A geological compass
By improving the structure of the geological compass and adopting the design of an angle measuring disc and a long level, the problems of large errors and cumbersome operation of traditional compasses in complex terrain have been solved, realizing high-precision multi-functional measurement and the establishment of a spatial coordinate system.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- HENAN FIRST GEOLOGICAL BRIGADE CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-07-30
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-04
AI Technical Summary
Traditional geological compasses suffer from large errors, cumbersome operation, and inability to directly measure the spatial angles of structures such as lineation and foliation when measuring the attitude of rock strata. Furthermore, they are inconvenient to operate in complex terrain and cannot establish an in-situ spatial coordinate system.
A geological compass was designed, comprising an upper plate and a lower plate. The lower plate has an azimuth measuring plate and a circular level on its top, and an angle measuring plate located on the side of the lower plate. The angle pointer is parallel to the azimuth measuring plate. It is equipped with a long level and a resistance holding mechanism, which allows the angle pointer and the long level to maintain their rotational position without external force, facilitating the measurement of true inclination angle and the establishment of a spatial coordinate system.
It reduces measurement errors, simplifies the operation process, and realizes multifunctional quantitative and qualitative measurement. It can directly measure the true dip angle and establish a spatial coordinate system, and is suitable for field measurement in complex terrain.
Smart Images

Figure CN224593974U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model belongs to the field of geological exploration or mining technology. Specifically, it relates to a geological compass that can be used for azimuth, angle and slope measurement, as well as rock stratum attitude measurement. Background Technology
[0002] A geological compass is a commonly used tool by geologists during field surveys. It is primarily used to measure the strike, dip, and dip angle of rock strata, as well as to determine the orientation and angle of features. Measuring the attitude of rock strata is the most fundamental method in field geological work. The elements of rock strata attitude include strike, dip, and dip angle. During measurement, generally only the dip and dip angle need to be measured. However, when measuring the dip and dip angle, the dip direction must be measured first, and then the dip angle must be measured in that direction. This makes measurements that only require dip angle data cumbersome. Furthermore, flipping the compass after measuring the strike or dip before measuring the dip angle can introduce significant human or environmental errors, causing the original reference surface to be lost. This means that when measuring the dip angle, the ridge the compass relies on is no longer horizontal. Many field scenarios only require dip angle data (such as slope stability assessments), but traditional methods cannot achieve this.
[0003] In traditional geological compasses, the angle measuring disc and the azimuth disc are usually on the same plane or parallel to each other. This structure has certain limitations in practical use. For example, it is not convenient to operate when measuring certain special angles or complex terrain, and the measurement accuracy is also affected. It cannot directly measure the spatial angles of linear and planar structures; it cannot establish an in-situ spatial coordinate system; and it is cumbersome to operate when measuring complex terrain (such as overturned strata and steep joints). Therefore, it is necessary to improve the structure of traditional geological compasses to enhance their functionality, convenience, and accuracy. Utility Model Content
[0004] To address the above deficiencies, this utility model provides a geological compass, aiming to solve these problems and improve the method and accuracy of dip or slope angle measurement. The specific solution is as follows: A geological compass includes an upper plate 1 and a lower plate 2, which are hinged together. The lower plate 2 has an azimuth measuring plate 21 and a circular level 22 on its top. The azimuth measuring plate 21 is equipped with a magnetic needle 211. Angle measuring plate 23 is located on the side of the lower plate 2 and is parallel to the N-S line of the azimuth measuring plate 21. Angle measuring plate 23 is equipped with an angle pointer 231. Angle pointer 231 is equipped with a long level 232, which is 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, which points to the scale of the angle measuring plate 23.
[0005] Traditional geological compasses typically have graduations and markings (N, S, W) on their orientation measuring disc 21, representing the four cardinal directions (north, south, east, west). The NS line is perpendicular to the hinge line between the upper disc 1 and the lower disc 2, with N representing the end furthest from the hinge line. The EW line is parallel to the hinge line between the upper disc 1 and the lower disc 2. The orientation measuring disc 21 of this invention is configured in the same way.
[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 being measured. This edge should be parallel to the hinge end of the upper plate 1 and lower plate 2, i.e., 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 measuring the attitude. 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, do not move the edge against the object being measured. Place the bottom surface of the lower plate 2 of the compass tightly against the surface of the object being measured. Then, adjust the angle pointer 231 to center the long level 232. Read the scale on the angle measuring plate 23 where the free end of the angle pointer 231 is, which is the true dip angle.
[0007] As an alternative: a geological compass comprising an upper plate 1 and a lower plate 2 hinged together. The lower plate 2 has an azimuth measuring plate 21 and a circular level 22 at its top. The azimuth measuring plate 21 has a magnetic needle 211. An 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 column that can rotate around the center of the angle measuring plate 23. An 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, configured to: maintain the long level 232 in any rotational position when there is no external force, and allow manual rotation to adjust the angle of the long level 232 when the holding force overcomes the holding force. The alternative geological compass for measuring attitude and true dip angle is more concise, aesthetically pleasing, and easier to operate and carry than the original scheme.
[0008] The following technical features are all based on the original solution: Furthermore, the long level 232 is fixed on the angle pointer 231 and can be rotated 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 at any predetermined rotational position relative to the corresponding fixed point when no external force is applied, 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 be rotated 360° via the fixed end on the angle measuring disk 23.
[0011] Furthermore, the upper plate 1 is equipped with a length measuring ruler 11. (Both the original and alternative solutions are applicable) Furthermore, the length measuring ruler 11 is disposed on two mutually perpendicular planes. (Both the original and alternative solutions apply) Furthermore, the graduations on the angle measuring disk 23 are semicircles or circles.
[0012] Furthermore, the angle pointer 231 has a thin, straight rod-shaped body. This thin, straight rod-shaped body of the angle pointer 231 can be used as a plumb line.
[0013] The geological compass described in this invention can perform quantitative or qualitative measurements of structures such as lineation and foliation, and establish a spatial coordinate system. Quantitative measurements include attitude, azimuth, angle, and length, while qualitative measurements include levelness, length reference, plumb bob, and slope stability.
[0014] Linear and planar measurements are performed in accordance with the geological compass orientation operation, including azimuth and angle measurements. The length measuring ruler 11 can measure length and also serve as a photographic reference. A long level 232 is positioned perpendicular to the angle pointer 231. When the angle pointer 231 rotates past the fixed end of the angle measuring disk 23, centering the bubble in the long level 232, the angle pointer 231 is perpendicular to the azimuth measuring disk 21. If the azimuth measuring disk 21 is horizontal at this time, the angle pointer 231 points in the plumb line direction. Preferably, the angle pointer 231 has a thin, straight rod-like body, which can be used as a plumb line. Alternatively, the origin and horizontal axis of the spatial coordinate system can be defined, and the plumb line definition can be assumed based on feature points. Alternatively, the vertical direction of the angle pointer 231 can be defined as the plumb line direction.
[0015] This invention can directly measure the true dip angle, and the dip angle of the survey line can be calculated based on the survey line azimuth, and can be used for map drafting. After the angle pointer 231 rotates away from the angle measuring disk 23, that is, when the angle pointer 231 is suspended in the air, rotate the long level 232 so that the angle between it and the angle pointer 231 is equal to the feature angle. Then, keep this angle unchanged and rotate the angle pointer 231 back to the angle measuring disk 23 to read the feature angle. Angle adjustment of the angle pointer 231 and the long level 232: the long level 232 points to the bottom line (0° line) of the angle measuring disk 23, and the angle pointer 231 is adjusted to the target angle. The whole process is the opposite of the feature angle measurement method. During operation, the angle can be locked by pressing with a finger. Feature angle measurement mainly includes the measurement of structural angles such as shear joints, faults, and folds. Preferably, the two ends of the long level 232 extend to form pointers, pointing to the scale of the angle measuring disk.
[0016] This invention establishes a spatial coordinate system: A feature point on the object being measured is used as the origin. This feature is a point-like object, such as a large, exposed mineral crystal or other prominent landmark. A geological compass is placed at this point, and an edge of the lower plate 2 is placed against the object being measured. This edge should be parallel to the hinged end of the upper plate 1 and lower plate 2, i.e., parallel to the EW line of the azimuth measuring plate 21. Then, the circular level 22 is centered, indicating that the azimuth measuring plate 21 is on a horizontal plane. The direction, i.e., the straight line where the edge against the object is located, is defined as the horizontal X-axis. The geological compass line NS perpendicular to the X-axis is defined as the Y-axis. The direction of the free end of the angle pointer 231, pointing towards the plumb line, is defined as the Z-axis, with upward being positive. After establishing the spatial coordinate system (X, Y, Z), the relative spatial position characteristics of surrounding features can be described using the feature point as the origin, and a brief analysis of the diagenetic process can be performed. Indoors, a spatial coordinate system consistent with the field can be directly established on the surveying 3D model based on the feature point location.
[0017] Slope stability: The relationship between the slope surface and the rock layer can be directly measured, and slope stability can be analyzed based on stereographic projection. The same principle applies when the slope contains joints and fissures.
[0018] This invention is simple and convenient to operate when conducting field topographic surveys, angle and slope measurements, rock stratum attitude measurements, and horizontal or plumb line measurements. It is particularly useful for dip angle measurements, as it allows for direct measurement of the true dip angle. All standard parts used in the geological compass described in this invention can be purchased commercially. All components described in this application can be customized according to the specifications and drawings. The specific connection methods for each part adopt mature and conventional methods in the prior art. The machinery, parts, and equipment all use conventional models in the prior art. The outer contour of the geological compass when closed is preferably 50-90mm, and the outer shell material is preferably aluminum alloy or cast aluminum alloy. The damping of the connecting parts is moderate, facilitating use.
[0019] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following advantages: (1) The geological compass described in this utility model can reduce errors. It adopts an angle measuring disc with a long level side-mounted structure, which avoids the cumbersome operation of traditional compasses that require measuring the dip first and then flipping to measure the inclination angle, eliminates the error of losing the reference, and is simple and convenient to use.
[0020] (2) The geological compass described in this utility model realizes multifunctional quantitative and qualitative measurement, and can measure the structure of linearity, surface foliation, etc., measure the characteristic angle of ground features, measure the length of horizontal plumb bob, analyze slope stability, and establish a spatial coordinate system to describe the spatial location characteristics of ground features.
[0021] (3) The geological compass described in this utility model has high compatibility. It can be modified based on the traditional geological compass and used in field work. When combined with topographic and geological maps, it can directly generate actual field material drawings and data.
[0022] (4) The geological compass described in this utility model is suitable for promotion and use in professional fields. Its connecting parts have appropriate damping, simple structure, easy implementation, and are very convenient to carry. It is suitable for promotion and use in fields such as geological exploration, prospecting engineering and field exploration.
[0023] In summary, the unique structure of this utility model possesses numerous advantages and practical value, and since no similar methods have been publicly disclosed or used in similar products, it is indeed innovative and has broad industrial value. Attached Figure Description
[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the geological compass described in Example 1 or 2.
[0025] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the geological compass described in Example 1 or 2.
[0026] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the geological compass described in Example 3.
[0027] Wherein: 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 Implementation
[0028] To facilitate understanding of this utility model, the device of this utility model will be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Embodiments of the device are shown in the drawings. However, this device can be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided to make the disclosure of this utility model more thorough and complete. Example 1
[0029] like Figures 1-2 As shown, a geological compass includes an upper plate 1 and a lower plate 2, which are hinged together. The lower plate 2 has an azimuth measuring plate 21 and a circular level 22 on its top. The azimuth measuring plate 21 has 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 N / S line of the azimuth measuring plate 21. The angle measuring plate 23 has an angle pointer 231, and a long level 232 is mounted on the angle pointer 231, parallel to the angle pointer 231. The fixed end of the angle pointer 231 is fixed to the center of the arc of the angle measuring plate 23 and can rotate through the center of the arc. The other end is a free end, pointing towards the scale of the angle measuring plate 23. The long level 232 is fixed to the angle pointer 231 and can rotate through a fixed point on the angle pointer 231. The angle pointer 231 can rotate 360° through the fixed end on the angle measuring plate 23. 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 at 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.
[0030] The geological compass described in Example 1 can conveniently measure various field angles, including slope angle, included angle, and dip angle. When measuring true dip angle, there is no need to rotate the compass, reducing measurement errors. It also enables quantitative or qualitative measurements of linear and planar structures, as well as establishing spatial coordinate systems, among other practical functions. Based on measurements of slope surfaces, joints, fissures, and strata, stereographic projections can be drawn to analyze slope stability. When combined with topographic and geological maps, actual field material drawings and data can be directly generated.
[0031] The geological compass described in Example 1 can be modified from the traditional geological compass. It is easy to implement and very portable, making it suitable for widespread use in fields such as geological exploration, prospecting engineering, and field exploration. Example 2
[0032] Based on Embodiment 1, a length measuring ruler 11 is provided on two mutually perpendicular surfaces on the upper plate 1. The scale on the angle measuring plate 23 is set as a semicircle, and the angle pointer 231 has a thin, straight rod-shaped needle. Unlike Embodiment 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 as a reference object for taking field photos, with the length measuring ruler 11 and the angle pointer 231 used as a plumb line. It has multiple functions and is simple and convenient to use. Example 3
[0034] A geological compass includes an upper plate 1 and a lower plate 2, which are hinged together. The lower plate 2 has an azimuth measuring plate 21 and a circular level 22 on its top. The azimuth measuring plate 21 has 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 that can rotate around the center of the angle measuring plate 23. An 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 rotational position when there is no external force, and allow manual rotation to adjust the angle of the long level 232 when the holding force overcomes the holding force.
[0035] The geological compass described in Example 3 consists of an angle measuring disc 23 embedded in the side of the lower plate 2, and an angle pointer 231 that serves as an indicator line at both ends of a transparent cylindrical level 232. Essentially, the two are combined into one, providing a perfect alternative. The method for measuring attitude and true dip angle is consistent with Examples 1 and 2. It achieves all functions without involving a plumb bob and offers advantages such as aesthetics, ease of operation, and portability.
[0036] It should be noted that the structure described in this utility model can be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described. Any equivalent transformations made by those skilled in the art based on the content of this utility model specification and drawings, or direct or indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the protection scope of this utility model.
Claims
1. A geological compass, comprising an upper plate (1) and a lower plate (2) hinged together, wherein the top of the lower plate (2) is provided with an azimuth measuring plate (21) and a circular level (22), and the azimuth measuring plate (21) is provided with a magnetic needle (211), characterized in that: Angle measuring disk (23) is located on the side of the lower disk (2) and is parallel to the NS line of the orientation measuring disk (21). Angle measuring disk (23) is equipped with an angle pointer (231). Angle pointer (231) is equipped with a long level (232). The long level (232) is set 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, which points to the scale of the angle measuring disk (23).
2. The geocentric compass of claim 1, wherein: The long level (232) is fixed on the angle pointer (231) and can be rotated through a fixed point on the angle pointer (231).
3. A geocentric compass according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: 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) at 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. The resistance holding mechanism is a damping bearing or a friction knob.
4. The geocentric compass of claim 3, wherein: The angle pointer (231) can be rotated 360° through the fixed end on the angle measuring disk (23).
5. The geocentric compass of claim 4, wherein: The graduations on the angle measuring disc (23) are semicircles or circles.
6. The geoc compass of claims 1, 2, 4 or 5, wherein: The angle pointer (231) has a thin, straight rod-shaped needle.
7. A geological compass, comprising an upper plate (1) and a lower plate (2) hinged together, wherein the top of the lower plate (2) is provided with an azimuth measuring plate (21) and a circular level (22), and the azimuth measuring plate (21) is provided with a magnetic needle (211), characterized in that: The angle measuring disc (23) is located on the side of the lower plate (2), and is parallel to the NS line of the azimuth measuring disc (21). The angle measuring disk (23) is cylindrical and is embedded in the side of the lower disk (2). The long level (232) is a transparent column that can rotate around the center of the angle measuring disk (23). The angle pointer (231) points to the two end lines of the long level (232) and points to the scale of the angle measuring disc (23). A resistance holding mechanism exists between the angle measuring disk (23) and the long level (232), the resistance holding mechanism being a damping bearing or a friction knob, configured as follows: The long level (232) is kept in any rotational position when there is no external force, and the angle of the long level (232) can be adjusted when the manual rotation force overcomes the holding force.
8. The geocentric compass of claims 1, 3, 4 or 7 wherein: The upper plate (1) is equipped with a length measuring ruler (11).
9. The geocentric compass of claim 8, wherein: The length measuring ruler (11) is set on two mutually perpendicular surfaces.