Fiber optic magnetic sensor for downhole directional drilling
This technology is an optical fiber that can detect magnetic fields by embedding a special magnetic-sensitive material (magnetostrictive element) directly inside the fiber alongside the light-carrying core. When an external magnetic field is present, the embedded material physically strains the fiber, and tiny optical sensors inscribed on the core detect that strain by measuring changes in reflected light. Because everything is built into a single fiber, the sensor is compact, passive (no electronics needed at the sensing point), and can survive harsh environments. The design is explicitly tuned for oil and gas drilling applications, where knowing the magnetic field underground helps with directional navigation of the drill.
What you could build
A drop-in fiber optic sensor cable for directional drilling (MWD/LWD) tools that replaces or supplements conventional electromagnetic sensors; primary buyers would be oilfield services companies and drilling tool manufacturers seeking more reliable downhole magnetic sensing.
Who in Virginia should care
Virginia's active offshore energy exploration interest and defense contractors working on magnetics-based navigation systems (e.g., submarine or UAS) would be natural fits.
Readiness: Prototype likely
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- Zachary Daniel Hileman, Daniel Homa, Gary Pickrell, Eileen Martin
- Granted
- May 19, 2026
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 12631699
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.