Stephen Buerger

Title: Innovator Stephen Buerger: Pioneering Autonomous Drilling Technologies

Introduction

Stephen Buerger is an accomplished inventor based in Albuquerque, NM, USA, with a remarkable portfolio of 18 patents. His work focuses on innovative solutions in the field of drilling technology, specifically addressing challenges in remote and confined spaces.

Latest Patents

Buerger's latest contributions include two significant patents:

1. **Systems and methods for automated drilling of high aspect ratio, small diameter holes in remote, confined spaces** - This patent details a compact drill assembly designed for automatic drilling of small diameter holes of arbitrary depth. The assembly features a specialized housing for insertion into confined areas and incorporates a rotatable drilling spindle with an actuated locking collet assembly, which secures and releases a composite bit. Additionally, a bit conveying arrangement is included to facilitate the movement of the composite bit through constrained dimensions.

2. **Control systems and methods to enable autonomous drilling** - This innovative approach transforms the drilling process by enabling autonomous control as it navigates various materials with vastly different dynamics. The method utilizes real-time measurements to determine the drilling medium and identify optimal setpoints for efficient performance, aiming to minimize mechanical specific energy and enhance drilling effectiveness. Machine learning techniques are employed for near-bit depth-of-cut estimations, allowing for rapid response and mitigation of potential drilling dysfunctions.

Career Highlights

Stephen Buerger has made significant strides in his career, contributing to organizations such as National Technology & Engineering Solutions of Sandia, LLC, and Sandia Corporation. His dedication to developing automatic and efficient drilling systems has positioned him as a leading figure in the field.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Buerger has collaborated with talented coworkers, including Jiann-Cherng Su and Anirban Mazumdar. These collaborations have fostered an environment of innovation and creativity, pushing the boundaries of current drilling technologies.

Conclusion

As an inventor, Stephen Buerger has demonstrated remarkable ingenuity in the development of advanced drilling systems. His patents not only reflect his dedication to innovation but also his commitment to solving complex problems within the industry. With a focus on autonomy and efficiency, Buerger's work continues to impact the fields of drilling and engineering significantly.