Multi-Physics, Intelligent Sensing System (MISS) For Real-Time, Look-Ahead While Drilling

Default ARPA-E Project Image

Program:
GOPHURRS
Award:
$2,500,000
Location:
Blacksburg, Virginia
Status:
ACTIVE
Project Term:
08/01/2024 - 07/31/2027
Website:

Technology Description:

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) will develop a look-ahead sensing system based on integrated electromagnetic and seismic sensors to guide and assist drilling to lower the cost and safety concerns of undergrounding power lines. The system's sensors, in the form of radar and accelerometers, would be mounted on and behind the drill head, with complimentary distributed acoustic sensing at the surface to detect obstructions within at least 10 feet of drilling operations. Artificial intelligence capabilities would interpret the geophysical data from the sensors and provide a real-time prediction of obstacles to operators within seconds.

Contact

ARPA-E Program Director:
Dr. Philseok Kim
Project Contact:
Prof. Joseph Vantassel
Press and General Inquiries Email:
ARPA-E-Comms@hq.doe.gov
Project Contact Email:
jpvantassel@vt.edu

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Release Date:
03/30/2023