classified in a subclass may be accessed by either clicking on
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Class 175
BORING OR PENETRATING THE EARTH
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.
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.
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."
REFERENCES TO OTHER CLASSES
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
29, Metal Working, appropriate subclasses for metal working
apparatus and processes of mechanical manufacture, and
particularly 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, subclass 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 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 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 241 for degasification of liquid.
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, for apparatus for gas
separation, particularly 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 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, 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 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, 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, 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, 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, 853.1 for well bore
electrical communications, including telemetering in a well
bore.
367, Communications, Electrical: Acoustic Wave Systems and
Devices, 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 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 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,
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, 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,
subclass 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")
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
Subclass:
1
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 177.1 and 308 and the search notes there noted
for processes and apparatus respectively, for fracturing the
formation.
181, Acoustics, 101, for geophysical exploration involving
seismic wave generating or detecting.
367, Communications, Electrical: Acoustic Wave Systems and
Devices, 140 for compressional wave detectors.
Subclass:
2
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 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.
Subclass:
3
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.
Subclass:
3.5
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.
Subclass:
4
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.
Subclass:
4.5
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.
Subclass:
4.51
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 255.1 for a well process including a step of
determining the position of an object in the well.
Subclass:
4.52
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.
Subclass:
4.53
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.
Subclass:
4.54
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.
Subclass:
4.55
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.
Subclass:
4.56
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.
Subclass:
4.57
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.
Subclass:
4.58
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.
Subclass:
4.59
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.
Subclass:
4.6
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.
Subclass:
5
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, 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, 158 for a process of
apparatus for laying a pipe or cable into a submerged
location.
Subclass:
6
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.
(1) Note. For the definition of "drive", see the class
definition.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
114, Ships, subclass 336 for submarines with life saving or
salvage devices, and which may include means to bore into a
sunken vessel.
Subclass:
7
This subclass is indented under subclass 5. Subject matter,
utilizing a base structure positioned on the underwater floor
and completely covered by water when so positioned and a
floating structure independent of the base structure, said
floating structure and base structure cooperating to support
and guide the drilling apparatus during the drilling
operation.
(1) Note. A mere casing extending upwardly from the marine
floor is not included under this definition.
(2) Note. The base structure may be connected to the
floating structure by flexible means which will permit the
floating structure to move relative to the base structure.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
10 for submersible guide means which may engage the marine
floor but which guide means is mounted on a guide frame which
frame will move with movement of the floating structure.
220 for above ground guide means for relatively advancing
tool.
Subclass:
8
This subclass is indented under subclass 5. Subject matter,
utilizing a normally floating or buoyant support for a boring
means which is submerged to a position below the surface of
the water during the boring operation.
(1) Note. Merely sinking anchors which may normally be
buoyant is excluded.
(2) Note. The boring means or support therefore need not be
completely submerged to be placed in this subclass.
Subclass:
9
This subclass is indented under subclass 5. Subject matter,
utilizing a boring means mounted on a structure at or above
the surface of the body of water and which structure is so
constructed or anchored by means of fixed rigid supports
(e.g., piles) as to be nonbuoyant or unaffected by the normal
wave or tide action of the body of water.
(1) Note. A guide frame or casing for the tool or tool
shaft which engages the formation is excluded unless the
frame or casing prevents movement of the supporting structure
for the boring means.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
405, Hydraulic and Earth Engineering, 195.1 for marine floor
supported structures. Class 175 takes a structure adapted to
support an earth boring device in a body of water where some
details of the boring device is claimed. Nominal recitation
of a drilling rig, provision for drilling a mere foundation
for a support, details of a derrick or draw works, or mere
access spaces communicating with the surface of the water
which could be used equally well in a pile driving
organization have not been considered to involve specialized
drilling features and are classified in Class 405.
Subclass:
10
This subclass is indented under subclass 5. Subject matter,
utilizing a support for a boring means provided with a
vertically disposed guide frame, a second guide frame or
member mounted on said first guide frame, said second guide
frame or member being movable relative to said first guide
frame in a vertical direction to a position below the surface
of the body of the water.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
220 and the search there noted for above ground guide means
for relatively advancing tool.
Subclass:
11
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Process or apparatus comprising a step or means for directing
a form of heat energy into a mineral body to (1) alter the
physical state of the body or (2) separate the mineral body
into particles (e.g., spalling).
(1) Note. Class 175 is considered generic to heat working
of naturally occurring mineral bodies in situ, and as such,
takes all processes and apparatus particularly adapted to
heat working of said bodies, not limited to (1) surface
treatment or channeling of blocks of stone, classified in
Class 125, Stone Working, or (2) mining or channeling of in
situ mineral bodies for the recovery of valuable material
therefrom, classified in Class 299, Mining or In Situ
Disintegration of Hard Material.
(2) Note. Apparatus classifiable herein, must include a
structural modification peculiar to mineral working. For
heating devices of general application search the appropriate
heating class.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
2 for subject matter in which heat energy is generated by an
explosion which is caused to occur in a borehole.
17 for subject matter relating to heating or cooling within
the borehole or heating or cooling drilling fluid.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
60, Power Plants, 200.1 for jet reaction motors and
processes for operating the same and subclasses 39.01+ for
mixed fluid power plants.
65, Glass Manufacturing, 112 for glass stock treating
including severing or perforating, and see the collection of
notes thereunder.
75, Specialized Metallurgical Processes, Compositions for Use
Therein, Consolidated Metal Powder Compositions, and Loose
Metal Particulate Mixtures, appropriate subclasses for
smelting of mineral ores.
110, Furnaces, appropriate subclasses for furnaces.
125, Stone Working, subclass 2 for channeling or working
blocks of stone by heat.
148, Metal Treatment, subclass 194 for processes of
chemical-heat removing (e.g., flame cutting, etc.) or burning
(i.e., oxidizing) of metal.
166, Wells, subclass 302 and the subclasses there noted for
well processes including a heating step, and subclasses 57+
for well heating apparatus.
225, Severing by Tearing or Breaking, 93 for apparatus for
severing by breaking, especially subclass 93.5 for such
apparatus utilizing thermal shock.
241, Solid Material Comminution or Disintegration, subclass 1
for solid material comminution and disintegration by heat.
266, Metallurgical Apparatus, 48 for metallurgical
blowpipes.
299, Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material, 3
for in situ conversion of solid material to fluid by the use
the heat, and subclass 14 for a process including a step of
heating.
405, Hydraulic and Earth Engineering, subclass 131 for
thawing earth.
423, Chemistry of Inorganic Compounds, for chemically
treating mixtures to obtain metal containing compounds which
processes may include heating.
Subclass:
12
This subclass is indented under subclass 11. Subject matter
in which material comprising the in situ formation is
disclosed as entering into an exothermic chemical reaction.
(1) Note. The chemical reaction is generally started or
sustained by introducing a reactant (e.g., oxygen) from an
external source.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, subclass 251.1 and 256+ for processes of in situ
combustion for the recovery of fluid from the earth which
processes might incidentally show boring by in situ
combustion.
299, Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material,
subclass 5 for recovering valuable solid material by
conversion to the fluid state which includes a chemical
reaction, such as combustion.
Subclass:
13
This subclass is indented under subclass 11. Subject matter
in which a chemical compound is directed into the heated or
molten mass of disintegrated material to bring about the
formation of a resultant product having a desirable property
(e.g., to increase fluidity).
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
75, Specialized Metallurgical Processes, Compositions for Use
Therein, Consolidated Metal Powder Compositions, and Loose
Metal Particulate Mixtures, 303 for fluxes for smelting and
treating ores.
Subclass:
14
This subclass is indented under subclass 11. Subject matter
in which an exothermic chemical reaction is caused to occur
in a confined area, and the products of the reaction are
discharged through a restriction from said area against the
mineral body with jet and/or intensely heated
characteristics.
(1) Note. The "confined area" consists of an area enclosed
by structure other than the mere walls of the borehole being
formed in the mineral body.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
60, Power Plants, 200.1 for jet reaction motors and
processes for operating the same.
239, Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing, appropriate
subclasses for a jet discharge nozzle, per se, or combined
with the system for providing fluid to the nozzle.
266, Metallurgical Apparatus, 48 for metallurgical blowpipes
with internal-combustion chambers.
431, Combustion, subclass 158 for a combustion chamber not
disclosed for power purposes, specialized to combustion, and
having a jet discharge.
Subclass:
15
This subclass is indented under subclass 11. Subject matter
in which the heat applying or directing device is
continuously rotated about an axis.
Subclass:
16
This subclass is indented under subclass 11. Subject matter
in which the heat is generated by an electric current either
(1) within, or (2) in close proximity to the mineral body
being worked.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, subclass 60 for electrical well heaters.
219, Electric Heating, 68 for electrical cutting or
disintegrating of metal, subclass 221 for tools and
instruments, and subclasses 277+ for oil well heaters.
Subclass:
17
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Process or apparatus comprising a step or means (1) for
changing the temperature of a drilling fluid or (2)
positively changing the temperature of all or a portion of a
bore or boring equipment within the bore.
(1) Note. The mere step or means of circulating drilling
fluid through the bore as a heat absorbing or transmitting
medium is excluded even though the fluid may be compressed
and expanded (e.g., exhaust from a down the hole motor).
(2) Note. Heat produced incidental to the normal boring
operation of a boring means (e.g., bit friction or motor
heat) is excluded.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
1 for seismic shock generation which may include heating.
2 for boring by below ground explosion.
11 for boring by directly applying heat to fluidize or
comminute and which may include cooling.
65 and the search there noted for processes or apparatus for
drilling with fluid which may heat or cool a bore. (See (1)
Note above).
92 for heating the bore incidental to the operation of a
below ground drive motor.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, subclass 302 and the subclasses there noted for
well processes including heating and/or cooling, and
subclasses 57+ for well heating or refrigerating apparatus.
219, Electric Heating, 277 for electric oil well heaters.
299, Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material, 3
for recovering valuable material by converting solid material
to fluid in situ, and including melting material by heat or
heated fluid.
405, Hydraulic and Earth Engineering, subclass 56 for a
method or apparatus for heating or cooling the walls of an
earthen cavity in which is sorted a fluid material; and
subclasses 130+ for heating or cooling of an earth formation
in general.
Subclass:
18
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Process or apparatus comprising steps or means which are
peculiar to forming boreholes in naturally situated bodies of
frozen water.
(1) Note. A specific disclosure of use in boring ice is
sufficient to cause classification in this subclass.
(2) Note. The term "naturally situated bodies", is limited
to bodies of the type which are normally occurring earth
structures such as glaciers or ponds. If the subject matter
is limited by disclosure to bodies which do not meet this
limitation, or the bodies are portions of naturally situated
bodies which have been removed, classification will be in
another class.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
30, Cutlery, appropriate subclasses, and particularly 164.5
for ice pick or chipper type cutlery.
125, Stone Working, appropriate subclasses for subject matter
relating to working bodies of ice which are not in situ.
299, Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material, 3
for melting ice in situ, subclasses 10+ for a process of
mining ice, and subclasses 24+ for a device for working ice
in situ.
Subclass:
19
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Process or apparatus including a step or means peculiar to
forming a borehole in the earth without the extraction of
material from the borehole, and relating primarily to the
wedging or packing aside of the earth by a driven element
(e.g., drive point).
(1) Note. Subject matter going beyond merely forming an
opening in the earth (e.g., installing piling), is classified
in another art on the basis of the additional function or
structure. However, apparatus for forming or placing a
lining or casing in the bore as part of the boring without
earth removal operation, does not exceed the scope of this
class unless significant lining or casing structure, which is
classifiable elsewhere, is claimed.
(2) Note. A disclosure that the principal boring operation
is carried out without earth removal is necessary to cause
classification in this subclass. For example, tools which
have a drive point feature (i.e., pilot or anchor), but which
have additional structure that in normal operation causes, or
permits material to be removed from the borehole, will not be
classified herein.
(3) Note. Points that have screw or helical portions
thereon which portions have a greater diameter than the
largest diameter of the point will be classified under
subclasses 327+ even though by disclosure no formation is
removed, since any screw or helical portion would tend to
convey material unless the tool was advanced the proper
amount with respect to the speed of rotation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
327 for earth boring bits and bit elements.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
52, Static Structures (e.g., Buildings), 155 for a piercing
or expanding earth anchor.
174, Electricity: Conductors and Insulators, subclass 7 for
driving type earth grounding rods.
405, Hydraulic and Earth Engineering, 232 for apparatus and
methods for driving piles into the ground.
Subclass:
20
This subclass is indented under subclass 19. Subject matter
including in addition to boring without earth removal, the
step or means for removing earth, (e.g., boring without earth
removal followed by taking a sample).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
405 and search there noted for core receiver driven into
formation.
Subclass:
21
This subclass is indented under subclass 19. Subject matter
relating to conducting fluid through the drive point to the
exterior thereof, generally to lubricate or treat the earth
formation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
227 for lubricant fluid storage means carried by the tool or
tool shaft.
Subclass:
22
This subclass is indented under subclass 19. Subject matter
including a step or means for (1) separating a drive point
from its shaft to permit the shaft to remain as a casing in
the bore or (2) installing a separate casing as a part of the
boring operation.
(1) Note. Processes of installing a casing including
forming a well or hydraulic or earth engineering structure
which include boring are excluded and well be found in
classes 166 and 405 respectively.
(2) Note. The term "detached" as used in this title
includes merely removing the drive point from its position
adjacent the end of the shaft, as well as mechanically
disconnecting the shaft and drive point.
Subclass:
23
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Subject matter
including a step or means for withdrawing a drive point
through a hollow shaft or casing.
(1) Note. See subclass 257 and search there noted for earth
boring means removable through a tool shaft.
Subclass:
24
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Process or apparatus comprising the steps or means for (1)
sensing a condition of operation which may or may not occur
and (2) controlling a power operated means in response to
said sensed condition (without assistance from an intelligent
operator) to initiate, modify, or terminate the operation.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
173, Tool Driving or Impacting, 2 for automatic control of a
power operated tool driving or impacting means.
254, Implements or Apparatus for Applying Pushing or Pulling
Force, subclass 267, 268 and 272+ for a load hauling or
hoisting drum with control means responsive to a condition.
299, Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material,
subclass 1 for subject matter relating to automatic control
involved in recovering valuable earth material and
disintegrating hard material in situ.
340, Communications: Electrical, 853.2 for an electronic
communication selective control system in a wellbore.
Subclass:
25
This subclass is indented under subclass 24. Subject matter
in which a sensed condition of operation controls a power
operated means to adjust or regulate the pressure of fluid
which is (1) within a borehole or (2) confined in apparatus
in which the fluid pressure may be automatically adjusted or
modified while the confining apparatus is within a borehole.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
38 for automatic control in response to drilling fluid
circulation.
Subclass:
26
This subclass is indented under subclass 24. Subject matter
in which a below ground drive prime mover comprises part of
the boring means.
(1) Note. See this class, subclass 92 for the definition of
a below ground tool drive prime mover.
Subclass:
27
This subclass is indented under subclass 24. Subject matter
in which a sensed condition of operation controls a power
operated means to initiate, modify, or terminate the advance
or axial pressure of a tool upon the formation.
(1) Note. For the meaning of "advance" see the class
definition.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
51 for self acting cyclic advance and retraction of a tool
or tool shaft.
114 for means to simultaneously feed and rotate a tool from
a single mechanical movement, including a means to permit a
constant rotation rate regardless of release of feed force or
change in feed rate.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
173, Tool Driving or Impacting, 4 for automatic control of a
power operated tool advance causing or controlling means.
408, Cutting by Use of Rotating Axially Moving Tool, 8, for
control means of that class.
Subclass:
38
This subclass is indented under subclass 24. Subject matter
in which a sensed characteristic of drilling fluid
circulation controls a power operated means to modify the
boring operation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
25 for automatic control of fluid pressure below ground.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
173, Tool Driving or Impacting, subclass 3 for automatic
control of a power operated tool driving or impacting means
in response to a condition of a cleansing means.
Subclass:
39
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Process or apparatus comprising a step or means for
initiating a signal when a specified condition relating to
wear of the bit occurs.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
73, Measuring and Testing, 152.44 for bit wear indicating
involving drill depth-rate.
340, Communications: Electrical, 500 for electrical
automatic condition responsive indicating systems.
Subclass:
40
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Process or apparatus combined with a step or means for
measuring, testing, signaling, indicating, detecting,
registering or recording a condition for the benefit of an
observer.
(1) Note. A boring process or apparatus which inherently
gives a signal while performing some boring function is not
included unless it includes an added step or apparatus for
indicating. For example a mere stop means or abutment which
is intended to limit the extent to which a tool may be fed is
excluded. Also, a below ground means which is responsive to a
condition of the boring means to control the flow of fluid
through a passage is excluded unless the means to indicate
the change in fluid flow or pressure, or a step of indicating
is claimed. Such structure is classified on other features.
(2) Note. Bore bottom sensing by touching the bottom of the
borehole with the boring apparatus is excluded.
(3) Note. Patents relating to measuring or indicating a
condition in a borehole are classified in the appropriate
measuring or indicating class. Class 175 takes patents
relating to process or apparatus for boring into the earth
combined with a measuring or indicating feature, where more
than a mere step of boring is claimed or where details of the
boring apparatus are claimed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
39 for a bit provided with means to initiate a signal when
the bit becomes worn.
232 for means movable relative to tool below ground to stop
flow toward bore bottom.
317 for means movable relative to tool or shaft to control
below ground passage.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
33, Geometrical Instruments, subclass 302 and 304+ for
methods of and apparatus for indicating borehole direction by
utilizing forces such as terrestrial gravitation or
magnetism.
73, Measuring and Testing, 81 for means to test the hardness
of a material, including a penetrator or indenter, subclasses
152.01+ for measuring a condition of the boring means or
earth formation in a borehole wherein the test is not purely
electrical or purely magnetic and wherein the boring process
or the boring apparatus is only nominally claimed.
166, Wells, 250.01 for processes involving a well, combined
with a step of measuring, testing, signaling, indicating,
directing, registering or recording a condition, subclass 66
for a well device combined with electrical indicating means,
and subclass 113 for a well device combined with
nonelectrical measuring, testing or indicating means.
173, Tool Driving or Impacting, 20 for a signaling or
indicating means combined with a tool driving or impacting
device.
181, Acoustics, 102 for subject matter relating to a
mechanical acoustic device in a bore hole.
235, Registers, appropriate subclasses for a registering
process or device, per se.
250, Radiant Energy, subclass 254 for methods and apparatus
where a nominal step of boring or boring apparatus is claimed
in combination 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.
324, Electricity: Measuring and Testing, 323 for subject
matter relating to the determination of an electrical
characteristic of the subsurface of the earth. A nominal
recitation of an earth boring step or means does not preclude
classification in Class 324.
340, Communications: Electrical, 853.1 for a borehole
signaling system, and subclasses 500+ for electrical
automatic condition responsive indicating systems.
342, Communications: Directive Radio Wave System and Devices
(e.g., Radar, Radio Navigation), 5 for a radar system in a
borehole.
346, Recorders, appropriate subclasses for a recording
process or device, per se.
374, Thermal Measuring and Testing, subclass 136 for
subsurface temperature determination other than for strata
identification.
436, Chemistry: Analytical and Immunological Testing, 25
for testing or measuring methods involving chemical
analysis.
702, Data Processing: Measuring, Calibrating, or Testing, 6
for data processing, for measuring in a well logging or
borehole environment.
703, Data Processing: Structural Design, Modeling,
Simulation, and Emulation, subclass 10 for mathematical
simulation of a fluid well.
Subclass:
41
This subclass is indented under subclass 40. Subject matter
comprising a step or means for detecting the presence of, or
measuring the quantity or quality of invisible radiant energy
rays, such as for example radioactive emanations or
phosphorescence or fluorescence.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
250, Radiant Energy, subclass 254 for methods and apparatus
with 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.
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 600 for
electrical automatic radiant energy responsive indicating
systems.
Subclass:
42
This subclass is indented under subclass 40. Subject matter
comprising a drilling fluid system and a step or means for
releasing an identifiable substance into the drilling fluid
stream which substance when carried above ground by the
circulating fluid will indicate to an observer the presence
of a condition.
(1) Note. The substance is something which is specifically
disclosed for indicating.
Subclass:
44
This subclass is indented under subclass 40. Subject matter
comprising a step or means to take a core sample from the
formation and a step or means operative during the extraction
of the core for indicating the position of the core sample in
the formation, so that said core sample may be placed in the
same position which it assumed while in the formation for
observation after it is brought above ground.
Subclass:
45
This subclass is indented under subclass 40. Subject matter
comprising a step or means for indicating the position,
direction or inclination of a boring tool in a borehole with
relation to geos:graphical direction, a characteristic of the
borehole or some other preselected point of reference.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
44 for the process or apparatus for indicating the position
of a core sample while in situ for the purpose of
orientation.
Subclass:
46
This subclass is indented under subclass 40. Process or
apparatus comprising a cuttings retainer and a step or means
for indicating a condition of cuttings within or entering
said cuttings retainer.
Subclass:
48
This subclass is indented under subclass 40. Subject matter
relating to a drilling fluid system forming a part of the
boring means and a step or means to (1) measure or indicate
the pressure of the drilling fluid or (2) measure or indicate
the rate of flow of said drilling fluid at a specified
location in said system.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
73, Measuring and Testing, 290, 700+ and 861+ for volume or
rate of flow meters, liquid level or depth gauges, and fluid
pressure gauges, respectively.
340, Communications: Electrical, 603 for electrical
automatic fluent material responsive indicating systems.
Subclass:
49
This subclass is indented under subclass 40. Subject matter
comprising a step or means for encasing a part of the boring
means or cuttings in a transparent enclosure such that said
enclosed boring means or cuttings may be visually observed or
inspected.
Subclass:
50
This subclass is indented under subclass 40. Subject matter
comprising a step or means for determining the
characteristics of the earth formation traversed by a boring
tool.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
41 for indicating, measuring or testing a condition of the
formation involving the detection or measuring of ray
energy.
44 for indicating, measuring or testing a condition of the
formation involving taking of a core sample.
48 for indicating, testing or measuring a condition of the
formation involving a change in drilling fluid pressure or
rate of flow.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
73, Measuring and Testing, 81 for measuring the hardness of
a material by employing a device which measures the force
required to penetrate the material, and subclasses 152.01+
for measuring and testing, relating to the earth formation in
a borehole.
324, Electricity: Measuring and Testing, 323 for a process
or means for measuring an electrical characteristic of the
earth formation in or around a borehole.
Subclass:
51
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Process or apparatus combined with a step or means requiring
no other control by an operator other than the initial
starting or presetting of the condition of operation, for the
tool or tool shaft to follow a complete cycle of operation of
advance and retraction or retraction and advance returning to
its original or starting position and then stopping.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
27 for automatic control of tool advance.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
173, Tool Driving or Impacting, subclass 19 for a tool
driving or impacting device which is advanced and retracted
through a cycle by a self-acting means.
408, Cutting by Use of Rotating Axially Moving Tool, 14 for
machines of that class type including stopping upon
completion of operation.
Subclass:
52
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Process or apparatus combined with a holding of storage means
or steps for carrying a plurality of separate disconnected
tools or tool shaft sections, said holding or storage means
or steps including separately removing and positioning a tool
or a tool shaft section from said holding or storage position
into a use position with the previously removed and
positioned tool or tool shaft section.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, 378 for processes of placing removing,
constructing or assembling well elements.
221, Article Dispensing, appropriate subclasses and the
search there noted in Lines With Other Classes and Within
This Class and References to Other Classes, for dispensing of
articles of general utility.
Subclass:
53
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Process or apparatus including a step of, or apparatus
peculiar to increasing the diameter of an existing through
borehole (spaced entrance and exit points) wherein certain
parts of either the boring apparatus used must be located
outside of end of the existing borehole at some time during
the boring operation.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
405, Hydraulic and Earth Engineering, 132 for tunneling
machines.
Subclass:
54
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Process or apparatus comprising a step or means for
continuously recirculating within the bore a plurality of
unsupported elements such as shot or pellets to cause such
elements to directly impinge upon and disintegrate the
formation.
(1) Note. The elements must be recirculated entirely within
the bore for classification in this subclass. Drilling fluid
provided with unsupported particles which circulate from
above ground into the bore is excluded.
(2) Note. The elements (e.g., shot or pellets) need not be
claimed for classification in this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
380 for cutters comprising unsupported abrading particles
(e.g., shot) where there is no means to recirculate the
particles.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
15, Brushing, Scrubbing, and General Cleaning, 95 for
cleaning by shotting.
451, Abrading, 2 for a condition responsive control for
sandblasting and subclasses 75+ for a sandblasting machine.
Subclass:
55
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Process or apparatus comprising a step or means for driving
the boring tool which includes a mass or weight mounted to
travel in an orbital path with the center of gravity of the
mass or weight being spaced from the center of the path in
which it travels, the reaction of said mass or weight on its
mounting being transmitted to the boring tool through the
means mounting the mass or weight for rotation.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, subclass 61 for mechanical
movements for converting rotary motion to or from
reciprocating or oscillating motion by means of unbalanced
weights.
173, Tool Driving or Impacting, subclass 49 for a tool
driving or impacting device actuated by a means reacting to
the rotation of an eccentric mass.
209, Classifying, Separating, and Assorting Solids, subclass
367 for actuating devices for reciprocating sifters having
unbalanced weights.
Subclass:
56
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Process or apparatus comprising a step or means relating to
an element or part of the boring means which has a property
affecting its natural period of vibration when it is impacted
or elastically deformed which bears a relationship to (1) a
similar property of another element or part of the boring
means or (2) the frequency or period of vibration of the
force causing the impacts or deformations of the first
element.
(1) Note. The relationship of vibration characteristics
must be specifically described but the claims need recite
only some feature which has been described as relating to the
vibration characteristics for classification in this
subclass.
(2) Note. A mere shock absorber, such as a spring or rubber
element, is excluded from this subclass unless it is
described as having a particular relationship to the
vibration characteristics of another part or the imposed
motion.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
1 for boring devices combined with means to generate or
detect seismic shocks.
55 for boring tools actuated by the reaction of a rotating
eccentric mass.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, subclass 249 for processes for vibrating the
earth to fracture the formation and subclasses 177.1+ for
apparatus for causing vibrations to fracture the formation.
299, Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material,
subclass 14 for a process of recovering valuable material
from the earth or breaking up hard material in situ,
including a step of disintegrating by directly applying
vibration.
Subclass:
57
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Processes.
(1) Note. Processes classified in this subclass comprise,
for example, processes of manipulating drills, drill rods or
expanding reamers to drill or ream a borehole or processes of
operating various types of drill rig power supplies and the
like.
(2) Note. Subclasses 1 through 56 includes both processes
and apparatus, and processes relating to the subject matter
provided for in those subclasses will be found therein.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
37, Excavating, subclass 195 excavating processes not
otherwise classified.
144, Woodworking, subclass 365 for a woodworking process of
turning, boring or drilling.
166, Wells, 244.1 for well processes which may include a
step of well boring.
173, Tool Driving or Impacting, subclass 1 for a process
limited to the operation of a tool driving or impacting
device. If steps peculiar to performing an earth boring
operation are included, classification will be in Class 175.
299, Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material, 10
for a process of recovering valuable material from the earth
or disintegrating hard material in situ.
Subclass:
58
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Processes
comprising drilling a definite sample of earth from the
borehole or from the surrounding earth formation for testing
or measuring purposes.
(1) Note. The manner of taking the sample may be the taking
of a core during drilling, collecting chips or cuttings
dislodged by drilling or removing a plug from the sidewall of
previously formed borehole, but these steps must be set forth
as earth sampling steps to be classified in this subclass.
(2) Note. Sampling apparatus as such is difficult, in some
instances, to distinguish from similar nonsampling apparatus
and thus apparatus has been classified not on the function of
sampling but on its drilling or boring function in general.
Only in those instances where the sampling feature is a
distinguishing characteristic have the patents been so
classified.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
3 for processes or devices for severing a core by means of
an explosive or explosion.
4 for processes or devices in which a core receiver is
driven into a formation by an explosion.
20 for a process or apparatus for boring without earth
removal, combined with a step or means for removing an earth
sample.
44 for processes or apparatus providing identifiable
indication of core position in situ for core sample
orientation.
49 for process or apparatus having means or steps for
observing a sample.
77 for apparatus in which a sample receptacles, generally of
the side-wall type, is fed laterally without rotation from a
carrier.
78 for sample taking tools which are motor fed laterally of
a carrier, generally to take a side-wall sample.
308 for below ground receptacles for cuttings.
403 and the search there noted for core taking tools.
Subclass:
59
This subclass is indented under subclass 58. Processes
comprising the step of (1) maintaining the natural fluid
content of the earth sample or (2) taking a discrete sample
of the fluid occurring in the borehole or its surrounding
earth formations.
(1) Note. Processes including the step of taking a single
sample comprising a solid and liquid, as for example a sample
of drill cuttings and drilling fluid, are not included in
this subclass unless there is some additional step of
maintaining the natural fluid content of the solid earth
portion of the sample.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
232 for apparatus in which a subsurface sample is delivered
to the surface at the same pressure existing at the bottom of
the borehole.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, subclass 264 for processes of sampling well
fluids, per se.
Subclass:
60
This subclass is indented under subclass 58. Processes
comprising the step of moving the sample from the bottom of
the borehole to the surface of the earth by entrainment in a
fluid.
(1) Note. The mere step of transporting or carrying to the
surface of cuttings by drilling fluid without a specific
sampling step is not included. Such processes are classified
in subclasses 65+.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
66 for processes of drilling with fluid and treating the
used fluid above ground to remove drill cuttings from the
fluid.
Subclass:
61
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Processes
comprising drilling or forming a borehole in which the axis
of the borehole is (1) curved or arcuate, (2) two straight
line portions intersecting at an angle or (3) a straight line
portion and a curved portion.
(1) Note. Processes of reaming or enlarging the diameter of
a borehole or cutting slots longitudinally of the borehole
are not included.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
4 for process and devices involving driving a core receiver
into the earth formation usually in a lateral direction by an
explosion.
73 for apparatus having means traveling with a tool to
constrain it to bore along a curved path.
77 for side wall sampling tool fed laterally without
rotation from inaccessible hole.
78 for means carried by housing insertable in inaccessible
hole to advance side wall tool laterally.
79 for tool shaft advanced relative to guide insertable in
inaccessible hole to change direction of advance.
231 for means movable relative to tool below ground to
control eccentric fluid emission.
Subclass:
62
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Processes
comprising the making of a horizontal bore either from the
surface or from an accessible hole.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61 for processes which may direct a bore in a horizontal
direction or form a horizontal bore from an inaccessible bore
or hole.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
299, Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material, 10
for a process of recovering valuable material from the earth
or disintegrating hard material in situ and including forming
horizontal tunnels.
405, Hydraulic and Earth Engineering, 138 for a method or
apparatus for forming a lined tunnel; and subclasses 154+ for
a method of laying a pipe or cable into a submerged or
subterranean location.
Subclass:
64
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Processes
comprising (1) introducing a material into a borehole to
react chemically with the in situ earth formation to form the
borehole or (2) introducing a material into the borehole
during drilling to react chemically with a material present
in the drilling fluid.
(1) Note. The term "during drilling" is defined as that
period in which the actual drilling or hole making step is in
progress and does not include the whole period of time
required to form a completed bore in which actual hole making
operations may have been temporarily stopped numerous times.
(2) Note. Drilling fluids generally deposit a cake or mud
sheath upon the wall of a bore. Such deposits are not
considered cementing, plugging or consolidating in the sense
used in the definition of Class 166, subclass 285. However,
when one step of a cementing process is done during drilling,
as by adding one constituent of a resin type cement in the
drilling fluid while drilling, and another step is performed
after drilling has stopped, as by adding the remaining
constituent of the resin cement, such a process is considered
to be performed while drilling has been interrupted and is
classified in Class 166 subclasses 285+.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
12 for processes and apparatus for forming earth bores by
the combustion of the earth formation material.
13 for processes and apparatus for forming earth bores by
the application of heat with the introduction of a slag
forming flux to the bore.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, subclass 300 for well processes involving
chemical inter-reaction of introduced material.
Subclass:
65
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Processes
comprising providing a liquid or gaseous material in a
borehole to facilitate the making of such borehole.
(1) Note. Since the use of some fluid in drilling is almost
universal in this art, patents to be classified in this
subclass must specifically describe some step involving more
than the conventional use of fluid, for example, merely
pumping or circulating fluid or screening cuttings from the
fluid would be excluded but steps involving specifically
described constituents of the fluid would be included.
(2) Note. The fluid may be for the purpose of lubricating
the drill, removing the cuttings, preventing collapse of the
bore wall, etc.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
17 for processes and apparatus for heating or cooling
drilling fluid.
64 and the search there noted for processes of causing a
chemical reaction with the earth formation or drilling fluid
constituent.
92 for apparatus in which a below drive prime mover may be
operated by drilling liquid flow.
207 for above ground apparatus for handling or supplying
drilling fluid to the borehole.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, 285 for cementing, plugging or consolidating in
a well and particularly Lines With Other Classes and Within
This Class in the class definition of Class 166 for the line
with Class 175 concerning drilling with fluid and cementing
drilling with fluid and cementing and subclass 300 for
placing two or more materials into a well which chemically
react with each other.
184, Lubrication, appropriate subclasses for lubrication of
general utility.
299, Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material, 16
for a process of breaking down valuable or hard material by
direct contact with fluid.
406, Conveyors: Fluid Current, subclass 197 for processes
of fluid current conveying.
507, Earth Boring, Well Treating, and Oil Field Chemistry,
100 for well drilling compositions and earth boring
processes which involve no more than the mere use of such
compositions or a compound.
520, Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers, appropriate
subclasses, particularly Class 523, 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 or preparing said
composition.
Subclass:
66
This subclass is indented under subclass 65. Processes
comprising the step of subjecting drilling fluid which has
been returned to the surface of the earth from the borehole
to a physical or chemical treatment at the surface.
(1) Note. The treatment at the surface must include more
than the mere addition of a material which is to be effective
down the borehole, such as adding material to a gaseous
drilling fluid to prevent wetting of cuttings or to a liquid
drilling fluid to prevent lost circulation, see subclasses 68
and 72, respectively.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
88 for vehicle or conveyor for carrying cuttings laterally
of bore axis.
206 for apparatus for treating drilling fluid.
207 for apparatus for cuttings or flushing fluid handling
means at the bore entrance including chutes, etc.
Subclass:
67
This subclass is indented under subclass 65. Processes
comprising the making of a borehole or the performance of a
reaming operation by the use of a stream of pressurized fluid
to dislodge the earth formation.
(1) Note. Practically all drilling operations which use a
circulating drilling fluid have jets in the drill head to
wash loose cuttings away from the drill during operation and
the claiming of such jetting or washing steps, even without
the claiming of a step of using a drill, are excluded from
this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
11 for processes by directly applying heat to fluidize or
comminute which may include erosion.
422 for earth boring nozzles, per se, and the search there
noted.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, subclass 312 for well cleaning processes
involving the use of a liquid introduced from the top of the
well.
299, Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material,
subclass 17 for a process of breaking down valuable or hard
material in situ by jetting.
405, Hydraulic and Earth Engineering, 55 for the formation
of an underground fluid storage cavity including a step of
means for delivering a stream of pressurized fluid to form or
enlarge the cavity; subclass 226 for a method of embedding a
marine structure in the bed of a body of water using fluid
jets; and subclass 248 for a pile with fluid jet means to
assist in sinking or positioning the pile.
Subclass:
68
This subclass is indented under subclass 65. Processes
comprising the step of treating a gaseous drilling fluid with
a material to prevent the agglomerating or wetting by liquid
occurring naturally in the borehole of the cuttings loosened
during drilling.
Subclass:
69
This subclass is indented under subclass 65. Processes
comprising the use of liquid and gaseous materials as the
fluid circulated in the borehole.
(1) Note. Processes in which a gas under pressure is
provided over a liquid drilling fluid wherein the gas is not
circulated through the drill or through fluid in the bottom
of the borehole are not included. See this class subclass
71.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
205 for apparatus in which a liquid drilling fluid is in
contact with a pressurized gas.
212 for above ground drill fluid handling or supply means
for supplying a pressurized gas.
Subclass:
70
This subclass is indented under subclass 65. Processes
comprising drilling with two or more liquids which remain
separated in the borehole due to their mutual immiscibility,
difference in specific gravities, manner of placement in the
borehole, or other characteristics.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
11 in which plural liquids such as kerosene and water may be
introduced in boring by directly applying heat to fluidize or
comminute.
Subclass:
71
This subclass is indented under subclass 65. Processes
comprising (1) drilling with a gaseous fluid as the
circulating drilling fluid or (2) the placing of a gas under
pressure in the borehole during drilling either along or over
a liquid drilling fluid.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
69 and the search there noted for combined liquid and
gaseous supply.
Subclass:
72
This subclass is indented under subclass 65. Processes
comprising the step of treating a subsurface earth formation
during drilling (1) to prevent the loss of drilling fluid
into such formation or (2) to prevent the earth formation of
the bore wall from collapsing into the earth bore.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
64 for processes including a chemical reaction with the
formation or a drilling fluid constituent during drilling.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, 285 and the search there noted for processes of
cementing, plugging or consolidating a subsurface earth
formation while drilling is interrupted.
Subclass:
73
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising means carried by or movable with a tool
while drilling to cause the tool to drill a bore or segment
of a bore having a nonlinear axis.
(1) Note. Tools which are asymmetrical in shape or which
have a means biasing them laterally of a bore and which would
enlarge the bore in a lateral direction if rotated are not
included even though they are disclosed as bore deflection
tools when used as impact devices, see this class subclasses
398+ for such devices.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61 for processes of drilling curved or redirected bores.
231 for means movable relative to tool below ground to
control eccentric fluid emission.
325.1 and the search there noted for bore wall engaging
guide means.
398 for nonsymmetrical bits which may be disclosed as bore
deflecting tools (See (1) Note above).
Subclass:
74
This subclass is indented under subclass 73. Apparatus
wherein the means for causing the tool to drill a curved bore
comprises a tool shaft or a means adapted to direct the
course of the tool which is made up of units or segments,
generally pivotally connected to one another, movable to be
positioned at an angle to one another in the direction of the
bore axis and means engageable with the segments to hold them
in their angularly related position.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
256 for releasable means normally holding joined shaft
sections in angular relation.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
285, Pipe Joints or Couplings, subclass 118 for knuckle type
pipe joints with actuating means.
Subclass:
75
This subclass is indented under subclass 73. Apparatus
wherein the means to cause the tool to bore a curved hole
comprises a member to direct the tool or a shaft for driving
the tool which has or is formed to assume a nonlinear shape
in the direction of boring.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
464, Rotary Shafts, Gudgeons, Housings, and Flexible
Couplings for Rotary Shafts, appropriate subclasses for
flexible rotary shafting and shaft housings.
Subclass:
76
This subclass is indented under subclass 73. Apparatus
wherein the means for causing the tool to drill a curved bore
comprises means carried by the tool or tool shaft at points
axially spaced along the bore axis and extending in opposite
directions laterally from the tool or tool shaft to engage
the bore wall.
(1) Note. One of the bore wall engaging means may comprise
an annular means surrounding the tool or tool shaft.
Subclass:
77
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising means for cutting the earth which cuts
without requiring rotation of the cutting means about an axis
coincident with its direction of advance, said cutting means
being fed from an inaccessible hole.
(1) Note. For the meaning of "inaccessible hole", see the
class definition.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
79 and the search there noted for tool advance guides.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, subclass 100 for a lateral probe sealed against
a well wall which has similar structure.
Subclass:
78
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a supporting or carrying means
insertable in an inaccessible hole, said supporting or
carrying means providing a housing with an opening for the
boring tool, and means is provided in the housing to advance
the tool from the housing through the opening in a direction
at an angle to the path of travel of the housing on being
inserted in the inaccessible hole.
(1) Note. For the meaning of "inaccessible hole", see the
class definition.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
79 and the search there noted for tool advance guides.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, subclass 100 for lateral probes sealed against a
well wall which have similar type structure.
Subclass:
79
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a tool shaft and a means engageably by
the shaft as the shaft is advanced to change the direction of
advance of the shaft, said means being insertable in an
inaccessible hole.
(1) Note. For the meaning of "inaccessible hole", see the
class definition.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
4 for processes and devices involving driving a core
receiver into the earth formation usually in a lateral
direction by a an explosion.
77 for a side wall tool fed laterally without rotation from
an inaccessible hole.
78 for means carried by housing insertable in an
inaccessible hole to advance side wall tool laterally.
220 and the search there noted for devices with above ground
guides for a relatively advancing tool.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, subclass 55.3 for apparatus for perforating or
cutting a slot in a well casing having a cam or wedge
actuated cutter, subclass 100 for lateral probes or seals
engaging a well wall which have similar structure and
subclasses 117.5+ for lateral diverting means (e.g.,
whipstocks) for tools, per se, which are used in wells or
boreholes.
Subclass:
80
This subclass is indented under subclass 79. Apparatus in
which the means changing the direction of advance comprises a
rod or mandrel having a shaft engaging surface which is set
in the hole at an angle to the original direction of advance,
the shaft receiving the rod or mandrel in a telescoping
relationship to be guided in a different direction thereby.
Subclass:
81
This subclass is indented under subclass 79. Apparatus in
which the means changing the direction of advance has
combined therewith means to engage or penetrate a side wall
of the hole to resist movement of the direction changing
means either longitudinally or radially of the hole.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
230 and the search there noted for bore wall or casing
engaging anchor.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, subclass 117.6 for lateral diverting means for
cutting tools per se which are secured in operative position
by well conduit engaging means.
Subclass:
82
This subclass is indented under subclass 79. Apparatus in
which the means changing the direction of advance is
supported by the tool shaft and moved into an operative
position in the hole thereby.
Subclass:
83
This subclass is indented under subclass 82. Apparatus in
which the means changing the direction of advance and the
tool shaft are provided with means for preventing their
relative rotation which is manipulable, usually by relative
longitudinal movement, to permit relative rotation
therebetween.
(1) Note. A mere shearable pin or bolt or other frangible
connector between the redirecting means and the tool is
excluded and will be found in subclass 82.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, subclass 237 for detents and clutches
particularly adapted for use in wells.
Subclass:
84
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus wherein the apparatus is provided with means
normally positioned above the ground (e.g., outside the
borehole) to clean the apparatus or some portion thereof.
Said cleaning means may include wiping, scraping, brushing or
flushing with a fluid.
(1) Note. A mere conduit for cleaning or drilling fluid is
not considered to be a means to clean the tool shaft.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
209 for a fluid or cuttings directing or receiving means
engaging the bore entrance, through which extends a tool
shaft, and a seal means between said means and the tool shaft
which allows axial movement of said tool shaft relative to
said means.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
15, Brushing, Scrubbing, and General Cleaning, appropriate
subclasses, particularly 104.03 for pipe and tube
cleansers.
166, Wells, subclass 82.1 and 86.1+ and the search there
noted for seals or wipers for reciprocating member.
414, Material or Article Handling, subclass 417 for a pusher
plate type ejector for emptying a receptacle.
Subclass:
85
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus including (1) a means to cause the movement of
unconnected tools, rods, tubings, or casing in a direction
lateral to the bore axis and to and/or from a position in
vertical alignment with the bore axis or (2) a structure
particularly adapted to store unconnected tools, rods,
tubings, or casings and which is laterally spaced from
vertical alignment with the bore axis, (i.e., fourble
board).
(1) Note. The term "unconnected" is defined as meaning that
the tool, rods, tubing, or casing are not assembled in
drilling relationship with the drive or advancing means, for
example. However, the tool may be connected to a section of
rod, or several sections of rod, tubing, or casing may be
connected together as a unit and considered "unconnected" for
classification in this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
52 for magazine for successively moving unconnected,
oriented tool or shaft sections to use position.
161 for means to move tool laterally of bore axis to dump.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
182, Fire Escape, Ladder, or Scaffold, subclass 114 for
scaffolds combined with a sucker rod support.
211, Supports: Racks, appropriate subclasses for racks, and
particularly subclass 70.4 for pipe racks.
414, Material or Article Handling, 22.51 for pipe racking
mechanism.
Subclass:
86
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus combined with means positioned within a hole being
bored for supporting, enclosing, protecting or otherwise
accommodating a person in the hole while it is being bored.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
219 and the search there noted for above ground apparatus in
general with particular accommodations for personnel.
Subclass:
87
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus adapted to perform functions other than earth
boring or to perform an earth boring function in a different
manner in response to (1) removal of a significant portion of
the apparatus and/or (2) installation of additional parts or
(3) by substantial rearrangement of the existing parts.
(1) Note. Many patents in this art disclose substituting
one form of tool reciprocating device for another type. Such
structure has been excluded as not performing an earth boring
function in a different manner for the purpose of this
definition and will be found below.
(2) Note. Merely rendering parts (which are present in the
apparatus) operative or inoperative by a manual adjustment or
by actuation of a control mechanism (e.g., clutch) have been
excluded as not constituting a substantial rearrangement of
existing parts for the purpose of this subclass.
(3) Note. Merely replacing one type of earth boring tool or
cutter element with a different type of earth boring tool or
cutter element has been excluded since it is common in this
art to interchange tools depending on the type of formation
encountered. However, substituting a tool or element which
has no earth boring function for an earth boring tool has
been included.
(4) Note. The change in the apparatus must include more
than merely adjusting or reversing a part which has no
material effect on the overall functioning of the apparatus.
Such structure is classified below as indicated by the search
notes.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
114 for a device in which a common prime movement feeds and
rotates a tool, and in which an adjustment, may be effected
to provide an independent feed or rotation of the tool.
382 and the search there noted for a cutter element which is
adjustable relative to a bit head.
386 for a bit having a pilot portion which is used only at
the initial stages of the boring operation and which is
removed after the bore has been started.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
254, Implements or Apparatus for Applying Pushing or Pulling
Force, 29 for means for pulling stuck pipes or rods
otherwise than by impact.
Subclass:
88
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus in which an above ground means is provided to
transport cuttings in a direction perpendicular to the
borehole axis which does not require conveying by a fluid
current, such means comprising an endless or screw conveyor,
open chute or vehicle, but not including a tubular conduit
which is utilized in a fluid system.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
207 for other above ground means including tubular conduits
for handling cuttings or flushing fluid.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
193, Conveyors, Chutes, Skids, Guides, and Ways, and the
search there noted for conveyors of general utility.
Subclass:
89
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus in which a cutting means is carried through
recurring cycles on a driven member forming a closed circuit,
said member composed of a rope, cable, chain, hinged
elements, or like structure.
(1) Note. This subclass does not include apparatus in which
the support for the flexible or articulated endless member is
adapted to be moved laterally relative to the bore axis as
the cutter cuts unless the lateral movement of said support
takes place entirely below ground. Compare Classes 37, 172
and 299 for apparatus for forming a ditch, furrow or kerf.
(2) Note. The cutting means may consist of teeth or digging
buckets.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
88 for conveyor means to move cuttings transversely of bore
axis.
172 for a tool drive means combined with an endless flexible
conveyor for transporting cuttings.
338 for rolling cutter bit or element with endless carrier.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
37, Excavating, 353 and 462+ for ditchers or excavators.
172, Earth Working, 95, 100 and 542 for a rotary separating
digger and a tooth or blade on an endless carrier.
299, Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material, 29
for a mining machine having a chain type cutter head, and
subclasses 82.1+ for a chain type cutter head.
Subclass:
90
This subclass is indented under subclass 89. Apparatus in
which a flexible or articulated member is carried on a
support which is adapted to move all or a portion of said
member radially relative to the axis of the bore to undercut
or slot the wall of the borehole.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
263 for cutter elements laterally shiftable below ground.
Subclass:
91
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus in which (1) a single cutting means rotating
through recurring cycles, or (2) a combination of cutting
means carried on a common support and including at least one
cutting means rotating through recurring cycles, is
particularly adapted to form in a single advance a bore which
is noncircular in a plane perpendicular to the bore axis.
(1) Note. Included in this subclass, for example, are a
pair of rotating cutters forming a pair of overlapping,
circular bores.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
89 for cutters carried on a flexible or articulated member
and adapted to form a noncircular bore.
108 for common drive or advancing means for concurrently
boring along laterally spaced axes.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
125, Stone Working, 12, for stone saws.
299, Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material, 29
for a mining machine which may include a rotary cutter and
form a noncircular opening and subclasses 79.1+ for a cutter
which may be rotary and adapted to form a noncircular
opening.
408, Cutting by Use of Rotating Axially Moving Tool, subclass
30 for woodworking augers or cutting square holes.
Subclass:
92
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus including a means adapted to drive a boring tool
through recurring cycles comprising a means commonly called a
motor which is adapted to convert a source of energy into
simple mechanical motion, said motor being so related to the
boring tool that it enters the borehole and advances with the
boring tool as the boring tool performs its earth boring
function.
(1) Note. The boring means including the motor need not be
claimed as being located in the borehole. The mere
disclosure that the boring means is of the type in which the
drive motor for the tool advances into the bore with the tool
is sufficient for classification in this subclass.
(2) Note. Mere subsurface mechanical motion converting
boring tool drive means, such as for example, vanes on a tool
shaft which contact the fluid in the borehole and causes the
tool to rotate as the shaft is reciprocated are not
considered motors for this subclass.
(3) Note. A compilation of all types of motors will be
found in the notes to the class definition of Class 60.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
6 for underwater tool drive means.
26 for automatic control of boring means including a below
ground prime mover
323 and search there noted for a tool shaft provided with an
exteriorly disposed helical structure for imparting rotary
motion to the shaft in response to a reciprocation of said
shaft.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
15, Brushing, Scrubbing, and General Cleaning, 104.05 for
inside pipe and tube cleaners which may be motor driven.
173, Tool Driving or Impacting, appropriate subclass for a
means for driving or impacting a tool, not limited to a
specific art. If means, such as specific shape of the work
contacting portion of an earth boring tool, bore engaging
guide or anchor, etc., are included, classification will be
in Class 175.
Subclass:
93
This subclass is indented under subclass 92. Apparatus in
which (1) the motor is fluid operated, and means are provided
within the borehole for generating or imparting energy to the
motive fluid, (2) means are provided within the borehole for
storing a source of motivating energy for operating the
motor.
Subclass:
94
This subclass is indented under subclass 92. Apparatus
including means positioned within the borehole which
functions to feed the tool in the boring operation with, or
relative to, the tool drive means.
(1) Note. For the meaning of "feed", see the class
definition.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
162 and the search there noted for an above ground means to
feed to tool.
Subclass:
95
This subclass is indented under subclass 92. Apparatus
comprising a plurality of drive motors positioned within the
borehole.
Subclass:
96
This subclass is indented under subclass 95. Apparatus
wherein the tool is composed of a plurality of relatively
movable cutting elements, each of said cutting elements being
driven by a separate motor.
Subclass:
97
This subclass is indented under subclass 92. Apparatus
including means to secure the motor support to the bore wall
against either axial or rotary movement or both.
(1) Note. For the meaning of "bore wall", see the class
definition.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
230 and search there noted for means to anchor a boring
means to the bore wall.
Subclass:
98
This subclass is indented under subclass 97. Apparatus in
which said means may be selectively expanded or retracted to
or from engagement with the bore wall.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, 206 for an expansible anchor or casing for
wells.
Subclass:
99
This subclass is indented under subclass 98. Apparatus in
which said means is operated by pressure fluid.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
228 for fluid pressure operated lubricant feed for bit.
247 for a core receiver removable through a below ground
tool shaft by fluid pressure or provided with a pressure
fluid operated latch.
250 for a fluid actuated core retaining or severing means.
267 for a cutter element shifted laterally relative to a bit
head below ground by fluid pressure.
271 for a cutter element shifted relative to a bit head
below ground with a latch operated by a fluid pressure.
296 for fluid operated below ground hammer or impact
device.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, 120 and 212 for fluid pressure expansible
anchors.
Subclass:
100
This subclass is indented under subclass 92. Apparatus in
which the motor is fluid operated and means are provided for
exhausting a portion of the fluid which operates the motor
from the motor or motor housing into the bore in a direction
extending toward the bore entrance.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
324 for a tool shaft which may be provided with means to
induce fluent flow comprising fluid outlet ports in said
shaft extending in a direction toward the bore entrance.
Subclass:
101
This subclass is indented under subclass 92. Apparatus in
which the motor is a rotary type motor supported by a
rotatable shaft extending into the bore, and in addition to
the motor is a means provided for connecting said rotatable
support shaft to the tool in a driving relationship.
Subclass:
102
This subclass is indented under subclass 92. Apparatus
including means located within the bore for removing cuttings
from the bore comprising either (1) an endless flexible
carrier or (2) a means to induce fluent flow (e.g., pump or
helical screw).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
324 and the search there noted, for other means to induce
fluent flow including a pump.
Subclass:
103
This subclass is indented under subclass 92. Apparatus
including means intended to function and remain above
ground.
Subclass:
104
This subclass is indented under subclass 92. Apparatus in
which the motor is of the type which converts electrical
energy into mechanical motion.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
318, Electricity: Motive Power Systems, and the search there
noted for electric motor.
Subclass:
105
This subclass is indented under subclass 104. Apparatus
wherein the electric motor is of the type having a
rectilinearly reciprocating part.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
310, Electrical Generator or Motor Structure, 15 for a
reciprocating electric motor, per se.
Subclass:
106
This subclass is indented under subclass 92. Apparatus
including means (e.g., gearing, linkage or cam) for modifying
the direction, location or advantage relationship of simple
mechanical motion, said means being drivingly interposed
between the motor and the tool.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
170 and the search there noted for other mechanical motion
converting means.
319 for below ground mechanical motion converting means
relatively moving plural cutting edges.
Subclass:
107
This subclass is indented under subclass 92. Apparatus in
which said motor includes an element provided with means upon
which a fluid may act to cause a nonreversing motion of said
element about an axis.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
15, Brushing, Scrubbing, and General Cleaning, 104.061 and
104.12 for fluid current operated pipe and tube cleaners.
415, Rotary Kinetic Fluid Motors or Pumps, subclass 903 for
a fluid motor disclosed as a well bit drive turbine.
418, Rotary Expansible Chamber Devices, for rotary expansible
chamber pumps or motors.
Subclass:
108
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus including a single means which directly contacts,
or is connected through a gearing or otherwise, to at least
two boring tools, and the means functions to drive or advance
the boring tools along different axes.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
91 for boring means including at least one rotating cutter
which may overlap in boring operation with another cutter to
form a bore, which is noncircular in cross-sectional area.
Subclass:
113
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus including means by which a boring tool is
simultaneously rotated and fed along the boring axis by a
drive originating from one mechanical movement.
(1) Note. Separate drive and feed motors which are actuated
by a common source (e.g., fluid pressure motors having common
supply pump) are excluded from this subclass, and are
classified in the appropriate feed or drive subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
173, Tool Driving or Impacting, 145 for a tool advance
causing or controlling means in which drive and advance
originate from the same mechanical element.
408, Cutting by Use of Rotating Axially Moving Tool, 129, for
a feed means for a boring, drilling or tapping apparatus.
Subclass:
114
This subclass is indented under subclass 113. Apparatus in
which the mechanical movement, or means coupling the
mechanical movement to the rotary drive and/or feed is
adapted to rotate the tool at a uniform speed while
permitting (1) complete disconnection of the feed drive or
(2) a change in the speed at which the tool is being fed into
the work.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
27 for automatic control of tool advance.
Subclass:
118
This subclass is indented under subclass 113. Apparatus in
which a means is provided to anchor some part of the feed
means into the wall which is being bored, whereby the anchor
is adapted to directly resist the reactionary pull of the
feeding force.
(1) Note. The "earth wall being bored", is defined as a
generally flat surface, (i.e., the face of the earth or a
substantially planar or curved section not exceeding 90 deg.
of the side or bottom of a crevice or shaft) into which the
bore is being formed, the anchor being usually located in the
bore, or at some point closely adjacent the mouth of the
bore.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
210 for cuttings directing or receiving means engaging bore
entrance, anchored to bore wall.
230 for borewall engaging anchor.
Subclass:
121
This subclass is indented under subclass 113. Apparatus in
which a feed screw moves axially relative to a means which is
causing it to rotate.
Subclass:
122
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus including a means to feed the tool drive means.
(1) Note. For the meaning of "feed" and "drive" see the
class definition.
(2) Note. If the means is disclosed as performing the
function of feeding the tool drive, the means is classified
herein whether or not the tool drive is claimed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
162 and search there noted for above ground means to feed a
tool.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
173, Tool Driving or Impacting, subclass 141 and see the
search notes therein for a tool advance causing or
controlling means.
Subclass:
135
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus combined with an above ground hammer to deliver, or
cause to be delivered an impact or blow to an earth boring
means.
(1) Note. For classification in this subclass the impact or
blow must be delivered to a portion of the earth penetrating
means and not directly to the earth formation. For example,
an above ground hammer for delivering an impact or blow to an
earth penetrating means is classified herein, but an earth
penetrating means which is reciprocated to deliver a blow to
the formation is excluded.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
189 and the search there noted for means to reciprocate an
earth penetrating means.
293 for a below ground hammer or impact device.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
7, Compound Tools, 143 for hammers combined with other
tools.
72, Metal Deforming, 429 for a power hammer of the metal
working type.
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, appropriate subclasses for
mechanical motion converting means for operating a hammer.
81, Tools, 463 for tools combined with impact delivering
means and subclasses 20+, for hand operated hammers.
173, Tool Driving or Impacting, 90 and see the search notes
therein for an impacting device.
227, Elongated-Member-Driving Apparatus. See Class 175,
subclass 135.
267, Spring Devices, subclass 137 for a spring device for
dampening the movement of an earth-boring impacting tool.
404, Road Structure, Process, or Apparatus, subclass 133 for
a tamping device.
Subclass:
161
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus including a means located above ground which is
adapted to shift a means lifting earth material from a
borehole to a position remote from the bore axis for the
purpose of discharging said material at said remote
location.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
85 for orienting means for moving unconnected boring means
laterally of the bore axis.
Subclass:
162
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus including a means necessarily located above ground
which functions to feed the tool in the boring operation.
(1) Note. For the meaning of "feed" see the class
definition.
(2) Note. A handle for directly applying force to a tool
shaft without a mechanical motion conversion is excluded.
However, a simple relatively movable lever or gear for
example would be included even though operated by hand.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
27 for automatic control of advance or applied tool weight.
51 for preset control of advance or retraction for tool
drive or rotary tool.
94 for below ground tool feed means in combination with a
below ground tool drive motor.
108 for common drive or advancing means for concurrently
boring along laterally spaced axes.
113 for a single mechanical movement which feeds and rotates
a tool.
122 for means to feed a tool drive means.
203 for above ground means to advance or retract a boring
means.
321 for below ground feed means incorporated in an axially
telescopic tool drive shaft.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
144, Woodworking, 92 for a boring feed.
173, Tool Driving or Impacting, 141 for a tool advance
causing or controlling means.
408, Cutting by Use of Rotating Axially Moving Tool,
appropriate subclasses, particularly 129 for means for
feeding a boring or drilling tool, not peculiar to earth
boring usage.
Subclass:
170
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus including a means adapted to drive a boring tool
through recurring cycles comprising (1) a means commonly
called a motor which is adapted to convert a source of energy
into simple mechanical motion or (2) a means adapted to
modify the direction, location, or advantage relationship of
simple mechanical motion (e.g., gear or lever).
(1) Note. A compilation of all types of motors will be
found in the notes to the class definition of Class 60.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
6 for underwater tool drive means.
24 for tool drive means with automatic control.
54 for boring by below ground recirculating of unsupported
elements.
55 for tool actuation by reaction of a rotating eccentric
mass.
92 for below ground drive motors.
106 for below ground mechanical motion converting means
drivingly interposed between a below ground drive motor and a
tool.
108 for common drive or advancing means for concurrently
boring along laterally spaced axes.
113 for single prime movement feeding and rotating a tool.
135 for above ground means to impact earth penetrating
means.
319 for below ground mechanical motion converting means
relatively moving plural cutting edge.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, appropriate subclasses for
gearing and mechanical movements of general utility.
144, Woodworking, 92 for wood boring machines.
173, Tool Driving or Impacting, appropriate subclass for a
device to drive a tool, where no feature is included to make
the device peculiar to a specific art, such as specific shape
of the work contacting portion of the tool, etc.
408, Cutting by Use of Rotating Axially Moving Tool,
appropriate subclasses for machines for cutting in the manner
of that class.
Subclass:
171
This subclass is indented under subclass 170. Apparatus
including a drive means for a tool which is particularly
adapted to installing a separate casing, or a means is
specified in addition to the tool drive means for the purpose
of installing a casing.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
405, Hydraulic and Earth Engineering, subclass 133 for a
method or apparatus for forming a shaft with a lining;
subclasses 138+ for a means or method of forming a lined
tunnel; subclasses 154+ for a method or apparatus for laying
pipe or cable into a submerged or subterranean location; and
subclasses 232+ for a method or apparatus for installing a
hollow pile shell in the earth.
Subclass:
172
This subclass is indented under subclass 170. Apparatus
including material transport elements mounted to travel in a
circuitous path on a flexible or articulated endless means,
and generally for the purpose of conveying cuttings above
ground.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
89 for tool element on continuously driven flexible or
articulated endless member.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
198, Conveyors: Power-Driven, appropriate subclasses for
power-driven endless conveyors.
Subclass:
173
This subclass is indented under subclass 170. Apparatus in
which means are provided to simultaneously or consecutively
move in a different manner, plural shafts which extend into a
bore; the shafts generally consist of two tool drive shafts,
or a tool drive shaft and a tool actuating shaft.
Subclass:
189
This subclass is indented under subclass 170. Apparatus in
which the tool drive comprises a means to cause substantially
rectilinear to and from movement of the tool.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
135 for means to reciprocate a means to impact an earth
penetrating means.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
60, Power Plants, 369 and 537+ for pulsators adapted to
reciprocate a tool.
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, appropriate subclasses, and
particularly subclasses 20-62 for reciprocation type
mechanical movements.
91, Motors: Expansible Chamber Type, appropriate subclass
for an expansible chamber type motor adapted to reciprocate a
tool.
310, Electrical Generator or Motor Structure, 15 for
reciprocating electric motors.
418, Rotary Expansible Chamber Devices, appropriate
subclasses for a rotary expansible chamber motor adapted to
reciprocate a tool.
Subclass:
195
This subclass is indented under subclass 170. Apparatus in
which the drive is of the type commonly called a rotary
table, such drive being adapted to remain relatively axially
fixed while the tool shaft being rotated thereby advances
relative to the rotary table.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
121 for a rotary drive for a relatively advancing feed screw
in a single mechanical movement feeding and rotating a tool,
said feed screw generally also comprising the tool drive
shaft.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, appropriate subclasses, and
particularly 434 for a gear element, per se.
173, Tool Driving or Impacting, 165 for a relatively fixed
drive of an advancing tool.
464, Rotary Shafts, Gudgeons, Housings, and Flexible
Couplings for Rotary Shafts, 163 for a coupling between a
rotary drive table and an axially movable drill string.
Subclass:
202
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising the combination of a tool having
relatively movable tool elements and a means necessarily
remaining outside the mouth of the bore, which is adapted to
be actuated to cause relative movement between the tool
elements, while the tool is located within the bore.
(1) Note. The tool elements must be positively relatively
moved by the moving means to be classified herein. Those tool
elements which are relatively moved by the manipulation of a
tool drive shaft only, relative to which they are movably
attached (e.g., centrifugal, or bottom engagement expansion),
are excluded from this subclass.
(2) Note. Structure in addition to a mere connecting rod or
cable must be claimed as the above ground means.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
173 for drive means including diversely actuated shafts
extending into a bore.
Subclass:
203
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus including means located above ground to move a
tool, shaft, or any other portion of the boring means in one
direction along the axis of the bore or (2) to counterbalance
or offset a portion of the weight resting on the tool.
(1) Note. For classification in this subclass the above
ground means to advance or retract the boring means must
include more than a mere handle which is held by an operator
to support or move the tool toward or away from the bore.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
27 for automatic control of advance means for a boring
means.
162 and the search there noted for above ground means to
feed a tool.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
173, Tool Driving or Impacting, 141 and see the search notes
therein for a tool advance causing or controlling means.
Subclass:
205
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus including means which are provided for bringing a
stream of gaseous fluid above atmospheric pressure into
intimate contact with a body of drilling liquid which liquid
is intended to be introduced or directed into a borehole.
(1) Note. Gaseous fluid at normal atmospheric pressure is
not considered as "pressurized", for the purposes of this
subclass. However, a statement that a stream consists of
compresses gas is sufficient to cause classification herein.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
69 and 71, for drilling processes including the use of
pressurized gas.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
173, Tool Driving or Impacting, subclass 74 and see the
search noted therein for plural cleansing fluid sources
utilized with a tool driving or impacting means.
261, Gas and Liquid Contact Apparatus, appropriate subclasses
for gas and liquid contact apparatus of general utility.
Subclass:
206
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus including above ground means by which the drilling
fluid is (1) formed or acted upon prior to or during
insertion into the borehole to bring about a change in a
physical or chemical property or (2) acted upon after the
fluid leaves the borehole to remove, separate or subtract
substances, including cuttings, from said fluid.
(1) Note. Means for causing entrainment of cuttings in the
drilling fluid are not considered to be drilling fluid
treating for the purpose of this subclass. However,
separating the cuttings from said fluid is classifiable
herein.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
17 for heating or cooling the drilling fluid.
65 for processes of drilling with fluid, particularly
subclass 66 for treating used or spent fluid.
205 for pressurized gas contact with drilling fluid.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
95, Gas Separation: Processes, for processes of gas
separation, particularly 241 for degasification of liquid.
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, for apparatus for gas
separation, particularly 155 for degasifying means for
liquid.
209, Classifying, Separating, and Assorting Solids,
appropriate subclasses.
210, Liquid Purification or Separation, appropriate
subclasses.
507, Earth Boring, Well Treating, and Oil Field Chemistry,
100 for earth boring compositions.
Subclass:
207
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus including means located outside the mouth of the
borehole to conduct or circulate drilling fluid or cuttings
to or from the borehole.
(1) Note. A tool shaft is not considered to be above ground
apparatus for the purposes of this subclass even though a
section of the shaft may be recited as above ground in a
claim. However, if structure is claimed which is disclosed
as always functioning above ground (e.g., supporting swivel,
or pipe section larger than the completed bore), the patent
will be classified herein even though the structural element
is nominally claimed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
65 for processes of drilling with fluid.
88 for above ground vehicle or conveyor for carrying
cuttings laterally of bore axis.
161 for above ground means to shift tool laterally of bore
axis to dump cuttings.
172 for an endless flexible conveyor for removing the
cuttings from the bore.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
15, Brushing, Scrubbing, and General Cleaning, 300.1 for air
blast and/or suction cleaners.
137, Fluid Handling, for fluid handling means of general
utility.
166, Wells, 75.11 for well heads.
173, Tool Driving or Impacting, 197 and see the search notes
therein for a tool driving or impacting means provided with
work cleansing means.
184, Lubrication, for lubricating apparatus of general
utility.
285, Pipe Joints or Couplings, for fluid pipe couplings of
general utility and particularly 272 for fluid conducting
swivels.
Subclass:
208
This subclass is indented under subclass 207. Apparatus in
which the means consists of a fluid spraying means (e.g.,
nozzle) which emits fluid adjacent the mouth of the
borehole.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
239, Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing, for a fluid
spraying device, per se.
Subclass:
209
This subclass is indented under subclass 207. Apparatus
provided with means sealingly engageable with the mouth of
the bore and having means to receive a tool shaft
therethrough and adapted to (1) catch or contain material
which is emerging from the bore or (2) change the direction
of movement or flow of material which is emerging from the
bore.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
88 for an above ground vehicle or conveyor for carrying
cuttings laterally of the bore axis.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
15, Brushing, Scrubbing, and General Cleaning, 300.1 for air
blast and/or suction cleaners combined with a fluid cuttings
directing or receiving means adapted to engage a bore
entrance. Class 175 takes the combination of such means with
earth boring means. The inclusion in a claim of structure
adapted to support or receive a tool shaft is sufficient for
classification in Class 175.
166, Wells, 75.11 for a well head.
251, Valves and Valve Actuation, subclass 1.1 for valve type
blowout preventers, per se.
277, Seal for a Joint or Juncture, for a generic sealing
means or process, 322 for a seal for a well apparatus.
Subclass:
210
This subclass is indented under subclass 209. Apparatus in
which said means extends into the bore and is held in sealed
engagement with the bore wall.
Subclass:
211
This subclass is indented under subclass 209. Apparatus in
which the collecting or diverting means is mounted on a tool
shaft and means are provided to restrain the same against
axial movement in one direction along said tool shaft.
Subclass:
212
This subclass is indented under subclass 207. Apparatus
including a means to provide a gas at above atmospheric
pressure for use in the borehole.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
69 and 71, for processes of drilling with gas under
pressure.
134 for means to flush the bore with motive fluid which may
be pressurized gas.
205 for pressurized gas contact with flushing liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
417, Pumps, for gas pumps of general utility.
418, Rotary Expansible Chamber Devices, for rotary expansible
chamber pumps, per se.
Subclass:
213
This subclass is indented under subclass 207. Apparatus
including a pumping means, the low pressure side or intake of
which is in direct communication with the bottom of the
borehole.
(1) Note. This material generally relates to which is
commonly called "reverse circulation", that is, the direction
of flow is opposite to normal drilling circulation in which
the pressure side of a pump forces fluid from the bottom of a
borehole.
(2) Note. The pumping means may be located below ground.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
324 and the search there noted for other means to induce
fluent flow including a pump.
Subclass:
214
This subclass is indented under subclass 207. Apparatus
comprising a tool shaft having a fluid head secured to the
end thereof located above ground said head being provided
with an axially extending passage which is intersected by a
generally perpendicular passage extending from the axially
extending passage to the exterior of the head, and having a
seal located in the head which is adapted to cooperate with a
means movable through the axial passage, or the perpendicular
passage and one end of the axial passage.
(1) Note. Generally the means reciprocable in the head may
consist of a core barrel, or a wire line for retrieving a
core barrel.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, 84.1 for a fluid head of the type classified in
Class 166 having a seal for reciprocating member.
277, Seal for a Joint or Juncture, for a generic sealing
means or process, 322 for a seal for a well apparatus.
Subclass:
215
This subclass is indented under subclass 207. Apparatus
including a tool shaft which is provided with more than one
fluid conduit through a substantial portion of its length.
Subclass:
216
This subclass is indented under subclass 207. Apparatus
including a substantially vertical conduit means which is
usually either part of, attached to, or adjacent a derrick,
and which is used to conduit fluid from a point located near
ground level to a fluid handling element fixed at one end of
an axially movable tool shaft.
Subclass:
217
This subclass is indented under subclass 207. Apparatus
including pump means adapted to cause the drilling fluid to
circulate.
(1) Note. The pump may be located below ground.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
212 for pressurized gas supplying means.
213 for drilling fluid handling systems in which a pump
inlet communicates with the borehole bottom.
324, and the search there noted, for other means to induce
fluent flow including a pump.
Subclass:
218
This subclass is indented under subclass 207. Apparatus
including valve means to stop or regulate the flow of
drilling fluid.
(1) Note. The valve may be located below ground.
Subclass:
219
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus in which the device is provided with a means to
support or shelter an attendant (e.g., a seat, platform or
cover means) or the device is provided with a safety means to
protect the attendant from injury (e.g., a hand guard).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
86 for below ground means for personnel accommodation.
209 for means positioned adjacent the bore entrance to
direct cuttings away from the operator.
Subclass:
220
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus including a means located outside the bore entrance
which is adapted to remain relatively axially stationary and
pilot or direct a tool or means actuating or supporting a
tool, as the tool advances during the boring operation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
7 for a guide base on a marine flow spaced from a buoyant
support for the boring apparatus.
10 for a submersible vertically movable guide for boring
means mounted on a buoyant support.
79 and the search there noted for tool guides insertable in
an inaccessible hole.
122 and the search there noted for means to feed a drive,
said means generally combined with a guide means, or
performing a guiding function.
135 for above ground means to impact an earth penetrating
means which generally includes guide means for a hammer, and
particularly subclasses 151+ for drop hammer guide means.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
173, Tool Driving or Impacting, appropriate subclass for a
means to drive or impact a tool which may include a means to
guide the tool or drive, and particularly 39 for such means
combined with means to adjust the position of the axis of
tool advance.
384, Bearings, appropriate subclasses, and 7 for linear
bearings.
408, Cutting by Use of Rotating Axially Moving Tool, 72 for
a gauge block of guiding a drill of general utility into a
workpiece.
Subclass:
226
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus in which a substantially undisturbed sample of the
formation is covered or coated with (1) a material which is
fed into the sample receiver and applied to the sample as the
sample is being taken to enclose or form a cover therefor or
(2) a fluent material which is applied to the sample to
enclose or coat a portion thereof.
(1) Note. The fluent material under part (2) must be some
fluent material other than the drilling fluid.
Subclass:
227
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus in which the tool, tool shaft or tool housing is
provided with a means to retain and/or supply a friction
reducing fluid or grease to the cutter or formation
disintegrating member or a portion thereof (e.g., the
bearings of a rolling cutter).
(1) Note. Drilling fluid is not considered to be a friction
reducing fluid or grease under this definition. Patents in
which the drilling fluid is used to lubricate the tool will
be found below.
(2) Note. Structure including specific ducts, passages or a
means separate from the drilling fluid passages, if disclosed
for the purpose of supplying a friction reducing fluid which
is distinct from the drilling fluid is included.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
337 for means to supply drilling fluid to the bearing of a
rolling cutter bit.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
184, Lubrication, appropriate subclasses, for lubricating
devices and systems.
384, Bearings, subclass 93 for bearing structure with
lubrication means which are adapted for use in roller type
rock drill bits and only enough support structure for the
bearing and lubrications means. A broadly recited roller
cutter bit which may be part of the bearing support, but if
the cutting means has any details of how it cutters shape of
cutting teeth, etc. Class 175 is the proper place.
Subclass:
228
This subclass is indented under subclass 227. Apparatus in
which the friction reducing fluid is supplied or fed to the
cutter or a portion thereof by a fluid pressure or fluid flow
operated means usually the fluid pressure or flow of the
drilling fluid.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
99 and the search there noted for other pressure fluid
operated devices.
Subclass:
229
This subclass is indented under subclass 227. Apparatus in
which the friction reducing fluid is supplied or fed to the
cutter or portion thereof by means actuated by the rotation
of the tool or the cutter.
Subclass:
230
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus in which the tool, tool shaft or housing is
provided with a means which is adapted to expand laterally to
engage the wall of the borehole or casing to resist or
prevent the movement of the tool, tool shaft or housing or a
portion thereof due to the action of gravity or a lifting
force.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
81 for an anchor engaging side wall of inaccessible bore for
shaft engaging guide.
98 for expansible means to anchor a below ground tool drive
motor to a bore wall.
118 for feed anchor in earth wall being bored.
210 for a fluid or cuttings directing or receiving means
engaging the bore entrance, said means being anchored to the
bore wall.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, 206 and the search there noted for an expansible
anchor or casing for wells.
Subclass:
231
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus including a means which is movable relative to a
tool while the tool is below ground to change the direction
of flow nonsymmetrically relative to the bore axis of fluid
discharging from the tool, usually to alter the direction of
boring.
Subclass:
232
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus including a means which is movable below ground
relative to a tool or to a part of a tool, whereby the
movable means will substantially block the flow of material
toward the bottom of the bore, said movable means either
blocking the bore, or a passage in the tool or tool shaft.
(1) Note. For classification herein, the flow stopping
means must be described as capable of at least preventing the
downward flow of fine material such as sand or silt.
(2) Note. If the flow stopping means comprises a line
pressure responsive device or check valve, the valve must be
capable of stopping downward flow when higher pressure exists
on the upper side thereof.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
317 and the search there noted for means movable relative to
a tool or shaft to control a below ground passage.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
73, Measuring and Testing, 863 for a sampler of general
utility.
Subclass:
233
This subclass is indented under subclass 232. Apparatus in
which the movable means seals, or cooperates with another
means to seal a sample collecting chamber at the pressure
which exists at the bottom of the bore.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
234 for longitudinally spaced valve seats, wherein
longitudinally spaced valves may be arranged, but are not
described as sealing a sample receiver at bore bottom
pressure.
Subclass:
234
This subclass is indented under subclass 232. Apparatus in
which at least two surfaces are spaced along the bore axis,
said surfaces being adapted to cooperate with relatively
movable flow stopping means.
(1) Note. The longitudinally spaced valve seats may both
cooperate with a single movable means, and may be engaged to
stop either upward or downward flow.
Subclass:
235
This subclass is indented under subclass 234. Apparatus in
which a surface or seat is engaged to stop the flow of
material away from the bore bottom.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
318 for upward flow stopping movable means.
Subclass:
236
This subclass is indented under subclass 232. Apparatus in
which the movable means is located in a means to receive a
sample of the formation (undisturbed core, cuttings, etc.),
and said sample receiving means is adapted to be taken above
ground while the shaft which drives the tool remains in the
borehole.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
246 for a undisturbed sample receiver removable through a
tool shaft.
257 and the subclasses there noted for a tool removable or
insertable through or around a driving or driven shaft.
Subclass:
237
This subclass is indented under subclass 232. Apparatus in
which the movable means comprises an element which is
described as being released in the tool shaft after said
shaft is in the borehole to travel through a portion of said
shaft to flow stopping position.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
270 and the search there noted for a cutter element
laterally shiftable below ground, and including a dropped
element means.
Subclass:
238
This subclass is indented under subclass 232. Apparatus in
which at least part of the relatively movable, flow stopping
means comprises a cutter element.
Subclass:
239
This subclass is indented under subclass 232. Apparatus
comprising the combination of a relatively movable, flow
stopping means and structure adapted to admit and
substantially encompass a cylinder of earth formation as it
is being defined by an annular type bit.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
236 for flow stopping movable means in sample receiver
removable through below ground shaft.
Subclass:
240
This subclass is indented under subclass 239. Apparatus in
which the movable means is adapted to admit the core of
material to the core receiver, and then move to flow stopping
position to block movement of the core toward bore bottom.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
233 for means movable to seal a sample receiver at bore
bottom pressure.
249 for means movable relative to bit to retain or sever a
core, but which, per se, are incapable of stopping downward
flow of fine material.
Subclass:
241
This subclass is indented under subclass 232. Apparatus in
which the movable means is pivotally mounted to move from
flow permitting to flow blocking position.
Subclass:
242
This subclass is indented under subclass 241. Apparatus in
which the pivot point comprises an axis which is
substantially transverse to the axis along which the tool is
forming a bore.
Subclass:
243
This subclass is indented under subclass 232. Apparatus in
which (1) the movable means is held in a position by a
resilient means such as spring or (2) the movable means is
composed for flexible material such as rubber (e.g., flap
valve).
Subclass:
244
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus including a means which, during normal operation,
is displaceable or rotatable relative to the working face of
a tool, said means being adapted to have physical contact
with a core of material such as is formed by a core type bit
to (1) accommodate the core as it is formed, (2) grasp the
core after it is formed, or (3) cut or break the already
formed core from the formation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
3 for core severing by explosive means.
44 for a core receiver provided with means to mark the core
while being taken for the purpose of orienting the core to
its original position while in situ.
46 for a core receiver provided with means to signal or
indicate a condition of the core being taken relative to the
receiver.
239 for means movable in tool or tool shaft to stop flow
toward bore bottom, combined with an undisturbed sample
receiver.
403 and the search there noted for core forming type bits.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
299, Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material,
subclass 63 for a mining machine having an endless loop
chunk severing cutter.
Subclass:
245
This subclass is indented under subclass 244. Apparatus in
which the movable means comprises an element initially
closing the core receiving opening in the tool, said means
being moved away from the working face of the tool as the
core is formed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
307 for a means adapted to initially cover the cutting edges
of a bit.
Subclass:
246
This subclass is indented under subclass 244. Apparatus in
which the movable means comprises a structure adapted to
cooperate with a tool and hollow tool shaft to receive a core
as it is taken, said structure and core then being readily
lifted above ground through the center of the tool shaft
while the tool shaft remains in the borehole.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
236 for sample receiver removable through below ground tool
shaft, said receiver being provided with means movable to
stop flow toward bore bottom.
257 and the subclasses there noted for a tool or sample
receiver insertable through a driving or driven tool shaft.
309 for a receptacle of general utility insertable or
removable through a below ground tool shaft.
Subclass:
247
This subclass is indented under subclass 246. Apparatus in
which (1) a fluid pressure operated means or surface is
provided to move a core receiver toward above ground or (2) a
means latching the core barrel in the tool shaft is actuated
to engaged or released position by fluid pressure.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
60 for a process of transporting a sample to the surface by
fluid.
99 and the subclasses there noted for other pressure fluid
operated devices.
Subclass:
248
This subclass is indented under subclass 246. Apparatus in
which the core receiver is provided with a cutting edge or
element which is adapted to participate in the forming of a
core of undisturbed material.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
257 and the search there noted for tool removable or
insertable through or around driving or driven shaft.
Subclass:
249
This subclass is indented under subclass 244. Apparatus in
which the movable means comprises a means to grasp or make a
cut in the core after it has been formed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
3 for processes or devices for severing a core by means of
an explosive or explosion.
240 for undisturbed core receiver combined with movable flow
stopping means adapted to underlie a severed core.
263 for cutter element laterally shiftable below ground.
333 for rolling cutter bits with fixed core breaking means.
404 for core forming type bits with fixed core breaking
means.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, 55 for earth embedded well pipe cutters.
294, Handling: Hand and Hoist-Line Implements, 86.1 for
grappling means having structural features adapted to
function in a bore hole or similar earth opening.
Subclass:
250
This subclass is indented under subclass 249. Apparatus in
which the core retaining or severing means is moved from one
position to another by fluid pressure or flow.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
99 and the subclasses there noted for other pressure fluid
operated devices.
247 for fluid pressure responsive means to remove a core
receiver or operate a means latching a core receiver in a
tool shaft.
267 for cutter element shifted relative to bit head below
ground by fluid pressure.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
294, Handling: Hand and Hoist-Line Implements, subclass
86.15 for well grapples shiftable to engage an object or
earth core through a fluid pressure means.
Subclass:
251
This subclass is indented under subclass 249. Apparatus in
which a relative movement between the tool and tool shaft (1)
moves the core retaining or severing means into engagement
with the core or (2) releases the core retaining or severing
means so that they can move into core engagement.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
281 and 284, for expansible cutter element shifted by
relative longitudinal movement of shaft.
Subclass:
252
This subclass is indented under subclass 251. Apparatus in
which the core retaining or severing means move into core
engagement upon relative rotational movement between the tool
and tool shaft.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
272 and 273, for expansible cutter element shifted by
relative rotary movement between tool and shaft.
Subclass:
253
This subclass is indented under subclass 249. Apparatus
including a means to positively hold the core retaining or
severing means out of core contact position until a certain
condition or manipulation takes place, said holding means
generally being deactivated upon the formation of a
substantial length of core.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
251 for retaining or severing means actuated upon relative
movement between tool and shaft.
271 275+ and 290, for expansible cutter elements with latch.
Subclass:
254
This subclass is indented under subclass 249. Apparatus in
which the retaining or severing means moves toward the
longitudinal axis of the core by swinging movement about a
pivot axis which is substantially transverse to the
longitudinal axis of the core.
(1) Note. The pivot axis may shift during the pivotal
movement of the retaining or severing means.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
263 for expansible cutters mounted on a transverse pivot.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
294, Handling: Hand and Hoist-Line Implements, subclass
86.29 for pivoted contracting grapples used in a well bore.
Subclass:
255
This subclass is indented under subclass 249. Apparatus in
which the retaining or severing means is moved toward the
longitudinal axis of the core due to wedge like action upon
relative bodily longitudinal sliding movement between
surfaces on the retaining or severing means and the tool.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
279 and 286+, for expansible cutter element with wedge type
expansion means.
422 for a clasp (e.g., a well slip assembly) which
separately travels with an earth boring shaft or which
cooperates with specifically shaped well structure which
stops or actuates the clasp.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
24, Buckles, Buttons, Clasps, etc., appropriate subclasses,
and particularly subclass 114.5, for a strap, cable, or pipe
button (i.e., trip or stop projection).
188, Brakes, particularly subclass 67 for 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.
294, Handling: Hand and Hoist-Line Implements, 86.3 for
grapples that are cammed inwardly to engage an object or
earth core within a well bore or similar earth opening.
Subclass:
256
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a tool shaft having sections which are
joined together by means permitting relative movement
transverse to the longitudinal axis thereof, as by pivoting,
and a means which normally holds the two sections of shafting
in their angular or bent condition and which may be rendered
inoperable to permit the two shaft sections to assume in
aligned position.
(1) Note. The releasable means is generally released by the
engagement of the tool with the bottom of the borehole.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
74 for sectional guide or shaft having means to lock
sections in angular relation while boring.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
285, Pipe Joints or Couplings, subclass 118 for knuckle
joints in pipes having actuating means to relatively move
pipe sections.
Subclass:
257
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a tool and a shaft or casing to drive
the tool or be driven by the tool, said tool being adapted to
be connected to or disconnected from driving relation with
the shaft or casing by movement either (1) through the inside
of said shaft or casing or (2) externally of the shaft or
casing in the space between the shaft or casing and the bore
wall, the movement of the tool being to or from a position
below ground while the shaft or casing is in the borehole and
without the removal of the latter from the borehole.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
23 for device for forming a bore without earth removal in
which the drive point is retracted through a shaft or
casing.
202 for devices having above ground means for relatively
moving below ground tool elements.
236 for devices having a sample receiver with below ground
means movable relative to a tool to stop flow toward the bore
bottom, the sample receiver being removable through a below
ground shaft.
246 for devices having an undisturbed core receiver which is
removable through a below ground tool shaft.
309 for devices having a receptacle removable or insertable
through a below ground tool shaft.
Subclass:
258
This subclass is indented under subclass 257. Apparatus in
which the tool comprises a laterally shiftable cutter element
(as defined in subclass 263) movable through the inside of a
tubular shaft.
Subclass:
259
This subclass is indented under subclass 258. Apparatus in
which a plurality of cutter elements are movable through the
shaft, said cutter elements being movable relative to each
other in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the shaft
to an operative position in which the cutting edges of the
cutter elements lie in the same transverse plane
perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
265 for plural laterally shiftable cutter elements, per se,
which are longitudinally relatively movable into transverse
alignment.
Subclass:
260
This subclass is indented under subclass 258. Apparatus in
which the shaft has an element or portion having a surface
which extends substantially longitudinally and radially of
the shaft and which is engaged by a portion of the cutter
element so that rotary motion about the shaft axis may be
transmitted from the shaft to the cutter element or from the
cutter element to the shaft.
(1) Note. For the purposes of this subclass the laterally
movable support for a rolling cutter, as defined in subclass
331, is considered to be part of the cutter element since the
rolling cutter element itself could not have a torque
transmitting surface engaging the shaft.
Subclass:
261
This subclass is indented under subclass 260. Apparatus in
which the cutter element is carried by a bit head and the
shaft and bit head are also provided with mutually engaging
drive transmitting surfaces which transmit torque between the
shaft and bit head.
Subclass:
262
This subclass is indented under subclass 257. Apparatus in
which the tool is movable to operative position by moving
externally of the shaft in the space between the shaft and
the bore wall.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
294, Handling: Hand and Hoist-Line Implements, subclass
86.34 for a nominally claimed earth boring means for cutting
away earth or rock or a means for removing loose material or
metal around a stuck object (e.g., a section of drill pipe)
in a borehole combined with means for retrieving the object.
Subclass:
263
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a cutter element carried on a shaft or
bit head by means which permits or causes the cutter element
to move relative to the shaft or bit head in a direction
transverse to the bore axis while the shaft or bit head and
cutter element are below ground.
(1) Note. When the laterally shiftable cutter element
comprises a rolling cutter bit element as defined in subclass
331 the lateral shifting movement of the cutter element for
classification in this subclass must consist of a movement
other than that due to the normal cycle of rotation of the
rolling cutter element about its rolling axis. Thus a
rolling cutter element which normally rolls about an axis and
partakes of a cyclic eccentric motion with a lateral
component is not included under this definition but will be
found below in subclass 343 for example.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
77 for side wall tool fed laterally without rotation from
inaccessible hole.
78 for tools which are fed laterally to bore from a recess
in a carrier inserted in an inaccessible hole.
90 for tool elements mounted on a continuously driven
flexible or articulated endless member which is carried on a
support which is swingable or laterally movable.
202 for devices having above ground means for relatively
moving below ground tool elements.
256 for tools combined with jointed shaft having a means
which normally biases the tool laterally of the bore but
which is releasable to permit operation without the bias.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
52, Static Structures (e.g., Buildings), 155 for a piercing
or expanding earth anchor.
82, Turning, subclass 1.2 for expanding reverse taper wood
augers.
166, Wells, 55 for cutters for earth embedded well pipe,
subclasses 170+ and particularly subclass 174 for well pipe
cleaners for expansible well anchors or casing.
294, Handling: Hand and Hoist-Line Implements, 93 for an
expanding grapple.
411, Expanded, Threaded, Driven Headed, Tool-Deformed, or
Locked-Threaded Fastener, 29 for expansible anchors provided
with cutting teeth for the formation of the bore in which the
anchor is to be expanded.
451, Abrading, 463 for expansible abrading tool.
Subclass:
264
This subclass is indented under subclass 263. Apparatus in
which the cutter element moves outwardly from the shaft axis
to operative position and a means is provided which is
detachable from the cutter element or bit head and which is
temporarily attached to the cutter element above ground to
hold the cutter element in an inward or collapsed position,
usually to facilitate insertion of the cutter element in the
borehole, said means being removed and remaining above ground
when the cutter element is placed in the borehole.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, 85.1 for above ground apparatus with assembly or
disassembly means including means for aiding in inserting a
member into or removing a member from a well.
Subclass:
265
This subclass is indented under subclass 263. Apparatus in
which a plurality of cutter elements are provided, said
cutter elements being movable relative to each other in the
direction of the longitudinal axis of the shaft to an
operative position in which the cutting edges of the cutter
elements lie in the same transverse plane perpendicular to
the longitudinal axis of the shaft.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
259 for similar cutter elements which are also removable or
insertable around or through a driving or driven shaft or
casing while the shaft or casing is below ground.
Subclass:
266
This subclass is indented under subclass 263. Apparatus in
which a plurality of laterally movable cutter elements are
provided and means are also provided which permits one of
said cutter elements to move laterally while another
laterally movable cutter element is temporarily held against
such movement.
Subclass:
267
This subclass is indented under subclass 263. Apparatus in
which the laterally movable cutter element is moved laterally
by means of a fluid under pressure acting against the cutter
element or a below ground part attached thereto.
(1) Note. Devices which have a specific description of a
fluid jet acting directly on the cutter element to assist in
moving it laterally have been classified in this subclass
only when the nozzle or outlet for the fluid has been
claimed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
99 and the search there noted for other pressure fluid
operated devices.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, subclass 55.8 for fluid pressure actuated,
radially movable well pipe cutter and subclass 212 for fluid
pressure actuated expanding anchor.
Subclass:
268
This subclass is indented under subclass 267. Apparatus in
which a part is provided which is specifically described as
being dropped from above ground to an operative position
below ground, said part functioning to cause operation of the
fluid shifting means, for example, by (1) operating a latch,
(2) providing a fluid reacting surface or (3) operating a
valve or other means to permit movement of the cutter
element.
(1) Note. Patents are classified in this subclass which
specifically describe the part as being a dropped element
even though no such recitation is made in the claims provided
the part itself is claimed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
270 and the subclasses there noted, for other devices
employing a dropped element.
Subclass:
269
This subclass is indented under subclass 267. Apparatus in
which the laterally movable cutter element or part acted on
by the pressure fluid is also acted upon by a resilient means
urging the cutter element or part in a direction opposite to
that exerted by the pressure fluid.
Subclass:
270
This subclass is indented under subclass 263. Apparatus in
which the laterally movable cutter element is moved laterally
by means of a part which is specifically described as being
dropped from above ground to an operative position below
ground.
(1) Note. Patents are classified in this subclass which
specifically describe the part as being a dropped element
even though no such recitation is made in the claims provided
the part itself is claimed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
237 for means movable relative to a tool below ground to
stop flow toward the bore bottom comprising a dropped
element.
268 for fluid pressure operated lateral shiftable cutter
elements including a dropped element.
271 for laterally shiftable cutter elements having a fluid
operated latch.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, subclass 239 for detent or clutch in well
operated by dropped weight.
Subclass:
271
This subclass is indented under subclass 263. Apparatus in
which the laterally movable cutter element is held in one
position, either expanded or collapsed, by a movable latch
member, said latch member being moved by (1) a fluid under
pressure acting against the latch or a part connected thereto
or (2) engaging a part which is specifically described as
being dropped from above ground to an operative position
below ground.
(1) Note. Patents are classified in this subclass which
specifically describe the latch as being operated by fluid
pressure or a dropped element even though no such recitation
is made in the claims provided the part on which fluid
pressure directly acts on the dropped element itself is
claimed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
99 and the subclasses there noted for other pressure fluid
operated devices.
270 and the subclasses there noted, for other devices
operated by a dropped element.
Subclass:
272
This subclass is indented under subclass 263. Apparatus in
which the laterally movable cutter element is connected to a
pair of elements having cooperating screw threaded portions,
said elements being relatively movable in a direction
parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft due to the
action of the screw threads to cause the cutter element to
move laterally.
Subclass:
273
This subclass is indented under subclass 263. Apparatus in
which the laterally movable cutter element is connected to a
cam or gear which is mounted to rotate about an axis
substantially coincident with the longitudinal axis of the
shaft so that relative movement of the cam or gear and the
shaft about said axis will cause the cutter element to move
laterally relative to the shaft.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
252 for a core retaining or severing means which is movable
on a bit and the movement is caused by relative rotary
movement between the bit and tool shaft.
Subclass:
274
This subclass is indented under subclass 263. Apparatus in
which the laterally movable cutter element is moved by a
mechanism which is biased by a resilient means to move the
cutter element to its operative position.
(1) Note. A mechanism for classification in this subclass
includes a system of parts having a link, cam or similar
element between the cutter element and the resilient means
but a simple link connecting a cutter element and a spring is
excluded, see subclass 291 below.
Subclass:
275
This subclass is indented under subclass 274. Apparatus
combined with a movable member which is separate from the
laterally movable cutter element and which engages the cutter
element or some part of the resiliently biased mechanism to
hold the cutter element in one position.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
271 for laterally shiftable cutter elements having a latch
operated by fluid pressure or a dropped element.
Subclass:
276
This subclass is indented under subclass 275. Apparatus in
which the movable latch member comprises a part which is
destructible or discarded so that the part is used only one
time.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
301 for below ground hammer or impact devices with a
frangible means to releasably retain the impact member
against reciprocation.
307 for a cutting edge cover which is generally frangible or
discardable.
Subclass:
277
This subclass is indented under subclass 275. Apparatus in
which the movable latch member acts to hold the laterally
movable cutter element in an inoperative or noncutting
position.
Subclass:
278
This subclass is indented under subclass 277. Apparatus in
which the movable latch member also acts on the mechanism to
cause the mechanism to be moved to its inactive or
inoperative position to permit retraction of the cutter
element.
(1) Note. Generally the latch member engages the lower end
of a casing when it is desired to retract the cutter element
by lifting the shaft and cutter element and this motion
causes the latch member to move the spring mechanism to its
inoperative or inactive position.
Subclass:
279
This subclass is indented under subclass 274. Apparatus in
which the shaft or bit head is provided with a cam or gear
element other than the cutter element which is movable
thereon, said element having a portion which engages the
laterally movable cutter element or a part connected thereto
to cause the cutter element to be moved.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
273 for laterally shiftable cutter elements movable by a cam
or gear axially rotatable relative to the shaft.
286 for laterally shiftable cutter elements moved by a
longitudinally relative movable cam or gear.
Subclass:
280
This subclass is indented under subclass 279. Apparatus in
which the laterally movable cutter element is carried on a
bit head or shaft which has a portion extending inwardly
toward the axis of the shaft and forward of the cutter
element in the direction of boring and which has no cutting
function.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
283 for similar laterally shiftable cutter elements in which
the cutter elements are longitudinally movable on the shaft.
406 and the subclasses there noted, for other cutters with a
forwardly extending noncutting portion.
Subclass:
281
This subclass is indented under subclass 274. Apparatus in
which the laterally movable cutter element is carried on the
bit head or shaft so that the cutter element is bodily
movable generally longitudinally relative to the bit head or
shaft to cause movement of the cutter element.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
251 for a core retaining or severing means actuated by
relative movement of bit and tool shaft.
288 for laterally shiftable cutter elements which are
movable longitudinally relative to an expanding cam or gear
means.
Subclass:
282
This subclass is indented under subclass 281. Apparatus
comprising a plurality of laterally movable cutter elements
which move outwardly from the longitudinal axis of the bit
head or shaft to operative position and a single socket or
recess on the bit head or shaft which receives in abutting
relation a portion of each cutter element when they have been
moved to operative position.
Subclass:
283
This subclass is indented under subclass 281. Apparatus in
which the laterally movable cutter element is carried on a
bit head or shaft which has a portion extending inwardly
toward the axis of the bit and forward of the cutter element
in the direction of boring and which has no cutting
function.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
258 and the subclasses there noted, for other cutters with a
forwardly extending noncutting portion.
280 for similar laterally shiftable cutter elements which
are shifted by a movable gear or cam.
Subclass:
284
This subclass is indented under subclass 263. Apparatus in
which the cutter element is moved laterally by the relative
bodily movement of a plurality of parts carried by the bit
head or shaft, which parts move relative to each other in the
direction of the longitudinal axis of the shaft.
(1) Note. One of the parts may be the cutter element itself
or one of the parts may be a fixed portion of the bit head or
shaft.
(2) Note. The mere pivoting of a cutter element on the bit
head or shaft about a fixed pivot is not included since there
is no bodily relative movement as required by the above
definition.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
251 for core retaining or severing means actuated by
relative movement of bit and tool shaft.
272 for laterally shiftable cutter elements shifted by
relatively longitudinally movable threaded elements.
279 and 281+, for laterally shiftable cutter elements
shifted by longitudinally movable parts which are spring
biased to operative position.
Subclass:
285
This subclass is indented under subclass 284. Apparatus in
which the laterally movable cutter element is moved by a link
or element which is pivotally connected to the cutter element
and one of the relatively longitudinally movable parts.
Subclass:
286
This subclass is indented under subclass 284. Apparatus in
which one of the relatively longitudinally movable parts
comprises the transversely movable cutter element and another
of the parts comprises a cam or gear element having a portion
engaging the cutter element so that as the parts move
longitudinally relative to each other the cutter element will
be moved transversely of the bit head.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
279 for laterally shiftable cutter elements shifted by a cam
or gear mechanism which spring biases the cutter to operative
position.
Subclass:
287
This subclass is indented under subclass 286. Apparatus
combined with a movable member which is separate from the
laterally movable cutter element or the cam or gear and which
engages a portion of the movable parts to hold the cutter
element in the position in which it is displaced laterally of
the bit head the maximum distance from the longitudinally
axis of the bit head or shaft.
(1) Note. A latch is considered to be separate from the
cutter element, cam or gear for the purposes of this
definition even though it may be formed as a unitary part of
these elements if its latching function is independent of the
action which moves the cutter element.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
290 and subclasses there noted, for other laterally
shiftable cutter elements with latches.
Subclass:
288
This subclass is indented under subclass 286. Apparatus in
which the laterally movable cutter element is carried on the
bit head or shaft so that the cutter element moves generally
longitudinally relative to the bit head or shaft to cause the
movement of the cutter element.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
255 for core retaining or severing means of the sliding
wedged type.
281 for a laterally shiftable cutter element longitudinally
movable on the shaft by a mechanism which spring biases the
cutter to operative position.
Subclass:
289
This subclass is indented under subclass 286. Apparatus in
which the laterally movable cutter element is resiliently
urged to move laterally of the bit head or shaft in the
direction in which the cutter element would be in an
inoperative or noncutting position.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
291 and the search there noted for other spring biased
laterally shiftable cutters.
Subclass:
290
This subclass is indented under subclass 263. Apparatus
combined with a movable member which engages the laterally
movable cutter element to hold it in one position.
(1) Note. A mere spring or other resilient element which
urges the cutter element laterally of the bit head is
excluded and will be found in subclass 291.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
271 for laterally shiftable cutter elements having a latch
operated by fluid pressure or a dropped element.
275 for laterally shiftable cutter elements having a
mechanism spring biasing the cutter to operative position and
a separate latch.
287 for laterally shiftable cutter elements moved by a
longitudinally relatively movable cam or gear and having a
separate latch holding the cutter element in shifted
position.
Subclass:
291
This subclass is indented under subclass 263. Apparatus in
which the laterally movable cutter element is resiliently
urged to move laterally of the shaft axis.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
254 for core retaining or severing means mounted on a
transverse pivot which is generally spring biased.
269 for laterally shiftable cutter elements which are
shifted by fluid pressure acting against a spring biased
part.
274 for laterally shiftable cutter elements with a shifting
mechanism spring biased to operative position.
289 for laterally shiftable cutter elements moved by a
longitudinally relatively movable cam or gear engaging a
cutter element which is spring biased to retracted position.
Subclass:
292
This subclass is indented under subclass 263. Apparatus in
which the laterally movable cutter element is pivotally
mounted on the bit head or shaft to swing about an axis which
substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the
shaft.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
343 for rolling cutters which are eccentrically mounted on a
longitudinal axis and which may be so positioned when
inoperative to pass through a casing or bore of smaller
diameter than the cutters will cut when operative.
Subclass:
293
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising (1) a reciprocable member positioned
below ground adapted to cause a sudden jar shock or hammer
below to the boring apparatus or (2) two telescoping members
positioned below ground which members are capable of axial
reciprocation with respect to each other and are provided
with means to limit said reciprocation, the means for
limiting reciprocation being for the purpose of causing an
impact or hammer blow or jar to the boring apparatus or a
portion thereof.
(1) Note. The jarring function must be specifically
described for classification in this subclass and not left to
inference; mere telescoping tool shaft sections which are not
disclosed as for the purpose of impacting or jarring a
portion of the apparatus below ground are classified below as
indicated by the search notes.
(2) Note. For classification in this subclass the impact or
blow must be delivered to a portion of the boring means and
not directly to the formation. For example, a below ground
device for impacting a bit is classified herein, but a bit
which is reciprocated to deliver a blow to the formation is
excluded.
(3) Note. Elements such as tubes, rods or balls which are
freely dropped into a tool shaft from the surface to actuate
a mechanism or close or otherwise modify a passage located in
a portion of a tool or tool shaft located below ground are
excluded even though such devices may incidentally cause an
impact or jar to the apparatus. Such devices are classified
on the basis of the individual functions performed.
(4) Note. As detailed in the class definition, C, and Lines
With Other Classes and Within This Class, Relationship to
Other Classes Which Include Subject Matter Closely Related to
Class 175, B, subject matter under this definition includes a
below ground lost motion connection, per se, or a below
ground lost motion connection combined with a specific joint
for connecting the shaft or cable to an art device forming
the subject matter for another class. However, inclusion in a
claim of specific structure of an art device classified in
another class will cause classification in such other class.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
135 and the search there noted for above ground means to
impact an earth penetrating means.
237 for means movable relative to a tool below ground to
stop flow toward the bore bottom, and in which said means
comprises a dropped element.
268 270 and 271, for a cutter element which is shiftable
laterally relative to a bit head below ground, and in which
the expansion of the cutter element is dependent on a dropped
element.
317 for means movable relative to a tool or shaft to control
a below ground passage means and in which the means includes
a dropped element.
321 for axially telescoping tool shaft sections.
414 for an impact type bit.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, subclass 178 for specific well structure
classifiable, per se, in Class 166 combined with a jar.
However, a jar combined with a packer or guide or a shaft
being used in a boring operation is classifiable in Class
175.
173, Tool Driving or Impacting, 90 and see the search notes
therein for an impacting device of general utility for
imparting blows to a tool. The mere location of an impacting
device below ground in an earth bore does not prevent
classification in Class 173 but an impacting device which is
described as located below ground and is described as (1) a
lost motion connection in a tool shaft or cable or (2) is
claimed in combination with a specific earth boring means
such as specific work contacting tool structure, or a packer
or guide on a shaft being used in a boring operation is
classified in Class 175.
285, Pipe Joints or Couplings, 298 and the search there
noted for pipe joints or couplings having a telescopic or a
relative motion connection.
294, Handling: Hand and Hoist-Line Implements, subclass
86.18 for grapples adapted to function in a well combined
with a jar or impact means to effect a release of the grapple
from engagement with an object in a well bore, and subclass
86.23 for grapples adapted to function in a well bore
combined with a jar or impact means of general utility within
a well bore or similar earth opening. (Included herein are
grapples combined with impact means that function to firmly
set the grapple in engagement with an object in a well bore
or with impact means that function to drive upwardly to
release a grapple engaged object that is stuck within a well
bore.)
464, Rotary Shafts, Gudgeons, Housings, and Flexible
Couplings for Rotary Shafts, 18 for a flexible coupling
between fluid conducting rotary shafts; and subclasses 162+
for a drive coupling facilitating relative axial motion
between coupled members.
Subclass:
294
This subclass is indented under subclass 293. Apparatus
combined with a joint between two parts which may be
selectively uncoupled below ground independently of other
joints in the apparatus, such that one part may be left in
the bore while the other part is withdrawn therefrom.
Subclass:
295
This subclass is indented under subclass 293. Apparatus in
which the hammer or impact device comprises an outer sleeve
provided with cutting edges and mounted for longitudinal
sliding movement on a shaft, said shaft having a portion
extending forwardly of said sleeve which has a noncutting
function.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
406 and the search there noted for a device having a
noncutting portion forwardly of a cutting portion.
Subclass:
296
This subclass is indented under subclass 293. Apparatus in
which (1) the hammer or impact device is acted upon and
propelled by a body of fluid to deliver a blow (2) a body of
fluid acts directly upon the hammer or impact device, or on
holding means therefor to restrain said device against
movement, and means to relieve the device or holding means
from the influence of the restraining fluid to deliver a blow
or (3) a means for holding the hammer or impact device
against movement is released by a body of fluid to deliver a
blow.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
99 and the search there noted for other fluid operated
devices.
Subclass:
297
This subclass is indented under subclass 296. Apparatus in
which said relieving means comprises a restricted orifice
through which said fluid may escape when placed under
pressure to allow unrestrained movement of said hammer or
impact device after a predetermined amount of said fluid has
escaped.
Subclass:
298
This subclass is indented under subclass 293. Apparatus in
which the telescoping members are provided with means which
cooperate to cause repetitive reciprocation of said members
relative to each other when one member is continuously turned
in the same direction about its axis.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
322 for telescoping shaft sections of a nonjarring type
provided with cooperating means for reciprocating said
sections relative to each other when one of said sections is
continuously rotated in one direction.
Subclass:
299
This subclass is indented under subclass 293. Apparatus in
which an elastic member acts upon the hammer or impact device
to urge said hammer or impact device toward or away from a
jarring position.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
173, Tool Driving or Impacting, 202 for an impacting device
having a hammer head which is driven by a spring.
Subclass:
300
This subclass is indented under subclass 293. Apparatus in
which means are provided on one of the telescoping members
for engaging and holding the other member against axial
movement with said reciprocation limiting means in spaced
relation, said holding means being selectively releasable to
allow relative axial movement between the members.
Subclass:
301
This subclass is indented under subclass 300. Apparatus in
which said holding means comprises an element which is
destructible so that said element is used only one time.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
276 for a frangible latching means for a spring biased
shifting mechanism of an expandable cutter element.
Subclass:
302
This subclass is indented under subclass 300. Apparatus in
which the holding means is adjustable to vary the manner in
which the holding means may be released or the force required
to effect release of the holding means.
Subclass:
303
This subclass is indented under subclass 302. Apparatus in
which the adjustment may be effected while the device is in
position to perform its intended function within the bore.
Subclass:
304
This subclass is indented under subclass 300. Apparatus in
which said holding means is held in operative position by
means of an elastic element.
Subclass:
305
This subclass is indented under subclass 293. Apparatus in
which the telescoping members are so arranged that they may
freely rotate relative to each other.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
298 for relatively rotatable telescoping members in which
continuous unidirectional rotary motion of one member causes
repetitive impacts.
Subclass:
306
This subclass is indented under subclass 305. Apparatus in
which selectively engageable means are provided on the
telescoping members for transmitting rotary motion from one
member to the other.
Subclass:
307
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus including a means provided to fit over and protect
a cutting edge of a bit or cutter element from being damaged
or inflicting damage only while the bit or cutter element is
not in use, such means being necessarily removed or destroyed
either before or simultaneously with the commencement of
boring.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
383 for a cutter element having plural cutting edges, one of
which is carried in nonuse position on the bit head or cutter
support.
Subclass:
308
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus including a receptacle means having a bottom and
side walls for retaining or collecting fluent material and/or
junk.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
232 for a receptacle having a bottom or portion of a bottom
movable below ground to stop flow toward the bore bottom.
244 and the search there noted for a means movable relative
to a bit to receive, retain or sever an undisturbed core.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
73, Measuring and Testing, 864.51 for a sampling implement
provided with a receptacle.
166, Wells, 162 and the search there noted, for well type
receptacles.
Subclass:
309
This subclass is indented under subclass 308. Apparatus in
which the receptacle means may be inserted in and withdrawn
from a hollow tool shaft at any time during operation of the
boring means.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
246 for a core receiver removable through a below ground
tool shaft.
257 and the search there noted for a tool or sample receiver
insertable through a driving or driven tool shaft or casing.
Subclass:
310
This subclass is indented under subclass 308. Apparatus in
which the receptacle is provided with a conveyor or feed
screw.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
323 and the search there noted for other devices with a
helix or helical structure.
Subclass:
311
This subclass is indented under subclass 308. Apparatus in
which the receptacle is suspended in a preformed hole below
the cutting portion of the tool.
Subclass:
312
This subclass is indented under subclass 308. Apparatus in
which the receptacle is either porous or is provided with
apertures.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
206 for above ground separation of drilling fluid
constituents.
Subclass:
313
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus in which a structure is supported or moved relative
to a bit or cutter element so that it will strip, wipe,
scrape, or break up adhering accumulations of mud or cuttings
from a bit or cutter element.
(1) Note. Since nearly all relatively moving or rolling
cutter elements which are adjacent to another cutter element
inherently perform a cleaning action, such structures have
been excluded from this subclass and are classified on other
structure.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
84 for an above ground cleaner for the boring means.
96 and 319, for below ground drive means for plural
relatively movable cutting edges.
341 for plural rolling cutters with intermeshing teeth.
381 for plural cutting edges relatively longitudinally
movable during operation.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
172, Earth Working, subclass 606 for a cleaner for the tool
of an earth working implement.
294, Handling: Hand and Hoist-Line Implements, 50 for fork
tine shovel clearers.
Subclass:
314
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus combined with means for separating solids from
earth fluid flowing into a well conduit.
(1) Note. The means for separating solids is generally
known as a well screen, strainer or filter and may comprise
no more than a pipe with a multiplicity of perforations
therein. The important factor determining classification in
this subclass is the specific description of the use of the
means to permit naturally occurring fluid in the earth
formation to flow into a well conduit.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
312 for devices combined with a receptacle for cuttings
having a sieve or strainer.
320 for tool shafts which may have holes to permit fluid
circulation and subclass 324 in particular for means other
than bit structure to induce fluent flow.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, 227 and the search there noted, for well
screens, per se, or for other combinations of well devices
with screens.
Subclass:
315
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus claimed in combination with features other than
means to transmit motion to the formation penetrating means,
or means to remove cuttings from the bore, or means to
conduct fluid to the earth penetrating means and not provided
for in any of the preceding subclasses.
(1) Note. The means to transmit motion to the earth
penetrating means includes means to rotate, reciprocate,
impact, feed or stabilize the tool including the tool shaft.
(2) Note. The means to remove cuttings from the bore
includes mechanical conveying means or a fluid system which
functions to remove cuttings from the bore.
(3) Note. The means to conduct fluid to the tool includes
conduits, passages, apertures, valves or closures including
packers positioned between the tool shaft and bore wall for
allowing or controlling the flow of fluid to or from the
tool.
(4) Note. The tool includes any device which disintegrates,
cuts, dislocates, erodes or compresses the formation to form
the bore.
(5) Note. All preceding subclasses must be investigated for
particular combinations within this definition as shown by
the preceding subclass titles.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
7, Compound Tools, appropriate subclasses, for an earth
boring tool combined with a nonearth boring tool.
Subclass:
316
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus having parts or portions which are connected
together in such a manner as to be movable relative to each
other without being completely separated to permit the
removal of cuttings from the apparatus.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
232 for tools with means movable relative to the tool below
ground to stop flow toward the bore bottom which may also be
moved to permit cleaning of the tool.
308 for tools combined with receptacles which may have parts
which are movable to permit cleaning.
313 for tools combined with a mechanical cleaner for a bit
or cutter element.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
294, Handling: Hand and Hoist-Line Implements 49 for
hand-type nonrotary post hole diggers.
Subclass:
317
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus in which a tool or tool shaft is provided with a
passage and means movable relative to said tool or tool shaft
for regulating or controlling the flow of fluent material
through said passage while the tool or tool shaft is
positioned below ground.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
218 for a valve in combination with above ground means for
handling fluid or cuttings.
232 for means movable relative to tool below ground to stop
flow toward bore bottom.
247 for fluid pressure responsive means to remove core
receiver or operate a receiver latch.
250 for passage control means in a fluid actuated core
retaining or severing means.
267 for passage control means in a means to laterally shift
a cutter element by fluid pressure.
271 for passage control means in a latch operated by fluid
pressure or dropped element.
296 for passage control means in a fluid operated below
ground hammer or impact device.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, 107 and 162+ for well fluid receptacles which
include valves and subclasses 316+ for below ground valves
peculiar to wells.
Subclass:
318
This subclass is indented under subclass 317. Apparatus in
which the means comprises a subsurface valve so mounted in
the tool or tool shaft as to prevent the upward flow of
fluent material in the tool or tool shaft.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
233 for means movable to seal a sample receiver at bore
bottom pressure.
235 for the combination of valve seats engaged by movable
means to stop upward and downward flow.
Subclass:
319
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a plurality of cutting edges and a
mechanical linkage or gearing which is located below ground
and which is connected to the cutting edges to cause the
cutting edges to move relative to each other.
(1) Note. Rotation of similar cutting elements, about
spaced axes, whether parallel or not, is considered to be
relative motion for classification in this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
96 for a plurality of cutting edges which are moved relative
to each other by individual below ground drive motors.
106 for below ground mechanical motion converting drive
means drivingly interposed between a below ground drive motor
and a tool.
170 for above ground mechanical motion converting drive
means for tool.
263 and the search there noted, for devices having cutter
elements which are laterally shiftable below ground.
298 for devices having a below ground hammer or impact
device in which continuous unidirectional rotary motion of
one telescoping member effects the impacting.
Subclass:
320
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus including particulars of a tool shaft.
(1) Note. For the meaning of "tool shaft", see the class
definition.
(2) Note. The term detail or particulars is meant to
exclude mere nominal or broad recitations of a tool shaft.
For example, a shaft having a detailed handle fixed thereto
or merely stating "hollow tool shaft", "centrally located
passage", "convolute tool shaft", etc, would be insufficient,
but if said shaft is described as having a particular kind of
passage or convolution or multiple passages, etc., the patent
will be classified herein.
(3) Note. For purposes of this subclass, the tool shaft
extends between above ground structure and the joint directly
above the cutting element that is most closely located to the
above ground structure; all structure from the joint above
the said cutting element to the most remote bore engaging end
of the boring means is considered as part of the tool
structure. Likewise, details of the joint structure which
are in the tool shaft, but function merely to connect the
tool structure to the shaft are excluded as subject material
for this subclass, and are classified with the particular
tool structure in this class if tool structure is claimed, or
in the appropriate joint class if tool structure is not
claimed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
74 for sectional shaft having means to lock sections in
angular relation in a means to constrain tool to bore along a
curved path.
75 for normally curved shaft in a means to constrain tool to
bore along a curved path.
101 for positive driving connection between tool and support
shaft for rotary below ground prime mover.
173 with drive means including diversely actuated shafts
extending into bore.
205 for means providing pressurized gas contact with
drilling liquid which may be located in a tool shaft.
215 for tool shaft having plural passages for drilling
fluid.
317 and the search there noted for means movable relative to
tool or tool shaft to control below ground passage.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
174, Electricity: Conductors and Insulators, appropriate
subclasses for electrical conductors and particularly
subclass 47 for combined electrical and fluid conductors.
Subclass:
321
This subclass is indented under subclass 320. Apparatus in
which separate sections of tool shafting cooperate with one
another so as to be slidably extensible or collapsible (e.g.,
one section slidable within a second section) and including
below ground tool advancing devices such as fluid operated
expansible chamber feed means.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
94 for below ground feed means for a below ground prime
mover.
257 and the search there noted for tool removable or
insertable through or around driving or driven shaft.
293 for telescoping shaft sections wherein the sections are
provided with opposing faces which are adapted to contact
upon movement of the sections to cause an impact or jar.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
285, Pipe Joints or Couplings, 298 for variable length pipe
joints.
403, Joints and Connections, 52 for articulated members in
general.
464, Rotary Shafts, Gudgeons, Housings, and Flexible
Couplings for Rotary Shafts, 18 for a flexible coupling
between fluid-conducting rotary shafts; and subclasses 162+
for a drive coupling facilitating relative axial motion
between coupled members.
Subclass:
322
This subclass is indented under subclass 321. Apparatus in
which the sections of shafting include means acting between
the sections so that the collapsing motion is accompanied by
relative motion of the sections about the axis of the
shafting (e.g., axial rotation or axial oscillation).
(1) Note. The axial motion may be specifically described as
either (1) causing the collapsing or telescoping or (2) being
caused by the collapsing or telescoping of the sections for
classification in this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
298 for devices having a below ground hammer or impact
device in which continuous unidirectional rotary motion of
one telescoping member effects the impacting.
Subclass:
323
This subclass is indented under subclass 320. Apparatus
including structure other than the structure of a bit
providing a helix or portions arranged in a helical manner.
(1) Note. The helix or helically arranged portions usually
perform a pumping or conveying function.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
102 for a helix or helically arranged structure in a device
which includes a below ground tool drive motor.
310 for a receptacle with a helical conveyor.
388 for a bit having a pilot which is helical.
394 for a bit with a helical conveying portion.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
15, Brushing, Scrubbing, and General Cleaning, subclass
104.33 for helically shaped sewer cleaners.
Subclass:
324
This subclass is indented under subclass 320. Apparatus
including structure other than the structure of the tool
which is specifically adapted to cause the circulation of
flowable material (e.g., cuttings or drilling fluid) within
the tool shaft or borehole.
(1) Note. Since most boring tools normally include or are
inherently adapted to cause a degree of impelling or
conveying, tool structure is excluded as subject matter for
this subclass and is classified in the appropriate tool
subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
100 for means to induce fluent flow comprising discharge
passages for motive fluid of a below ground fluid operated
motor directed toward the bore entrance.
102 for a below ground pump for the removal of cuttings
combined with a below ground tool drive motor.
213 for a flushing fluid handling system in which a pump
inlet communicates with the bore bottom.
217 for an above ground means for handling drilling fluid or
cuttings including a pump which may be positioned below
ground.
323 and the search there noted for a helix or helically
arranged structure on a tool shaft for inducing fluid flow.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, subclass 62, 68 and 105+ for an eduction pump or
plunger in a well.
417, Pumps, appropriate subclasses for pumps of general
utility.
418, Rotary Expansible Chamber Devices, appropriate
subclasses for rotary expansible chamber devices, per se.
Subclass:
325.1
Shaft carried guide or protector:
This subclass is indented under subclass 320. Apparatus in
which a means on the tool shaft directs, positions, or
shields a drillstring or a portion thereof.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
73 for bore wall engaging guides which act to constrain the
tool to bore along a curved path.
97 for a below ground tool drive motor in which the motor
support is provided with means for engaging the bore wall.
323 for a tool shaft having helical impeller or conveyor
structure engaging the bore wall.
399 for nonsymmetrical bits provided with bore wall engaging
guide means.
408 for bits having means on the bit to centralize of
stabilize the bit.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, 117.5 for means guiding an insertable element
laterally of bore axis and subclasses 241.1+ for means
positioning a well device within a well.
Subclass:
325.2
Coupled between shaft sections or bit and shaft section:
This subclass is indented under subclass 325.1. Apparatus
where the guide or protecting means is (1) a discrete device
connecting two axially spaced shaft sections or (2) a shaft
section and a bit in which the tool shaft or portion is
specifically adapted to hold the bore wall guide or protector
means.
Subclass:
325.3
With bore wall engaging means rotatable relative to shaft
section (e.g., with bearings):
This subclass is indented under subclass 325.2. Apparatus
where a borehole contacting device is mounted on the shaft
section in a manner that allows the shaft section to rotate
while the guide or protector means is substantially fixed in
the borehole.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
384, Bearings, 29 for a cylindrical linear bearing of
general use; if borehole or well contacting structure is
disclosed or claimed, placement is in Class 175, subclasses
325.1+.
Subclass:
325.4
Having removable inserts:
This subclass is indented under subclass 325.2. Apparatus
where a bore wall contacting portion is readily placed in or
removed from a slot or an aperture in the guide or protector
means.
Subclass:
325.5
Surrounding existing shaft section:
This subclass is indented under subclass 325.1. Apparatus
where the guide or protector encircles and is secured to the
shaft.
Subclass:
325.6
Held by a fastener parallel to shaft axis:
This subclass is indented under subclass 325.5. Apparatus
where the guide or protector means encircles and is fixed to
the shaft by a securing means having a longitudinal axis
equidistant to the longitudinal axis of the tool shaft.
Subclass:
325.7
Held by discrete fastening means tangential to shaft axis:
This subclass is indented under subclass 325.5. Apparatus
where the guide or protector means encircles and is fixed to
the shaft by a securing means having a longitudinal axis that
touches a single point of a planar circle whose center is the
longitudinal axis of the tool shaft.
Subclass:
326
Apparatus under subclasses 325.1+ in which at least a portion
of the guide means advances with the tool, and is described
as larger than the area of bore being formed so that the
advance is guided by a surface (generally a performed bore)
that is laterally spaced from the bore currently being formed
by the tool.
Subclass:
327
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising (1) a tool having a cutter element or
cutting edge which is disclosed as specifically adapted to
mechanically contact and selectively cut, disintegrate or
dislocate portions of masonry, stone, rock or earth
formations to form or enlarge a hole or bore therein or (2)
subcombinations of such a tool not otherwise classified.
(1) Note. Cutter element is defined as any portion of a bit
that comprises a cutting edge and a body portion that is
specifically formed to be movably or immovably engaged or
connected to a supporting structure (i.e., bit head) which
supporting structure by itself has no disintegrating function
but serves as an intermediate member for connecting the
cutter element to a drive shaft.
(2) Note. Cutting edge is defined as that portion of the
cutter element or bit that initially contacts and cuts,
disintegrates or dislocates the earth formation, said edge
may be composed of a surface which is usually sharpened or
chisel shaped; however, any projection or surface the sole
purpose of which is to cut disintegrate or dislocate the
formation which it contacts is included under the term
cutting edge.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
30, Cutlery, appropriate subclasses for cutlery of general
utility.
37, Excavating, appropriate subclasses, particularly 446 for
digging edge of scoops.
51, Abrasive Tool Making Process, Material, or Composition,
for an abrasive tool making process, material, or composition
in general.
52, Static Structures (e.g., Buildings), 155 for a piercing
or expanding earth anchor.
76, Metal Tools and Implements, Making, subclass 102 and
108.1+ for blanks and processes for making drills.
111, Planting, subclass 99 for dibbles for planting.
125, Stone Working, 36 for stone working tools including
drills adapted to bore a hole in stone not in situ.
144, Woodworking, for a woodworking machine including cutting
edges.
172, Earth Working, 681 and the search there noted for earth
working tools.
241, Solid Material Comminution or Disintegration,
appropriate subclasses, and particularly 291 for apparatus
for breaking up solid material.
299, Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material,
subclass 79.1 for a cutter head or tooth for mining or
disintegrating hard material in situ.
407, Cutters, for Shaping, for a metal working cutter.
408, Cutting by Use of Rotating Axially Moving Tool, 186 and
199+ for a tool of that class type.
433, Dentistry, subclass 165 for dental tool bits.
451, Abrading, for an abrading tool of general utility, and
particularly 490 for a tool support for a flexible-member
abrading tool, subclasses 526+ for a flexible-member abrading
tool, per se, and subclasses 540+ for a rigid abrading tool.
606, Surgery, 80, for bone drills and subclasses 167+, for
cutting, puncturing or piercing tools in general.
Subclass:
328
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Apparatus in
which the bit is provided with a magnet or with a magnetized
portion.
(1) Note. The magnet or magnetized portion may comprise
either a permanent magnet or an electromagnet.
(2) Note. A bit that may become magnetized during use is
excluded.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
294, Handling: Hand and Hoist-Line Implements, subclass 65.5
for a grapple adapted to be used in a borehole and provided
with a magnet.
Subclass:
331
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Apparatus
comprising a rotary bit in which a cutter element or carrier
for a fixed cutter is rotatably mounted thereon so that the
cutter element or carrier may roll or tend to roll on a
surface of the bore as the bit is rotated.
(1) Note. Patents have been classified in this and indented
subclasses which claim a portion of a bit which is
specifically described as a roller cutter bit even though the
roller cutter element is not claimed.
(2) Note. An endless flexible member mounted to roll about
journals on the bit head in response to rotation of said head
is considered a rolling cutter and is classified in this and
indented subclasses.
(3) Note. The term "readily detachable" as employed in the
notes to this and indented subclasses refers to constructions
which may be disassembled by employing only conventional hand
tools. Patents which claim that the various parts or
subassemblies may be separated by a cutting torch and new
components welded together, have not been treated as
involving readily detachable components although some of
these patents refer to such welded parts as being
detachable.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
15, Brushing, Scrubbing, and General Cleaning, subclass
104.13 for pipe cleaners having similar rollers.
172, Earth Working, 518 for rolling, rotating or orbitally
moving earthworking tools.
299, Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material,
subclass 86 for a cutter head for mining or disintegrating
hard material having a rolling cutter.
Subclass:
332
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Apparatus in
which the rolling cutter element or a fixed cutting edge of
the bit is so arranged that the bit makes an annular cut in
the formation and leaves a central undisturbed portion of the
formation in the form of a cylinder.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
403 and the search there noted for other core forming type
bits.
Subclass:
333
This subclass is indented under subclass 332. Apparatus in
which the bit is further provided with means to disintegrate
the undisturbed cylindrical portion of the formation after it
has been formed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
404 and the search there noted for other core forming type
bits having core breaking means.
Subclass:
334
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Apparatus in
which the rolling cutter element or a fixed cutting edge of
the bit forms a first bore of definable diameter, and a
trailing rolling cutter or fixed cutting edge increases the
diameter of the first bore so that the boring outline of the
bit will describe at least one peripheral axial step.
(1) Note. Since many rolling cutting bits include toothed
rolling cutter elements which will individually form "steps"
due to inclination of the cutter relative to the bit axis, or
varying tooth lengths, such patents are excluded from this
subclass and classified on other rolling cutter bit
features.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
385 for a nonroller type bit having a pilot cutter.
Subclass:
335
This subclass is indented under subclass 334. Apparatus in
which the leading cutter or pilot comprises a cutter element
or cutting edge other than a rolling cutter element or
portion thereof.
Subclass:
336
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Apparatus in
which the bit includes a cutter element or cutting edge other
than a rolling cutter element or portion thereof.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
335 for a rolling cutter bit provided with a fixed pilot
cutter.
Subclass:
337
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Apparatus in
which the cutter element is rotatably mounted on a bearing
and in which drilling fluid is supplied to the bearing to
clean, cool or lubricate such bearing.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
227 for storage or conduit means for bit lubricant other
than drilling fluid.
339 for other drilling fluid conduit structure in a rolling
cutter bit.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
384, Bearings, subclass 93 for bearing structure with
lubrication means which are adapted for use in roller type
rock drill bits and only enough support structure for the
bearing. The lubricant can be drilling fluid. The support
can be broadly recited roller cutter bit but not details of
the cutter relating to cutting, or lubricating a cutter.
Subclass:
338
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Apparatus in
which the rolling cutter element is rotatably mounted on an
endless or rotary carrier so that both the rolling cutter
element and the carrier may roll or tend to roll on a surface
of the bore as the bit is rotated.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
89 for tool element on continuously driven flexible or
articulated endless member.
Subclass:
339
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Apparatus in
which the bit is provided with a particular nozzle, passage
or conduit to supply drilling fluid to the cutting edge of
the rolling cutter element or to the surface of the formation
being disintegrated.
(1) Note. Since nearly all earth boring tools under
subclass 331 are provided with some form of drilling fluid
supply, a mere nominal recitation of a fluid nozzle or
passage has been excluded.
(2) Note. The fluid nozzle, passage or conduit need not
define a tubular structure, it may form only a portion of the
wall of the fluid conducting means.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
227 for storage and conduit means for a bit lubricant other
than the drilling fluid.
332 for a core forming type roller bit provided with fluid
conduit details.
337 for a drilling fluid supply to a roller cutter element
bearing.
Subclass:
340
This subclass is indented under subclass 339. Apparatus in
which the means to supply drilling fluid comprises (1) a
coated or treated passage or (2) a distinct element which is
limited in use to conducting, directing, or blocking the
drilling fluid.
(1) Note. A fluid conducting element under part (2) of the
definition which is also a cutter element or a bit is
classified either with subclass 339 or is classified on other
bit structure.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
227 for a storage and conduit means for lubricant other than
drilling fluid for a bit.
332 for a core forming type roller bit provided with a fluid
conduit lining or element.
337 for a drilling fluid supply to a roller cutter element
bearing.
393 for a fluid conduit lining or fluid conducting,
directing or blocking element for a bit other than a roller
type bit.
Subclass:
341
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Apparatus in
which the bit is provided with a plurality of rolling cutter
elements which cutter elements are provided with cutting
edges arranged in circumferential rows about each cutter
element, and which rows are positioned on each of the cutter
elements so that the cutting edges of one row interfit the
cutting edges of an adjacent cutter element row.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
319 for plural rolling cutter elements provided with cutting
edges arranged in circumferential rows about each cutter so
that the cutting edges of one cutter element interfit the
cutting edges of the other cutter element in driving
relation.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
241, Solid Material Comminution or Disintegration, subclass
236 for intermeshing plural rotating crushing surfaces in a
comminuting device.
Subclass:
342
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Apparatus in
which means are provided to selectively hold the rolling
cutter element in different positions with respect to the bit
head.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
382 for an adjustable nonrolling cutter element.
Subclass:
343
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Apparatus in
which (1) the rolling cutter element is mounted on an axis
which is spaced from, or inclined to the geometric axis of
the cutter or cutting edge, or (2) in which the rolling
cutter element is loosely held on its rotary supporting means
so that it may continually shift laterally as it rolls.
(1) Note. The loosely supported cutters are usually disks
which slide on part of the bit head to effect a
self-sharpening function.
Subclass:
344
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Apparatus in
which the rolling cutter element is carried on a bit having a
portion extending inwardly toward the axis of the bit and
forwardly of the cutter element in the direction of boring
and which has no cutting function.
(1) Note. The noncutting portion can be located between
claimed cutting portions and patents which claim cutting
portions spaced longitudinally of the bore axis will be
classified in this subclass even though no noncutting portion
is specifically recited.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
295 for a device having a noncutting portion forwardly of a
sleeve impact member having a cutting portion thereon.
406 for a bit having a noncutting portion forwardly of the
cutting portion and in which the cutting portion is a
nonrolling cutter.
Subclass:
345
This subclass is indented under subclass 344. Apparatus in
which the rolling cutter element is mounted on the bit head
on an axis which extends in the same general direction as the
axis of the bit.
(1) Note. The cutter axis has been considered as extending
in the general direction of the axis of the bit when it is
disclosed as inclined to the axis of the bit at an angle of
less than 30 deg..
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
348 for a rolling cutter element mounted on a bit on a
longitudinal axis.
Subclass:
346
This subclass is indented under subclass 345. Apparatus
wherein the rolling cutter element is mounted on an axle
which is supported on the bit by means of two or more spaced
readily detachable supporting devices.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
363 for a transverse axis rolling cutter element mounted on
an axle which is supported on the bit by means of two or more
spaced readily removable supporting devices.
Subclass:
347
This subclass is indented under subclass 345. Apparatus
wherein the rolling cutter element is mounted on an axle or
bushing which is removably fastened to the bit by a means
which is readily detachable.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
346 for axles which are supported by a supporting device
which supporting device is detachably connected to the bit.
364 for a transverse axis rolling cutter element which is
mounted on an axle or bushing which is removably fastened to
the bit.
Subclass:
348
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Apparatus in
which the rolling cutter element is mounted on the bit head
on an axis which extends in the same general direction as the
axis of the bit.
(1) Note. The cutter may have cutting means on its
periphery or on its radial face.
(2) Note. The cutter axis has been considered longitudinal
when it is disclosed as inclined to the axis of the bit at an
angle of less than 30 deg..
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
345 for rolling cutter reamers which are mounted on an axis
extending longitudinally of the bit.
Subclass:
349
This subclass is indented under subclass 348. Apparatus in
which an additional rolling cutter element is mounted on an
axis extending transversely of the bit head.
Subclass:
350
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Apparatus in
which the axis of the rolling cutter element is offset from a
radial vertical plane containing the longitudinal axis of the
bit.
(1) Note. The purpose of offsetting the cutter axis is to
obtain a sliding or scraping cut but enough radial component
is usually provided for the cutter axis to cause the cutters
to roll as well as slide.
Subclass:
351
This subclass is indented under subclass 350. Apparatus in
which the rolling cutter element comprises a cutting wheel
having a smooth, unbroken, sharpened, cutting edge at its
periphery.
(1) Note. This subclass includes plural disk cutters
mounted on different axes offset from each other as well as
from the drill head axis.
(2) Note. Bits employing only offset, serrated disks having
a stepped or undulating edge have been treated as having a
toothed cutting edge and are classified in subclass 350.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
373 for earth boring cutter disks, per se, or with broadly
recited supporting structure.
Subclass:
352
This subclass is indented under subclass 351. Apparatus in
which an additional rolling cutter element is mounted
generally coaxially with the disk cutter.
(1) Note. The additional cutter may be a disk or a toothed
cutter and may rotate either with respect to or in unison
with the disk cutter, (e.g., integral coaxial or spool
cutters).
Subclass:
353
This subclass is indented under subclass 350. Apparatus in
which the rolling cutter element comprises an axially
elongated roller which tapers in diameter along its axis.
Subclass:
354
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Apparatus in
which the rolling cutter element is provided with a rotatably
mounted supporting member which is integral therewith or
fixed thereto to rotate therewith.
(1) Note. The rotatable shaft or shank may have a plurality
of cutting members secured thereto.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
352 for coaxial cutters which may be supported on a common
rotary axis, the cutters being on a laterally offset axis and
at least one cutter being a disk.
Subclass:
355
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Apparatus
comprising a plurality of rolling cutter elements in which
the axis of one cutter element lies in a diametric plane
containing the bit axis while the axis of another cutter
element is disposed in a plane which is displaced from said
diametric plane through an angle measured in a plane
perpendicular to the bit axis.
Subclass:
356
This subclass is indented under subclass 355. Apparatus in
which all of the cutter elements are journaled on a separate
axle or pin supported at one end only in cantilever fashion.
Subclass:
357
This subclass is indented under subclass 355. Apparatus in
which all of the cutter elements are journaled on a separate
axle or pin supported by a frame, bracket, or securing means
which is readily detachable from the bit head in such manner
that all of the axles or pins may be detached
simultaneously.
Subclass:
358
This subclass is indented under subclass 355. Apparatus in
which all of the cutter elements are journaled on a separate
axle or pin which intersect, abut, or otherwise engage each
other under the bit head so as to support or brace each
other.
(1) Note. Additional brace means may be interposed between
the head and the region of intersection or engagement of the
cutter supports.
Subclass:
359
This subclass is indented under subclass 358. Apparatus
provided with a specific bearing or seal structure.
(1) Note. Since nearly all rolling cutter elements employ
some form of bearing, nominally recited bearing structures as
defined in (1) Note to subclass 371, have been excluded and
the patent has been classified on the basis of the remaining
features.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
371 for bearings and seals in other combinations with cutter
structure and see the notes thereunder.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
277, Seal for a Joint or Juncture, for a generic sealing
means or process, 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.
Subclass:
360
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Apparatus
comprising a plurality of rolling cutter elements and in
which one cutter is journaled on an axle or pin disposed
transversely of the bit axis and which axle or pin is
supported at spaced points and another rolling cutter element
is journaled on an axle or pin supported at one end only and
extending in cantilever fashion.
(1) Note. The stub axle may be a continuation of the cross
axle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
355 357 and 358+, for rolling cutters on cross and stub axles
which are circumferentially displaced in a horizontal plane
about the bit axis.
Subclass:
361
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Apparatus in
which the rolling cutter element is journaled on an axle or
pin disposed transversely of the bit axis and which axle or
pin is supported at spaced points.
(1) Note. The cross axle may consist of a plurality of stub
axles connected together (for example, by a sleeve or by
welding) to form a continuous axle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
356 for stub axles which merely abut each other.
Subclass:
362
This subclass is indented under subclass 361. Apparatus
comprising a plurality of rolling cutter elements disposed on
axes which extend in a single diametric plane through the
bit, and which are (1) angularly related to each other within
the plane, or (2) offset vertically from each other within
the plane.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
350 for cutters on laterally offset axes.
355 for cutters on axes which are disposed in angularly
related diametric planes.
Subclass:
363
This subclass is indented under subclass 361. Apparatus in
which (1) one or more of the spaced supporting devices for
the cross axle are readily detachable from the bit head to
release the axle or (2) the bit head consists of plural
mating sections which are readily detachable from each other
to release the cross axle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
346 for a rolling cutter element journaled on a longitudinal
axle, which axle is supported at spaced points by readily
removable supporting devices.
357 and 366, for similar detachable supports for
circumferentially displaced cutter axles and for stub axles,
respectively.
Subclass:
364
This subclass is indented under subclass 361. Apparatus in
which the axle is in the form of a pin, bearing or bushing
which is removably fastened to the bit head by a means which
is readily detached.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
354 for detachable, rotatably mounted axles.
363 for cross axles which are supported by a member which is
detachably connected to the head.
367 for detachable stub axles.
Subclass:
365
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Apparatus in
which the rolling cutter element is journaled on axle or pin
which is supported at its inner end only in cantilever
fashion and extends radially away from the center of the bit
head.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
356 for stub axles which are circumferentially spaced and
which may be outwardly directed.
Subclass:
366
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Apparatus in
which the rolling cutter element is journaled on an axle or
pin supported at one end only in cantilever fashion on an
arm, leg or bracket which is removably connected to the rest
of the bit head by a means which is readily detachable.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
357 for plural circumferentially spaced rolling cutter
elements journaled on separate axles or pins which are
supported by a means which is readily detachable from the bit
head to simultaneously detach all of the axles or pins.
363 for cross axle supports which are detachably connected
to the bit head.
Subclass:
367
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Apparatus in
which the rolling cutter element is journaled on an axle or
pin supported at one end only in cantilever fashion, said
axle or pin being either (1) readily detachable, or (2)
provided with a bearing or bushing which is readily
detachable therefrom.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
364 for cross axles which are removably connected to part of
the bit.
Subclass:
368
This subclass is indented under subclass 367. Apparatus in
which means are provided to secure the cutter element to the
removable axle, pin, bushing or bearing and which is
releasable to free the cutter element after the removal of
the axle, pin, bushing or bearing.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
369 for other releasable cutter securing devices.
Subclass:
369
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Apparatus in
which the rolling cutter element is journaled on an axle or
pin, supported at one end only in cantilever fashion and
provided with a particular means to rotatably secure the
rolling cutter element with respect to the axle or pin.
(1) Note. The securing means need not be releasable and may
be intended to permanently secure the cutter to the stub axle
(e.g., "snap connections"). Patents which merely recite that
the cutter is "releasable" have been classified on the basis
of other claimed features and cross-referenced into this
subclass when appropriate.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
368 for releasable means to secure a rolling cutter to a
detachable stub axle.
Subclass:
370
This subclass is indented under subclass 369. Apparatus in
which the rolling cutter element is journaled on the axle or
pin by a bearing having rolling elements which may be removed
from their races to provided for removal of the rolling
cutter element.
Subclass:
371
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Apparatus
provided with a specific bearing or seal structure.
(1) Note. Since nearly all rolling cutters employ some form
of bearing, nominally recited bearing structures have been
excluded and such patents have been classified on the basis
of the cutting features claimed. A claim reciting a "bearing
sleeve", a "roller bearing", or a "ball bearing having inner
and outer races" would be considered to involve a mere
nominal recitation of bearing structure but patents claiming
specific locations of bearings with respect to the cutters;
specific bearing shape, characteristics or materials, or
bearings which detachably secure the cutters to their axles
have been considered to involve more than nominal bearing
structure. For example, a claim reciting "a bushing having a
hard faced bearing surface" or "a pair of ball bearings
engaging shoulders in the rolling cutter" would be classified
in this or the indented subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
359 364, 367+, and 370, for bearing or seal structures of the
type there provided.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
277, Seal for a Joint or Juncture, for a generic sealing
means or process, 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.
384, Bearings, subclass 94 for bearing structure with a seal
which are adapted for use in roller type rock drill bits and
only enough support structure for the bearing, the drill bit
can be broadly recited as a support for the bearing but not
details of cutting, teeth, etc.
Subclass:
372
This subclass is indented under subclass 371. Apparatus in
which the bearing is an antifriction bearing employing
rolling elements.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
370 for antifriction bearings which may be disassembled to
release a rolling cutter from its support axle.
Subclass:
373
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Apparatus in
which the rolling cutter element comprises a wheel having an
unbroken, sharpened cutting edge portion at its periphery.
(1) Note. Serrated disks having a stepped or undulating
edge have been treated as toothed cutting edge despite the
fact that they may be termed "disks" in the claims and are
classified on other structure.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
351 and 352, for disk cutters in a bit having laterally
offset cutter axis.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
30, Cutlery, subclass 347 and the search there noted for
rotary blade cutters of general utility.
172, Earth Working, subclass 604 for a disc earth working
tool, per se.
Subclass:
374
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Apparatus in
which the bit or any portion thereof is composed of (1) two
or more different materials, (2) a single material which has
been treated to provide portions of the bit with specific
properties which properties are different from the properties
of another portion or (3) a specific material.
(1) Note. The mere recitation under part (3) of metal, iron
or steel, per se, is excluded. However, specifying iron and
steel or different types of iron or steel would be included
under part (1).
(2) Note. The specific material under part (3) may be
identified by its properties (e.g., ductile, soft, hardened,
etc.).
(3) Note. Under part (1) a rolling cutter element having an
insert connected thereto would be included since the cutter
element and insert would normally be composed of diverse
material.
(4) Note. A bit provided with a welded, brazed or soldered
joint is considered formed of diverse material and is
classified under this definition.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
425 for a nonroller type bit composed of specific or diverse
material.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
76, Metal Tools and Implements, Making, subclass 102 and
108.1+ for processes of making augers and drills usually of
specific material.
Subclass:
375
This subclass is indented under subclass 374. Apparatus in
which portions of the bit are connected together by (1)
heating the parts to a plastic or fluid state and allowing
the metals to flow together with or without the addition of
other molten metal or (2) connecting the parts by means of
melted or fluid metal (e.g., solder).
(1) Note. This subclass includes depositing weld material
on a part of the bit as, for example, to form a wear surface
or a cutting edge.
(2) Note. The mere recitation in a claim that parts of a
bit are connected has been included in this subclass provided
there is a specific description that the connection has been
formed in the manner set forth in the definition of this
subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
376 for a nonroller type bit having a welded portion.
Subclass:
376
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Apparatus in
which the external physical form or shape of the bit is such
that the bit has (1) no more than one plane of bilateral
symmetry passing through a line coinciding with the
longitudinal axis of the drive shaft for the bit and (2) no
radial symmetry about an axis coinciding with the
longitudinal axis of the drive shaft for the bit.
(1) Note. For the purposes of this subclass an element has
bilateral symmetry when each part thereof lying on one side
of a plane passing there through has a corresponding part
lying on the opposite side of the plane at an equal distance
from the plane and on a line through the parts and
perpendicular to the plane. An element has radial symmetry
when it can be divided into a plurality of segments radially
about the axis of symmetry each of which has the same shape
and size and the sum of the radial angles of all the segments
equal 360 degrees.
(2) Note. Patents in which the claims would meet the terms
of the definition of this subclass because only a portion of
a specifically described bit has been claimed are excluded if
the entire bit as described would not meet the terms of the
definition. Such patents have been classified on other
features.
(3) Note. The external form of the bit is considered to
include the configuration and location of rolling cutter
elements, cutting edges, fluid or cuttings conveying ports or
the shape of the bit head, however, a lug or recess or
opening for the purpose of connecting the parts of the bit or
the bit to the drive shaft are not included, such as, for
example, an opening for a single set screw or a flat on the
bit head to be received in a socket. Also, the internal
shape of fluid, cuttings or core conveying passages are not
included. Also, not included is structure where the sole
nonsymmetrical feature of the bit resides in the shape or
position of teeth or cutting edges on the individual rolling
cutters, if all the rolling cutters are identical in shape
and size and are symmetrically arranged on the bit head.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
341 for a nonsymmetrical rolling cutter bit in which the
cutter edges on one roller cutter intermesh with the cutting
edges of an adjacent roller cutter.
378 for a rolling cutter element, per se, with irregular
tooth rows.
398 for a nonsymmetrical nonroller type bit.
Subclass:
377
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Apparatus in
which the rolling cutter element is provided with a portion
which has a cutting edge or edges arranged along a line or
series of lines extending around the circumference of the
element and simultaneously extending in a direction along the
axis of the cutter element (e.g., helical).
Subclass:
378
This subclass is indented under subclass 331. Apparatus in
which the rolling cutter element has (1) a row of
circumferential cutting edges of nonuniform size, shape, or
pitch or other cutting edge arrangements (e.g., spacing)
which are adapted to prevent repeated engagement or
"tracking" of the cutting edges with the same point on the
earth formation or (2) a plurality of circumferential rows of
cutting edges and in which there is an abrupt change in shape
or pitch between adjacent rows.
(1) Note. Under part (2) a mere gradual change in size or
shape of the cutting edges to allow for the taper of the
cutter element is excluded.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
15, Brushing, Scrubbing, and General Cleaning, subclass
104.13 for pipe cleaning cutter wheels which have
irregularly spaced teeth for the same purpose.
Subclass:
379
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Apparatus in
which the bit is provided with (1) relatively movable parts
which are adapted to move during operation to provide a new
cutting edge or (2) a body in the form of repeating similar
structure extending longitudinally of the bit such that a new
cutting edge is provided when the original cutter edge
becomes worn.
(1) Note. Under part (2) a mere homogeneous bit body which
inherently wears away is excluded, some specific repeating
structure, such as for example, separate defined layers of
specific material, symmetrically arranged apertures in the
bit body or a cutter element combined with a backing member
made of different material such that as the cutter element
and backing member wear an effective cutting edge will be
provided, is necessary for classification under this
definition.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
331 for rolling cutter bits having plural cutting edges
which are used successively and continuously.
382 for adjustable cutter elements which are not adjustable
during operation and particularly subclass 383 in which the
adjustment is for the purpose of presenting a different
cutting edge.
409 for a homogeneous bit-body made of some specific
abrasive resistant material.
Subclass:
380
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Apparatus in
which the bit is particularly adapted to receive and restrain
unsupported abrasive particles between its outer end and the
bore bottom, said particles forming the cutting edge of the
bit.
(1) Note. For classification under this definition the
abrasive particles must be described as separate elements
such as shot or other pellets insertable into the bore.
Drilled chip particles which may incidentally function to
disintegrate the formation are excluded.
(2) Note. The abrasive particles need not be claimed for
classification in this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
54 for shot or pellets which are recirculated by the
drilling fluid and act or aid in disintegrating the
formation.
Subclass:
381
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Apparatus in
which the bit is provided with a plurality of cutter elements
or cutting edges which elements or edges are connected to the
bit in such a manner as to permit axial movement of one
cutter element or cutting edge relative to another during
normal operation of the bit.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
319 and the search there noted for other devices having
relatively moving plural cutting edges.
Subclass:
382
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Apparatus in
which the bit is provided with a movable cutter element and
means to selectively hold said cutter element in different
positions with respect to the bit head.
(1) Note. A mere clamp which cooperates with a member such
that by loosening the clamp the member could be set in any
desired position and reclamped is not considered to be
adjustable. However, any specific structure such as
selectively usable apertures, teeth, slots, etc., for the
purpose of permitting the selective change of the relative
positions of two parts is included under this definition.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
263 for cutter elements laterally shiftable below ground.
342 for an adjustable rolling cutter bit.
379 for cutting elements which are renewable during
operation.
381 for plural cutting edges which are relatively
longitudinally movable during operation.
412 for cutter elements detachably mounted in a bit head by
means of clamps or other securing devices.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
172, Earth Working, 734 for an adjustable earth working
tool.
408, Cutting by Use of Rotating Axially Moving Tool, 186 for
an adjustable tool of that class type.
Subclass:
383
This subclass is indented under subclass 382. Apparatus in
which the cutter element may be selectively held in different
positions for the purpose of placing a different cutting edge
in operative position for engaging the formation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
379 for a cutter element adjustable during operation to
present a new cutting edge.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
172, Earth Working, subclass 735 for an earth working tool
which is adjustable to present different working portions.
Subclass:
384
This subclass is indented under subclass 382. Apparatus in
which the cutter element is adapted to be selectively held in
different positions for the purpose of increasing the
circular outline of the cutting edge as the bit is rotated.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
202 for devices operable from the surface to control
position of tool or cutter element.
263 for a cutter element which is laterally shiftable during
operation.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
172, Earth Working, 741 for a laterally adjustable earth
working tool.
Subclass:
385
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Apparatus in
which the bit is provided with a leading or pilot cutting
edge or portion which forms a first bore of definable
diameter, and a trailing cutting edge which increases the
diameter of the first bore so that the boring outline of the
bit will describe at least one peripheral axial step.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
334 for rolling cutter bits with a leading cutter forming a
smaller diameter initial bore.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
408, Cutting by Use of Rotating Axially Moving Tool, subclass
195, 196, 211, 212, 215+, and 223+ for a cutting tool of that
class type having a leading pilot or cutting edge.
Subclass:
386
This subclass is indented under subclass 385. Apparatus in
which the leading or pilot portion comprises a readily
removable starter element for cooperating with the trailing
portion to form a shallow, accurately positioned bore, the
trailing portion then being described as usable independently
of the starter element to continue the boring operation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
248 for similar structure comprising a core receiver
removable through a below ground drill string.
Subclass:
387
This subclass is indented under subclass 385. Apparatus in
which the leading or pilot portion has a cutter element or
cutting edge so arranged that the bit makes an annular cut in
the formation, leaving a central undisturbed portion of the
formation in the form of a cylinder.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
403 and the search there noted for other core forming type
bits.
Subclass:
388
This subclass is indented under subclass 385. Apparatus in
which the leading or pilot portion describes a helical
convolution, said convolution extending through at least 180
deg..
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
394 and the search there noted for other helical boring
structure.
Subclass:
389
This subclass is indented under subclass 385. Apparatus in
which the cutting edges of the bit are of the type which
disintegrate the formation by percussive action.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
346 for an impact type bit, per se.
Subclass:
390
This subclass is indented under subclass 389. Apparatus in
which the cutting edges of the impact bit are arranged so
that the boring outline of the bit will describe at least two
peripheral axial steps.
Subclass:
391
This subclass is indented under subclass 385. Apparatus in
which the cutting edges of the bit are arranged so that the
boring outline of the bit will describe at least two
peripheral axial steps.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
390 for impact type bits which describe plural larger
diameter steps.
Subclass:
392
This subclass is indented under subclass 385. Apparatus
comprising a rotary bit in which the leading or pilot portion
is provided with two or more axially extending branches
terminating in cutting edges.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
387 for bits having a core forming leading portion, and
generally defining axial leading branches.
421 and the search there noted for bits having axially
extending branches terminating in cutting edges.
Subclass:
393
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Apparatus in
which the bit is provided with means to conduct fluid
comprising (1) a coated or treated passage or (2) a distinct
element which is limited in use to fluid conducting,
directing or blocking a fluid passage.
(1) Note. Under (2) of the definition, only those fluid
conducting elements are included which do not form
fundamental parts of the bit structure (e.g., a fluid
conducting element which also functions to attach or connect
cutter elements to a bit head or tool shaft is classified
with the bit or cutter structure).
(2) Note. The fluid conducting element may form only a
portion of the wall of the fluid conduit.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
339 and the search there noted for other drilling fluid
nozzle or conduit details and particularly subclass 340 for a
removable nozzle or conduit element in a roller cutter bit.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
299, Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material,
subclass 81 for a cutter head for mining or disintegrating
hard material having an internal fluid passage.
Subclass:
394
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Apparatus in
which the bit is provide with a screw shaped surface
extending axially thereof for conveying cuttings away from
the end of the bit, said screw shaped surface extending
through a convolution of at least 180 deg..
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
310 for receptacles with helical conveying structure.
323 for a tool shaft provided with an external helix or
conveyor.
388 for bits having a screw pilot.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
52, Static Structures (e.g., Buildings), subclass 157 for an
auger type earth anchor.
299, Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material,
subclass 87.1 for a cutter head for mining or disintegrating
hard material having a helical cutting or conveying portion.
408, Cutting by Use of Rotating Axially Moving Tool, subclass
230 for a twist drill of general utility.
Subclass:
395
This subclass is indented under subclass 394. Apparatus in
which the cutting edge of the bit is of the type which is
adapted to disintegrate the formation by percussive action.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
414 for impact type bits, per se.
Subclass:
396
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Apparatus in
which the bit includes a portion laterally spaced from the
axis of the bit, and substantially parallel to said axis, and
another portion substantially perpendicular to said first
portion, said other portion extending from said first portion
toward said axis, said portions being specifically described
as adapted to lift cut material from the borehole.
(1) Note. The function of retaining cuttings must be
specifically described and not left to inference.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
308 and the subclasses there noted for receptacles and
receptacle like structures.
Subclass:
397
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Apparatus
comprising a rotary type bit having a plurality of axially
extending cutter elements or cutting edges which elements or
edges contact the bottom of the bore and are spaced radially
different distances from the longitudinal axis of rotation so
that as the bit is rotated a portion of a cutter element or
cutting edge engages a portion of the bore bottom not engaged
by any other cutter element or cutting edge.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
258 for a bit having a noncutting portion forwardly of a
cutting portion.
376 for a roller bit having nontracking cutting edges.
385 for a bit including a leading portion (e.g., pilot)
forming a smaller diameter initial bore.
421 for symmetrical inwardly stepped forked rotary type.
Subclass:
398
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Apparatus in
which the external physical form or shape of the bit is such
that the bit has (1) no more than one plane of bilateral
symmetry passing through a line coinciding with the
longitudinal axis of the drive shaft for the bit and (2) no
radial symmetry about an axis coinciding with the
longitudinal axis of the drive shaft for the bit.
(1) Note. For the purposes of this subclass an element has
bilateral symmetry when each part thereof lying on one side
of a plane passing therethrough has a corresponding part
lying on the opposite side of the plane at an equal distance
from the plane and on a line through the parts and
perpendicular to the plane. An element has radial symmetry
when it can be divided into a plurality of segments radially
about the axis of symmetry each of which has the same shape
and size and the sum of the radial angles of all the segments
equals 360 degrees.
(2) Note. Patents in which the claims would meet the terms
of the definition of this subclass because only a portion of
a specifically described bit has been claimed are excluded if
the entire bit as described would not meet the terms of the
definition. Such patents have been classified on other
features.
(3) Note. The external form of the bit is considered to
include the configuration and location of cutter elements,
cutting edges, fluid or cuttings conveying ports or the shape
of the bit head, however, a lug or recess or opening for the
purpose of connecting the parts of the bit or the bit to the
drive shaft are not included, such as, for example, an
opening for a single set screw or a flat on the bit head to
be received in a socket. Also the internal shape of fluid,
cuttings or core conveying passages are not included.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
376 for a nonsymmetrical roller type bit.
394 for a bit having a helical conveying portion.
397 for a forked rotary nontracking bit.
Subclass:
399
This subclass is indented under subclass 398. Apparatus in
which the bit is provided with means engaging the wall of the
bore being formed to position the bit or direct its course.
(1) Note. For classification in this subclass the guide
means must be an element other than the body of the bit which
may incidentally function as a guide. However, a
modification of the bit body to provide ribs, projections or
the like which are specifically described as positioning or
directing the bit are included in this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
73 for bore wall engaging guides which act to constrain the
tool to bore along a curved path.
408 and the search there noted for a bit provided with a
bore wall engaging guide.
Subclass:
400
This subclass is indented under subclass 398. Apparatus in
which the bit is provided with one or more openings to permit
the ingress or egress of either fluid or formation cuttings,
the arrangement of the opening or openings with respect to
the longitudinal axis of the drive shaft for the bit being
nonsymmetrical both bilaterally and radially as required by
the definition of subclass 398.
(1) Note. For classification in this subclass the
arrangement of the fluid or cuttings openings themselves must
be nonsymmetrical regardless of whether or not the remainder
of the bit is nonsymmetrical. Thus a bit which is
nonsymmetrical in shape but has a central opening on the
shaft axis or a plurality of equally spaced openings about
the shaft axis is not included.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
231 for means movable relative to a tool to control
eccentric fluid emission.
Subclass:
401
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Apparatus in
which the bit is provided with longitudinally spaced cutting
edges, the cutting edges at one spacing facing in one axial
direction and the cutting edges at a different spacing facing
in the opposite axial direction of the bit.
Subclass:
402
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Apparatus in
which the bit is of the type commonly called "casing shoe",
and which is adapted to be positioned on the end of a tubular
conduit to facilitate the entry of such conduit into a
preformed bore by reaming or cutting any projections on the
bore wall by means of cutting edges provided on said shoe.
(1) Note. For classification in this subclass the device
must be specifically described as a casing shoe and not left
to inference.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
403 and the search there noted for a bit specifically
described for forming a core.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, subclass 242.8 for a casing shoe which has no
cutting or reaming function.
Subclass:
403
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Apparatus in
which the cutter element or cutting edge of the bit is so
arranged that the bit makes an annular cut in the formation
and leaves a central undisturbed portion of the formation in
the form of a cylinder.
(1) Note. Patents which specifically describe forming a
core of the earth formation have been classified in this
subclass even though the claims do not recite the forming of
a core.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
4 for processes or devices in which a core receiver is
driven into a formation by an explosive.
244 and the search there noted for a core forming type bit
combined with means movable relative thereto to receive,
retain, or sever an undisturbed core.
332 for a rolling cutter bit of the core forming type.
387 for a bit with a leading or pilot portion forming a
smaller diameter initial bore in which the leading or pilot
portion is core forming type.
402 for similar structure described for use as a casing
shoe.
405.1 for a core forming type bit including diamond as a
specific material.
421 for a forked rotary bit having structure which may
permit the formation of a core.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
73, Measuring and Testing, 864.44 for a sampling and tolling
implement.
125, Stone Working, subclass 20 for disk cutting saws for
stone working.
408, Cutting by Use of Rotating Axially Moving Tool, 204 for
annular drills.
Subclass:
404
This subclass is indented under subclass 403. Apparatus in
which the bit is further provided with means to disintegrate
the undisturbed cylindrical portion of the formation after it
has been formed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
249 for undisturbed core retaining or severing means.
333 for a rolling cutter bit of the core forming type having
core breaking means.
Subclass:
405
This subclass is indented under subclass 403. Apparatus in
which the cutting edge of the bit is of the type which is
adapted to disintegrate the formation by a forceful contact
or a repetitive striking action.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
4 for core tubes driven into a formation by an explosion.
414 for impact type bits, per se.
Subclass:
405.1
Includes diamond:
This subclass is indented under subclass 403. Apparatus in
which the cutter element or cutting edge of the bit contains
the very hard crystalline form of the element carbon.
Subclass:
406
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Apparatus in
which the cutter element or cutting edge is carried on a bit
which has a portion extending inwardly towards the axis of
the bit and forwardly of the cutter element or cutting edge
in the direction of boring and which has no cutting
function.
(1) Note. The noncutting portion can be located between
claimed cutting portions and patents which claim cutting
portions spaced longitudinally of the bore axis will be
classified in this subclass even though no noncutting portion
is specifically recited.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
295 for a device having a noncutting portion forwardly of a
sleeve impact member having a cutting portion thereon.
311 for receptacle suspended below a bit.
344 for a bit having a noncutting portion forwardly of a
cutting portion and in which the cutting portion is a rolling
cutter.
385 for bits having a leading or pilot portion forming a
smaller diameter bore ahead of a trailing larger diameter
cutting portion.
401 for reamers having additional upwardly directed cutting
edges.
404 for a bit having a noncutting portion forwardly of a
cutting portion, and in which the cutting portion is
positioned within a core bit and functions as a core breaking
means.
Subclass:
407
This subclass is indented under subclass 406. Apparatus in
which the cutting edge of the bit is of the type which is
adapted to disintegrate the formation by percussive action.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
389 for impact type bit with leading portion forming smaller
diameter bore.
414 for impact type bits, per se.
Subclass:
408
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Apparatus
provided with (1) means on the bit for centralizing or
stabilizing the bit in the bore or (2) a device to smooth or
compress together the material which makes up the wall
surface of the bore.
(1) Note. For classification under this definition the
guide or compacting device must be an element other than the
body of the bit which may incidentally function as a guide or
compacting device. However, a modification of the bit body
such as ribs or projections which are disclosed as for the
purpose set forth herein is classified under this
definition.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
325.1 and the search there noted for tool shafts having bore
wall engaging means.
394 for a bit provided with a peripheral helical conveying
portion which incidentally functions as a bit guide.
399 for a nonsymmetrical bit provided with a bore wall
engaging guide.
406 for a bit having a noncutting portion forwardly of the
cutting portion, and in which said noncutting portion
functions as a guide.
Subclass:
412
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Apparatus in
which the bit is provided with two or more cutter elements,
said elements being detachably secured to the bit head.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
331 for plural separable rolling cutter elements.
382 for detachably mounted cutter elements which are
adjustable.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
408, Cutting by Use of Rotating Axially Moving Tool, 199.
Subclass:
413
This subclass is indented under subclass 412. Apparatus in
which each cutter element can be separately attached or
detached from the bit head without attaching or detaching the
other elements.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
331 for plural separable rolling cutter elements in which
the rolling cutters are independently attachable.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
37, Excavating, 446 for cutting edges attachable to an
excavating scoop.
Subclass:
414
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Apparatus in
which the cutting edge of the bit is of the type which is
adapted to disintegrate the formation by a forceful contact
or a repetitive striking action.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19 for drive points which are driven into the earth usually
by impact.
389 for impact bits having a leading portion forming a
smaller diameter initial bore.
395 for an impact type bit provided with a helical cuttings
conveying portion.
398 for a nonsymmetrical impact type bit.
405 for a core forming impact type bit.
407 for an impact type bit provided with a noncutting
portion forwardly of the cutting portion.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
125, Stone Working, 40 for impact type tools for working on
stone after it has been removed from its position in the
earth.
299, Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material,
subclass 100 for a percussive cutter head for mining or
disintegrating hard material.
Subclass:
415
This subclass is indented under subclass 414. Apparatus in
which the cutting edge is formed to disintegrate the
formation as a result of simultaneous rotary and a forceful
contact or a repetitive striking action.
(1) Note. The dual function of formation disintegrating by
rotary and percussive or impact action must be specifically
described for classification in this subclass and not left to
inference.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
331 for rolling cutters which roll on the bottom of the bore
and impact the formation due to the rolling motion.
Subclass:
416
This subclass is indented under subclass 414. Apparatus in
which the bit is formed so as to normally cut a hole which is
noncircular in cross section.
(1) Note. The bit must be specifically disclosed as cutting
a hole of noncircular cross section for classification in
this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
408, Cutting by Use of Rotating Axially Moving Tools,
subclass 30 for a wood boring bit adapted to bore a
noncircular hole.
Subclass:
417
This subclass is indented under subclass 414. Apparatus in
which the bit is provided with a drilling fluid passage
enclosed within the body of the bit and having an inlet or
exhaust port opening to the outside of the bit.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
339 and 393, for a bit provided with a lined fluid passage
or where the fluid passage includes a nozzle.
405 for a core forming impact type bit.
Subclass:
418
This subclass is indented under subclass 417. Apparatus in
which the passage has a plurality of inlet or exhaust ports.
Subclass:
419
This subclass is indented under subclass 417. Apparatus
comprising a plurality of cutting edges which lie in
perpendicular planes intersecting at a line coinciding with
the longitudinal axis of the bit.
Subclass:
420
This subclass is indented under subclass 414. Apparatus
comprising a plurality of cutting edges which lie in
perpendicular planes intersecting at a line coinciding with
the longitudinal axis of the bit.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
419 for a cruciform bit provided with a fluid passage.
Subclass:
420.1
Insert:
This subclass is indented under subclass 414. Apparatus in
which the cutting edge of the bit is formed of a relatively
small element of abrasive resistant material which is
inserted in a slot or aperture in the bit and secured
therein.
Subclass:
420.2
Includes diamond:
This subclass is indented under subclass 420.1. Structure
including diamond as a specific material.
Subclass:
421
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Apparatus
comprising a rotary type bit provided with at least two
axially extending branches terminating in cutting edges, the
configuration of said axially extending branches and cutting
edges being such that (1) more than one plane of bilateral
symmetry may be passed through an axis coinciding with the
rotary axis of the bit or (2) radial symmetry is presented
about an axis coinciding with the rotary axis of the bit.
(1) Note. See (1) Note of subclass 398 for definition of
bilateral and radial symmetry.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
331 for a rolling cutter bit in which the rolling cutters
form axially extending branches.
392 for a rotary bit having a forked forwardly extending
portion forming a smaller diameter initial bore.
397 for a nontracking rotary type bit having axially
extending branches terminating in cutting edges.
398 for a nonsymmetrical forked bit.
403 and the search there noted for a core type bit having
axially extending symmetrical forked portions.
414 for an impact type bit comprising axially extending,
symmetrical branches terminating in cutting edges.
Subclass:
423
WEDGING SLIP ASSEMBLY FOR SUPPORTING A PIPE OR ROD:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter wherein a tapered clasping structure, when
lowered into an opening in a separate hole drilling related
structure, e.g., a spider or rotary table, is cammed into
gripping and suspending engagement with a drilling tube or
stem passing through the opening.
(1) Note. The slip usually temporarily suspends a string of
connected pipes or rods during the attaching or detaching of
different sections to the string which is being lowered into
or taken out of a drill hole.
(2) Note. The earth boring tool itself is usually not
claimed.
(3) Note. Details of the separate hole drilling related
structure may not be claimed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
255 for earth boring or penetrating means including core
retaining means of the sliding wedge type.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
24, Buckles, Buttons, Clasps, etc., particularly subclass
114.5 for a strap cable, or pipe button, i.e., a trip or
stop projection.
73, Measuring and Testing, particularly 831 and 856+ for
clamping, holding or supporting structure peculiar to or
having a sole disclosure for use in specimen measuring and
testing.
74, Machines Element or Mechanism, particularly 144 for an
intermittent gripping device for moving a member (e.g., a
polish rod); and subclasses 579+ for a pitman or connecting
rod and its gripping device.
166, Wells, particularly 75.11 for above ground apparatus
for wells including slips for well pipes or casings which are
not involved in the drilling of the well and are more
permanent in nature; and subclasses 206+ for an expansible
anchor or casing. See the class definition of Class 175,
section III for the line between Classes 166 and 175.
173, Tool Driving or Impacting, particularly 213 for a
structure which grips and rotates a pipe or rod to move it
into and out of a material.
188, Brakes, particularly subclass 67 for a brake
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
preparatory to a working operation, done by the pipe, rod, or
a pipe supported tool.
211, Supports: Racks, appropriate subclasses for rack
structure which supports an article against the pull of
gravity or holds it in a storage position.
248, Supports, appropriate subclasses for structure which
supports an article against the pull of gravity or holds it
in a storage position.
254, Implements or Apparatus for Applying Pushing or Pulling
Force, appropriate subclasses for a clasp attached to a work
pushing or pulling implement or apparatus.
269, Work Holders, appropriate subclasses for a clamp which
hold an article (e.g., a pipe or rod) while modifying work is
done on it, or while a plurality of articles are being
located in an assembled arrangement.
279, Chucks or Sockets, appropriate subclasses for a chuck or
socket which grips a pipe, rod, or tool which is intended to
be rotated or repeatedly reciprocated by an unclaimed power
boring source.
285, Pipe Joints or Couplings, appropriate subclasses for
pipe joints or couplings for drilling shafts and 123.15 and
123.3+, in particular, for pipe joints or couplings for well
related pipes or casings through which fluid may flow.
294, Handling: Hand and Hoist-Line Implements, particularly
86 and 102 for a grapple which is disclosed for gripping
articles (e.g., well pipes or rods) being moved between two
locations by either a hand or cable lifting force.
Subclass:
424
MISCELLANEOUS (E.G., EARTH-BORING NOZZLE):
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Subject matter not provided for in other subclasses.
(1) Note. This subclass includes, for example, drill motor
housing guide saddles and an art collection of nozzles
peculiarly adapted to boring in the earth by fluid flow or
jetting.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
11 for heat applying nozzles.
220 for guide saddles combined with an above ground guide
for a relatively advancing tool.
327 for a bit or bit element having a nozzle.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
37, Excavating, subclass 322 and 323 for suction type
dredges with jet diggers.
166, Wells, 222 for whirling or lateral discharge or
projectable nozzles for use in a well.
173, Tool Drive or Impacting, 197 and see the search notes
therein for a tool driving or impacting means provided with a
work cleansing means and including a fluid nozzle.
239, Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing, appropriate
subclasses for nozzles of general utility.
405, Hydraulic and Earth Engineering, subclass 248 for pile
installation utilizing a fluid discharge nozzle.
Subclass:
425
Specific or diverse material:
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Apparatus in
which the bit or any portion thereof is composed of either
(1) two different materials, (2) a single material which has
been treated to provide portions of the bit with specific
properties which are different from the properties of another
portion or (3) a particular material to which significance is
attributed.
(1) Note. Under part (3), the mere recitation of iron or
steel, per se, is excluded. However, specifying both iron and
steel would be included under part (1).
(2) Note. Under part (3), a specific material need not be
named as such but may be identified by its properties (e.g.,
ductile, malleable, hardened).
(3) Note. A bit provided with a welded brazed or soldered
joint is considered to be formed of diverse materials.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
332 for a core forming roller type bit.
339 and 393, for a bit having a nozzle or slush tube which
may be made of a specific material or a material different
from the bit.
374 for a rolling cutter bit made of a specific material.
403 for a core forming type bit.
428 for a compact.
420.2 for an impact type bit including diamonds.
434 for a bit including a diamond.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
51, Abrasive Tool Making Process, Material, or Composition,
for an abrasive tool making process, material, or composition
of general utility.
76, Metal Tools and Implements, Making, subclass 102 and
108.1 for processes of making augers and drills usually of
specific materials.
125, Stone Working, appropriate subclasses for stone working
tools including diamond material, and particularly subclass
30.01 for precious stone working and subclass 39 for
diamond, surface traversing tools.
428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, 544 for stock
material or intermediate articles which are all metal or have
adjacent metal components, including specific materials used
in drill bits, where no specific drill-bit structure is
claimed.
Subclass:
426
Insert:
This subclass is indented under subclass 425. Apparatus in
which the cutting edge of the bit is a relatively small
element of abrasion resistant material which is at least
partially enclosed within a slot or aperture in the bit and
secured therein.
Subclass:
427
For a mine roof drill bit type:
This subclass is indented under subclass 426. Apparatus
where the insert is in a cutting tooth secured with
connecting means to a cutter head for obtaining solid state
valuable minerals.
Subclass:
428
Preformed cutting element (e.g., compact) mounted on a
distinct support (e.g., blank, stud, shank):
This subclass is indented under subclass 426. Structure
where the insert comprises an earth contacting portion that
is fixed to a backing or substructure which is then placed in
the bit aperture.
Subclass:
429
Including a nozzle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 428. Structure
which is combined with a fluid spraying means.
Subclass:
430
Having a Noncircular or nonplanar cutting face:
This subclass is indented under subclass 428. Structure in
which the earth contacting portions either (1) defines a line
or curve which is other than circular or (2) includes points
which are not coplanar.
(1) Note. A circle with a notch is considered noncircular
and a cutting face in the form of a sine wave is considered
nonplanar. [figure]
Subclass:
431
Having a particular orientation or location:
This subclass is indented under subclass 428. Structure
where significance is attributed to (1) the compact's
alignment or (2) the arrangement of both the compact and
support.
(1) Note. The aligment would include the rake angle.
Subclass:
432
With support detail:
This subclass is indented under subclass 428. Structure in
which significance is attributed to a structural feature of
the backing or substructure portion.
Subclass:
433
Having a specified thermal property:
This subclass is indented under subclass 428. Structure
wherein a property of the compact or support material has a
specific temperature or temperature range.
Subclass:
434
Diamond:
This subclass is indented under subclass 425. Apparatus in
which the very hard, crystallized form of the element carbon,
commonly called a "diamond" is included as a specific
material in the structure of the bit.
Subclass:
435
Welded, brazed, or soldered:
This subclass is indented under subclass 425. Apparatus in
which portions of the bit are connected together by (1)
locally heating the parts to a fluid state and allowing the
base metals to flow together with or without the addition of
other molten metal or (2) connecting the parts by means of a
dissimilar fluid metal having a lower melting point.
(1) Note. This subclass includes depositing weld material
on a part of the bit as, for example, to form a wear surface
or a cutting edge.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
375 for a rolling cutter bit having a welded portion.
434 for diamond bits including welding.
Information Products Division -- Contacts
Questions regarding this report should be directed to:
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Information Products Division
PK3- Suite 441
Washington, DC 20231
tel: (703) 306-2600
FAX: (703) 306-2737
email: oeip@uspto.gov
Last Modified: 6 October 2000