Agricultural sample unloading system and related method

Abstract

A sample unloading system for unloading a core of sample material from a tubular sample container includes an enclosure with inner chamber, a sample loading port to insert the container into the chamber, and a sample unloading port configured to discharge the sample from the chamber when unloaded from the container. A carriage rotatably disposed in the inner chamber receives and releasably retains the sample container. The carriage is rotatable between a first position to receive the container from the loading port, and a second position in which the sample container is held by the carriage in an inverted upright position aligned with the unloading port. A fluidic knife includes a fluid jet nozzle which emits a timed burst of high pressurized fluid into the chamber to sever and separate the sample core from the container which falls through the unloading port. A programmable controller automatically controls the process.

Description

Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO AGRICULTURAL SAMPLE HANDLING SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Application No. 63 / 559,305, filed 29 February 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. BACKGROUND

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to agricultural sampling and analysis, and more particularly to a system for tracking and handling an agricultural sample such as without limitation soil for chemical analysis.

[0003] Periodic soil testing is an important aspect of the agricultural arts. Test results provide valuable information on the chemical makeup of the soil such as plant-available nutrients and other important properties (e.g., levels of nitrogen, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, pH, etc.) so that various amendments may be added to the soil to maximize the quality and quantity of crop production.

[0004] In some existing soil sampling processes, collected bulk agricultural samples such as soil or other agricultural materials may require some form of packaging to facilitate transport and further preparation and processing for eventual chemical analysis. The packaging further protects the integrity of the samples until processed. In addition, a means for tracking where samples were collected from in the agricultural field is necessary to associate the chemical analysis results with a particular portion of the field. Furthermore, a system for unloading the packaged sample is necessary to allow further processing and analysis of the sample.

[0005] Improvements in agricultural sample handling are desired. BRIEF SUMMARY

[0006] The present disclosure provides automated programmable processor-controlled agricultural sample handling systems and related methods for staging a containerized agricultural sample and then unloading the sample container for further processing. In some embodiments, the container may be a cylindrical sample tube capped at or near both ends. The sample may be a soil sample in some non-limiting embodiments, or other agricultural-related materials described further herein.Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO

[0007] The sample handling system and related processes or methods may be automatically controlled by a programmable system controller which communicates with multiple sensors which monitor the operation and position of the various components of the sample unloading system 300 to control its operation. The system may include sample tracking comprising assigning a unique tracking ID to each sample which can be correlated to the location in the agricultural field or elsewhere where the sample was obtained. A machine-readable tracking tag may be affixed to the sample tube or its end caps for that purpose. In one embodiment, RFID (radio frequency identification) may be used. The tracking tag may therefore be an RFID tag readable by an RFID reader. In other embodiments, the tracking tag may be a bar code readable by a visual barcode scanner. Other forms of readable tracking tags and related systems may be used.

[0008] A sample container unloading system may be comprise a staging rack and sample container unloading apparatus operably coupled together. The staging rack is configured to receive and hold a plurality of the filled sample containers. A transfer mechanism may transfer and load the sample tubes from the rack sequentially into the unloading apparatus which operates to uncap the tubes and eject the sample contents for further processing. The sample tube staging, transfer mechanism, and sample unloading operation may be fully automated and controlled by the programmable controller.

[0009] In one aspect, an agricultural sample unloading system comprises: a sample staging rack comprising at least one inclined feed ramp configured for receiving an elongated sample tube configured for holding the sample, the sample tube including a first end cap and a second end cap; an unloading apparatus coupled to the staging rack, the unloading apparatus configured to receive the sample tube from the staging rack; and a transfer mechanism operable to transfer the sample tube from the staging rack to the unloading apparatus. The unloading apparatus comprises a rotatable carriage configured to hold and rotate the sample tube in opposing directions during the sample unloading process. The unloading apparatus further comprises a loading mechanism operable to load the sample tube into the carriage.

[0010] In another aspect, a method for unloading an agricultural sample container comprises: inserting a capped sample tube containing a sample into an unloading apparatus; rotating the sample tube a first time to an upright vertical position; uncapping the sample tube which creates an open top end; rotating the sample tube a second time to an inverted vertical position; and ejecting the sample from the sample tube. The unloading apparatus comprises a movable carriageAttorney Docket No.24038 / WO including an elongated receptacle into which the sample tube is inserted and which performs the foregoing movements of the sample tube.

[0011] In another aspect, an agricultural sample container comprises: an elongated tubular body defining a longitudinal axis, a top end, a bottom end, and an internal cavity extending between the ends configured for holding the sample; a first cap detachably coupled to the top end; and a second cap slideably disposed in the cavity, the second cap being movable in opposing directions between the first and second ends. The second cap comprises a base and a plurality of longitudinally- extending retention protrusions extending downwards from the base. The body in some embodiments further comprises a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart retention slots configured to lockingly engage the retention protrusions.

[0012] Although the agricultural sample handling system may be described herein with reference to containerizing soil samples which represents only a single category of use for the disclosed embodiments, it is to be understood that the sample unloading system including the apparatuses and related processes may further be used for processing other types of agricultural related samples including without limitation vegetation / plant, forage, manure, feed, milk, or other types of samples. The disclosure herein should therefore be considered broadly as a sample unloading system 300 amenable for extracting and containerizing many different types of samples from bulk “as collected” sample material regardless of the method for collection. Accordingly, the present agricultural sample unloading system 300 disclosed is expressly not limited to use with soil samples alone for chemical analysis of properties of interest. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The present disclosure will become more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein like elements are labeled similarly and in which:

[0014] FIG. 1 is a schematic system diagram of a programmable processor-based central processing unit (CPU) or system controller for controlling the systems and apparatuses disclosed herein associated with the agricultural sample handling system;

[0015] FIG.2 is a bottom exploded perspective view of a sample container according to the present disclosure;

[0016] FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the sample container;

[0017] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view thereof;

[0018] FIG. 5 is a bottom exploded perspective view thereof;Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO

[0019] FIG. 6 is a bottom perspective view of the slideable spring-action push cap of the sample container;

[0020] FIG. 7 is a side view of the sample container;

[0021] FIG. 8 is a side cross sectional view thereof;

[0022] FIG. 9 is a top view thereof;

[0023] FIG. 10 is a bottom view thereof;

[0024] FIG. 11 is an enlarged detail taken from FIG. 8 showing the snap-fit top cap and corresponding snap-fit features of the sample container and cap;

[0025] FIG.12 is a first perspective view of an agricultural sample unloading system according to the present disclosure, including a sample container staging rack, unloading apparatus, and container transfer mechanism;

[0026] FIG. 13 is an enlarged detail taken from FIG. 12;

[0027] FIG. 14 is a side view of the sample unloading system;

[0028] FIG. 15 is a distal end view thereof;

[0029] FIG. 16 is a top view thereof;

[0030] FIG. 17 is an enlarged detail taken from FIG. 16;

[0031] FIG. 18 is a first side view of the container staging rack alone;

[0032] FIG. 19 is a distal end view thereof;

[0033] FIG. 20 is a second side view thereof showing the side opposite the side in FIG. 18;

[0034] FIG. 21 is a proximal end view of the staging rack;

[0035] FIG. 22 is a longitudinal cross sectional view of the staging rack taken from FIG. 19;

[0036] FIG. 23 is a transverse view thereof taken from FIG. 22;

[0037] FIG. 24 is an enlarged detail taken from FIG. 23;

[0038] FIG.25 is a first side perspective view of the staging rack with the side panel plate removed to reveal the inclined feed ramps of the rack;

[0039] FIG. 26 is a first enlarged detail taken from FIG. 25;

[0040] FIG. 27 is a second enlarged detail taken from FIG. 25;

[0041] FIG. 28 is a second side perspective view of the staging rack opposite the first side perspective view of FIG. 69 with the side panel plate removed to reveal the inclined feed ramps of the rack;

[0042] FIG. 29 is an enlarged detail taken from FIG. 28;Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO

[0043] FIG. 30 is a partial perspective view of the unloading apparatus showing the container closure plate rotated outwards from the container positioned in the rotatable carriage of the apparatus;

[0044] FIG. 31 is a partial perspective view thereof but showing the closure plate rotated inwards to cover the open top end of the container;

[0045] FIG. 32 is a partial perspective view thereof showing the carriage rotated 90 degrees from FIGS. 30-31 and the closure plate rotated outwards;

[0046] FIG. 33 is a top perspective view of the entire unloading apparatus;

[0047] FIG. 34 is a bottom perspective view thereof;

[0048] FIG. 35 is a front view thereof;

[0049] FIG. 36 is an enlarged detail taken from FIG. 35;

[0050] FIG. 37 is a rear view of the unloading apparatus;

[0051] FIG. 38 is a left end view thereof;

[0052] FIG. 39 is a right end view thereof;

[0053] FIG. 40 is top view thereof;

[0054] FIG. 41 is a bottom view thereof;

[0055] FIG.42 is a front view of the container unloading apparatus showing the container carriage and container rotated into a horizontal position / orientation;

[0056] FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 42;

[0057] FIG. 44 is a front view of the unloading apparatus showing the carriage and container rotated into a vertical upright position / orientation and decapper engaged with the top cap of the container;

[0058] FIG. 45 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 44;

[0059] FIG. 46 is a front view of the unloading apparatus showing the carriage shifted downward to remove the top cap of the container and decapper having moved away from the container with the top cap;

[0060] FIG. 47 is a front view thereof showing a closure plate moved onto and closing the top of the open container;

[0061] FIG. 48 is a front view of the unloading apparatus showing the carriage and container partially rotated from the upright position / orientation;Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO

[0062] FIG. 49 is a front view of the unloading apparatus showing the carriage and container rotated into a vertical inverted position / orientation;

[0063] FIG. 50 is a front view of the unloading apparatus showing the carriage shifted downward towards an unloading port of the apparatus;

[0064] FIG. 51 is a front view thereof showing the sample ejector piston-plunger moved downwards to eject the sample for the container;

[0065] FIG. 52 is a cross sectional view of FIG. 51;

[0066] FIG. 53 is a first cross sectional view of the unloading apparatus in a series of sequential views illustrating a sample container unloading process according to the present disclosure;

[0067] FIG. 54 is a second cross sectional view thereof;

[0068] FIG. 55 is a third cross sectional view thereof;

[0069] FIG. 56 is a fourth cross sectional view thereof;

[0070] FIG. 57 is a fifth cross sectional view thereof;

[0071] FIG. 58 is a sixth cross sectional view thereof;

[0072] FIG. 59 is a seventh cross sectional view thereof;

[0073] FIG. 60 is a eighth cross sectional view thereof;

[0074] FIG. 61 is a ninth cross sectional view thereof;

[0075] FIG. 62 is a tenth cross sectional view thereof;

[0076] FIG. 63 is a eleventh cross sectional view thereof;

[0077] FIG. 64 is a twelfth cross sectional view thereof;

[0078] FIG. 65 is a thirteenth cross sectional view thereof;

[0079] FIG. 66 is a fourteenth cross sectional view thereof;

[0080] FIG. 67 is a high level flow chart showing the general steps of the sample container unloading process;

[0081] FIG. 68 is a perspective view of the decapper of the unloading apparatus;

[0082] FIG. 69 is a perspective view of a sample container gripping mechanism according to the present disclosure;

[0083] FIG. 70 is a plan view thereof showing the gripping mechanism in an outward open position disengaged from the sample container;

[0084] FIG. 71 is a plan view thereof showing the gripping mechanism in an inward closed position lockingly engaged with the sample container;Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO

[0085] FIG. 72 is a first perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the container staging rack;

[0086] FIG. 73 is a second perspective view thereof;

[0087] FIG.74 is a first perspective view of a portion of the chain drive of the staging rack of FIG. 72;

[0088] FIG. 75 is a second perspective view thereof;

[0089] FIG. 76 is a third perspective view thereof;

[0090] FIG. 77 is front view thereof;

[0091] FIG. 78 is a side view thereof;

[0092] FIG. 79 is a top view thereof;

[0093] FIG.80 is a side view of an upper portion of the staging rack of FIG.72 showing the upper sprocket of the chain drive;

[0094] FIG. 81 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a sample unloading system;

[0095] FIG. 82 is a rear perspective view thereof;

[0096] FIG. 83 is a front view thereof;

[0097] FIG. 84 is a rear view thereof;

[0098] FIG. 85 is a top view thereof;

[0099] FIG. 86 is a bottom view thereof;

[0100] FIG. 87 is a front cross sectional view thereof;

[0101] FIG. 88 is a first detailed view taken from FIG. 87;

[0102] FIG. 89 is a second detailed view taken from FIG. 87;

[0103] FIG. 90 is a partial front perspective view of the unloading apparatus of FIG. 81;

[0104] FIG. 91 is an enlarged cross-sectional detailed perspective view of wash-down enclosure and sample tube carriage of the apparatus;

[0105] FIG. 92 is an enlarged view taken from FIG. 91;

[0106] FIG. 93 is a first perspective view of the wash-down enclosure showing spray nozzles of the wash-down system;

[0107] FIG. 94 is a second perspective view thereof;

[0108] FIG.95 is a third perspective view thereof showing portions of the mechanical sample tube gripper mechanism in exploded detail;Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO

[0109] FIG. 96 is a front cross sectional enlarged view of the wash-down enclosure and sample tube carriage of the sample unloading apparatus of FIG. 81;

[0110] FIG. 97 is a front cross-sectional enlarged view showing the sample tube carriage and components of the tube gripper mechanism;

[0111] FIG. 98 is a perspective view of a portion of the tube loading mechanism of the unloading apparatus showing an alternative embodiment of a sample tube decapper;

[0112] FIG. 99 is a first perspective view showing the tube gripper mechanism in an inward engaged position locking the sample tube in the rotatable carriage of the unloading apparatus;

[0113] FIG. 100 is a second perspective view thereof showing the tube gripper mechanism in an outward disengaged position unlocking the sample tube from the carriage;

[0114] FIG. 101 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a sample unloading apparatus comprising a high pressure fluid jet nozzle for separating the sample from the sample container;

[0115] FIG. 102 is an exploded view thereof;

[0116] FIG. 103 is a rear perspective view of the sample unloading apparatus of FIG. 101;

[0117] FIG. 104 is an exploded view thereof;

[0118] FIG. 105 is a rear view of the sample unloading apparatus of FIG. 101;

[0119] FIG. 106 is a front view thereof;

[0120] FIG. 107 is a first side view thereof;

[0121] FIG. 108 is a second side view thereof;

[0122] FIG. 109 is a bottom view thereof;

[0123] FIG. 110 is a top view thereof;

[0124] FIG. 111 is a first cross-sectional view thereof;

[0125] FIG. 112 is a second cross-sectional view thereof;

[0126] FIG. 113 is an enlarged view taken from FIG. 111 showing the fluid jet nozzle in greater detail;

[0127] FIG. 114 is a cross-sectional view showing a core of sample material such as soil being pushed outwards from the sample container by a plunger mechanism;

[0128] FIG. 115 is a cross sectional view showing the core of sample material being severed and released from the sample container by high pressure water emitted by the jet nozzle;Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO

[0129] FIG. 116 is a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a high pressure fluid supply system usable with the jet nozzle; and

[0130] FIG. 117 is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of a high pressure fluid supply system usable with the jet nozzle.

[0131] All drawings are not necessarily to scale. Components numbered and appearing in one figure but appearing un-numbered in other figures are the same components unless expressly noted otherwise. Any reference herein to a figure by a whole figure number which may appear in multiple figures bearing the same whole number but with different alphabetical suffixes shall be constructed as a general reference to all of those figures unless expressly noted otherwise. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0132] The features and benefits of the present disclosure are illustrated and described herein by reference to exemplary (“example”) embodiments. This description of exemplary embodiments is intended to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings, which are to be considered part of the entire written description. Accordingly, the disclosure expressly should not be limited to such exemplary embodiments illustrating some possible non-limiting combination of features that may exist alone or in other combinations of features.

[0133] In the description of embodiments disclosed herein, any reference to direction or orientation is merely intended for convenience of description and is not intended in any way to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Relative terms such as "lower," "upper," “horizontal,” “vertical,”, “above,” “below,” “up,” “down,” “top” and “bottom” as well as derivative thereof (e.g., “horizontally,” “downwardly,” “upwardly,” etc.) should be construed to refer to the orientation as then described or as shown in the drawing under discussion. These relative terms are for convenience of description only and do not require that the apparatus be constructed or operated in a particular orientation. Terms such as “attached,” “affixed,” “connected,” “coupled,” “interconnected,” and similar refer to a relationship wherein structures are secured or attached to one another either directly or indirectly through intervening structures, as well as both movable or rigid attachments or relationships, unless expressly described otherwise.

[0134] As used throughout, any ranges disclosed herein are used as shorthand for describing each and every value that is within the range. Any value within the range can be selected as the terminus of the range.Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO

[0135] In addition, all references cited herein to prior patents or patent applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties. In the event of a conflict in a definition in the present disclosure and that of a cited reference, the present disclosure controls. This application was streamlined to reduce the size of the specification and drawings compared to the US provisional application that this application claims priority to. The reduction in size is not a surrender of any subject matter from the provisional application.

[0136] In the non-limiting illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 2-11, agricultural sample container 201 may be a hollow cylindrical sample tube 202 having a construction and customized features adapted for use with staging rack 302 and unloading apparatus 304 / 304A of the sample unloading system 300 described below to containerize agricultural samples such as soil samples or others, and unload the containerized samples. Accordingly, sample tube 202 is distinguishable from ordinary tubes which may have capped ends.

[0137] Sample tube 202 has an elongated cylindrical tubular and hollow body defining cylindrical wall 202a terminated by a top end 203a and bottom end 203b closed and sealed by a pair of circular end caps 204. An internal cavity 207 extends between the ends along a longitudinal axis LA2 of the tube and holds the agricultural sample material. Caps 204 may be made of metallic or non- metallic (e.g., plastic or other) materials. In one embodiment, the tube body and caps 204 are formed of plastic. One end cap 204a may be a fixed or stationary cap configured for detachable coupling to top end 203a of the container 201 (i.e. top end cap 204a). The other remaining end cap may be a movable plunger-action “push” cap 204b which is slideably received inside the tube 202 adjacent to bottom end 203b of the tube. Push cap 204b is slideably moveable from bottom end 203b of the tube towards the other top end 203a and vice-versa during the tube fill and unloading operations. Bottom end 203b of tube 202 in some embodiments may include anti- rotation features to rotationally lock the tube in position when temporarily disposed in sample unloading apparatus 304 or 304A for processing, as further described herein.

[0138] One unique aspect of sample tube 202 is push cap 204b which includes a disk-shaped circular base 208 and plurality of downwardly and outwardly projecting spring-action retention legs or protrusions 205 configured to slideably engage the interior walls of the sample tube 202. Retention protrusions 205 may be separately mounted to the perimeter and peripheral edge of base 208 of cap 204b, or may be integrally formed as part of a single monolithic unitary cap structure as illustrated herein. In one preferred but non-limiting embodiment, the push cap 204b includingAttorney Docket No.24038 / WO base 208 and retention protrusions 205 may be such a one-piece unitary molded structure made of a suitable semi-rigid but resiliently deformable plastic material having an elastic memory (e.g., polyethylene, polypropylene, etc.). Retention protrusions 205 in other embodiments, however, may be separate elements formed of spring metal or resilient deformable plastic elements affixed to cap 204b.

[0139] In one embodiment, retention protrusions 205 may each have a somewhat squared-off or U-shaped configuration as shown; however, other shaped retention protrusions may be used and the shape does not limit the invention. This gives the push cap 204b a somewhat castellated shape. The free terminal ends 205a of the retention protrusions may be outwardly flared forming outward protruding locking tabs 205c which can positively engage corresponding complementary configured arcuately curved and elongated retention slots 202c of sample tube 202. This gives the protrusions 205 a somewhat L-shaped configuration with the protrusions appearing as downwardly extending legs from base 208 of cap 204b with out-turned ends. Slots 202c are oriented cross- wise in the tubular sample tube body perpendicularly to the length of its cylindrical wall 202a. The protrusions 205 may be circumferentially spaced apart as shown around the entire perimeter and periphery of the push cap 204b. Six retention protrusions 205 may be provided in one non- limiting embodiment; however, fewer or more protrusions may be provided. Retention protrusions 205 and particularly locking tabs 205c further slideably engage the interior surfaces of tube wall 202a when end cap 204b slides up and down inside tube cavity 207, as further described herein.

[0140] The circumferentially elongated retention slots 202c formed in the cylindrical walls 202a of the sample tube 202 are selectively engageable with retention protrusions 205a to lock or unlock the push cap 204b from the sample tube depending on the position of the cap inside the tube. Cap 204b therefore is sized in diameter to be fully inserted inside the internal cavity 207 of the sample tube whereas cap 204a is sized larger for affixation to the top end of the tube. Slots 202c may be through slots in one embodiment extending completely through the walls of the tube. Retention slots 202c are disposed proximate to bottom end 203b of sample tube 202 and spaced slightly upwardly and apart from the end of the tube. The opposite end of the tube receives fixed / stationary cap 204a. When sample tube 202 is placed in the carousel 200, the end of the tube with the retention slots 202c is preferably located at bottom for engagement with container end cap actuator 160 in some embodiments as further described herein.Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO

[0141] Sample tube 202 may be formed of plastic, metal, or other suitable materials. In one preferred but non-limiting embodiments, the tube is made of plastic (e.g., polyethylene, polypropylene, etc.). The elongated tube body may be opaque or clear; the latter one allowing the sample to be visually inspected. Although the tube 202 is disclosed as being cylindrical in shape, other shapes and forms of sample containers may be used in other possible embodiments.

[0142] Sample container 201 such as sample tube 202 may include a tracking feature such as an RFID tag 2850a coupled to the tube or either of the end caps at a suitable location. The top end cap 204a of sample tube 202 may contain RFID tag 2850a in one non-limiting embodiment which is read by one or more RFID readers 2850 in the sample unloading system 300 to track location of the sample tube from collection in the agricultural field through portions of the sample unloading system as the tube and sample is processed. Machine controller 2811 and / or main system controller 2820 of the processor-based control system further described herein automatically reads the tag and begins tracking the sample including all relevant data such as geolocation via GPS sensor 2854, time of day, etc. The RFID tag could alternatively be contained within the plunger cap 204b or cylindrical wall 202a of the sample tube 202 and read automatically when the sample tube passes one or more RFID readers 2850 disposed at various points in the sample unloading system 300 such as on the staging rack 302 and / or unloading apparatuses 304 / 304A.

[0143] Control System

[0144] In one embodiment, methods or processes for operating the agricultural sample unloading system 300 including unloading apparatuses 304 / 304A and staging rack 302 may be controlled by a microprocessor-controlled processing system including programmable local machine controller 2811 and / or main system controller 2820. Controller 2811 and / or controller 2820 is operably and communicably coupled and linked to all of the actuators, sensors, and other devices disclosed herein and programmable to execute suitable control logic / program instructions (e.g., software) to automatically control operation of the entire sample unloading system 300. In some embodiments, operation of the sample unloading system 300 including unloading apparatuses 304 / 304A and staging rack 302 may be initiated by one or more local actuators which activates the controller 2811 and / or controller 2820 to start the sample tube staging and unloading operations. These actuator switches are operably coupled to controller 2811 (which in turn is operably coupled to controller 2820 as further described below) and may be located anywhere at suitable locations on staging rack 302 and unloading apparatus 304 / 304A.Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO

[0145] FIG. 1 is a high-level system block diagram showing the control system 2800 including programmable processor-based machine controller 2811 and main system controller 2820 referenced herein. System controller 2820 may include one or more processors, non-transitory tangible computer readable medium, programmable input / output peripherals, and all other necessary electronic appurtenances normally associated with a fully functional processor-based controller. Control system 2800, including controller 2820, is operably and communicably linked to the different soil sample processing and analysis systems and devices described elsewhere herein via suitable wired or wireless communication links to control operation of those systems and devices in a fully integrated and sequenced manner.

[0146] Referring to FIG. 1, the control system 2800 including programmable main system controller 2820 and / or local machine controller 2811 may be mounted on a translatable self- propelled or pulled vehicle 2802 (e.g., tractor, trailer, combine harvester, truck, ATV, etc.) including those disclosed in U.S. Application Nos. 3 / 260772 filed on 31-Aug-2021; 63 / 260776 filed on 31-Aug-2021; and 63 / 260777 filed on 31-Aug-2021. The vehicle may be the same vehicle which collects the agricultural samples such as soil samples. In other embodiments, the controller may be part of a stationary workstation or facility. The sampling vehicle 2802 and its boundaries are designated by the dashed box in FIG.1 (those items within the box being mounted onboard the sampling vehicle in the illustrated embodiment). Part or all of the sample unloading system 300 including unloading apparatuses 304 / 304A and staging rack 302 may be mounted on the same vehicle 2802 or a stationary workstation as the main system controller 2820 or be separate therefrom. Local machine controller 2811 may be mounted proximate to the sample staging rack 302 and unloading apparatus 304 to synchronize operation of this equipment and processing of the sample tubes 202.

[0147] Main control system 2800 generally includes programmable controller 2820, non- transitory tangible computer or machine accessible and readable medium such as memory 2805, and a network interface 2815. Computer or machine accessible and readable medium may include any suitable volatile memory and non-volatile memory or devices operably and communicably coupled to the processor(s). Any suitable combination and types of volatile or non-volatile memory may be used including as examples, without limitation, random access memory (RAM) and various types thereof, read-only memory (ROM) and various types thereof, hard disks, solid-Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO state drives, flash memory, or other memory and devices which may be written to and / or read by the processor operably connected to the medium.

[0148] Both the volatile memory and the non-volatile memory may be used for storing the program instructions or software. In one embodiment, the computer or machine accessible and readable non-transitory medium (e.g., memory 2805) contains executable computer program instructions which when executed by the system controller 2820 cause the system to perform operations or methods of the present disclosure including measuring properties and testing of soil and vegetative samples. While the machine accessible and readable non-transitory medium (e.g., memory 2805) is shown in an exemplary embodiment to be a single medium, the term should be taken to include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and / or associated caches and servers) that store the one or more sets of control logic or instructions. The term “machine accessible and readable non-transitory medium” shall also be taken to include any medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying a set of instructions for execution by the machine and that cause the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologies of the present disclosure. The term “machine accessible and readable non-transitory medium” shall accordingly also be taken to include, but not be limited to, solid-state memories, optical and magnetic media, and carrier wave signals.

[0149] Network interface 2815 may be configured to communicate with the soil or other bulk agricultural material collection system on the vehicle which is retrieving samples (e.g., soil, etc.) from the agricultural field, and sample post-unloading systems such as sample slurry preparation, processing, and chemical analysis systems and devices (collectively represented by box 2803 in FIG. 1).

[0150] The agricultural sample unloading system 300 machine network 2810 can include at least one local microprocessor-based machine controller 2811 and a plurality of different type sensors 2812 in some embodiments. Sensors 2812 may be operably and communicably linked to local machine controller 2811 and optionally system controller 2820 through controller 2811; each controller being configured to receive and send data / signals from / to the sensors. In some embodiments, the sample unloading system 300 with local machine controller 2811 mounted thereto may be one vehicle which traverses the agricultural field along with the bulk sampleAttorney Docket No.24038 / WO collection system and main system controller 2820 may be located on a remote separate vehicle or in a stationary location.

[0151] The sensors 2812 may include for example without limitation positional or status sensors to apprise the system controller 2820 of the position or status of the sample unloading system 300 devices and components of the staging rack 302 and unloading apparatus 304 / 304A. Any suitable type commercially available non-contact presence or contact sensing sensors including micro limit switches or plungers of suitable type, Hall effect sensors, etc. may be used to detect the presence or movement of the device or component.

[0152] The status sensors may also include accelerometers to provide feedback to the system controller 2820 that a movable device or parts thereof of the system 300 physically moved in response to an action / motion initiated by a control signal from the controller (e.g. sample and cleaning blades mechanism inserted / withdrawn, piston-plungers up / down, etc.). Geolocation tracking sensors such as GPS (global positioning system) may also be included if the sample unloading system 300 is mounted on a vehicle which travels across the agricultural field. Accordingly, the control system knows the operational status, position, and condition of each of at least the major components of the sample unloading system 300 under its control at any given moment. This information is used by the machine network controller 2811 and / or system controller 2820 to automatically control the entire sample unloading system via machine network 2810, and detect if an operational malfunction of staging rack 302 and / or unloading apparatuses 304 / 304A has occurred. This is particularly useful if the sample unloading system 300 is being controlled from a remote location via a communicably linked laptop, tablet, cell phone, etc. In addition, the GPS sensor 2854 communicably linked to the machine network 2810 as seen in FIG. 1 permits the machine and / or system controllers 2811, 2820 to pinpoint where sample tube 202 is located at any given time. The RFID tag 2850a associated with each packaged sample permits the associated GPS geolocation information to be tracked for each sample.

[0153] Local machine controller 2811 includes all of the usual appurtenances and auxiliary electronic devices similar to main system controller 2820 (e.g., memory, power supply, etc.) for forming a normal fully functional microprocessor-based control system configured to control operation of sample unloading system 300.Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO

[0154] With continuing reference to FIG. 2, the RFID scanners or readers 2850 described herein which are mounted on or may be nearby staging rack 302 and unloading apparatus 304 / 304A are operably and communicably coupled to packing system machine network 2810 via communication link 2852. Communication link 2852 may be wired or wireless. The unique RFID tag 2850a associated with each collected and packaged agricultural sample in sample tube 202 may be automatically scanned and read in one embodiment when end cap 204a which contains the tag (or when the tag is located on another portion of the sample tube) is passed proximate to one of the readers whether in the staging rack or one of the unloading apparatuses. As previously described herein, the RFID tag may alternatively be located on the cylindrical body of the sample tube 202 or slideable plunger cap 204b inside the tube and read by controller 2811 of the machine network 2810. The unique sample ID information is transmitted to system machine controller 2811, which may in turn may share that information with the main system controller 2820. The unique RFID tag associated with each sample tube 202 and its sample contents allows the sample to be tracked from initial staging and processing of the sample pending final chemical analysis. With use of the GPS information collected for with each sample that identifies the exact location in the agricultural field where the sample was collected, the chemical analysis results of the analytes of interest may be readily correlated back to a particular location or region in the field to determine the soil amendments necessary there.

[0155] It bears noting that in embodiments where the entire agricultural sampling collection, packaging, unloading, and chemical analysis systems are mounted on a single field vehicle 2802 for in-situ analysis of the samples, the sample unloading system 300 may be controlled by the main system controller 2820 in lieu of a separate machine controller 2811. In such a case, the array of system sensors 2812 may communicate directly with system controller 2820.

[0156] The network interface 2815 can be configured for wired and / or wireless bidirectional communications which may include at least one of a GPS transceiver, a WLAN transceiver (e.g., WiFi), an infrared transceiver, a Bluetooth transceiver, Ethernet, Near Field Communications, or other suitable communication interfaces and protocols for communications with the other devices and systems including the agricultural sample unloading system 300. The network interface 2815 may be integrated with the control system 2800 as illustrated in FIG.2, the machine network 2810, or elsewhere. The I / O (input / output) ports 2829 of control system 2800 (e.g., diagnostic / on boardAttorney Docket No.24038 / WO diagnostic (OBD) port) enable communication with another data processing system or device (e.g., display devices, sensors, etc.).

[0157] The programmable controller 2820 may include one or more microprocessors, processors, a system on a chip (integrated circuit), one or more microcontrollers, or combinations thereof. The processing system includes processing logic 2826 for executing software instructions of one or more programs and a communication module or unit 2828 (e.g., transmitter, transceiver) for transmitting to and receiving communications from the machine network 2810 of sampling machine or vehicle 2802 via direct communication link 2831 or network interface 2815. The communication unit 2828 may be integrated with the control system 2800 (e.g. controller 2820) or be separate from the controller. In one embodiment, the communication unit 2828 may be in operable data communication with the machine / vehicle network 2810 via a diagnostic / OBD port of the I / O ports 2829.

[0158] Programmable processing logic or instructions 2826 of the control system 2800 which directs the operation of system controller 2820 including one or more processors may process the communications (i.e. data / information) received via the communication unit 2828 or network interface 2815 from the agricultural sample unloading system 300 including without limitation sensor associated with the status and operation of the sample unloading system 300 and components thereof under the control of programmable system controller 2820. The memory 2805 of control system 2800 is configured for preprogrammed variable or setpoint / baseline values, storing collected data, and computer instructions or programs for execution (e.g. software 2806) used to control operation of the controller 2820, which in turn controls operation of sample unloading system 300 and sample processing / analysis devices 2803. The memory 2805 can store, for example, software components such as testing software for analysis of soil and vegetation samples for performing operations of the present disclosure, or any other software application or module, images 2808 (e.g., captured images of crops), alerts, maps, etc. The system 2800 can also include an audio input / output subsystem (not shown) which may include a microphone and a speaker for, for example, receiving and sending voice commands or for user authentication or authorization (e.g., biometrics).

[0159] Some embodiments of agriculture sample unloading system 300 can further preferably include a sensing system 2812 comprising a plurality or array of different type sensors useful andAttorney Docket No.24038 / WO associated with tracking the soil sample. The sensing system and its sensors are in data and control communication with system machine controller 2811 and / or main system controller 2820. Other sensors which communicate with system controller 2820 may be associated with operation of the sample unloading system 300 and components thereof including various equipment positional or orientation sensors, proximity sensors, etc. The agricultural material sample unloading system 300 in combination with sensing system can provide complete automated control of the sample staging rack 302 and unloading apparatus 304 / 304A via the system machine controller 2811 and / or main system controller 2820.

[0160] The main system controller 2820 communicates bi-directionally with memory 2805 via communication link 2830, machine or sample collection system network 2810 directly via communication link 2831 and / or alternatively via communication link 2837 associated with network interface 2815, the network interface 2815 via communication link 2832, display device 2830 and optionally a second display device 2825 via communication links 2834, 2835, and I / O ports 2829 via communication links 2836. System controller 2820 further communicates with the soil sample processing and analysis systems and devices 2803 via the wired / wireless communication links 5752 previously described herein via the network interface 2815 and / or directly as shown.

[0161] Display devices 2825 and 2830 can provide visual user interfaces for a user or human operator. The operator may be located onboard the mobile vehicle in one embodiment which traverses the agricultural field or at a remote operating position or station distal from the staging rack 302 and unloading apparatus 304 / 304A. The display devices may include display controllers with onboard programmable microprocessors. In some embodiments, the computerized display device 2825 may therefore be a portable tablet device, cell phone, laptop, notebook, or other processor-based computing device with a touchscreen and / or keyboard (software based or physical hardware) that acts as an input / output device and which displays data (e.g., equipment status and position, and other relevant operational and maintenance information) and communicates with controller 2820. The computerized display device 2825 therefore receives input from the user or operator for staging rack 302 and unloading apparatus 304 / 304A.

[0162] The agricultural sample unloading system 300 disclosed herein are usable with and may form part of an overall agricultural sampling and analysis systems, such as but not limited to thoseAttorney Docket No.24038 / WO described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0124992A1, PCT Publication Nos. WO2020 / 012369, WO2020 / 148640, WO2021 / 171120, WO2021 / 171121, WO2021 / 220082, WO2021 / 220083, WO2021 / 220084, WO2021 / 220085, WO2022 / 013623, WO2022 / 013624, WO2022 / 013625, WO2022 / 013626, WO2022 / 013627, WO2022 / 013628, WO2022 / 013629, WO2022 / 013630, WO2022 / 013631, WO2022 / 013632, WO2022 / 013633, WO2022 / 243792, WO2022 / 243793, WO2022 / 243794, WO2022 / 243795, WO2022 / 243796, WO2022 / 243797, WO2022 / 243806, WO2022 / 243807, WO2022 / 243808, WO2022 / 243809, WO2022 / 259071, WO2022 / 259073, WO2022 / 259074, WO2022 / 269388, WO2023 / 031725, WO2023 / 031726, WO2023 / 031727, WO2023 / 042032, WO2023 / 042033, WO2023 / 042035, WO2023 / 042036, WO2023 / 042037, WO2023 / 042038, WO2023 / 042039, WO2023 / 161727, WO2023 / 161728, WO2023 / 170480, WO2023 / 170482, WO2023 / 227959, WO2023 / 227960, WO2023 / 248015, WO2023 / 248016, WO2024 / 023728, WO2024 / 023729, WO2024 / 023730, WO2024 / 023731, United States Application Nos. 63 / 676226, filed 26-Jul-2024, 63 / 552730, filed 13-Feb-2024, 63 / 559305, filed 29-Feb-2024, 63 / 559308, filed 29-Feb-2024, 63 / 559316, filed 29-Feb-2024, 63 / 665406, filed 28-Jun-2024, 63 / 669007, filed 09-Jul-2024, 63 / 675398, filed 25-Jul-2024, 63 / 675875, filed 26-Jul-2024, 63 / 675919, filed 26-Jul-2024, 63 / 676087, filed 26-Jul-2024, 63 / 676426, filed 28-Jul-2024, 63 / 679437, filed 05-Aug-2024, and PCT Application Nos. PCT / IB2024 / 051283, filed 12-Feb-2024, PCT / IB2024 / 051820, filed 26-Feb-2024, PCT / IB2024 / 058213 , filed 23-Aug-2024, PCT / IB2024 / 058336, filed 28-Aug-2024, PCT / IB2024 / 058337, filed 28-Aug-2024, PCT / IB2024 / 058338, filed 28-Aug-2024, PCT / IB2024 / 059313, filed 25-Sep-2024, PCT / IB2024 / 059314, filed 25-Sep-2024, PCT / IB2024 / 059315, filed 25-Sep-2024, PCT / IB2024 / 059316, filed 25-Sep-2024.

[0163] Sample Unloading System

[0164] FIGS. 2-71 variously depict one non-limiting embodiment of an agricultural sample container 201 and an associated sample unloading system 300 according to the present disclosure for processing the agricultural sample in the container. General reference is intended to these figures below. Specific figures may be called out where appropriate which illustrate specific aspects or features of the unloading system being discussed.

[0165] The unloading system 300 is configured and operable to both stage the sample containers 201 in a sequenced manner such as sample tubes 202 packed with the collected agriculturalAttorney Docket No.24038 / WO samples (e.g. soil, plant, etc.) by a sample packaging system such as for example without limitation the sample packaging system described in commonly owned PCT Publication Nos. WO2023042037A1, WO2023042038A1, and WO2023042039A1.

[0166] System 300 generally includes a sample staging rack 302 and unloading apparatus 304 operably coupled to the rack. Sample transfer mechanism 306 is configured and operable to transfer the sample container 201 such as sample tube 202 from the staging rack to the unloading apparatus. The transfer mechanism may load a single tube at a time into the unloading apparatus 304 in a serial manner for unloading in one non-limiting embodiment. Staging rack 302 and unloading apparatus 304 are physically closely coupled and adjacent each other in a preferred but non-limiting embodiment. In some embodiments, the rack may be physically coupled to the unloading apparatus, but in other embodiments may be simply located adjacent thereto. Each of these features and aspects of system 300 and operation to stage and remove the samples from the sample tubes 202 will now be described in further detail below.

[0167] For convenience of description and directional reference only, unloading apparatus 304 may be considered to define a front 304a, rear 304b, left lateral side 304c, and right lateral side 304d in top plan view (see, e.g., FIG. 13). Apparatus 304 may also be considered to define a top 304e and bottom 304f. A longitudinally-extending sample container feed axis FX is defined extending through lateral sides 304c, 304d (see, e.g., FIGS.17, 36, and 84). Transverse directions and orientations are defined herein as being disposed at a perpendicular 90 degree or acute angles to axis FX.

[0168] Sample staging rack 302 comprises a support frame 310 configured to rest on a generally horizontal support surface which may be a stationary floor, flat bed of a wheeled vehicle such as a truck, trailer, agricultural implement, or any other suitable type surface to which the rack may be rigidly mounted in a stable manner. The frame in some embodiments may therefore include a pair of distal and proximal feet 310a, 310b configured for seating on the support surface. The terms “distal” is defined herein as being farthest from unloading apparatus 304 and “proximal” is defined as closest thereto. The frame 310 includes a side panel plate 310c on each side which at least partially encloses the feed ramps 311 to prevent the sample tubes 202 from sliding out of the staging rack 302. Plates 310c may include plural openings to allow the user to view the sample tubes 202 on the staging rack feed ramps. Frame 310 in various embodiments may be formed ofAttorney Docket No.24038 / WO an assemblage of various types and shapes of suitable metal structural members connected together by any means to form a self-supporting support frame. Any suitable shape and construction of the frame may be used. Staging rack 302 is horizontally elongated and may be oriented perpendicularly to sample unloading apparatus 304 and container feed axis FX.

[0169] Frame 310 supports at least one inclined feed ramp 311 configured and having an elongated horizontal length for receiving and staging one or more sample tubes 202. In a preferred but non- limiting embodiment, a plurality of feed ramps are provided in vertically stacked and parallel relationship. The ramps 311 each hold a plurality of the elongated tubes 202, which may be cylindrical, in a horizontally abutting and crosswise manner oriented transversely to the length of the ramps. The cylindrical walls of tubes are therefore in abutting contact in sidewall to sidewall relationship. The ramps are vertically spaced apart by a distance which can accommodate the diameter of the sample tubes 202 while allowing them to roll freely.

[0170] Feed ramps 311 of staging rack 302 slope downwards at a suitable angle towards unloading apparatus 304 so that the sample tubes 202 may automatically and freely roll towards the unloading apparatus via gravity. The sample tubes therefore roll from a distal ends 312 of the rack and feed ramps towards a proximal end 313 of the rack adjacent to unloading apparatus 304.

[0171] In one embodiment, the staging rack 302 is coupled to the unloading apparatus 304 by a pair of spaced apart track rails 348a, 349a spanning between the rack and tube loading mechanism 306 of the apparatus. The rails rollingly engage a pair of circumferential grooves 348, 349 formed on the exterior surface of the cylindrical wall 202a of sample tube 202 proximate to each end to guide the tube onto the tube feed chute 363 of the tube loading mechanism 360 of the unloading apparatus.

[0172] Referring to FIGS. 24 and 27-29, sample transfer mechanism 306 in one aspect includes a rotary paddle feed gate 314 positioned at the proximal end of each feed ramp 311. The feed gates stop the leading sample tubes 202 from rolling off staging rack 302 into a vertically-extending passageway 315 at the proximal end 313 of rack 302 between the rack and unloading apparatus 304. Gates 314 are configured and operable to provide sequenced feeding of the sample tubes into unloading apparatus 304 according to a preprogrammed tube feed sequence in system controller 2820, as further described herein.Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO

[0173] Paddles feed gates 314 are each horizontally elongated in the side-to-side rear direction of the unloading apparatus 304 and positioned to engage the leading sample tube 202 on each feed ramp 311 of the staging rack 302 (i.e. tube closest on ramp to unloading apparatus 304). A feed gate 314 is positioned above the proximal ends of each feed ramp 311 just beneath the next feed ramp above in the staging rack such that the sample tube 202 passes beneath the gate when fed and admitted to the transfer mechanism.

[0174] In one embodiment, the feed gates 314 each include a plurality of radial blades 314a rotatable about the transverse pivot axis of the gate defined by a transverse pivot pin 314b mounted to frame 310 of staging rack 302 at each side of the feed ramp (see, e.g., FIG. 73). In one embodiment, each feed gate 314 comprises a pair of radial blades disposed at an acute angle to each other and spaced angularly apart to engage and receive the sidewalls of a sample tube 202 (note FIG. 73 shows only a single feed gate on one feed ramp 311 to avoid clutter in the figure – other pivot pins 314b however visible on ramps above). The feed gates 314 are each pivoted back and forth in a toggle action to pass the leading sample tube 202 to the transfer mechanism 306 by a separate dedicated actuator 314c (best shown in FIG. 27), while blocking the second leading sample tube on the feed ramp. One actuator 314c may be coupled to the pivot pin 314b of each gate, such as in one non-limiting embodiment by an L-shaped angled link arm 314d (best shown in FIG. 27) configured to produce the desired toggle action of the gate. Link arm 314d has a proximal pinned pivot joint between each leg of the arm to allow the arm legs to rotate relative to each other for turning the pivot pin 314b of the feed gate 314. Actuator 314c may be any suitable commercially-available linear electric actuator, pneumatic actuator, or hydraulic actuator configured and operable to actuate link arm 314d and pivot the feed gate. The feed gate operates to engage, pivot, and push a lead sample tube forward to the proximal end of the feed ramp 311 to a position where it can be engaged and loaded into the unloading apparatus 304 by the transfer mechanism 306, as further described herein.

[0175] The sample transfer mechanism 306 in another aspect further comprises a tube elevator 320 configured and operable to engage and extract a sample tube 202 dispensed from the active feed gate 314 of staging rack 302. In one non-limiting embodiment, the tube elevator 320 may comprise a chain drive including a circulating continuous-loop chain 321, toothed upper sprocket 322, toothed lower sprocket 323, and forked lifting member 324 fixedly coupled to and movable vertically with the chain. The chain may be of a type generally similar to a bicycle chain forAttorney Docket No.24038 / WO comparison; however, other types of chains may be used. Lifting member 324 may be somewhat L-shaped in one embodiment and configured to engage, lift, and remove the sample tube 202 from the rotary paddle feed gate 314, and load the sample tube into the unloading apparatus 304 from the staging rack 302. The lifting member in one non-limiting embodiment may have a pair of outwardly projecting prongs 324a configured to engage and extract the tubes 202 from the rack. Prongs 324a may be arcuately curved in one embodiment with a radiused engagement surfaces 324a coinciding to the radius of the sample tube 202 to snugly engage the wall 202a of the tube.

[0176] The tube elevator 320 is located in vertically-extending passageway 315 between staging rack 302 and unloading apparatus 304. An electric motorized chain drive 325 coupled to either one of the shafts 322a or 323a of the upper sprocket 322 or lower sprocket 323 respectively rotates the chain between the sprockets such that lifting member 324 moves vertically in the passageway past the proximal ends of each feed ramp 311. Lifting member 324 receives and grasps a sample tube 202 from the feed ramp when presented for loading into apparatus 304 by operation of one of the rotary paddle feed gates 314. Chain 321 is vertically oriented and elongated as shown. Each sprocket shaft 322a, 323a is rotatably supported at its ends between opposing the sides of the frame 310, such for example as between side panel plates 310c (see, e.g., FIG. 26).

[0177] In operation, the segment or side of the chain loop closest to the ends of the feed ramps 311 moves upwards past the feed gates 314, and the segment or side of the loop closest to unloading apparatus 304 concomitantly moves downwards as the chain rotates. Lifting member 324 rising with the upward moving segment or side of the chain plucks a sample tube 202 passed on by one of the rotary paddle feed gates 314 presented for loading and carries the tube up with the chain to the top. As previously described herein, the feed gate 314 has a pivotable toggle action such that the gate pivots back and forth to pass the leading sample tube through the gate for engagement by the lifting member 324, while at the same time engages the next tube in line on the feed ramp 311 to hold it on the ramp. Other arrangements are possible.

[0178] When the lifting member 324 rotates over the upper sprocket 322 at top of the tube elevator towards the unloading apparatus 304, the sample tube is tossed onto guide rails 348a, 349a previously described herein by the lifting member when it reverses direction with the downward moving side of the chain loop. The sample tube 202 is guided into unloading apparatus 304 by the rails 348a, 349a which engage circumferential grooves 348, 349 in the tube, respectively. TheAttorney Docket No.24038 / WO intermeshing rail and groove arrangement keeps the tube in line as it rolls into the unloading apparatus. The lifting member 324 on the chain loop will pass beneath the lower sprocket 323 and then reverse direction vertically to begin travel back upwards with the chain 321 to extract the next sample tube presented to the tube elevator 320. It bears noting that the chain 321 travels in the same direction during the tube loading / feeding process in a loop. In some embodiments, the tube transfer unloading operation into unloading apparatus 304 and sample tube feed may be timed by preprogrammed steps executed by system controller 2820 so that the tube elevator circulates continuously or intermittently, thereby advantageously allowing tubes to be staged for feed into the unloading apparatus while a tube is being unloaded in the unloading apparatus without any appreciable gap in time. This efficiently processes the sample tubes for unloading in the most optimum time expedient manner possible.

[0179] Although a chain elevator has been described and shown for tube elevator 320, the elevator may be embodied in other types of devices that perform the same function. For example, some embodiments of tube elevator 320 may comprise a belt type system comprising a circulator belt to which lifting member 324 is coupled and pulleys in place of the upper and lower sprockets. Other means of feeding sample tubes into unloading apparatus 304 for unloading which do not involve rotating belts or chains may be used. Accordingly, the invention is not limited to chain or belt drives alone.

[0180] Staging rack 302 further includes a sample tube tracking system comprising a plurality of tracking tag readers, such as RFID reader 2850 in one non-limiting embodiment. One RFID reader may be located at the proximal end of each feed ramp 311 and mounted to frame 310. A window 2850b may be provided in the frame at the end of each feed ramp so that the reader is exposed to the sample tube 202 on the ramp to read the tag 2850a. In other embodiments, the tracking tag may be a bar code readable by a visual barcode scanner in lieu of an RFID reader. Other forms of readable tracking tags and corresponding tag reading systems be they electronic or visual in nature may be used.

[0181] Sample unloading apparatus 304 will now be described in further detail. With continuing general reference to FIGS. 2-68, apparatus 304 comprises a support housing 330 configured to mount the apparatus to any suitable structure which may be a floor, vehicle such as a truck, trailer,Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO agricultural implement, or any other suitable structure to provide a rigid and stable mounting. Any suitable shape and construction of apparatus housing may be used.

[0182] Unloading apparatus 304 further comprises a trunnion mechanism 329 rotatably supported by housing 330. In one non-limiting embodiment, the trunnion mechanism may include a rotatable and slideable container / tube carriage 332 configured to hold the sample tube 202. Carriage 332 is fixedly coupled to crosswise trunnion drive shaft 333 rotatably supported by the housing. Shaft 333 is oriented and elongated in the front to rear direction of the unloading apparatus perpendicularly to the container / tube feed axis FX. Carriage 332 is rotatable with shaft 333 in opposing rotational directions. In one implementation, the tube carriage can be rotated 360 degrees in either direction by trunnion drive motor 334 (shown schematically in dashed lines FIGS.38-39) coupled to drive shaft 333.

[0183] The rotatable carriage 332 further comprises a container receptacle 336 defining an elongated interior space configured for receiving, maneuvering, and supporting the sample tube 202 in a secure manner during the sample unloading process. Carriage 332 is operable to rotate the sample tube between an upright vertical position and an inverted vertical position via drive motor 334. Receptacle 336 includes an annular castellated support ring 337 at the bottom 338 and an open top 339 through which the sample tube can be inserted. Support ring 337 has an open center to allow the tube ejector piston-plunger 372 to enter the receptacle to access and engage the sample tube for ejecting the tube from the carriage 332. Support ring 337 defines an undulating surface which is complementary configured to mesh with the undulating castellated bottom end 203b of sample tube 202. Anti-rotation protrusions 206a on the tube lockingly engage the mating anti-rotation protrusions 337a formed by the castellated support surface 337 in the receptacle to rotationally lock the tube relative to carriage 332 (see, e.g., FIG. 53). This ensures that free terminal ends 205a of the retention protrusions 205 on slideable push cap 204b remain rotationally clocked or timed to engage their corresponding elongated retention slots 202c in the cylindrical walls of sample tube 202 (previously described herein) when the cap slides inside tube 202 and then re-engages the slots, as further described herein. The peaks and valleys of castellated support surface 337 and bottom end 203b of sample tube 202 may be arcuately curved or rounded. This advantageously guides the mating castellated surfaces together if the peaks and valleys of each are not rotationally aligned when first meshed together.Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO

[0184] Carriage 332 further includes a pair of linear actuators 332a configured to slideably move the carriage linearly in two opposing directions within housing 330 between inward and outward positions (see, e.g., FIGS.48-50). Actuator 337 may be any suitable commercially-available linear electric actuators, pneumatic actuators, or hydraulic actuators. In one embodiment, the actuators 332a may comprise a pair of pneumatic cylinder actuators; one actuator being coupled to each of two opposite sides of the carriage. It bears noting that the cylinder actuators are therefore rotatable with the carriage 332 during the sample unloading process. The cylinder actuators are used to uncap the sample tube 202 during the sample unloading process, as further described herein.

[0185] Unloading apparatus 304 further includes a movable closure plate 350 configured and operable to temporarily cover and close the open top end of sample tube 202 when in the upright vertical position and end cap 204a is removed in the carriage 332 for unloading the sample. Plate 350 has a generally flattened and broader body, which may be any suitable shape such as circular, rectilinear (square or rectangular), etc. Movement and operation of the closure plate 350 is controlled by actuator 351 coupled to the plate. Actuator 351 may be any suitable commercially- available electric actuator, pneumatic actuator, or hydraulic actuator. In one embodiment as shown, closure plate 350 may be circular and is pivotably movable via actuator 351 of a rotary type between an inward closed position cover the top end of sample tube 202, and an outward open position uncovering the tube. In other embodiments, closure plate 350 may be slideably movable in a linear manner between the open and closed positions by the actuator 351 of a linear type.

[0186] Referring primarily to FIGS. 30, 54, and 68, carriage 332 further includes a movable decapper 345 which is an apparatus operable to remove detachable end cap 204a from the top end 203a of sample tube 202. In one embodiment, the decapper may be slideably movable in linear manner along feed axis FX on a pair of overhead guide rods 345a; however, pivotable movement may be provided in other embodiments. In addition, decapper 345 may be moveable in linear directions other than along feed axis FX so long as the decapper may engage and remove the end cap 204a. The decapper 345 is suspended from the guide rods above and projects downwards. The decapper may include a flattened plate-like body defining a C-shaped concave recess 341 facing towards carriage 332 and configured to slideably receive and engage the top end cap 204a of sample tube 202. A pair of opposed inwardly projecting rails 342 are formed within in the recess (e.g., one rail on each side) which engage a complementary configured circumferential groove 347 in the sample tube top end cap 204a (best shown in FIG. 68).Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO

[0187] The decapper 345 is movable between an inward position towards receptacle 336 of carriage 332 to engage cap 204a of a newly loaded sample tube 202, and an outward position away therefrom via operation of an actuator 346 (see, e.g., FIG. 54). Actuator 346 may be any suitable commercially-available electric actuator, pneumatic actuator, or hydraulic actuator. In operation, the decapper initially in the outward position moves and engages end cap 204a. Specifically, rails 342 of the decapper 345 engage groove 347 on opposite circular sides of the cap. With the cap thus engaged, the carriage 332 moves from the outward to inward position which uncouples and removes the cap from the sample tube 202. In one embodiment, the end cap 204a may be retained on and sealed to sample tube 202 via a snap fit, which in one embodiment may be formed by circumferentially-extending and inward projecting snap protrusion 343 formed on the sides of lid 204a which resiliently engages corresponding snap groove 344 formed on the tube 202 adjacent to top end 203a (see, e.g., FIG. 11). End cap 204a is formed of a plastic material in one embodiment which has the required elastic deformation properties necessary to form the snap fit to the sample tube body.

[0188] To load sample tubes 202 into and from the carriage 332, unloading apparatus 304 includes a tube loading mechanism 360. The mechanism in one embodiment comprises loading actuator 361 including a linearly and horizontally movable ramrod 362 and a tube chute 363. Ramrod 362 may be coupled to actuator 361 via mounting plate 364 slideably movable on a pair of guide rods 365. The actuator 361 (shown schematically in dashed lines FIG. 36) may be coupled to and operable to move mounting plate 364 with ramrod 362 in a linear bi-directional manner towards and away from the carriage 332. Actuator 361 may be any suitable commercially-available linear electric actuator, pneumatic actuator, or hydraulic actuator operable to move plate 364 and ramrod 362 coupled thereto inwards and outwards relative to carriage 332. Tube chute 363 is configured to slideably engage the cylindrical walls 202a of the sample tube. The tube chute receives the loaded sample tube 202 from staging rack 302 via transfer mechanism 306 previously described herein. In one embodiment, chute 363 may be V-shaped in cross section being comprised of two flat plates disposed at an acute angle to each other. In one embodiment, tube chute 363 is pivotably mounted at one end to unloading apparatus 304 and movable for discharging / discarding the empty sample tube after the sample has been unloaded, as further described herein. Tubes are loaded into carriage 332 by ramrod 362 through a loading port 368 formed in housing 330 of the unloading apparatus.Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO

[0189] Unloading apparatus 304 further includes a sample tube ejector 370 and sample ejector 371. Tube ejector 370 is configured and operable to push the empty sample tube back out of the carriage tube receptacle 336 after the sample is unloaded. In one embodiment, the tube ejector comprises a horizontally movable piston-plunger 372 which may each be any suitable type commercially available electric linear rod actuator, pneumatic cylinder, or hydraulic cylinder with retractable / extendible operating rod 372a terminated with a diametrically enlarged cylindrical plug disk 372b (see, e.g., FIG. 66). In one embodiment, piston-plunger 372 is coaxially aligned with tube feed axis FX and arranged directly opposite ramrod 362 on the lateral side of carriage 332 opposite the lateral side where the ramrod is located. Ramrod 362 is also coaxially aligned with feed axis FX. Accordingly, in this embodiment, the sample tube 202 is both loaded into and unloaded from receptacle 336 of the tube carriage 332 along the same linear path coaxially with feed axis FX which passes through the geometric center of the receptacle interior space when in its horizontal position in the carriage. In operation, cylindrical plug disk 372b of piston-plunger 372 is configured to fit inside sample tube 202 to abuttingly engage push cap 204b and force the sample tube back out through loading port 368 in housing 330 of the unloading apparatus.

[0190] Sample ejector 371 is configured and operable to eject the sample from the sample tube 202 when in its inverted vertical position when the detachable end cap 204a is removed from the top end of the tube. Sample ejector 371 in one embodiment comprises a vertically movable piston- plunger 373 which may each be any suitable type commercially available electric linear rod actuator, pneumatic cylinder, or hydraulic cylinder with retractable / extendible operating rod 373a terminated with a diametrically enlarged cylindrical plug disk 373b. Plug disk 373b is configured for insertion into and through the sample tube 202 from end to end to eject and unload the agricultural sample therefrom.

[0191] In one embodiment, plug disk 373b is configured to selectively and lockingly engage the slideable push cap 204b of sample tube 202. The plug disk includes a circumferential groove 374 on its exterior surface (see, e.g., FIG. 65) which is engageable with an inward projecting tab 205b on the spring-action retention protrusions 205 of cap 204b (see, e.g., FIG.6). In one embodiment, tabs 205b are formed on the free terminal ends 205a of the retention protrusions opposite the outward projecting tabs 205c which engage the retention slots 202c in the sample tube wall 202a (see also FIG. 45). In operation, the sample ejector piston-plunger 373 is operable in a linear downward stroke to both push and slide tube cap 204b downwards inside the sample tube 202Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO when inverted in carriage 332 toward its top end 203a (see, e.g., FIG. 64), and then in a linear n upwards stroke pull and return the cap back upwards to re-lock the cap to the retention slots 202c in the tube (see, e.g., FIG. 65), as further described herein. Engagement between groove 374 of plug disk 373b and tab 205b of push cap 204b enables return of the cap back upwards with the plug disk. It bears noting that the retention protrusions 205 of push cap 204b are pressed and deflected radially inwards when the outward protruding locking tabs 205c are disengaged from retention slots 202c in sample tube 202 as the sample ejector plug disk 373b pushes downwards on the push cap. The inwardly deflected retention protrusions 205 can resiliently spring back outward since the outward protruding locking tabs 205c are maintained inwards by the inside wall surfaces of the sample tube. This in turn maintains between circumferential groove 374 of plug disk 373b and tab 205b of the push cap retention protrusions 205 as the cap slides downwards and upwards inside the sample tube 202 until the retention protrusions reach the tube retention slots 202c and are then resiliently biased back outwards.

[0192] A method or process for unloading an agricultural sample container will now be described using unloading system 300 and various components thereof previously described disclosed herein. FIG. 67 is a high level flow chart showing the general steps in the method or process. Reference will also be made below to FIGS. 42-66, which show more detail of some of the sequential steps in processing and unloading the sample container. FIGS. 53-66 specifically are enlarged cross-sectional views of unloading apparatus 304 specifically showing the sample container (e.g., sample tube 202 in this embodiment) in receptacle 336 of the tube carriage 332 and its various rotational orientations and axial positions during the sample unloading process. References to rotational movement and directions are from the perspective of the equipment as viewed in these foregoing figures, for convenience of description.

[0193] Prior to the specific steps of the sample unloading process described below which are performed by unloading apparatus 304, the staging rack 302 and transfer mechanism 306 first perform their functions previously described herein to stage and then load a sample tube 202 onto feed chute 363 of the unloading apparatus 304. These tube staging and feed steps may include first (1) system controller 2820 executes the preprogrammed control logic / program instructions (software) to select the feed ramp 311 from which one of the sample tubes 202 is to be released for loading into sample unloading apparatus 304. (2) The feed gate actuator 314c actuates the rotatable feed gate 314 of the selected “feed ramp” to release the selected sample container to theAttorney Docket No.24038 / WO sample tube elevator 320. (3) Elevator 320 carries the selected sample tube 202 to either the elevator tube lifting member 324, or in some embodiments a vertical position or location along the staging rack 302 where the sample ID on the sample tube can be scanned by the RFID, visual, or other type electronic reader (as described elsewhere herein). If the sample ID is recognized, the authenticated sample tube is loaded into unloading apparatus and the process continues to the first step of sample unloading process in the flow chart in FIG 109 and as further described below starting with FIG. 53. If sample ID is not recognized for some reason, the sample tube is rejected and ejected from feed chute 363 of the tube feed mechanism 360 after being loaded into the unloading apparatus.

[0194] FIG. 53 now shows the accepted capped sample container 200 in the form of the authenticated sample tube 202 which has been loaded onto feed chute 363 of tube loading mechanism 360 from the staging rack 302 by transfer mechanism 306; each previously described herein. The sample tube contains the agricultural sample (e.g., soil or other) and oriented on the slide so that bottom end 203b is facing left towards carriage 332 of the apparatus. Carriage 332 and concomitantly receptacle 336 is rotated 90 degrees clockwise to the right in a horizontal position so that the open top 339 of the receptacle faces towards the feed chute and is readied for receiving the sample tube (see also FIG. 42). The sample tube is being pushed and loaded into receptacle 336 bottom end first by ramrod 362 of the tube loading mechanism 306. FIGS. 43 and 54 show the sample tube fully inserted in the carriage. Castellated support surface 337 in tube receptacle 336 engages complementary configured castellated bottom end 203b of the tube 202.

[0195] Next, with the sample tube 202 now docked in receptacle carriage 332, FIG. 55 shows movable gripping arms 381 of a sample container or tube gripper 380 of carriage 332 moving inwardly to engage circumferential retention groove 348 formed on the exterior surface of sample tube 202 via a pivotable clamping action of the arms. This retains and locks the tube in receptacle 336 of the carriage when inverted for unloading the sample. With additional reference to FIGS. 69-71 showing the gripper in more detail, each gripping arm 381 of tube gripper 380 is an elongated structure rotatably mounted to the flat top plate 385 of carriage 332 by a pivot bolt 382 (e.g., should bolt). Each gripping arm 381 of the gripping mechanism is further pivotably coupled to a separate pivot pin 383 carried by an elongated bar-shaped actuation member 386. Actuation member 386 is linearly movable inwards and outwards towards or away from sample tube 202 when positioned in tube receptacle 336 of the carriage 332 via operation of a linear actuator 384.Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO Actuator 384 may be any suitable commercially-available electric linear rod actuator, pneumatic actuator, or hydraulic actuator with retractable / extendible operating rod 387 coupled to actuation member 386. Pivot pins 383 are located outboard of the pivot bolts 382 as shown such that moving actuation member 386 inwards and outwards concomitantly produces an openable / closeable claw- like action of the gripping arms 381. The gripper 380 is moveable via actuator 384 between (1) an inwards closed position in which the gripping arms simultaneously move inwards to engage retention groove 348 on the sample tube 202, and (2) an outward open position in which the gripping arms move outwards to disengage the sample tube. Each gripping arm 381 may include an inward facing and arcuately curved grip surface 381a engageable with groove 348 in the sample tube body to lock the tube in receptacle 336 of carriage 332.

[0196] FIGS. 44-45 and 56 next shows the carriage which has been rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise to its upright vertical position. Detachable tube end cap 204a is now positioned at top of the sample tube 202 in the carriage. The decapper 345 has moved inwards to engage the end cap as shown. Rails 342 of the decapper slideably engage groove 347 in cap 204a as previously described herein. With the cap thus engaged, the tube carriage 332 and concomitantly sample tube 202 are moved downwards and inwards relative to carriage housing 330 and its rotating drive shaft 333 (FIGS.46 and 57) via linear actuators 332a; one each coupled to each side of carriage 332 in one embodiment. Actuators 332a may be any suitable commercially-available electric actuator, pneumatic actuator, or hydraulic actuator configured and operable to slideably move carriage 332 inwards and outwards relative to carriage housing 330 and carriage drive shaft 333. The downward shift in position of the carriage relative to decapper 345 with cap 204a engaged thereto which remain stationary uncouples and “pops” the snap-fit cap 204a off the tube. The decapper 345 with cap 204a then moves back outwards from the carriage 332 with the cap (see, e.g., FIG. 58). The cap may be dropped into an available bin for reuse later during another sample collection run. Alternatively the reverse process could be conducted after the sample has been unloaded to re-install the cap back on the tube. This advantageously allows the operator to handle only the tube assembly without having to handle the caps separately, primarily but not limited to when tubes are being loaded.

[0197] To cover the now open top end 203a of sample tube 202 with exposed sample, closure plate 350 moves inwards over the top end 203a to temporarily enclose the tube and its contents (see, e.g., FIGS. 30-31, 47, and 59 showing plate 350 moving from outward to inward position).Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO

[0198] Carriage 332 is then rotated 180 clockwise from its upright vertical position to the inverted vertical position while closure plate 350 covers the now inverted sample tube 202 to prevent or minimize leakage of the sample from the receptacle 336. FIGS. 48 shows carriage 332 part way through the rotation in an angled position relative to tube feed axis FX. The full inverted position is shown in FIGS. 49 and 60.

[0199] Next, the inverted carriage 332 is moved vertically downwards and outward relative to carriage housing 330 and drive shaft to position the concomitantly inverted top end 203a of sample tube 202 closer to and adjacent sample unloading port 366 at the bottom of the carriage housing 330 (see, e.g., FIGS. 50 and 61). Unloading port 366 is open upwards and downwards as shown. The unloading port 366 may be defined by a block structure 366a attached to the bottom of carriage housing 330 and may include one or more nozzles 366b configured for coupling to a water source to clean out soil from the port and associated passageway through the block structure between each sample unloading cycle. The closure plate 350 is next moved outwards to uncover the open end of the sample tube 202 which is now exposed to the unloading port 366 (see, e.g., FIG. 62).

[0200] Next, the sample ejector 370 is activated to eject the sample from the sample tube (see, e.g., FIGS. 51 and 63). The sample ejector piston-plunger 373 moves vertically downwards and enters the bottom end 203b of the tube to lockingly engage slideably push cap 204b. Specifically, circumferential groove 374 in plug disk 373b of the piston-plunger lockingly engages the inward projecting tabs 205b on the spring-action retention protrusions 205 of cap 204b (FIG. 63). Engagement between the retention protrusions 205 and inside surfaces of the sample tube 202 forces the protrusions inwards which maintains locking engagement between groove 374 in the plug disk and tabs 205b. Piston-plunger 373 unseats the cap 204b from retention slots 202c in the sample tube walls 202a as it continues to move downward fully in the tube with the cap 204b to eject the entire sample from the tube (see, e.g., FIGS. 52 and 64). The piston-plunger may be cycled upwards and downwards within sample tube 202 two or more times to ensure the entire contents of the tube are emptied. After the last downward stroke, the piston-plunger draws the cap 204b back upwards and reseats / relocks the cap in the retention slots 202c of sample tube 202. The piston-plunger is completely withdrawn from the tube carriage 332 to allow the carriage to be rotated (see, e.g., FIG. 65).Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO

[0201] The sample material ejected by the ejector piston-plunger 373 falls via gravity into the unloading funnel 367 positioned beneath unloading port 366. The funnel directs the sample to the sample preparation system (shown schematically by dashed lines FIG. 36), which may include a sample slurry preparation chamber 369 for preparing a slurry by combining the sample material with water via one or more water inlets 369a for further processing and eventual chemical analysis. Chamber 369 includes a slurry outlet 369b. If slurry preparation occurs below the funnel immediately after ejecting the sample, the closure plate 350 may be moved back inwards to re- cover the open-ended sample tube 202 and prevent water from splashing and entering the carriage. If the slurry preparation equipment has its own closure device or the slurry is prepared at a later time or remote from the funnel 367, the closure plate 350 may remain in the outward position.

[0202] In either of the above slurry preparation scenarios, the carriage 332 is then rotated 90 degrees counter-clockwise to horizontally align receptacle 336 and sample tube 202 with the tube feed axis FX (see, e.g., FIG.66). If closure plate 350 is still inward and covering the open top end of the tube and receptacle, the closure plate is moved outwards to open them. Sample tube ejector 370 is then actuated to eject the empty tube. Piston-plunger 372 moves to the right along feed axis FX into carriage 332 through support ring 337 in receptacle 332 and pushes the empty tube outwards to the right and back onto tube feed chute 363 of the loading mechanism which is in a horizontal position. Feed chute 363 is then pivotably rotated to an angular position to dump the empty tube into an available bin or container for re-use. The feed chute is then rotated back to the normal horizontal tube feed position and ready for receiving and unloading the next filled sample tube by repeating the foregoing method / process.

[0203] Performance of the foregoing sample tube unloading method / process and operation associated equipment described of the sample unloading system 300 may be automatically controlled by the programmable system controller 2820 shown in FIG. 1. System 300 is operably coupled to controller 2820 via suitable wired and / or wireless communication links as shown. For example, once filled sample tubes 202 are manually loaded onto staging rack 302, the simple activation of the control system via a hard or “soft” (software) start button automatically feeds the tubes via transfer mechanism 306 previously described herein into the unloading apparatus 304 from the staging rack. Tubes are loaded into the unloading apparatus in a serial manner one at a time to unload the sample material according to a sequenced tube feed plan preprogrammed into the controller. The tube feed plan establishes the order in which the sample tubes from variousAttorney Docket No.24038 / WO feed ramps 311 are staged to be removed from staging rack 302 and fed into the unloading apparatus 304 to unload the samples. The controller thus directs the transfer mechanism 306 to conduct the tube feed and loading into the unloading apparatus according to the preprogrammed feed plan. In various tube feed scenarios of the plan, certain feed ramps 311 may be emptied completely for unloading the sample tubes before proceeding to the next feed ramp, or certain feed ramps may be partially emptied before moving to certain other feed ramps. This allows the user to preprogram the controller 2820 to prioritize processing and unloading of certain sample tubes first. It will therefore be appreciated that numerous different sample tube feeding scenarios and order of processing the tubes may be implemented for various reasons.

[0204] System controller 2820 then controls operation of the unloading apparatus 304 to process and unload the contents of each sample tube 202 in the manner described above and shown in FIGS. 42-67 via executing preprogrammed control logic / program instructions (e.g., software). It is well within the ambit of those skilled in the art to code the program instructions and steps disclosed herein to operate the unloading apparatus 304 in the manner described to unload the agricultural sample from the sample tube 202. All unloading apparatus associated equipment described herein may therefore be automatically controlled by the controller so no manual intervention is required other than the user or operator activating the hard or soft start button. In other possible embodiments, a combination of manual and automatically controlled operation and steps may be used.

[0205] Alternative Designs and Embodiments

[0206] The following description and FIGS. 72-100 present design variations and alternative embodiments of the agricultural sample unloading system 300 including the sample staging rack 302 and unloading apparatus 304 previously described herein.

[0207] Sample Staging Rack

[0208] FIGS. 72-80 depict an alternative embodiment of a staging rack 302. In this design, the multiple rotary paddle feed gates 314 positioned at the proximal end of each feed ramp 311 are eliminated and replaced by reconfiguring electric motorized chain drive 325. The reconfigured chain drive operates in the same general and similar manner previously described herein; however, the circulating continuous-loop chain 321 has been altered to includes a plurality of blocking members 500. Blocking members 500 are fixedly attached to and circulate with the chain 321Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO between the toothed upper sprocket 322 and toothed lower sprocket 323 previously described herein. The forked lifting member 324 which grabs a sample tube 202 from the rack and is fixedly coupled to and movable vertically with the chain is retained.

[0209] At positions on the chain 321 above and below the lifting 321, however, a blocking member 500 is present which prevent the sample tubes 202 from rolling off staging rack 302 into a vertically-extending passageway 315 at the proximal end 313 of rack 302 between the rack and unloading apparatus 304. Each leading sample tube 202 on the end of each of the feed ramps 311 closest to the unloading apparatus 304 is alternatingly engaged and retained on the feed ramp by the blocking members 500 until the forked lifting member 324 becomes aligned with one of the tubes on one of the ramps. In that case, the leading tube 202 rolls onto and engages the lifting member 324 which raises the tube and discharges the tube onto the track rails 348a, 349a spanning between the rack and tube loading mechanism 306 of the apparatus, as previously described herein. The location on the chain corresponding to the position of the lifting member 324 is the only vacant space which can receive one of the sample tubes 202 as shown.

[0210] The blocking members 500 each comprise a stop block 501 supported in a cantilevered manner from the chain 321 by a pair of support arms 502. In one embodiment, the chain 321 may comprises a pair of chains as shown. Each of the laterally spaced apart arms 502 are fixedly coupled to one of the chains by any suitable means known in the art. The top block may have a rectangular cuboid shape in one embodiment as shown; however, other shaped blocks may be used. The blocks and support arms may be made of preferably rigid metallic materials, non- metallic materials (e.g., plastic), or combinations thereof and do not limit the invention.

[0211] During operation and circulating motion of the chain 321, adjacent blocking members 500 when travelling in the vertical direction along the front or back side of the electric motorized chain drive 325 between the sprockets 322, 323 may abuttingly engage each other to form a continuous traveling wall structure facing the leading sample tubes 202 on the ends of the feed ramps 311 (see, e.g., FIGS. 74 and 80). FIG. 80 shows the topmost blocking member 500 rotating over the upper sprocket 322 of the chain drive and one of the sample tubes 202 being loaded onto the lifting member 324. RFID reader 2850 remains positioned in the same general location as before near the top of the chain drive 325 (see, e.g., FIG. 72) to read the RFID tag 2850a of the sample tubeAttorney Docket No.24038 / WO 202 which has been loaded onto the forked lifting member 324 on chain 321 before being dispenses to the sample unloading apparatus 304.

[0212] It bears noting that although the complete 360 degree continuous-loop chain 321 structure is not shown in FIGS. 72-80 to improve clarity. Accordingly, only select segments of the chain necessary for the foregoing description are illustrated.

[0213] The elevator chain 321 can extract sample tubes 202 from the feed ramps 311 of staging rack 302 and load the tubes into the unloading apparatus 304 in at least one of two ways below. Normal operation may entail processing and extracting sample tubes 202 from the top down fore the top half of the feed ramps 311, and then switch directions and process the tubes bottom up until it processes the entire bottom half of the ramps. This ensures that if sample tubes 202 are reloaded when the staging system is still partially full, the tubes on the bottom feed ramps 311 do not remain in the rack for several days without being processed.

[0214] Top Down

[0215] The chain 321 reverses from a home position to load a sample tube 202 from the top feed ramp 311 that contains one or more tubes, then rotates forward to lift the tube to scan the RFID tag and load it into the machine. Once the top feed ramp 311 containing the sample tubes is empty, the machine progress to load tubes from next feed ramp down that contains tubes.

[0216] Bottom Up

[0217] The chain 321 can also start by rotating forward (i.e. towards unloading apparatus 304) to load sample tubes 202 into the machine from the lowest feed ramp 311 containing tubes first. Since the single opening on the chain 321 defined by the location of the forked lifting member 324 is now already occupied by a sample tube, that already loaded sample tube can be lifted by the chain past the other feed ramps above in the rack even if they have tubes present since the loaded sample tube prevents additional tubes from leaving their respective feed ramp.

[0218] Other variations of the sample tube extraction and loading process and sequence are possible.

[0219] Sample Unloading Apparatus

[0220] FIGS. 81-100 depict alternative embodiments and optional features of the sample unloading apparatus 304 previously described herein. Several alterations and additions areAttorney Docket No.24038 / WO presented which mechanically simplify the apparatus and provide operational options which can enhance the unloading operation and efficiency of the process.

[0221] General reference is made to preceding FIGS. 30-67 depicting various aspects of sample unloading apparatus 304, and particularly FIGS. 81-100 showing the alterations of and additions to the original design previously described herein. Reference should be made to the prior written description and original drawings for features which appear in FIGS.81-100, but which might not be numbered therein for brevity.

[0222] Referring initially to FIGS. 88 and 91-96, according to a first aspect of the sample unloading apparatus, a wash-down system is provided for cleaning out the unloader between unloading cycles of different sample containers or tubes 202 to prevent cross-contamination of sample materials. As part of this system, the rotatable container / tube carriage 332 which defines container receptacle 336 that removably holds the sample container or tube 202 is located inside a selectively sealable liquid-tight wash-down enclosure 600. Enclosure 600 may be cylindrical in one embodiment and is disposed in and mounted to the support housing 330 of the sample unloading apparatus 304 in a stationary manner. The wash-down enclosure defines an inner chamber 603 which encloses the carriage 332. Enclosure 600 is non-rotatable relative to housing 330, whereas carriage 332 is rotatably relative to both the enclosure and housing via trunnion mechanism 329 rotatably supported by housing 330. Trunnion drive shaft 333 coupled to the carriage as previously described herein may be relocated to the rear of the unloading apparatus 304 in the present embodiment (see, e.g., FIG. 82).

[0223] The wash-down enclosure 600 further comprises a resilient and elastically deformable septum 601 mounted at the sample tube entrance opening of the apparatus formed by loading port 368 of the unloading apparatus 304 through which sample tubes are inserted and removed from the carriage. Septum 601 may be formed of an elastomeric sheet comprising a circular insertion aperture or hole 602 slightly smaller than the outside diameter of the sample tube 202. When the sample tube 202 is inserted through the septum and loaded into the rotatable carriage 332, the elastomeric material deforms and stretches over the tubular body of the sample tube 202 at insertion hole 602 of septum 601 to allow the tube to pass through. After the top end cap 204a is removed by decapper 545 from the sample tube after it is seated in the carriage 332, the cap is held within hole 602 of the septum which stretches over the sides of the cap to form a liquid-tight sealAttorney Docket No.24038 / WO and block off the sample tube loading port 368. This seals off the inner chamber 603 of the unloader formed inside wash enclosure 600 in a water-tight manner which allows wash down of the sample tube, end caps, and inner chamber after dumping the soil sample material in the manner previously described herein.

[0224] A plurality of spray nozzles 610 are fixedly mounted to the rotatable carriage 332 to spray out the inside of the top end cap 204a and inside of the wash-down enclosure inner chamber 603 as the carriage is rotated during the wash cycle. Spray nozzles 610 thus are rotatable with the carriage to fully wash all exposed surfaces formed by the circumferentially-extending walls 603a inside chamber 603 of enclosure 600 for a full 360 degrees around. Accordingly, all interior surfaces of the wash-down enclosure 600 inside inner chamber 603 and the exposed surface of top end cap 204a held in the septum 601 are cleansed.

[0225] A suitable wide spray pattern may be provided for each of the spray nozzles 610 for the forgoing washing and flushing purposes. FIGS. 93-95 illustrate an example wide spray pattern in a dotted pattern. The spray pattern of flushing / cleaning water discharged by each nozzle 615 preferably may be greater than 90 degrees as shown in some embodiments.

[0226] To supply cleaning water to the spray nozzles 610 on the rotatable carriage 332, a rotating water supply connection is provided. In one embodiment, this connection may include a water inlet pipe 650 which is fluidly coupled to the carriage via a swivel fluid coupling 651. The inlet pipe remains stationary while the carriage rotates thereabout. A flow conduit 652 such as a section of tubing fluidly couples the swivel fluid coupling outlet 653 to spray nozzles 610 which may be mounted to the baseplate 640 of the tube gripper mechanism 630 on carriage 332, further described herein. A fluid inlet 654 on and in baseplate 640 extends internally through the baseplate to each of the spray nozzles 610. Although three spray nozzles are shown, fewer or more may be provided.

[0227] To wash down and clean the rotatable carriage 332 itself and those components attached thereto, a fixed or stationary wash nozzle 615 may be mounted to the wash-down enclosure 600 (see, e.g., FIGS. 91 and 96). Wash nozzle 615, fixed in position on the cylindrical wash-down enclosure 600, is configured and operable to discharge washing water inside enclosure inner chamber 603 and spray down all surfaces of the carriage as it is rotated within the enclosure. A suitable wide spray pattern (e.g., greater than 90 degrees) may be provided for spray nozzle 615Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO for the forgoing washing and flushing purposes to thoroughly cleanse the carriage and its conjoined components.

[0228] It bears noting that the rotating sample tube carriage 332 which defines the container receptacle 336 may have a cylindrical configuration similarly to the wash-down enclosure 600. However, the centerline axis of the inner carriage 332 (extending from end to end) is not coaxial with but transverse to the centerline axis of the outer wash-down enclosure 600 (see, e.g., FIG. 91). Further, wash-down enclosure 600 is stationary and not rotatable.

[0229] According to another aspect of the sample unloading apparatus 304 design options, the movable decapper 345 previously described herein may be replaced with an alternate design in the form of jaw-like decapper mechanism 545 shown in FIG. 100. The decapper mechanism (or simply decapper for short) may be mounted to the tube loading mechanism 360 and comprises an axially movable decapper actuator 547 operably interacting with a pair of opposing openable / closeable gripping jaws 546. Actuator 547 replaces sample container or tube ramrod 362 previously described herein. Advantageously, decapper 545 is operable to both push the sample tube 202 into and extract the tube from carriage 332 of the unloading apparatus 304, while further functioning to remove the top end cap 204a from sample tube 202. Eliminates the need for tow separate mechanism and drives to perform both functions.

[0230] Jaws 546 of decapper 545 are each configured to selectively engage circumferential groove 345 formed in top end cap 204a (see, e.g., FIG. 2) in order to grip the cap. The jaws may have an arcuately curved shape in one embodiment as shown which conforms to the circular shape of the top end cap. A sensor 548 is located proximate to and between the jaws 546 and configured to sense the presence of sample tube (i.e. top end cap) between the jaws. Any suitable commercially- available proximity or other type sensor may be used for thus purpose.

[0231] Decapper actuator 547 may be a commercially-available linear acting actuator configured to alternatingly spread jaws 546 apart outwards to receive or release the top end cap 204a of sample tube 202, or collapse the jaws inwards to engage and grip the end cap. When engaged by the decapper, the actuator 547 is operable to slide the sample tube 202 linearly along tube feed rods 660 of the tube loading mechanism 360 through the loading port of the unloading apparatus and into the carriage 332.Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO

[0232] In operation when a sample tube 202 to have its sample contents is loaded into the tube loading mechanism 360, the decapper mechanism 545 may engage and grip the top end cap 204a of the tube while still attached to the cylindrical tube body. The decapper mechanism may next push and load the tube horizontally into the rotatable carriage 332 through loading port 368 of the unloader. After insertion, with the sample tube still in the horizontal position in the carriage, the decapper mechanism 545 may be partially withdrawn away from the carriage to pop the top end cap 204a of the top off of sample tube 202 and engage the end cap with the deformable septum 601 as previously described herein. This seals the inner chamber 603 of the wash-down enclosure 600 in preparation for the eventual wash-down and flushing cleaning operation described above after the sample tube contents are dumped.

[0233] According to another aspect of the sample unloading apparatus 304 design options, an alternative tube gripper mechanism 630 is provided which is configured to retain and lock the sample tube 202 in receptacle 336 of the carriage 332 when inverted for unloading the sample material. In this present embodiment, the main actuator that plunges the soil from the sample tube 202 when the tube is in a vertical inverted position (i.e. sample ejector 371 and its vertically movable piston-plunger 373) may be configured and operable for dual use to enhance mechanical simplicity of the unloader 304. In addition to being used to plunge soil from the sample tube as previously described herein, the vertically movable piston-plunger 373 of the sample ejector 373 previously described herein also advantageously serves to actuate the spring-biased tube gripper mechanism 630 when the sample tube is in a horizontal position located inside the carriage 332. This beneficially avoids having to mount and power a separate actuator on the carriage to lock and unlock the canister therefrom.

[0234] Reference is made to FIGS. 91-92, 95-97, and 99-100. In one embodiment, present tube gripper mechanism 630 comprises a spring-biased mechanical gripper actuator 631 operably coupled to a pair of collapsible and spreadable gripping arm linkages 632 configured to selectively engage and disengage circumferential retention groove 348 formed on the exterior surface of sample tube 202. Actuator 631 and gripping arms 632 may be mounted to the top of the rotatable carriage 332 as shown.

[0235] Gripper actuator 631 comprises a push plate or block 640 movably mounted to a baseplate 641 fixedly mounted to the cylindrical carriage 332, pair of guide rods 642, a cylindrical springAttorney Docket No.24038 / WO 643 encircling each guide rod, a bushing 644 slideably receiving each guide rod therethrough when the gripper mechanism is actuated. In some embodiments, spray nozzles 610 previously described herein may be mounted to baseplate 641. Push block 640 is configured to be engaged by plug disk 373b on the end of vertically movable piston-plunger 373 of the sample ejector 371 (previously described herein) which actuates the tube gripper mechanism 630 (see, e.g., FIG.92). Each guide rod therefore has an associated spring and bushing as shown. The top ends of guide rods 642 are fixedly coupled to push block 640 such as via a threaded connection or other. Bushings 644 are fixedly coupled to baseplate 641 which may be contoured from front to rear to conform to the arcuate shape of the cylindrical carriage 332.

[0236] The baseplate 641 defines a downwardly open operating cavity 645 on its bottom which is configured to receive the bottom ends of guide rods 642 therein when the gripper is actuated. A portion of the cylindrical carriage 332 body beneath the cavity defines a stop limit surface 645a which is abuttingly engages by the guide rods when fully actuated to stop the travel of the guide rods and actuator. Push block 640 is linearly movable towards and away from baseplate 641 and carriage 332, and springs 643 bias the push block away therefrom.

[0237] With particular reference to FIGS. 95 and 99-100, gripping arm linkages 632 are each pivotably coupled independently to both an end portion of baseplate 641 and an end portion of push block 640. Each arm linkage 632 comprises mounting segment 633 pivotably coupled to baseplate 641 at one end, and a gripping segment 634 pivotably coupled to a second end of the mounting segment. Each mounting segment 633 may comprise a short link generally straight body which is pivotably coupled at one end to push block 640 via a fixed pivot which may be formed by a pivot pin 636. The opposite end of each mounting segment 633 is pivotably coupled to one end of a gripping segment 634 via a pivot which may be formed by pivot pin 637. Mounting segments 633 are pivotably movable about the fixed pivot upon actuation of the tube gripper mechanism 630, which in turn actuates and moves the gripping segments 634 as shown.

[0238] Each gripping segment in turn includes a fixed pivot which may be formed by a second pivot pin 636 that pivotably couples the arm linkage (e.g., top end of gripping segment 634) directly to baseplate 641 from the mounting segments. Gripping segments 634 and the arm linkages 632 are pivotably movable about the fixed pivot upon actuation of the tube gripperAttorney Docket No.24038 / WO mechanism 630 to selectively engage or disengage the sample tube 202 in the carriage 332 as further described herein.

[0239] The term “fixed pivot” used above refers to the fact that the mounting segments 633 and gripping segments 634 of arm linkages 632 may rotate about the identified fixed pivot points, but are otherwise constrained from moving in a linear manner entirely freely in a non-rotational manner.

[0240] Each gripping segment may be generally L-shaped in one non-limiting embodiment and defines an arcuately curved engagement surface 634a configured to engage circumferential groove 348 on the exterior of the tubular body of the sample tube 202. The carriage 332 may include elongated slots 635 which allow the gripping segments 634 to pass into the interior of the carriage (receptacle 336) to engage the circumferential groove 348.

[0241] Gripping arm linkages 632 are movable between an outward position disengaged from the sample tube 202 (see, e.g., FIG.100) when the push block 640 is in its downward position, and an inward position engaged with circumferential groove 348 of the sample tube when the push block is in its upward position. Springs 643 bias push block into its upward position and in turn the gripping arm linkages into their inward position to engage the sample tube.

[0242] In operation, when an carriage 332 is in a horizontal position, the vertically movable piston- plunger 373 is moved downwards to engage push block 640 and actuate the tube gripper mechanism 630. This compresses springs 643 and splays or spreads the gripping arm linkages 632 to their outward position. Sample tube 202 may then be loaded into the carriage. Piston-plunger 373 is then retracted upwards to disengage push block 640. The springs return the push block to its upward position causing the gripping arm linkages to move to their inward position and engage sample tube 202 (i.e. gripping segments 634) to lock the sample tube inside the carriage.

[0243] According to another aspect of the sample unloading apparatus 304 design options, the RFID reader 2850 may instead be mounted on one side of wash-down enclosure 600 (see, e.g., FIG. 90) instead of on the tube staging rack as previously described herein. The RFID reader is positioned to read the RFID tag 2850a on the end of sample tube 202.

[0244] According to another aspect, the V-shaped tube feed chute 363 of the tube loading mechanism 360 is replaced by a pair of spaced apart tube feed rods 660 (see, e.g., FIGS. 89-90).Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO The rods 660 are spaced apart so that they support opposite sides of the sample tube cylindrical body without the tube falling therethrough when the sample tubes 202 are loaded into the carriage 332 of the unloading apparatus 340 by the decapper 545 mechanism. This reduces weight and eliminates cleanout of a chute.

[0245] Non-Contact Sample Severing Device

[0246] With some type of soil samples which have a sticky consistency or characteristic such as clay soils, the inventors have discovered that the core 730 of the sample material may not be cleanly ejected and separated from sample container 201 (e.g., hollow cylindrical sample tube 202) by the action of piston-plunger 373 of the sample ejector 371 previously described herein. The sample material core 730 extruded and pushed outwards from the open top end of the sample tube by the plunger (when the tube is in the vertical inverted position aligned with sample unloading port 366) tends to remain adhered to the push cap 204b slideably disposed in the sample tube. As previously described, the push cap is engaged by the piston-plunger 373 to eject the sample material core from the sample tube. Accordingly, the action of the piston-plunger and gravity is not sufficient to eject sticky-type sample material cores from the sample tube.

[0247] To resolve the foregoing problem, a non-contact sample severing device is provided which physically dislodges the core of sample material (e.g., soil) from the sample tube without physically contacting the core, as further described herein. In one non-limiting embodiment, as illustrated generally with respect to FIGS. 101-115, the severing device is comprised of fluidic knife 700 formed by a high-pressure fluid jet nozzle 701. The nozzle is configured and operable emits an instantaneous blast of a high-pressure fluid jet J to sever the sample material core from the push cap 202b of the sample tube 202, thereby allowing the severed core to drop through the unloading port 366 of the unloading apparatus via gravity for collection and further processing. The fluid jet emitted by the nozzle is metered to dispense a predetermined fixed volume of water for the core severing operation, thereby avoiding the addition of an excessive amount or volume of water to the soil sample material which affects the desired water / soil ratio of the sample for downstream processing and chemical analysis. A slurry is formed downstream in a mixing device to combine an additional amount of water with the soil sample solids to generate a target or desired water / soil ratio. Accordingly, an indiscriminate amount of water is not simply sprayed into the unloading apparatus as might be the case for wash-down and cleaning of the unloading apparatusAttorney Docket No.24038 / WO between sample material unloading runs to prevent cross-contamination of sample materials. The present fluidic knife 700 (jet nozzle) is therefore not part of the unloading apparatus wash-down system previously described herein. The jet nozzle 701 may therefore have has a separate higher pressure fluid supply system operable for use in conjunction with severing or cleaving the core of soil sample material to disclose the core from the sample tube 202 than the wash-down system fluid supply.

[0248] It bears noting that by utilizing a non-contact severing device such as the present fluidic knife in lieu of a mechanical severing device such as a metallic or non-metallic knife blade to physically sever and release the sample material core by direct contact, there advantageously is no additional component which in turn then requires cleaning itself to remove soil deposits adhered to the physical knife which could contaminate the next succeeding soil sample unloaded from the sample tube.

[0249] FIGS. 101-115 show a sample unloading apparatus 304A comprising a fluidic knife 700. The unloading apparatus 304A is ostensibly similar to the embodiment of the unloading apparatus 304 and features thereof shown in FIGS. 81-100 and previously described herein. General reference should therefore be made to these preceding figures depicting various aspects of prior sample unloading apparatus 304 and the corresponding written description for features and their related function which appear in FIGS. 101-115, but which might not all be numbered and described presently for the sake of brevity. The outer wash-down enclosure is slightly different in configuration and designated with numerical reference 600A. Other general features are the same including the rotatable carriage 332 and associated tube gripper mechanism 630 which releasably retains the sample container 201 (e.g., sample tube 202), and sample ejector 371 with vertically movable piston-plunger 373 for ejecting the sample material from the sample container. Operation of these components and the process / method for unloading soil samples for the sample container are the same and will not be described again here.

[0250] In the present embodiment of unloading apparatus 304A, FIGS. 101-115 (as applicable) disclose an alternative carriage drive mechanism which is different in configuration and layout than that associated with unloading apparatus 304 previously described herein. As shown in FIGS. 38 and 39, for example, the trunnion drive motor is depicted as being coupled directly to trunnion drive shaft 333 of carriage 332 for prior unloading apparatus 304. In the present embodiment, anAttorney Docket No.24038 / WO indirect belt-drive system is provided to rotate the trunnion drive shaft which in turn rotates the carriage in the manner previously described herein during the sample container handling and sample material unloading process. Drive motor 334 is no longer coaxial with trunnion drive shaft 333, but instead laterally and axially offset from the drive shaft for present unloading apparatus 304A. Referring to FIGS. 101 and 106, drive motor is supported by a slightly modified and horizontal elongated outer housing 330A to locate the motor off on one lateral side of the trunnion drive shaft 333. The drive shaft of the motor 334 is fitted with a rotatable toothed drive gear 334C and mechanically coupled to the trunnion drive shaft 333 which is fitted with a mating toothed driven gear 334A fixedly coupled to the trunnion drive shaft 333. A flexible toothed drive belt 334B (represented schematically by dashed lines in FIG. 106) made of cord reinforced rubber or a similar compliant drive belt material may be used in one embodiment to couple the drive gear to the driven gear in a conventional manner. Motor 334 may be a reversible motor operable to rotate the drive belt and concomitantly the carriage 332 in opposing directions. Suitable motors and drive belts are commercially-available.

[0251] The fluidic knife 700 and its operation will now be further described.

[0252] Referring in general to FIGS.101-115 (as applicable), the jet nozzle 701 is disposed inside inner chamber 603A and removably coupled to a lower portion of the sidewall 705 of selectively sealable wash-down enclosure 600A. As best shown in FIGS. 112-113, nozzle 701 may be removably coupled to a nozzle flow fitting 708 which in turn is detachably coupled to the enclosure sidewall 705. Flow fitting 708 is configured for mounting the jet nozzle 701 thereto. In the non- limiting illustrated embodiment, fitting 708 may be block shaped and coupled to sidewall 705 of enclosure 600A in a rectilinear-shaped mounting opening 707 formed partially through the thickness of the sidewall as shown. This creates an internal portion of fitting embedded in the enclosure sidewall and an external portion projecting outwards therefrom. Mounting opening 707 is in communication with an inboard circular nozzle aperture 703 which extends laterally from inner chamber 603 to the mounting opening. Nozzle aperture 703 is configured (including dimensioned) to receive a mounting end of the jet nozzle 701 which in turn is coupled to flow fitting 708. In one embodiment, nozzle 701 may be threadably coupled to the flow fitting 708 which places the nozzle in fluid communication with the fitting via an internal flow passage 708a formed through the fitting. Other forms of coupling besides threaded may be used. The nozzle may be threadably coupled to a circular mounting aperture 707 formed through the sidewall;Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO however, other means for coupling to the sidewall may be used. Flow fitting 708 may include a resiliently deformable annular seal 706 disposed at the interface between enclosure sidewall 705 and the fitting to form a leak-resistant coupling in the mounting opening 707. The block-shaped flow fitting may be coupled to the enclosure sidewall 705 via threaded fasteners 704 in one embodiment (see, e.g., FIG.106); however, other forms of detachable coupling commonly used in the art may be used.

[0253] Although flow fitting 708 has been described herein as being block-shaped in non-limiting illustrated embodiment, other configurations of a flow fitting with internal flow passage including standard commercially-available fittings may be used such as cylindrical shaped fitting to which the jet nozzle 701 may be detachably coupled. Accordingly, the shape of the flow fitting does not limit the invention.

[0254] Nozzle flow fitting 708 may in turn be coupled one or more additional flow fittings 709 such as tube or piping fittings for fluid coupling to an upstream pressurized fluid flow conduit 710 (e.g., flexible or rigid circular tubing or piping) which conveys pressurized fluid from a fluid supply system 750 through the fittings and in turn to the jet nozzle 701 (see, e.g., FIG.106). Flow conduit 710 may be formed of metallic or non-metallic material of suitable diameter depending on the system pressures and flow rate needed for the core severing operation. The additional fitting(s) 709 allow the transition to be made from the flow conduit to the flow fitting 708 on the wash-down enclosure 600A.

[0255] The number and configuration of flow fittings used does not limit the invention so long as pressurized fluid may be conveyed to the jet nozzle 701 inside the inner chamber 603 of the wash- down enclosure 600A of unloading apparatus 304A.

[0256] In one embodiment, fluid jet nozzle 701 is positioned in the sidewall 705 of wash-down enclosure 600A proximate to the bottom 711 of the inner chamber 603 as best shown in FIG. 113. The nozzle is pointed to emit and direct a blast or burst of pressurized fluid inwards towards and perpendicularly to the vertical centerline of the wash-down enclosure 600A. More specifically, the jet nozzle is aimed to direct the burst of water transversely across and adjacent to the open top end 203a of sample tube 202 when in its inverted position as shown for unloading the core of sample material (e.g., soil) from inside the sample tube (see also FIG. 64). The burst of water is designated by the directional arrow of the fluid jet J shown in FIG. 113. The fluid jet J travelsAttorney Docket No.24038 / WO horizontally and slightly below the top end of the sample tube so as to not contact the tube, but close to top and push cap 204b to sever or cleave the relatively solid core of soil being pushed out of the storage tube 202 by the vertically movable piston-plunger 373 of sample ejector 371.

[0257] In one embodiment, fluid jet nozzle 701 is configured to emit the fluid jet J in a fan-shaped spray pattern to emulate a physical knife and provide slicing action transversely through the sample material core from side to side. The fluid jet spray is therefore horizontally broad and vertically thin to promote clean slicing action albeit in a non-contact manner with the sample material core. As previously described herein, sticky type soil sample materials such as clay will tend to stay adhered to flat base 208 of the push cap 204b slideably disposed in sample tube 202 unless physically severed or cleaved therefrom. In some embodiments, the fluid jet J may be positioned and aimed such that a very small amount of the sample core material may remain on the flat base of the push cap after a majority (e.g., 95% or more) of the sample core is severed from the push cap which does not adversely affect the process.

[0258] A predetermined metered amount or volume of high pressure water is emitted by fluid jet nozzle 701 with each burst of water to add as little water to the sample material as possible when the jet nozzle is activated. Each burst of the fluid jet J may have a duration of less than 1 second (1,000 milliseconds) in some embodiments to limit the water added but with sufficient volume and force to effectively sever the core of the material sample from the sample tube 202 (i.e. push cap 204b). In one embodiment, for example without limitation, the fluid jet duration may be about 250 milliseconds at a water pressure of about 200 psi. As the water pressure drops, the fluid jet duration and concomitantly flow rate may need to be increased to effectively sever the sample material core, but at the detriment of adding additional water to the sample which ultimately affects the water / soil ratio. Accordingly, the water pressure which determines the velocity of the fluid jet and force is balanced with the duration which determines the volume of water emitted. In some embodiments, a minimum water pressure of about 140 psi (+ / - 5 psi) is preferred, but not limiting. The duration of the fluid jet may still be less than 1 second at that minimum pressure.

[0259] Any suitable pressurized fluid system 750 capable of dispensing an instantaneous burst of high pressure water of short duration may be used as the source of high pressure water for the fluid jet nozzle 701 preferably at the minimum pressure of about 140 psi described above. A fluidAttorney Docket No.24038 / WO system with a pump alone that can meet the minimum pressure requirement is not sufficient as the volume of water emitted by the nozzle cannot be readily controlled and minimized.

[0260] Accordingly, the inventors have discovered that using pressurized air as the means to accelerate a short blast of high pressure water through the jet nozzle 701 with short duration can meet the foregoing requirements for the fluid supply to the nozzle to effectively separate the core of sample material from the sample container.

[0261] FIG. 116 is a schematic diagram of one possible non-limiting embodiment and configuration of an air-pressure powered high pressure fluid system 750 usable with the jet nozzle 701 as a source of high pressure water. In one embodiment, the fluid may be water. The high pressure water system generally includes a water tank 752 which holds a reservoir of pressurized fluid, fluid supply pump 751 fluidly disposed upstream of and coupled to the tank, control valve 757 fluidly disposed downstream of and coupled to the tank, and a valve controller 757 operably coupled to the control valve.

[0262] Water tank 752 is a pressure vessel which is structurally designed to retain and operate at pressures significantly greater than atmospheric pressure, and preferably at pressures of at least 100 psi or more in some embodiments. This distinguishes the present pressure vessel water tank from water tanks or containers which are simply open to atmospheric pressure and not structured or capable of high pressure retention. Pump 751 is fluidly coupled to a source 756 of low pressure water (e.g., less than 100 psi) in some embodiments which is pressurized by the pump and used to fill tank 752.

[0263] The water tank 752 is also fluidly coupled to a source 754 of pressurized air, which may be for example a compressed air tank, air compressor, or a shared system air header or manifold containing pressurized air which is used by multiple components in the sample processing and unloading system which are air-operated. Vessel 752 is an air-over-water design which contains pressurized air in the upper portion of the vessel and water in the lower portion. The air provides the motive force for expelling and driving the jet of water under high pressure imparted by the air from the tank through the jet nozzle 701 into the unloading apparatus wash-down enclosure 600A. The air pressure may be at least about 140 psi minimum (+ / - 5 psi) in some embodiments. The vessel 752 holds a static volume of air in the present embodiment. In other words, an amount or volume of air is filled into the tank to start and remains in the vessel with each discharge of water.Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO

[0264] The valve controller 757 is operably and communicably coupled to the main system controller 2820 previously described herein (see, e.g., FIG. 1) which controls, coordinates, and synchronizes the timing of activating the jet nozzle 710 in conjunction with expelling the core of sample material (e.g., soil) from the sample tube 202 to separate the core from the sample tube at the proper moment. The main system controller 2820 is also operably and communicably coupled to water pump 751 to refill the water tank 752 after each discharge of pressurized fluid to the jet nozzle 701. Accordingly, controller 2820 controls and coordinates both refilling of the tank and activation of the control valve 753.

[0265] The foregoing fluidic components of the water system 750 may be fluidly coupled together in the manner described above and shown in FIG. 116 via suitable flow conduits 758, which may be tubing or piping pressure rated for the intended conditions.

[0266] In operation of high pressure water system 750, the water tank 752 begins fully charged with air and a predetermined volume of water. Air is initially added to the vessel until a setpoint pressure is reached, which may be measured by a pressure sensor 759 mounted to the vessel. An air supply valve 754a fluidly interposed between the air supply and tank may be used to fill the vessel. Air supply valve 754a may be operably and communicably coupled to main system controller 2820 in some embodiments which automatically controls the air fill operation.

[0267] When required in the sample tube emptying process initiated by the sample unloading apparatus 304A, the main system controller 2820 sends a control signal to control valve 753 to open for a predetermined period of time or duration to send the pulsed volume of pressurized fluid to the jet nozzle 701. This delivers the predetermined desired volume of water to the jet nozzle. Pump 751 is actuated to refill the water tank 752 either after or preferably immediately before the valve is opened to ensure that the vessel is not entirely depleted of all water after each discharge of pressurized fluid. The cycle is repeated with each pulsed jet of water emitted by the jet nozzle 70 into the wash-down enclosure 600A.

[0268] FIG. 117 is a schematic diagram of a second possible non-limiting embodiment and configuration of an air-pressure powered high pressure water system 760 usable with the jet nozzle 701 as a source of high pressure water. Other type fluids however capable of slicing through the material sample core may be used in other embodiments. The components described above in conjunction with water system 750 which are the same are numbered identically. Notably, theAttorney Docket No.24038 / WO present water system 760 does not utilize a dedicated separate pump to refill the water tank 752, thereby simplifying the system to enhance reliability and reduce expense. The water system 760 is therefore operated differently due to the omission of the pump. Rather than maintaining a static volume of pressurized air in the tank as in water system 750, the tank is recharged with pressurized air and refilled with water after each water dispensing cycle associated with activation of the control valve 753 and jet nozzle 701 to emit the fluid jet pulse or blast to sever the core of sample material as previously described herein.

[0269] In high pressure water system 760, the water tank 752 may be separately coupled to shared system air header or manifold containing pressurized air which is used by multiple components in the sample processing and unloading system, and a shared system water header or manifold containing pressurized fluid which is used by multiple components in the sample processing and unloading system.

[0270] In operation of pressurized fluid system 760, the tank 752 is filled with a predetermined volume of water from the water source 756, which may be a low pressure source. The water source pressure may be less than 100 psi, and about 30 psi for example without limitation in some embodiments. Next, air supply valve 754a is opened to pressurize the water in the tank. The air source comprises air at a pressure which is greater than the water pressure. In one embodiment, the air pressure may be at least 140 psi. The air pressurizes the tank 752 and water therein to the air pressure of the air source. The system is now ready for operation.

[0271] To deliver a pulsed volume or jet of water from jet nozzle 701, control valve 753 is activated (e.g., opened) in the same manner previously described herein for water system 750 via main system controller 2820. The valve is then closed. The foregoing cycle repeats in which water is first filled in the tank 752, followed by pressurization of the water with high pressure air. The system is again ready for the next blast or pulse of high pressure water to be emitted by the nozzle.

[0272] It bears noting that the foregoing are just two possible examples of fluid supply systems which can deliver a pulsed burst of high pressure water for the jet nozzle of predetermined volume. Other suitable fluid supply system configurations and components however may be used to achieve the substantially same result. In one embodiment, the fluid is water.Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO

[0273] A process or method for unloading a sample container using sample unloading apparatus 600A in one embodiment generally comprises steps which may be summarized as including inserting an elongated capped sample tube containing a core of sample material into a sample unloading apparatus, uncapping the sample tube which creates an open top end of the sample tube, ejecting the core of sample material outwards from the sample tube through the open top end, separating the core of sample material from the sample container with a pulsed jet of pressurized fluid; and dropping the core of sample material through the unloading port.

[0274] System controller 2820 times the burst or pulse high pressure water in the sample unloading sequence previously described herein via opening control valve 753 (see, e.g., FIGS. 116 or 117) to coincide with when vertically movable piston-plunger 373 of the sample ejector 371 is in its downward-most position as shown in FIGS.52, 64, and 114. The core of sample material such as a soil core 730 shown in FIG.114 has been pushed downwards by the plunger and lies substantially outwards from the sample tube 202 but still remains adhered to the push cap 204b due to the sticky nature of the sample such as clay. The burst or pulse of water emitted by the jet nozzle 701 is shown schematically in FIG. 157. The fluid jet J slices transversely through the core to sever and release the core from the push cap 204b as illustrated. The released core then drops via gravity through the unloading port 366 of the unloading apparatus wash-down enclosure 600A. The duration of the burst of higher pressure water may be less than one second to effectively sever the core at the minimum fluid jet pressure of about 140 psi in one non-limiting embodiment, as previously described herein.

[0275] Now that the sample tube 202 has been unloaded, the process continues to remove the empty sample tube from the unloading apparatus 304a (e.g., enclosure 600A) and loads a new sample filled tube into the apparatus to repeat the sample tube decapping and unloading sequence described above and shown in FIGS. 53-66 and 114-115. FIG. 67 is a flow process diagram summarizing the sample container loading, unloading, and ejection steps previously described herein.

[0276] EXAMPLES

[0277] The following are non limiting examples.

[0278] Example 1 - a sample unloading system comprising: a sample container comprising an elongated tubular body configured to hold a core of sample material, the sample containerAttorney Docket No.24038 / WO comprising a top and a bottom end; a sealable enclosure defining a vertical centerline axis and an inner chamber; the enclosure comprising a sample loading port configured to insert the sample container into the inner chamber, and a sample unloading port configured to discharge the core of sample material from the inner chamber when unloaded from the sample container; a carriage rotatably disposed in the inner chamber of the housing, the carriage configured to receive and releasably retain the sample container; the carriage rotatable between a first position in which the carriage is aligned with the sample loading port to receive the sample container, and a second position in which the sample container is held by the carriage in an inverted upright position vertically aligned with the sample unloading port; a fluidic knife comprising a fluid jet nozzle disposed in the inner chamber, the fluid jet nozzle fluidly coupled to a pressurized fluid system; wherein the fluid jet nozzle is configured and operable to dispense a burst of pressurized fluid inwards into the inner chamber between the carriage and the unloading port.

[0279] Example 2 - the system according to Example 2, wherein the burst of pressurized fluid is dispensed in a direction transverse to the vertical centerline axis of the enclosure.

[0280] Example 3 - the system according to Example 2, further comprising: a vertically movable plunger configured to enter the sample container when the carriage is in the second position, the plunger operable to push the core of sample material out of the sample container towards the sample unloading port; wherein the burst of pressurized fluid dispensed by the fluid jet nozzle is operable to transversely sever the core of sample material when pushed outward from the sample container by the plunger to separate the core from the sample container.

[0281] Example 4 - the system according to Example 3, wherein the burst of pressurized fluid is operable to sever the core of sample material from a push cap slideably moveable in the sample container via actuation by the plunger which selectively engages the push cap.

[0282] Example 5 - the system according to Example 3, wherein the spray nozzle is configured to dispense the burst of pressurized fluid in a fan-shaped spray pattern.

[0283] Example 6 - the system according to any one of Examples 1-5, wherein the spray nozzle is positioned at least partially in a nozzle aperture formed in a lower portion of a sidewall of the enclosure, the nozzle aperture in communication with the inner chamber of the enclosure.

[0284] Example 7 - the system according to Example 6, wherein the nozzle aperture is located proximate to a curved bottom of the inner chamber.Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO

[0285] Example 8 - the system according to Example 7, wherein the spray nozzle is detachably coupled to a nozzle flow fitting which in turn is detachably coupled to the sidewall of the enclosure.

[0286] Example 9- the system according to Example 8, wherein the flow fitting is block shaped and coupled to sidewall of enclosure in a rectilinear-shaped mounting opening formed partially through the sidewall, the mounting opening being in communication with the nozzle aperture.

[0287] Example 10 - the system according to Example 9, wherein the flow fitting is coupled to the sidewall via threaded fasteners.

[0288] Example 11 - the system according to Example 1, wherein the top end of the sample container is selectively opened and closed by a removable end cap, and the bottom end is closed by a push cap slideably moveable within in the tubular body of the sample container from the bottom end to the top end.

[0289] Example 12 - the system according to Example 11, wherein the top end of the sample container is located at bottom facing the sample unloading port when the sample container is in the inverted upright position for unloading the core of sample material from the sample container.

[0290] Example 13 - the system according to Example 12, wherein the unloading apparatus further comprises a decapper operable to remove the end cap from the sample tube.

[0291] Example 14 - the system according to Example 1, wherein the pressurized fluid system comprises a pressurized fluid tank fluidly coupled to a source of pressurized fluid and a source of pressurized air, the water tank further being fluidly coupled to the fluid jet nozzle through a selectively openable and closeable control valve.

[0292] Example 15 - the system according to Example 14, wherein the control valve comprises a valve controller operably and communicably coupled to a programmable system controller configured to control opening and closing of the controller valve.

[0293] Example 16 - the system according to Example 15, wherein the pressurized fluid tank is configured to provide water to the jet nozzle at a minimum pressure of about 140 psi, and the control valve via the system controller is configured to emit the burst of pressurized fluid for a duration of less than one second.

[0294] Example 17 - a method for unloading a sample container comprising: inserting an elongated capped sample tube containing a core of sample material into a sample unloading apparatus; uncapping the sample tube which creates an open top end of the sample tube; ejecting the core of sample material outwards from the sample tube through the open top end; separatingAttorney Docket No.24038 / WO the core of sample material from the sample container with a pulsed jet of pressurized fluid; and dropping the core of sample material through the unloading port.

[0295] Example 18 - the method according to Example 17, wherein the unloading apparatus comprises a rotatable carriage including an elongated receptacle into which the sample tube is inserted.

[0296] Example 19 - the method according to Example 18, wherein the carriage is rotatable between a first position in which the sample tube is inserted into the receptacle through a sample loading portion of the unloading apparatus, and a second position in which the sample tube has an upright vertical orientation and is inverted so that the open top end of the sample tube is at bottom facing the sample unloading port which is located at a bottom of the sample unloading apparatus, and a bottom end of the sample tube is at top.

[0297] Example 20 - the method according to Example 19, wherein the sample tube is axially aligned with a sample unloading port when the carriage is in the second position.

[0298] Example 21 - the method according to Example 20, wherein the first position is a horizontal position.

[0299] Example 22 - the method according to Example 21, further comprising after the ejecting step, steps of rotating the sample tube from the second position back to the first position, and removing the sample tube from the carriage through the sample loading port.

[0300] Example 23 - the method according to any one of Examples 17-22, wherein the ejecting step comprises inserting a plunger through the sample tube in a downward stroke which pushes the core of sample material out of the sample tube.

[0301] Example 24 - the method according to Example 23, wherein the plunger is configured to lockingly engage a push cap slideably disposed inside the sample tube, the plunger moving the push cap from the bottom end of the sample tube downwards towards the open top end to eject the core of sample material.

[0302] Example 25 - the method according to Example 24, further comprising after the ejecting step, a step of moving the plunger in an upward stroke which draws the push cap back upwards in the sample tube towards the bottom end thereof.

[0303] Example 26 - the method according to Example 17, wherein the uncapping step includes engaging a movable decapper with a snap-fit cap on the top end of the sample tube, and removing the cap from the top end.Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO

[0304] Example 27 - the method according to Example 17, wherein the pulsed jet of pressurized fluid is emitted from a jet nozzle in a direction transverse to a vertical centerline axis of the unloading apparatus and transversely through the core of sample material.

[0305] Example 28 - the method according to Example 17, wherein the pulsed jet of pressurized fluid has a minimum pressure of about 140 psi.

[0306] Example 29 - the method according to Example 28, wherein the pulsed jet of pressurized fluid has a duration of less than one second.

[0307] Example 30 - the method according to Example 17, wherein the pulsed jet of pressurized fluid has a duration of less than one second.

[0308] While the foregoing description and drawings represent some example systems, it will be understood that various additions, modifications and substitutions may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope and range of equivalents of the accompanying claims. In particular, it will be clear to those skilled in the art that embodiments of the present disclosure may be embodied in other forms, structures, arrangements, proportions, sizes, and with other elements, materials, and components, without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. In addition, numerous variations in the methods / processes described herein may be made. One skilled in the art will further appreciate that the embodiments of the present disclosure may be used with many modifications of structure, arrangement, proportions, sizes, materials, and components and otherwise, used in the practice of the embodiments of the present disclosure, which are particularly adapted to specific environments and operative requirements without departing from the principles of the present embodiments of the present disclosure. The presently disclosed embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the embodiments of the present disclosure being defined by the appended claims and equivalents thereof, and not limited to the foregoing description or embodiments. Rather, the appended claims should be construed broadly, to include other variants and embodiments, which may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and range of equivalents of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

Claims

Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A sample unloading system comprising: a sample container comprising an elongated tubular body configured to hold a core of sample material, the sample container comprising a top and a bottom end; a sealable enclosure defining a vertical centerline axis and an inner chamber; the enclosure comprising a sample loading port configured to insert the sample container into the inner chamber, and a sample unloading port configured to discharge the core of sample material from the inner chamber when unloaded from the sample container; a carriage rotatably disposed in the inner chamber of the housing, the carriage configured to receive and releasably retain the sample container; the carriage rotatable between a first position in which the carriage is aligned with the sample loading port to receive the sample container, and a second position in which the sample container is held by the carriage in an inverted upright position vertically aligned with the sample unloading port; a fluidic knife comprising a fluid jet nozzle disposed in the inner chamber, the fluid jet nozzle fluidly coupled to a pressurized fluid system; wherein the fluid jet nozzle is configured and operable to dispense a burst of pressurized fluid inwards into the inner chamber between the carriage and the unloading port.

2. The system according to claim 2, wherein the burst of pressurized fluid is dispensed in a direction transverse to the vertical centerline axis of the enclosure.

3. The system according to claim 2, further comprising: a vertically movable plunger configured to enter the sample container when the carriage is in the second position, the plunger operable to push the core of sample material out of the sample container towards the sample unloading port; wherein the burst of pressurized fluid dispensed by the fluid jet nozzle is operable to transversely sever the core of sample material when pushed outward from the sample container by the plunger to separate the core from the sample container.

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein the burst of pressurized fluid is operable to sever the core of sample material from a push cap slideably moveable in the sample container via actuation by the plunger which selectively engages the push cap.Attorney Docket No.24038 / WO 5. The system according to claim 3, wherein the spray nozzle is configured to dispense the burst of pressurized fluid in a fan-shaped spray pattern.

6. The system according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein the spray nozzle is positioned at least partially in a nozzle aperture formed in a lower portion of a sidewall of the enclosure, the nozzle aperture in communication with the inner chamber of the enclosure.

7. The system according to claim 6, wherein the nozzle aperture is located proximate to a curved bottom of the inner chamber.

8. The system according to claim 7, wherein the spray nozzle is detachably coupled to a nozzle flow fitting which in turn is detachably coupled to the sidewall of the enclosure.

9. The system according to claim 8, wherein the flow fitting is block shaped and coupled to sidewall of enclosure in a rectilinear-shaped mounting opening formed partially through the sidewall, the mounting opening being in communication with the nozzle aperture.

10. The system according to claim 9, wherein the flow fitting is coupled to the sidewall via threaded fasteners.

11. The system according to claim 1, wherein the top end of the sample container is selectively opened and closed by a removable end cap, and the bottom end is closed by a push cap slideably moveable within in the tubular body of the sample container from the bottom end to the top end.

12. The system according to claim 11, wherein the top end of the sample container is located at bottom facing the sample unloading port when the sample container is in the inverted upright position for unloading the core of sample material from the sample container.

13. The system according to claim 12, wherein the unloading apparatus further comprises a decapper operable to remove the end cap from the sample tube.

14. The system according to claim 1, wherein the pressurized fluid system comprises a pressurized fluid tank fluidly coupled to a source of pressurized fluid and a source of pressurized air, the water tank further being fluidly coupled to the fluid jet nozzle through a selectively openable and closeable control valve.

15. The system according to claim 14, wherein the control valve comprises a valve controller operably and communicably coupled to a programmable system controller configured to control opening and closing of the controller valve.

16. The system according to claim 15, wherein the pressurized fluid tank is configured to provide water to the jet nozzle at a minimum pressure of about 140 psi, and the control valve viaAttorney Docket No.24038 / WO the system controller is configured to emit the burst of pressurized fluid for a duration of less than one second.

17. A method for unloading a sample container comprising: inserting an elongated capped sample tube containing a core of sample material into a sample unloading apparatus; uncapping the sample tube which creates an open top end of the sample tube; ejecting the core of sample material outwards from the sample tube through the open top end; separating the core of sample material from the sample container with a pulsed jet of pressurized fluid; and dropping the core of sample material through the unloading port.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein the unloading apparatus comprises a rotatable carriage including an elongated receptacle into which the sample tube is inserted.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein the carriage is rotatable between a first position in which the sample tube is inserted into the receptacle through a sample loading portion of the unloading apparatus, and a second position in which the sample tube has an upright vertical orientation and is inverted so that the open top end of the sample tube is at bottom facing the sample unloading port which is located at a bottom of the sample unloading apparatus, and a bottom end of the sample tube is at top.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein the sample tube is axially aligned with a sample unloading port when the carriage is in the second position.

21. The method according to claim 20, wherein the first position is a horizontal position.

22. The method according to claim 21, further comprising after the ejecting step, steps of rotating the sample tube from the second position back to the first position, and removing the sample tube from the carriage through the sample loading port.

23. The method according to any one of claims 17-22, wherein the ejecting step comprises inserting a plunger through the sample tube in a downward stroke which pushes the core of sample material out of the sample tube.

24. The method according to claim 23, wherein the plunger is configured to lockingly engage a push cap slideably disposed inside the sample tube, the plunger moving the push cap from theAttorney Docket No.24038 / WO bottom end of the sample tube downwards towards the open top end to eject the core of sample material.

25. The method according to claim 24, further comprising after the ejecting step, a step of moving the plunger in an upward stroke which draws the push cap back upwards in the sample tube towards the bottom end thereof.

26. The method according to claim 17, wherein the uncapping step includes engaging a movable decapper with a snap-fit cap on the top end of the sample tube, and removing the cap from the top end.

27. The method according to claim 17, wherein the pulsed jet of pressurized fluid is emitted from a jet nozzle in a direction transverse to a vertical centerline axis of the unloading apparatus and transversely through the core of sample material.

28. The method according to claim 17, wherein the pulsed jet of pressurized fluid has a minimum pressure of about 140 psi.

29. The method according to claim 28, wherein the pulsed jet of pressurized fluid has a duration of less than one second.

30. The method according to claim 17, wherein the pulsed jet of pressurized fluid has a duration of less than one second.