Core sample saw

Abstract

Provided is a core sample saw 10 comprising a support framework 20 with a saw assembly 12 supported thereon and comprising a motor 14 operatively driving a shaft 16 having a plurality of interspaced circular saw blades 18 arranged along the shaft 16. Core sample saw 10 also includes a feeding arrangement 22 supported by the support frame 20 and configured to feed a core tray 24 with core samples 8 through the saw assembly 12. The feeding arrangement 22 comprises an engagement mechanism 23 configured releasably to engage with the core tray 24 controllably to guide said tray 24 through the saw assembly 12, as well as an urging assembly 28 arranged proximate the saw assembly 12 and configured to urge the core samples 8 securably into the core tray 24 as the core tray 24 passes through said saw assembly 12. Core sample saw 10 further includes a controller 32 arranged in signal communication with the saw assembly 12 and feeding arrangement 22 and configured dynamically to correlate a feeding rate of said feeding arrangement 22 with a sawing rate of the saw assembly 12. In this manner, the core sample saw 10 is able to facilitate automated and simultaneous sawing of a plurality of core samples 8 in-situ within the core tray 24 as said tray is fed through the saw assembly 12.

Description

CORE SAMPLE SAWTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] This invention relates to core sampling, in general , and more particularly to a core sample saw, an associated core tray, and a method of sawing core samples .BACKGROUND ART

[0002] The following discussion of the background art i s intended to facilitate an understanding of the present invention only . The discussion i s not an acknowledgement or admission that any of the material referred to is or was part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of the application .

[0003] As generally known in the art , core sampling is a technique used in underground exploration and prospecting, where a core sample is retrieved from a substance to study its composition . A core sample is generally a cylindrical section of a substance , typically a naturally-occurring substance such as rock or sediment , obtained by drilling with special drills into the substance with a hollow steel tube , called a core drill . In such a coring process , the sample is pushed more or less intact into the tube . The resulting core sample is then removed from the tube and subsequently inspected and analysed by di f ferent techniques and equipment depending on the type of data desired . Often, such core samples are placed in core trays , where they are logged for later analyses .

[0004] As part of subsequent core sample analyses , it is common practice to cut or split the core sample along itslength into two halves in order to analyse mineral distribution and composition of the sampled substance , for example as a composite sample for metallurgical test works during the initial stage of exploration . Typically, hal f of the core is grinded, reduced, and sent to a laboratory for chemical analysis while the other hal f is preserved in the core tray or box as a primary record for future check studies .

[0005] Conventionally, sawing a core sample in hal f is done by means of some manner of variation on a table saw or a presstype saw generally used for woodworking, with such saw fitted with suitable cutting discs for cutting the sampled material , such as rock . Such sawing of core samples is arduous work, typically requiring a person to li ft the individual heavy and cumbersome core samples from a core tray or box and place it onto the saw for cutting . Some core saws incorporate a cradle for receiving the core sample to facilitate sawing, but the process requires manual labour, is dangerous and noisy work . After the core sample has been spl it , the halves must also be returned to the core tray at the correct position for logging and sequencing of the overall sampling process , which can lead to human errors that af fect laboratory analyses later on .

[0006] In light of the conventional practices for core sample handling during the splitting or sawing process , Applicant has identi fied a need in the art for means whereby human involvement is reduced for safety and prevention of logging errors that may occur with such human involvement . The current invention was conceived with these goals in mind to attempt and ameliorate the conventional practices of core sample sawing .SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The skilled addressee will appreciate that a conventional core tray generally comprises a tray-l ike device with a number of side-by-side elongate troughs , slots or channels , each channel being arranged to hold a portion of a core sample . Core trays have been developed with a series of parallel channels si zed for receiving core lengths and maintaining their separation and structural integrity during transportation of f-site and during periods of subsequent storage pending analysis . Such core trays are generally used to house , organise , transport , catalogue and store core s amp les .

[0008] According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a core sample saw comprising : a support framework; a saw assembly supported by the support framework and comprising a motor operatively driving a shaft having a plurality of interspaced circular saw blades arranged along said shaft ; a feeding arrangement supported by the support frame and configured to feed a core tray with core samples through the saw assembly, the feeding arrangement comprising : i . an engagement mechanism configured releasably to engage with the core tray controllably to guide said tray through the saw assembly, and ii . an urging assembly arranged proximate the saw assembly and configured to urge the core samples securably into the core tray as the core tray passes through said saw assembly; and a controller arranged in signal communication with the saw assembly and feeding arrangement and configureddynamically to correlate a feeding rate of said feeding arrangement with a sawing rate of the saw assembly, wherein the core sample saw facilitates automated and simultaneous sawing of a plurality of core samples in-situ within the core tray as said tray is fed through the saw assembly.

[0009] In an embodiment, the saw assembly comprises a hood covering said saw assembly to minimise ejection of material during sawing.

[0010] In an embodiment, the hood includes a fluid spraying system to facilitate in cooling of the saw blades and / or dust suppression .

[0011] In an embodiment, the hood includes noise suppressing materials to minimise noise during sawing.

[0012] In an embodiment, the hood includes a dust extractor for removal of dust during sawing.

[0013] In an embodiment, the hood comprises an inspection window comprised of toughened glass or polymer.

[0014] In an embodiment, the support framework includes a fluid dispensing system to facilitate in cooling of the saw blades and / or dust suppression.

[0015] In an embodiment, the shaft with saw blades is adjustable to allow for adjusting a spacing between adjacent saw blades according to requirements.

[0016] In an embodiment, the engagement mechanism comprises a gear for engaging a complementary track on the core tray.

[0017] In an embodiment , the engagement mechanism comprises at least one pair of synchronised gears arranged on the support framework and configured to engage respective tracks on opposite sides of the core tray .

[0018] In an embodiment , the engagement mechanism comprises a base conveyor configured to receive and engage with a bottom of the core tray to guide said tray through the saw assembly .

[0019] In an embodiment , the base conveyor defines protrusions and / or indentations , respectively, configured complementarily to engage respective indentations and / or protrusions defined in a bottom of the core tray so that the core tray is prevented from sliding on the base conveyor .

[0020] In an embodiment , the engagement mechanism comprises a lateral conveyor configured to engage respective sides of the core tray to guide said tray through the saw assembly .

[0021] In an embodiment , the lateral conveyor comprises two endless belt conveyors each arranged on opposite sides of the base conveyor in order to engage respective sides of the core tray to guide said tray through the saw assembly .

[0022] In an embodiment , the lateral conveyor defines protrusions and / or indentations , respectively, configured complementarily to engage respective indentations and / or protrusions defined in sides of the core tray so that the core tray is engaged by the lateral conveyor and the core tray is prevented from sliding through the lateral conveyor .

[0023] In an embodiment , the urging assembly comprises runner arms biased with or without at least one spring to urge the core samples securably into the core tray as the core tray passes through the saw assembly .

[0024] In an embodiment , the urging assembly comprises at least one roller with or without a biasing element , such as a spring, said roller arranged substantially transverse to and above the base conveyor and configured to push the core samples into the core tray against the base conveyor as the core tray passes through the saw assembly .

[0025] In an embodiment , the urging assembly comprises biasing rollers before and after the saw assembly to position the core samples for sawing as said core samples are fed through the saw assembly .

[0026] Typically, the controller comprises any suitable processor or microcontroller configured to receive sensor and related input , perform logical and arithmetical operations on a suitable instruction set , and provide output , as well as optional transitory and / or non-transitory electronic storage , e . g . a programmable logic controller ( PLC ) , or the like .

[0027] In an embodiment , the controller is configured to monitor operating characteristics of the saw assembly, such as saw assembly shaft speed and feeding arrangement feeding rate , in order dynamically to correlate a feeding rate of the feeding arrangement with the sawing rate of the saw assembly .

[0028] In an embodiment , the saw assembly motor comprises an electrical motor with the controller configured to monitor electrical operating characteristics thereof to determineshaft rotational velocity and required feeding rate of the feeding arrangement.

[0029] In an embodiment, the core sample saw includes a profile scanner configured to scan a profile of core samples in the core tray as the tray is fed via the feeding arrangement.

[0030] In an embodiment, the profile scanner is arranged in signal communication with the controller which is configured to determine a volume of the scanned core samples.

[0031] In an embodiment, the core sample saw includes a weight sensor whereby the controller is able to determine a weight of the core samples in the core tray.

[0032] In an embodiment, the controller is configured to determine an average specific gravity per tray according to core sample volume and core sample weight.

[0033] In an embodiment, the controller is configured to account for a determined core sample volume, core sample weight and / or average specific gravity per tray when correlating a feeding rate of said feeding arrangement with a sawing rate of the saw assembly.

[0034] In an embodiment, the controller comprises a relational database or similar lookup table, or is preconfigured with an algorithmic relationship, whereby the controller is adapted to correlate a feeding rate of said feeding arrangement with a sawing rate of the saw assembly, e.g. a relational comparison of average specific gravity per tray, core sample weight, core sample profile or volume, sawshaft electrical motor operating characteristics , feeding arrangement feeding rate , etc .

[0035] In an embodiment , the controller comprises a humanmachine interface whereby the saw assembly is controllable and monitorable .

[0036] In an embodiment , the core sample saw includes a laser proj ector configured to proj ect alignment lasers onto the support framework and / or core tray indicative of a cutting path of the respective saw blades to facilitate alignment of the core tray on the support framework and / or rotational alignment of core samples within the core tray .

[0037] According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a core tray comprising : a tray body defining a plurality of elongate side-by-side troughs each for operatively receiving a core sample therein ; and an outer side wall about said tray body, respective opposite ends of the side wall defining slots therethrough substantially at a middle portion of each trough to allow a circular saw blade to pass along a length of each trough to saw an in-si tu core sample in hal f without contacting said outer side wall .

[0038] In an embodiment , the tray body de fines an elongate slot along a bottom length of each trough to allow a circular saw blade to saw through an in-si tu core sample within said trough without contacting the tray body .

[0039] In an embodiment , each trough comprises bristles along a bottom length thereof to support a core sample withinthe trough whilst allowing a circular saw blade to saw through the supported core sample without contacting the tray body underneath the core sample .

[0040] In an embodiment , a bottom of the tray body defines apertures and / or protrusions configured to engage complementarily with suitable respective protrusions and / or apertures of a base conveyor of a core sample saw .

[0041] In an embodiment , lateral outside portions of the outer side wall define apertures and / or protrusions configured to engage complementarily with suitable respective protrusions and / or apertures of a lateral conveyor of a core sample saw .

[0042] According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided a method of sawing core samples , said method comprising the steps of : placing a core tray having core samples therein onto a feeding arrangement on a support framework of a core sample saw in accordance with the first aspect of the invention; and feeding, by means of said feeding arrangement , the core tray through the saw assembly; wherein a feeding rate of the feeding arrangement is dynamically correlated with a sawing rate of the saw assembly by means of a controller to facilitate automated and simultaneous sawing of a plurality of core samples in-si tu within the core tray .

[0043] According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a core sample saw, an associated core tray, and a method of sawing core samples , substantially as herein described and / or illustrated .BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGSThe description will be made with reference to the accompanying drawings in which :Figure 1 is a diagrammatic perspective-view representation of one embodiment of a core sample saw, in accordance with aspects of the present invention ;Figure 2 is a diagrammatic closer perspective-view representation of a core tray on a base conveyor of the core sample saw of Figure 1 ;Figure 3 is diagrammatic cross-sectional representation of a saw assembly of the core sample saw of Figure 1 when cutting core samples ;Figure 4 is a diagrammatic side-sectional representation of the saw assembly of the core sample saw of Figure 1 when cutting core samples ;Figure 5 is a diagrammatic perspective-view representation of another embodiment of the saw assembly of the core sample saw of Figure 1 ;Figure 6 is diagrammatic perspective-view representation of a further embodiment of the core sample saw, in accordance with aspects of the invention;Figure 7 is a further diagrammatic perspective-view representation of the core sample saw of Figure 6 ; andFigure 8 is another diagrammatic perspective-view representation of the core sample saw of Figure 6 , showing an embodiment of the urging assembly .DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0044] Further features of the present invention are more fully described in the following description of several nonlimiting embodiments thereof . This description is included solely for the purposes of exempli fying the present invention to the skilled addressee . It should not be understood as a restriction on the broad summary, disclosure or description of the invention as set out above .

[0045] In the figures , incorporated to illustrate features of the example embodiment or embodiments , like reference numerals are used to identi fy like parts throughout . Additionally, features , mechanisms and aspects well-known and understood in the art will not be described in detail , as such features , mechanisms and aspects will be within the understanding of the skilled addressee .

[0046] Additionally, the accompanying figures do not represent engineering or design drawings , but provide a functional overview of the invention only . As a result , features and practical construction details required for various embodiments may not be indicated in each figure , but such construction requirements will be within the understanding of the skilled addressee .

[0047] Broadly, the present invention provides for a core sample saw 10 and associated core tray 24 which is useful in cutting a plurality of core samples 8 held in such a core tray24 at the same time in a manner which is safe and automated without requiring a user to li ft and place individual core samples onto a table saw .

[0048] Referring now to the accompanying figures , there is shown an example embodiment of such a core sample saw 10 which broadly comprises a support framework 20 which supports a saw assembly 12 and a feeding arrangement 22 . In a typical embodiment , the saw assembly 12 comprises a motor 14 operatively driving a shaft 16 that has a plurality of interspaced circular saw blades 18 arranged along said shaft 16 , as shown . Such a plurality of saw blades 18 on a single shaft 16 enables sawing a plurality of core samples 8 simultaneously, as will become apparent below .

[0049] In one embodiment , the saw assembly 12 comprises a hood 34 which covers the saw assembly 12 in order to minimise ej ection of material during sawing . In one embodiment , the hood 34 includes a fluid spraying system 36 to facilitate in cooling of the saw blades 18 and / or dust suppression during sawing . For example , water may be sprayed onto the blades 18 or core samples 8 during sawing, and the water may include a cutting or lubricating fluid, or the like . In one embodiment , the hood 34 also includes noise suppressing materials to minimise noise during sawing . In one embodiment , the hood 34 also includes a dust extractor (not shown) for removal of dust during sawing, e . g . a vacuum-based fine particle extractor with or without a filter and collector, or the like . In one embodiment , the hood 34 further comprises an inspection window (not shown) comprised of toughened glass or polymer, whereby a user is able to view the sawing process .

[0050] Additionally, the skilled addressee is to appreciate that, in a typical embodiment, the hood 34 is shaped and dimensioned according to a size and shape of the core tray 24. For example, in one embodiment, the hood 34 is shaped and dimensioned to entirely cover a core tray 24 during the sawing process to facilitate noise suppression, dust extraction, containment of material, etc. with the urging assembly typically arranged within the hood 34, as described in more detail below.

[0051] In a typical embodiment, the shaft 16 with saw blades 18 is adjustable to allow adjusting a spacing between adjacent saw blades 18 according to requirements. For example, a position of each saw blade on the shaft 16 may be adjustable to suit different sizes of core samples and / or core trays 24, or the like.

[0052] The support framework 20 generally comprises a suitable framework or chassis with legs, as shown, for supporting the saw assembly 14 and further comprises the feeding arrangement 22 which is broadly configured to feed a core tray 24 with core samples 8 therein through the saw assembly 12. Broadly, the feeding arrangement 22 generally comprises an engagement mechanism 23 which is configured releasably to engage with the core tray 24 controllably to guide said tray 24 through the saw assembly 12, and an urging assembly 28 which is arranged proximate the saw assembly 12 and configured to urge the core samples 8 securably into the core tray 24 as the core tray 24 passes through the saw assembly 12.

[0053] In one embodiment, the engagement mechanism 23 comprises a gear for engaging a complementary track on thecore tray 24 . In one embodiment , the engagement mechanism 23 comprises at least one pair of synchronised gears arranged on the support framework 20 and configured to engage respective tracks (not shown) on opposite sides of the core tray 24 . In another possible embodiment , the engagement mechanism 23 of the feeding arrangement 22 comprises a base conveyor 26 , an urging assembly 28 , and a lateral conveyor 30 that work together in unison to feed and position the core tray 24 with care samples 8 for sawing, as described below .

[0054] The base conveyor 26 is generally configured to receive and engage with a bottom of the core tray 24 . Such a base conveyor 26 may comprise an endless belt conveyor actuated by a suitable motor 26 . 1 , or the l ike . In one embodiment , the base conveyor 26 comprises an endless rubber belt that defines protrusions and / or indentations , respectively, which are configured complementarily to engage respective indentations and / or protrusions defined in a bottom of the core tray 24 so that the core tray 24 is prevented from sliding on the base conveyor 26 . For example , the base conveyor 26 may define ridges or protrus ions thereon that fit into similar apertures defined in a bottom of the core tray 24 to prevent slippage of the core tray 24 on the conveyor belt during the sawing process .

[0055] The feeding arrangement 22 further includes an urging assembly 28 which is arranged proximate the saw assembly 12 and is configured to urge the core samples 8 into the core tray 24 against the base conveyor 26 or support framework 20 as the core tray 24 passes through the saw assembly 12 . In one embodiment , as shown in more detail in Figure 8 , the urging assembly 28 comprises runner arms biased with or without at least one spring to urge the core samples 8 securably into thecore tray 24 as the core tray 24 pas ses through the saw assembly 12 . Alternatively, or additionally, the urging assembly 28 comprises at least one roller with or without a biasing element , such as a spring, with the roller arranged substantially transverse to and above the base conveyor 26 and configured to push the core samples 8 into the core tray 24 against the base conveyor 26 as the core tray 24 passes through the saw assembly 12 . For example , one embodiment of the urging assembly 28 may comprise runner arms or rol lers biasing the core samples 8 under the influence of gravity, i . e . under their own weight ; alternatively, the runner arms or rollers may include suitable springs for biasing purposes , or the like .

[0056] In one embodiment , the urging assembly 28 comprises multiple runner arms and / or biasing rollers before and after the saw assembly 12 , as shown in Figure 1 , in order to position the core samples 8 for sawing as said core samples 8 are fed through the saw assembly 12 . Additionally, the urging assembly 28 may incorporate further guides and / or mechanical guards to maintain respective core samples 8 in place during the sawing process , or the like , as will be appreciated by the skilled addressee .

[0057] The urging assembly 28 may take a variety of forms , as will be understood by the skilled addressee , and serves the purpose of positioning and securing the core samples 8 in the core tray 24 as said core tray 24 is passed through the sawing assembly 12 . As described, this typically takes the form of the urging assembly 28 applying an urging force to the core samples 8 within the core tray 24 to prevent slippage or kick- back from the saw assembly 12 . Variations hereon as possible , anticipated and within the scope of the present invention .

[0058] In one embodiment , the feeding arrangement also includes a lateral conveyor 30 which is configured to engage respective sides of the core tray 24 in order to guide the tray 24 through the saw assembly 12 . Such a lateral conveyor 30 generally acts in a complementary manner with the base conveyor 26 and urging assembly 28 to ensure the core samples 8 securely positioned to facilitate the sawing process . In one embodiment , the lateral conveyor 30 comprises two endless belt conveyors , as shown in more detail in Figure 3 , each arranged on opposite sides of the base conveyor 26 in order to engage respective sides of the core tray 24 to guide said tray through the saw assembly 12 .

[0059] In one embodiment , the lateral conveyor 30 may be configured to engage with respective sides of the core tray 24 via defining protrusions and / or indentations , respectively, configured complementarily to engage respective indentations and / or protrusions defined in a side of the core tray 24 so that the core tray is prevented from sliding through the lateral conveyor 30 .

[0060] Importantly, the core sample saw 10 further includes a controller 32 which is arranged in signal communication with the saw assembly 12 and feeding arrangement 22 and is configured dynamically to correlate a feeding rate of the feeding arrangement 22 with a sawing rate of the saw assembly 12 . As will be appreciated by the skilled addressee , the controller 32 may comprise any suitable processor or microcontroller configured to receive input , perform logical and arithmetical operations on a suitable instruction set , and provide output , as well as transitory and / or non-transitory electronic storage , such as a programmable logic controller ( PLC ) or similar machine controllers .

[0061] In one embodiment , the controller 32 is configured to monitor operating characteristics of the saw assembly 12 in order dynamically to correlate a feed rate of the feeding arrangement 22 with the sawing rate of the saw assembly 12 . For example , in one embodiment , the saw assembly motor 14 comprises an electrical motor with the controller 32 configured to monitor electrical operating characteristics thereof , such as current draw, voltage levels , rotational speed, etc . , to determine the feeding rate of the feeding arrangement .

[0062] The skilled addressee is further to appreciate that the core sample saw 10 may include additional sensors for monitoring or determining either the feed rate of the feeding arrangement 22 or the sawing rate of the saw assembly 12 . For example , controller 32 may include machine vision via suitable cameras or similar sensors to determine the sawing rate and / or feed rate as core samples 8 are being fed through the saw assembly 12 and sawed . Similarly, conveyor belt velocity sensors or actuator feedback sensors for the motor 26 . 1 may be used to determine the feed rate of the feeding arrangement 22 . In this manner, the controller 32 is configurable to monitor and / or determine both the feed and sawing rates in order to ensure that the autonomous feeding and sawing are performed correctly and according to the type of material being sawed, e . g . hard rock, softer sediment , or the like . The core sample saw 10 may also include an internal unit camera for diagnostic purposes , or the like .

[0063] In one embodiment , the controller 32 may be configured with a user-selectable feed rate and / or sawing rate . For example , a user may speci fy that a saw angular velocity is not to decrease below a certain value during sawing, e . g .1000RPM, and the controller 32 then monitors the motor' s operating characteristics and correlates the feed rate of the feeding arrangement 22 so that a ' load' on the saw is such that the saw angular velocity exceeds 1000RPM at all times . Similarly, the user may speci fy a maximum feed rate , e . g . l Ocm / min, 30cm / min, etc . , suited to the type of core samples being sawed, with the controller 32 correlating the saw speed and / or power accordingly . Again, variations hereon are possible and anticipated .

[0064] In one embodiment , the core sample saw 10 includes a profile or simi lar scanner 48 which is configured to scan a profile of core samples 8 in the core tray as the tray is fed via the feeding arrangement . Of course , the scanner 48 may also be configured for core sample imagery, or the like . In one embodiment , the profile scanner is arranged in signal communication with the controller 32 which is configured to determine a volume of the scanned core samples . In one embodiment , the core sample saw 10 includes a weight sensor 50 whereby the controller 32 is able to determine a weight of the core samples in the core tray 24 .

[0065] In one embodiment , the controller 32 is configured to determine an average speci fic gravity per tray according to core sample volume and core sample weight . In one embodiment , the controller 32 is configured to account for a determined core sample volume , core sample weight and / or average speci fic gravity per tray when correlating a feeding rate of said feeding arrangement with a sawing rate of the saw assembly 12 . For example , in one embodiment , the controller 32 comprises a relational database or similar lookup table , or is preconfigured with an algorithmic relationship, whereby the controller 32 is adapted to correlate a feeding rate of saidfeeding arrangement 22 with a sawing rate of the saw assembly 12, e.g. a relational comparison of average specific gravity per tray, core sample weight, core sample profile or volume, saw shaft electrical motor operating characteristics, feeding arrangement feeding rate, etc. Of course, variations hereon are possible and anticipated.

[0066] In a typical embodiment, the controller 32 also comprises a human-machine interface, such as a control panel, whereby the saw assembly 12 and feeding arrangement 22 are controllable and monitorable. Such control panels are well- known in the art and typically includes safety switches, status displays, user inputs, etc. and will not be described in any detail herein.

[0067] In one embodiment, the saw assembly 12 may also include a laser projector, such as a laser diode emitter, which is configured to project lasers onto the base conveyor 26 or core tray 24 to be indicative of a cutting path of the respective saw blades 18 to facilitate alignment of the core tray 24 on the base conveyor 26 and / or rotational alignment of core samples 8 within the core tray 24, or the like.

[0068] The present invention further includes an associated core tray 24 which is specifically configured to facilitate passing core samples 8 through the saw assembly 12 of the core sample saw 10 described above. An example of such a core tray 24 is shown more clearly in Figures 2 and 3 and generally comprises a tray body 38 defining a plurality of elongate side- by-side troughs 40 each for operatively receiving a core sample 8 therein, and an outer side wall 42 about the tray body 38, with respective opposite ends of the side wall 42 defining slots 44 therethrough substantially at a middle portion ofeach trough 40 to allow a circular saw blade 18 to pass along a length of each trough 40 to saw an in-si tu core sample in hal f without contacting said outer side wall 42 .

[0069] In one embodiment , the tray body 38 defines an elongate slot 46 along a bottom length of each trough 40 to allow a circular saw blade 18 to saw through an in-si tu core sample 8 within said trough 40 without contacting the tray body 38 . In another embodiment , each trough 40 may comprise bristles along a bottom length thereof to support a core sample 8 within the trough 40 whilst allowing a circular saw blade 18 to saw through the supported core sample without contacting the tray body underneath the core sample .

[0070] In one embodiment , a bottom of the tray body 38 defines apertures and / or protrusions configured to engage complementarily with suitable respective protrusions and / or apertures of a base conveyor 26 of a core sample saw 10 . Similarly, in one embodiment , lateral outside portions of the outer side wall 42 define apertures and / or protrusions configured to engage complementarily with suitable respective protrusions and / or apertures of a lateral conveyor 30 of a core sample saw 10 , as described above .

[0071] The present invention also includes an associated broad method of sawing core samples . Such a method generally comprises the steps of placing a core tray 24 having core samples 8 therein onto a feeding arrangement 22 on a support framework 20 of a core sample saw 10 , as described above . The method then includes the step of feeding, by means of the feeding arrangement 22 , the core tray 24 through a saw assembly 12 comprising a motor 14 operatively driving a shaft 16 having a plurality of interspaced circular saw blades 18 arrangedalong said shaft . In this manner, a feeding rate of the feeding arrangement 22 is dynamically correlated with a sawing rate of the saw assembly 12 by means of a controller 32 to facilitate automated and simultaneous sawing of a plurality of core samples 8 in-si tu within the core tray 24 .

[0072] Applicant believes it particularly advantageous that the present invention provides for a core sample saw 10 configured to facilitate automated and simultaneous sawing of a plurality of core samples 8 in-si tu within a core tray 24 . Core sample saw 10 removes the need for manual handling of core samples 8 between a core tray 24 and a core saw, making the process less labour-intensive and safer . Applicant also believes it particularly advantageous that the core sample saw 10 is able to correlate a saw rate with a feed rate to ensure proper sawing of core samples according to requirements .

[0073] In the example embodiments , well-known processes , well-known device structures , and well-known technologies are not described in detail , as such will be readily understood by the skilled addressee . Optional embodiments of the present invention may also be said to broadly consist in the parts , elements and features referred to or indicated herein, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of the parts , elements or features . Where speci fic integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which the invention relates , such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as i f individually set forth .

[0074] It is to be appreciated that reference to "one example" or " an example" of the invention, or similar exemplary language ( e . g . , " such as" ) herein, is not made in an exclusivesense. Various substantially and specifically practical and useful exemplary embodiments of the claimed subject matter are described herein, textually and / or graphically, for carrying out the claimed subject matter. Accordingly, one example may exemplify certain aspects of the invention, whilst other aspects are exemplified in a different example. These examples are intended to assist the skilled person in performing the invention and are not intended to limit the overall scope of the invention in any way unless the context clearly indicates otherwise .

[0075] Variations (e.g. modifications and / or enhancements) of one or more embodiments described herein might become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading this application. The inventor (s) expects skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventor (s) intends for the claimed subject matter to be practiced other than as specifically described herein.

[0076] The use of the terms "a", "an", "said", "the", and / or similar referents in the context of describing various embodiments (especially in the context of the claimed subject matter) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms "comprising," "having," "including, " and "containing" are to be construed as open- ended terms (i.e., meaning "including, but not limited to,") unless otherwise noted. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed subject matter as essential to the practice of the claimed subject matter .

[0077] Spatially relative terms, such as "inner," "outer," "beneath, " "below, " "lower, " "above, " "upper, " and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element (s) or feature (s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the example term "below" can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

[0078] Any method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. It is also to be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A core sample saw comprising : a support framework; a saw assembly supported by the support framework and comprising a motor operatively driving a shaft having a plurality of interspaced circular saw blades arranged along said shaft ; a feeding arrangement supported by the support frame and configured to feed a core tray with core samples through the saw assembly, the feeding arrangement comprising : i . an engagement mechanism configured releasably to engage with the core tray controllably to guide said tray through the saw assembly, and ii . an urging assembly arranged proximate the saw assembly and configured to urge the core samples securably into the core tray as the core tray passes through said saw assembly; and a controller arranged in signal communication with the saw assembly and feeding arrangement and configured dynamically to correlate a feeding rate of said feeding arrangement with a sawing rate of the saw assembly, wherein the core sample saw facilitates automated and simultaneous sawing of a plurality of core samples in-si tu within the core tray as said tray is fed through the saw assembly .2 . The core sample saw of claim 1 , wherein the saw assembly comprises a hood covering said saw assembly to minimise ej ection of material during sawing .3 . The core sample saw of claim 2 , wherein the hood includes a fluid spraying system to facilitate in cooling of the saw blades and / or dust suppression .4 . The core sample saw of either of claims 2 or 3 , wherein the hood includes noise suppressing materials to minimise noise during sawing .5 . The core sample saw of any of claims 2 to 4 , wherein the hood includes a dust extractor for removal of dust during sawing .6 . The core sample saw of any of claims 2 to 5 , wherein the hood comprises an inspection window comprised of toughened glass or polymer .7 . The core sample saw of any of claims 1 to 6 , wherein the support framework includes a fluid dispensing system to facilitate in cooling of the saw blades and / or dust suppression during sawing of core samples .8 . The core sample saw of any of claims 1 to 7 , wherein the shaft with saw blades is adj ustable to allow for adj usting a spacing between adj acent saw blades according to requirements .9 . The core sample saw of any of claims 1 to 8 , wherein the engagement mechanism comprises a gear for engaging a complementary track on the core tray .10 . The core sample saw of any of claims 1 to 9 , wherein the engagement mechanism comprises at least one pair of synchronised gears arranged on the support framework and configured to engage respective tracks on opposite sides of the core tray .11 . The core sample saw of any of claims 1 to 10 , wherein the engagement mechanism comprises a base conveyor configured to receive and engage with a bottom of the core tray to guide said tray through the saw assembly .12 . The core sample saw of claim 11 , wherein the base conveyor defines protrusions and / or indentations , respectively, configured complementarily to engage respective indentations and / or protrusions defined in a bottom of the core tray so that the core tray is prevented from sliding on the base conveyor .13 . The core sample saw of any of claims 1 to 12 , wherein the engagement mechanism comprises a lateral conveyor configured to engage respective sides of the core tray to guide said tray through the saw assembly .14 . The core sample saw of claim 13 , wherein the lateral conveyor comprises two endless belt conveyors each arranged on opposite sides of the base conveyor in order to engage respective sides of the core tray to guide said tray through the saw assembly .15 . The core sample saw of claim 14 , wherein the lateral conveyor defines protrusions and / or indentations , respectively, configured complementarily to engage respective indentations and / or protrusions defined in sides of the core tray so that the core tray is engaged by the lateral conveyor and the core tray is prevented from sliding through the lateral conveyor .16 . The core sample saw of any of claims 1 to 15 , wherein the urging assembly comprises runner arms biased with or withoutat least one spring to urge the core samples securably into the core tray as the core tray passes through the saw assembly .17 . The core sample saw of any of claims 1 to 16 , wherein the urging assembly comprises at least one roller with or without a biasing element , such as a spring, said roller arranged substantially transverse to and above the base conveyor and configured to push the core samples into the core tray against the base conveyor as the core tray passes through the saw assembly .18 . The core sample saw of any of claims 1 to 17 , wherein the urging assembly comprises biasing rollers before and after the saw assembly to position the core samples for sawing as said core samples are fed through the saw assembly .19 . The core sample saw of any of claims 1 to 18 , wherein the controller is configured to monitor operating characteristics of the saw assembly, such as saw assembly shaft speed and feeding arrangement feeding rate , in order dynamically to correlate a feeding rate of the feeding arrangement with the sawing rate of the saw assembly .20 . The core sample saw of any of claims 1 to 19 , wherein the saw assembly motor comprises an electrical motor with the controller configured to monitor electrical operating characteristics thereof to determine shaft rotational velocity and required feeding rate of the feeding arrangement .21 . The core sample saw of any of claims 1 to 20 , which includes a profile scanner configured to scan a profile of core samples in the core tray as the tray is fed via the feeding arrangement .22 . The core sample saw of claim 21 , wherein the profile scanner is arranged in signal communication with the controller which is configured to determine a volume of the scanned core s amp les .23 . The core sample saw of any of claims 1 to 22 , which includes a weight sensor whereby the controller is able to determine a weight of the core samples in the core tray .24 . The core sample saw of any of claims 1 to 23 , wherein the controller is configured to account for a determined core sample volume , core sample weight and / or average speci fic gravity per tray when correlating a feeding rate of said feeding arrangement with a sawing rate of the saw assembly .25 . The core sample saw of any of claims 1 to 24 , wherein the controller comprises a relational database or similar lookup table , or is preconfigured with an algorithmic relationship, whereby the controller is adapted to correlate a feeding rate of said feeding arrangement with a sawing rate of the saw assembly .26 . The core sample saw of any of claims 1 to 25 , wherein the controller comprises a human-machine interface whereby the saw assembly is controllable and monitorable .27 . The core sample saw of any of claims 1 to 26 , which includes a laser proj ector configured to proj ect alignment lasers onto the support framework and / or core tray indicative of a cutting path of the respective saw blades to facilitate alignment of the core tray on the support framework and / or rotational alignment of core samples within the core tray .28 . A method of sawing core samples , said method comprising the steps of : placing a core tray having core samples therein onto a feeding arrangement on a support framework of a core sample saw in accordance with any of claims 1 to 27 ; and feeding, by means of said feeding arrangement , the core tray through the saw assembly; wherein a feeding rate of said feeding arrangement is dynamically correlated with a sawing rate of the saw assembly by means of a controller to facilitate automated and simultaneous sawing of a plurality of core samples in-si tu within the core tray .

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