Geological compass
By improving the structure of the geological compass and adopting a long level and a resistance holding mechanism, the problems of cumbersome operation and large errors of the traditional compass are solved, and multifunctional measurement and the establishment of a spatial coordinate system are realized, making it suitable for efficient measurement under complex terrain conditions.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202511053676.1
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-07-30
- Publication Date
- 2025-09-12
AI Technical Summary
Traditional geological compasses have problems when measuring rock formations, such as cumbersome operation, large errors, inability to directly measure the spatial angle between lineation and foliation, and inability to establish an in-situ spatial coordinate system. They are especially inconvenient to use under complex terrain conditions.
A geological compass is designed, consisting of an upper plate and a lower plate. The top of the lower plate is equipped with an azimuth measuring plate and a circular level, and the angle measuring plate is located on the side of the lower plate. A long level and a resistance holding mechanism are used to allow the angle pointer to rotate and maintain the angle. Combined with a length measuring ruler, multifunctional measurement and coordinate system establishment are realized.
It simplifies operation, reduces errors, can directly measure true inclination, supports lineation and foliation measurement and the establishment of spatial coordinate systems, improves the convenience and accuracy of measurement, and is suitable for complex terrain conditions.
Smart Images

Figure CN120628048A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention belongs to the field of geological exploration or mining technology, and in particular relates to a geological compass which can be used for measuring azimuth, angle and slope, as well as rock formation occurrence and the like. Background Art
[0002] The geological compass is a common tool used by geologists during field surveys. It is primarily used to measure the strike, dip, and inclination of rock formations, as well as to determine the orientation and angle of land features. Measuring rock formation strike is a fundamental method of field geological work. Rock formation strike elements include strike, dip, and inclination. During a survey, only dip and inclination are typically required. To measure these, the inclination must be measured first, followed by the inclination angle. This makes some measurements requiring only inclination data cumbersome. Furthermore, flipping the compass after measuring strike or dip and then measuring inclination introduces significant errors due to human or environmental factors. The original datum is lost, making the ridgeline the compass relies on no longer horizontal when measuring inclination. Many field scenarios, such as slope stability assessments, require only inclination data, but traditional methods are unable to achieve this.
[0003] In traditional geological compasses, the angle dial and azimuth dial are typically located in the same plane or parallel to each other. This structure presents certain limitations in practical use. For example, when measuring certain angles or complex terrain, it is inconvenient to operate and accuracy is affected. It is also impossible to directly measure the spatial angles of structures such as lineation and foliation. It is also impossible to establish an in-situ spatial coordinate system. Furthermore, it is clumsy to operate when measuring complex terrain (such as inverted rock layers and steep joints). Therefore, it is necessary to improve the structure of the traditional geological compass to enhance its functionality, convenience, and accuracy. Summary of the Invention
[0004] In view of the above shortcomings, the present invention provides a geological compass, which aims to solve the above shortcomings and improve the method and accuracy of inclination or slope angle measurement. The specific solution is as follows: A geological compass comprises an upper plate 1 and a lower plate 2, which are hinged together. An azimuth measuring plate 21 and a circular level 22 are provided on the top of the lower plate 2. The azimuth measuring plate 21 is provided with a magnetic needle 211. An angle measuring plate 23 is located on the side of the lower plate 2 and is parallel to the NS line of the azimuth measuring plate 21. The angle measuring plate 23 is provided with an angle pointer 231. The angle pointer 231 is provided with a long level 232. The long level 232 is arranged parallel to the angle pointer 231. The fixed end of the angle pointer 231 is fixed to the center of the scale arc of the angle measuring plate 23 and can rotate through the center of the scale arc. The other end is a free end, and the free end points to the scale of the angle measuring plate 23.
[0005] The azimuth measuring plate 21 of a conventional geological compass is marked with scales N, S, E, and W, representing the four directions, respectively. The NS line is perpendicular to the hinge line between the upper plate 1 and the lower plate 2, with N being the end away from the hinge line. The EW line is parallel to the hinge line between the upper plate 1 and the lower plate 2. The azimuth measuring plate 21 of the geological compass of the present invention is designed in the same manner.
[0006] When measuring with the geological compass, first place a certain edge of the lower plate 2 (parallel to the EW line of the azimuth measuring plate 21) against the object to be measured. This edge should be parallel to the hinged end of the upper plate 1 and the lower plate 2, that is, parallel to the EW line of the azimuth measuring plate 21. Then adjust the circular level 22 to be centered. At this time, it indicates that the azimuth measuring plate 21 is on a horizontal plane. This plane is the basis for taking attitude measurements. After the circular level 22 is centered, read the scale on the azimuth measuring plate 21 indicated by the magnetic needle 211, which is the measured azimuth. After reading the azimuth, keep the edge against the object to be measured still, place the bottom surface of the lower plate 2 of the compass close to the surface of the object to be measured, then adjust the angle pointer 231 so that the long level 232 is centered. Read the scale of the angle measuring plate 23 indicated by the free end of the angle pointer 231, which is the true inclination.
[0007] As an alternative: a geological compass comprises an upper plate 1 and a lower plate 2, which are hinged together, an azimuth measuring plate 21 and a circular level 22 are provided on the top of the lower plate 2, the azimuth measuring plate 21 is provided with a magnetic needle 211, the angle measuring plate 23 is located on the side of the lower plate 2, parallel to the NS line of the azimuth measuring plate 21, the angle measuring plate 23 is cylindrical and embedded in the side of the lower plate 2, the long level 232 is a transparent columnar and can rotate around the center of the angle measuring plate 23, the angle pointer 231 is the indicator line at both ends of the long level 232, and points to the scale of the angle measuring plate 23, there is a resistance holding mechanism between the angle measuring plate 23 and the long level 232, the resistance holding mechanism is a damping bearing or a friction knob, which is configured to: maintain the long level 232 in any rotation position when there is no external force, and allow the angle of the long level 232 to be adjusted when the manual rotation operating force overcomes the holding force. The geological compass described in the alternative solution for measuring the attitude and true inclination refers to the original solution, which is simpler, more beautiful, easier to operate and carry.
[0008] The following technical features are based on the original plan: Furthermore, the long level 232 is fixed on the angle pointer 231 and can rotate through a fixed point on the angle pointer 231 .
[0009] Furthermore, a resistance holding mechanism acts between the angle pointer 231 and the fixed point of the angle measuring disk 23, and between the long level 232 and the fixed point of the angle pointer 231; wherein, the resistance holding mechanism is configured to: provide a holding force sufficient to maintain the angle pointer 231 or the long level 232 in any predetermined rotational position relative to the corresponding fixed point in the absence of external force, and allow the angle pointer 231 or the long level 232 to be manually rotated relative to the corresponding fixed point when the rotational operating force applied to the angle pointer 231 or the long level 232 overcomes the holding force, and the resistance holding mechanism is a damping bearing or a friction knob.
[0010] Furthermore, the angle pointer 231 can rotate 360° via the fixed end on the angle measuring disk 23 .
[0011] Furthermore, a length measuring ruler 11 is provided on the upper plate 1. (Both the original solution and the alternative solution are applicable) Furthermore, the length measuring ruler 11 is provided on two mutually perpendicular surfaces. (Both the original solution and the alternative solution are applicable) Furthermore, the scale on the angle measuring disk 23 is semicircular or circular.
[0012] Furthermore, the angle pointer 231 has a thin straight rod shape and can be used as a plumb line.
[0013] The geological compass of the present invention can perform quantitative or qualitative measurements of structures such as lineation and foliation, as well as establish a spatial coordinate system. Quantitative measurements include attitude, orientation, angle, and length, while qualitative measurements include level, length reference, plumb bob, and slope stability.
[0014] The measurement of lineation and foliation is consistent with the operation of the geological compass, including azimuth and angle measurement. The length measuring ruler 11 can not only measure length, but also serve as a reference for photos. A long level 232 is set perpendicular to the angle pointer 231. When the angle pointer 231 rotates through the fixed end of the angle measuring disk 23 and the bubble of the long level 232 is centered, the angle pointer 231 is perpendicular to the azimuth measuring disk 21. If the azimuth measuring disk 21 is in a horizontal plane at this time, the angle pointer 231 points to the plumb bob direction. Preferably, the needle body of the angle pointer 231 is in the shape of a thin straight rod and can be used as a plumb line. An alternative solution is to define the origin and horizontal axis of the spatial coordinate system. The plumb line axis can be defined by assuming a plumb line based on a feature point, or the vertical direction of the angle pointer 231 can be defined as the plumb bob direction.
[0015] This method can directly measure true inclination, convert the line direction inclination based on the survey line's orientation, and be used for rough map surveying. After the angle pointer 231 rotates away from the angle measuring disk 23 (i.e., when the angle pointer 231 is suspended in the air), rotate the long level 232 until the angle between it and the angle pointer 231 is equal to the feature angle. Maintaining this angle, rotate the angle pointer 231 back to the angle measuring disk 23 to read the feature angle. To adjust the angle of the angle pointer 231 and the long level 232, adjust the angle pointer 231 to the target angle, using the reverse method for feature angle measurement. A finger press can be used to lock the angle during operation. Feature angle measurement primarily involves measuring structural angles such as shear joints, faults, and fold transitions. Preferably, the long level 232 extends at both ends to form a pointer that points to the scale on the angle measuring disk.
[0016] The present invention establishes a spatial coordinate system: A characteristic point on the measured object is used as the origin. This characteristic point can be a large crystalline mineral outcrop or other prominent landmark. A geological compass is placed at this point. An edge of the lower plate 2 is placed against the measured object. This edge should be parallel to the hinged ends of the upper and lower plates 1 and 2, that is, parallel to the EW line of the azimuth measuring plate 21. The circular level 22 is then centered, indicating that the azimuth measuring plate 21 is on a horizontal plane. The strike direction, i.e., the line along which the upper edge rests against the measured object, is defined as the horizontal X-axis. The NS line of the geological compass, perpendicular to the X-axis, is defined as the Y-axis. The free end of the angle pointer 231 is adjusted to a plumb bob, defining the Z-axis, with upward being positive. Once the spatial coordinate system (X, Y, Z) is established, the characteristic point can be used as the origin to describe the relative spatial position characteristics of surrounding features and conduct a brief analysis of diagenetic processes. Indoors, a spatial coordinate system consistent with the field can be established on a three-dimensional survey model directly based on the position of the characteristic point.
[0017] Slope stability: The relationship between the slope surface and the rock layer can be directly measured, and the slope stability can be analyzed based on the polar stereographic projection. The analysis is similar when the slope contains joints and fissures.
[0018] The present invention is simple to operate and very convenient when conducting field terrain rough surveys, angle and slope measurements, rock formation dip measurements, and horizontal or plumb bob measurements. In particular, when dealing with inclination measurements, the true inclination can be directly measured. The standard parts used in the geological compass described in the present invention can all be purchased on the market. All components in this application document can be customized according to the description in the specification and drawings. The specific connection methods of each part adopt conventional means mature in the prior art, and the machinery, parts, and equipment all adopt conventional models in the prior art. The outer contour of the geological compass after closing is preferably 50~90mm, and the shell material is preferably aluminum alloy or cast aluminum alloy. The damping of the connecting part is moderate, which is convenient for use.
[0019] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects: (1) The geological compass of the present invention can reduce errors. It adopts an angle measuring plate with a long level placed on the side, avoiding the tedious operation of the traditional compass that requires first measuring the inclination and then flipping to measure the inclination angle, eliminating the reference loss error, and is simple and convenient to use.
[0020] (2) The geological compass of the present invention realizes multifunctional quantitative and qualitative measurement, and can be used for structural measurement such as lineation and foliation, measurement of feature angles of land features, measurement of horizontal plumb bob length, slope stability analysis, and establishment of a spatial coordinate system to describe the spatial position characteristics of land features.
[0021] (3) The geological compass of the present invention has high compatibility and can be modified based on a traditional geological compass and used for field work. When used with a topographic and geological map, it can directly generate drawings and data of actual field materials.
[0022] (4) The geological compass of the present invention is suitable for promotion and use in professional fields. Its connecting parts have appropriate damping, simple structure, easy implementation, and very convenient to carry. It is suitable for promotion and use in the fields of geological exploration, prospecting engineering and field exploration.
[0023] In summary, the unique structure of the present invention has the above-mentioned advantages and practical value. There is no similar method publicly published or used in similar products, which is indeed innovative and has broad industrial value. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0024] Figure 1 This is a structural schematic diagram of the geological compass described in Example 1 or 2.
[0025] Figure 2 This is a structural schematic diagram of the geological compass described in Example 1 or 2.
[0026] Figure 3 This is a structural schematic diagram of the geological compass described in Example 3.
[0027] Among them: 1-upper plate, 2-lower plate, 11-length measuring ruler, 21-azimuth measuring plate, 211-magnetic needle, 22-circular level, 23-angle measuring plate, 231-angle pointer, 232-long level. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0028] To facilitate understanding of the present invention, the apparatus of the present invention will be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings illustrate embodiments of the apparatus. However, the apparatus can be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided to provide a more thorough and comprehensive understanding of the present invention. Example 1
[0029] like Figures 1 and 2 As shown, a geological compass comprises an upper plate 1 and a lower plate 2, which are hinged together. An azimuth measuring plate 21 and a circular level 22 are located on top of the lower plate 2. The azimuth measuring plate 21 is equipped with a magnetic needle 211. The compass is characterized by an angle measuring plate 23 located on the side of the lower plate 2, parallel to the NS line of the azimuth measuring plate 21. An angle measuring plate 23 is equipped with an angle pointer 231, which is attached to a long level 232. Long level 232 is arranged parallel to the angle pointer 231. The angle pointer 231 has a fixed end fixed to the center of the scale arc of the angle measuring plate 23 and can rotate about the center of the scale arc. The other end is a free end, which points to the scale of the angle measuring plate 23. The long level 232 is fixed to the angle pointer 231 and can rotate about a fixed point on the angle pointer 231. The angle pointer 231 can rotate 360° about the fixed end on the angle measuring plate 23. The resistance holding mechanism acts between the angle pointer 231 and the fixed point of the angle measuring disk 23, and between the long level 232 and the fixed point of the angle pointer 231; wherein, the resistance holding mechanism is configured to: provide a holding force sufficient to maintain the angle pointer 231 or the long level 232 in any predetermined rotational position relative to the corresponding fixed point in the absence of external force, and allow the angle pointer 231 or the long level 232 to be manually rotated relative to the corresponding fixed point when the rotational operating force applied to the angle pointer 231 or the long level 232 overcomes the holding force, and the resistance holding mechanism is a damping bearing.
[0030] The geological compass described in Example 1 can conveniently measure various field angles, including slope angles, included angles, and inclinations. Measuring true inclination angles eliminates the need to flip the compass, reducing measurement errors. It also enables quantitative and qualitative measurements of structures like lineation and foliation, as well as the establishment of spatial coordinate systems, among other practical functions. Based on measurements of slope surfaces, joints and fissures, and rock layers, a polar stereographic projection can be drawn to analyze slope stability. When combined with topographic and geological maps, it can directly generate drawings and data from actual field materials.
[0031] The geological compass described in Example 1 can be modified based on a traditional geological compass. It is easy to implement and very convenient to carry, and is suitable for promotion and use in the fields of geological exploration, prospecting engineering and field exploration. Example 2
[0032] Based on Example 1, the upper plate 1 is provided with length measuring rulers 11 on two mutually perpendicular surfaces. The angle measuring plate 23 has semicircular graduations, and the angle pointer 231 is a thin straight rod. Unlike Example 1, the resistance holding mechanism uses a friction knob instead of a damping bearing.
[0033] The geological compass described in Example 2 can be used to take field photos while the length measuring ruler 11 is taken as a reference object, and the angle pointer 231 can be used as a plumb line. It has multiple functions and is simple and convenient to use. Example 3
[0034] A geological compass comprises an upper plate 1 and a lower plate 2, which are hinged together. An azimuth measuring plate 21 and a circular level 22 are provided on the top of the lower plate 2. The azimuth measuring plate 21 is provided with a magnetic needle 211. An angle measuring plate 23 is located on the side of the lower plate 2 and is parallel to the NS line of the azimuth measuring plate 21. The angle measuring plate 23 is cylindrical and embedded in the side of the lower plate 2. The long level 232 is a transparent column and can rotate around the center of the angle measuring plate 23. The angle pointer 231 is an indicator line at both ends of the long level 232 and points to the scale of the angle measuring plate 23. A resistance holding mechanism is provided between the angle measuring plate 23 and the long level 232. The resistance holding mechanism is a damping bearing or a friction knob, which is configured to: maintain the long level 232 in any rotation position when there is no external force, and allow the angle of the long level 232 to be adjusted when the manual rotation operating force overcomes the holding force.
[0035] The geological compass described in Example 3 features an angle measuring plate 23 embedded in the side of the lower plate 2, and angle pointers 231 are indicator lines located at either end of a transparent cylindrical level 232. This combined system offers a perfect alternative solution, measuring strike and true dip in the same manner as in Examples 1 and 2. It can achieve all functions not involving a plumb bob, while offering advantages such as aesthetics, ease of operation, and portability.
[0036] It should be noted that the structure described in the present invention can be implemented in a variety of different forms and is not limited to the described embodiments. Any equivalent transformations made by ordinary technicians in this field using the contents of the present invention description and drawings, or directly or indirectly applied to other related technical fields, are included in the scope of protection of the present invention.
Claims
1. A geological compass, comprising an upper plate (1) and a lower plate (2), the two being hinged together, an azimuth measuring plate (21) and a circular level (22) being provided on the top of the lower plate (2), and a magnetic needle (211) being provided on the azimuth measuring plate (21), characterized in that: The angle measuring disk (23) is located on the side of the lower disk (2) and is parallel to the NS line of the azimuth measuring disk (21). The angle measuring disk (23) is provided with an angle pointer (231). The angle pointer (231) is provided with a long level (232). The long level (232) is arranged parallel to the angle pointer (231). The fixed end of the angle pointer (231) is fixed on the center of the scale arc of the angle measuring disk (23) and can be rotated through the center of the scale arc. The other end is a free end, and the free end points to the scale of the angle measuring disk (23).
2. A geological compass, comprising an upper plate (1) and a lower plate (2), the two being hinged together, an azimuth measuring plate (21) and a circular level (22) being provided on the top of the lower plate (2), and a magnetic needle (211) being provided on the azimuth measuring plate (21), characterized in that: The angle measuring disk (23) is located on the side of the lower disk (2) and is parallel to the NS line of the azimuth measuring disk (21). The angle measuring disc (23) is cylindrical and embedded in the side of the lower disc (2). The long level (232) is a transparent column and can rotate around the center of the angle measuring disk (23). The angle pointer (231) is the indicator line at both ends of the long level (232) and points to the scale of the angle measuring disk (23). A resistance holding mechanism is present between the angle measuring disk (23) and the long level (232), and the resistance holding mechanism is a damping bearing or a friction knob, and is configured as follows: The long level (232) is maintained at any rotation position when there is no external force, and the angle of the long level (232) is adjusted when a manual rotation operation force overcomes the holding force.
3. The geological compass according to claim 1, wherein: The long level (232) is fixed on the angle pointer (231) and can rotate through a fixed point on the angle pointer (231).
4. The geological compass according to claim 1 or 3, characterized in that: The resistance holding mechanism acts between the angle pointer (231) and the fixed point of the angle measuring disk (23), and between the long level (232) and the fixed point of the angle pointer (231). The resistance holding mechanism is configured to provide a holding force sufficient to maintain the angle pointer (231) or the long level (232) in any predetermined rotational position relative to the corresponding fixed point when no external force is applied, and to allow the angle pointer (231) or the long level (232) to be manually rotated relative to the corresponding fixed point when the rotational operating force applied to the angle pointer (231) or the long level (232) overcomes the holding force, and the resistance holding mechanism is a damping bearing or a friction knob.
5. The geological compass according to claim 4, characterized in that: The angle pointer (231) can be rotated 360° via the fixed end on the angle measuring disk (23).
6. The geological compass according to claim 1, 2, 4 or 5, characterized in that: The upper plate (1) is provided with a length measuring ruler (11).
7. The geological compass according to claim 6, characterized in that: The length measuring ruler (11) is arranged on two mutually perpendicular surfaces.
8. The geological compass according to claim 5, wherein: The scale on the angle measuring disk (23) is semicircular or circular.
9. The geological compass according to claim 1, 3, 5 or 8, characterized in that: The angle pointer (231) has a needle body in the shape of a thin straight rod.