Modular kit for imaging geological samples

Abstract

The present invention relates to a kit (10) for imaging geological samples, comprising at least one module (20) for imaging geological samples which is configured to image geological samples, at least one automation module (25) configured to power the imaging module (20) and connect it to an image control and storage unit, and at least one extension module (30) configured to provide functionalities in addition to the operation of the kit (10), the kit (10) being configured to be assembled in at least a first configuration in which the imaging module (20) and the automation module (25) are reversibly assembled together without the extension module (30), and a second configuration in which the imaging module (20), the automation module (25) and the extension module (30) are reversibly assembled together.

Description

[0001] TITLE: Modular Geological Sample Imaging Kit

[0002] The present invention relates to a geological sample imaging kit.

[0003] In the petroleum industry, for example when drilling an oil well or a well for another effluent (including gas, steam, water), it is known to analyze geological samples by imaging, for example with a microscope, and possibly to take pictures of drilled rocks, either using a dedicated camera system or using a microscope equipped with a digital camera.

[0004] These geological samples are visually analyzed to determine information about the nature of the soils through which the well passes. For example, analyses are performed to determine the physicochemical properties, including composition, of the samples.

[0005] Today, numerous imaging solutions are available for a multitude of applications, not only in the oil and gas industry but also in the mining industry. For each application, it is therefore possible to find a specific, dedicated imaging system.

[0006] However, the specific nature of current imaging systems does not allow for diversification of the application of a given imaging system. This leads to increased costs for an operator wishing to analyze samples from different facilities and / or for different applications.

[0007] One of the aims of the invention is therefore to offer a modular and adaptable geological sample imaging kit according to the types of installations and applications desired.

[0008] To this end, the invention relates to an imaging kit comprising at least one geological sample imaging module configured to image geological samples, at least one automation module configured to power and connect the imaging module to an image control and storage unit, and at least one extension module configured to provide additional functionalities to the operation of the kit, the kit being configured to be assembled in at least a first configuration in which the imaging module and the automation module are reversibly assembled on top of each other without the extension module, and a second configuration in which the imaging module, the automation module, and the extension module are reversibly assembled on top of each other.Assembling the modules on top of each other makes the necessary modular and adaptable to the type of application desired, for example by choosing whether or not to add an extension module to the imaging and automation modules.

[0009] Furthermore, the reversible assembly of the modules of the kit allows it to be easily used on various installations, while being reusable and reconfigurable for example for successive use on installations with different specific needs.

[0010] According to other advantageous aspects of the invention, the imaging kit comprises one or more of the following features, taken individually or in any technically possible combination:

[0011] - the necessary equipment includes a plurality of imaging modules, each imaging module comprising an image recording unit configured to image geological samples in a given field of view, and a lighting system comprising at least one light source;

[0012] - at least one of the imaging modules in addition to an imaging sub-module, chosen from a filter blocking one or more wavelength ranges of the or each light source, an image recording unit calibration tool, a sensor and / or a device for measuring physical and / or chemical parameters of geological samples, an ambient environment control unit in the imaging module, and a geological sample preparation unit;

[0013] - the necessary equipment includes a plurality of automation modules, each automation module comprising at least one electronic control unit and one power supply unit;

[0014] - at least one of the automation modules also includes an automation sub-module, chosen from a communication unit, and a human-machine interface;

[0015] - the necessary includes a plurality of extension modules, at least one of the extension modules including a sub-extension module chosen from a geological sample handling device, and a calibration tool for the imaging module;

[0016] - the geological sample handling device includes a geological sample support tray comprising at least one compartment for receiving a geological sample, the tray being movable, in the second configuration of the device, relative to the image recording unit, so as to place at least a part of the tray or of each compartment within the field of view of the image recording unit; - wherein each module comprises an enclosure defining an internal volume, and a reversible fastening system intended to be attached to a complementary reversible fastening system of a separate module; and

[0017] - the necessary includes a container configured to jointly contain and transport at least one geological sample imaging module, at least one automation module and at least one expansion module.

[0018] The invention also relates to a method for imaging geological samples implemented with a set of equipment as described above, the method comprising the following steps:

[0019] - reversible assembly of at least the automation module and the imaging module one on top of the other, and

[0020] - Acquisition of images of at least one geological sample by the imaging module.

[0021] According to other advantageous aspects of the invention, the imaging method comprises one or more of the following features, taken individually or in all technically possible combinations:

[0022] - the process includes a preliminary step to image acquisition, reversible assembly of the extension module, the automation module and the imaging module on top of each other;

[0023] - in the image acquisition stage, the expansion module is disassembled from the automation module and the imaging module; and

[0024] - the process includes, after the image acquisition step, a step, where appropriate, of disassembling the automation module and the imaging module relative to the extension module, then the joint storage and transport of at least one geological sample imaging module, at least one automation module and at least one extension module in a container.

[0025] Finally, the invention also relates to a subsurface exploitation installation comprising an imaging kit as described above, and at least one geological sample, the geological sample being taken from the subsurface.

[0026] According to other advantageous aspects of the invention, the installation includes the following feature:

[0027] - the installation includes at least one subsurface drilling station and a station for collecting geological samples from the drilling station.

[0028] Furthermore, the present invention relates to an imaging system of the type comprising an enclosure defining an internal volume in which are housed: - an image recording unit configured to image geological samples in a given field of view, and

[0029] -a support tray for geological samples, the tray comprising at least one compartment intended to receive a geological sample.

[0030] When drilling an oil well or a well for another effluent (including gas, steam, water), it is known to recover geological samples contained in the drilling mud coming out of the well, for the purpose of their analysis.

[0031] These geological samples are visually analyzed to determine information about the nature of the soils through which the well passes. For example, analyses are performed to determine the physicochemical properties, including composition, of the samples.

[0032] For this purpose, it is known to use a geological sample imaging system, aimed at imaging the samples to then allow an operator to analyze the images taken and determine the composition of the soil.

[0033] This solution, however, becomes cumbersome when the operator wishes to analyze a large number of samples. Indeed, the operator must manually place the geological samples one by one into the imaging system, record one or more images for each sample, and then move on to the next sample.

[0034] One of the aims of the invention is therefore to propose a geological sample imaging system that accelerates sample analysis and facilitates sample image capture for an operator.

[0035] To this end, the invention relates to a geological sample imaging system in which at least one of the platform and the image recording unit is movable relative to the other of the image recording unit and the platform, in order to place at least a part of the or each compartment in the field of vision of the image recording unit.

[0036] One of the platform and the image recording unit being mobile relative to the other of the image recording unit and the platform, in order to place at least part of the or each support area in the field of vision of the image recording unit, it is possible to scroll, for example automatically, the samples in front of the field of vision of the image recording unit and / or to scroll the image recording unit in front of the samples.

[0037] Thus, such an imaging system makes it possible to increase the image acquisition rate of samples. A large number of samples can then be imaged rapidly, while also facilitating image acquisition for the operator. According to other advantageous aspects of the invention, the geological sample imaging system comprises one or more of the following features, taken individually or in any technically feasible combination:

[0038] - the platform comprises a plurality of separate compartments, each compartment being configured to contain a geological sample, the movement of one among the platform and the image recording unit relative to the other of the image recording unit and the platform being configured to successively and individually place each compartment opposite the field of view of the image recording unit;

[0039] - the imaging system includes a lighting system arranged in the internal volume, the lighting system being configured to illuminate the compartment or each compartment in the field of vision of the image recording unit;

[0040] - the lighting system includes at least one visible and / or infrared and / or ultraviolet light source, and at least one filter movable in a shutter position, in which the filter blocks one or more wavelength ranges of the light source(s);

[0041] - the movement of one and / or the other of the platform and the image recording unit is automated;

[0042] - the image recording unit is mounted on a longitudinal axis, the image recording unit being mobile in translation along a longitudinal direction along the longitudinal axis, and being fixed in each transverse plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, the field of vision of the image recording unit extending along the longitudinal direction;

[0043] - the platform is movable in at least one transverse plane in order to place at least part of the or each compartment within the field of view of the image recording unit; and

[0044] - the imaging system includes at least two actuators operating perpendicularly, each actuator causing the movement of the platform in a direction of movement perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0045] The invention also relates to a method for recording images of geological samples implemented using such an imaging system, the method comprising the following steps:

[0046] - moving the image generation unit and / or the support platform to place at least part of at least one compartment in the field of view of the image recording unit, and - acquiring one or more images of at least part of a geological sample located in said part of said compartment, using the image recording unit.

[0047] According to other advantageous aspects of the invention, the image recording method comprises the following feature:

[0048] - the platform comprises a plurality of separate compartments, each compartment being configured to contain a geological sample, the process comprising a step of moving one between the platform and the image recording unit relative to the other of the image recording unit and the platform to successively and individually place each compartment opposite the field of view of the image recording unit.

[0049] Finally, the invention also relates to a subsurface exploitation installation comprising an imaging system as described above, and at least one geological sample, the geological sample being taken from the subsurface.

[0050] According to other advantageous aspects of the invention, the installation includes the following feature:

[0051] - the installation includes at least one subsurface drilling station and a station for collecting geological samples from the drilling station.

[0052] The invention will become clearer upon reading the following description, given solely by way of non-limiting example, and made with reference to the drawings in which:

[0053] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an imaging kit assembled in a second configuration in which an imaging module, an automation module, and an extension module are reversibly assembled on top of each other.

[0054] Figure 2 is a partially exploded perspective view of the imaging kit shown in Figure 1.

[0055] Figure 3 is an internal view of an imaging module, and

[0056] Figure 4 is a perspective view of an expansion module.

[0057] A necessary 10 for imaging geological samples is shown in Figure 1.

[0058] The kit 10 is intended to be used for the analysis of geological samples 15.

[0059] In one particular embodiment, the equipment 10 is used at an oil site where a subsurface drilling rig (not shown) is installed. To optimize drilling, it is important to know the soil conditions in which the rig is located and the type of rock it penetrates. For this purpose, geological samples 15, such as subsurface debris, are collected and analyzed by an operator to determine, among other things, the chemical composition of the samples.

[0060] It is understood that the necessary 10 can be used for the purpose of analyzing samples from any type of installation, petroleum, mining or otherwise, and is not reserved exclusively for geological samples from the subsoil.

[0061] The necessary 10 includes at least one geological sample imaging module 20 configured to image geological samples 15, at least one automation module 25 and at least one extension module 30 configured to be assembled or not with the imaging module 20 and the automation module 25, as will be described in detail below.

[0062] Each module 20, 25, 30 includes an enclosure 22, 27, 32 defining an internal volume 24, 29, 34 containing at least one piece of equipment configured to be moved together with the enclosure 22, 27, 32.

[0063] Each automation module 25 is configured, for example, to supply power to and connect the imaging module 20 to an image control and storage unit (not shown). To this end, each automation module 25 includes, for example, at least one electronic control unit and one power supply unit (not shown).

[0064] As will be described later, each extension module 30 offers optional additional features for the operation of the necessary 10.

[0065] According to the invention, the necessary 10 is configured to be assembled in at least a first configuration in which the imaging module 20 and the automation module 25 are reversibly assembled on top of each other without the extension module 30, and a second configuration, shown in Figure 1, in which the imaging module 20, the automation module 25, and the extension module 30 are reversibly assembled on top of each other.

[0066] By "reversibly", we mean that each module 20, 25, 30 is mounted in a detachable manner on a neighboring module 20, 25, 30, as shown in Figure 2.

[0067] For this purpose, each module 20, 25, 30 includes a reversible fixing system 35, visible in Figure 2, intended to be fixed to a complementary reversible fixing system of a separate module.

[0068] Each reversible fastening system 35 includes, for example, a snap-fit ​​system, a magnetic fastening system, or a removable screw system. At least one of the reversible fastening systems 35 is configured, for example, to electrically connect two modules 20, 25, or 30. For example, the reversible fastening system 35 for the automation module 25 is configured to electrically connect the imaging module 20, and optionally the expansion module 30, to the automation module 25.

[0069] The kit 10 includes, for example, a container, not shown, configured to contain and transport together each imaging module 20, each automation module 25 and each extension module 30. The container is, for example, configured to contain and transport the kit 10 in the first configuration and / or in the second configuration, and / or to contain and transport the modules 20, 25, 30 separately and disassembled from each other.

[0070] The container is, for example, a suitcase or a trunk.

[0071] In one particular embodiment, the necessary 10 comprises a plurality of imaging modules 20, a plurality of automation modules 25 and a plurality of expansion modules 30.

[0072] The necessary 10 can then be assembled in a plurality of configurations, in which an imaging module 20 is chosen from the plurality of imaging modules, an automation module 25 is chosen from the plurality of automation modules, and, optionally, an extension module 30 is chosen from the plurality of extension modules.

[0073] When at least two modules 20, 25, 30 are assembled one on top of the other, the at least two enclosures 22, 27, 32 assembled together define an overall internal volume 38 of the required 10.

[0074] The overall volume 38 of kit 10 depends on the arrangement of modules 20, 25, and 30 with each other. For example, kit 10 can be made more compact if it is intended for use in a space with limited volume.

[0075] At least one of the automation modules 25 further includes an automation sub-module, chosen from a communication unit, and a human-machine interface.

[0076] Such a sub-module then makes it possible to transfer information from, for example, the imaging module 20 to a remote operator or to the site of the installation.

[0077] For example, each automation module 25 of the plurality of automation modules is distinguished from the other automation modules 25 by the sub-module it comprises.

[0078] It is understood that an automation module 25 may include several of the sub-modules described above. With reference to Figure 3, the imaging module 20 will now be described in detail.

[0079] Each imaging module 20 includes an image recording unit 40 configured to image the geological samples 15 in a given field of view.

[0080] The image recording unit 40 is, for example, a camera operating in the visible and / or infrared and / or ultraviolet range.

[0081] In the example shown in Figure 3, the image recording unit 40 is mounted on an elevation axis 44, and is advantageously movable in translation along an elevation direction L along the elevation axis 44.

[0082] For example, the field of view of the image recording unit 40 extends along the elevation direction L. Thus, by translating the image recording unit 40 along the elevation direction L, it is possible to move an object, such as a geological sample 15, closer to or further from the focal plane of the image recording unit 40.

[0083] Each imaging module 20 also includes a lighting system 46 comprising at least one light source 48.

[0084] The lighting system 46 is arranged in the internal volume 24 of the imaging module 20 and is configured to illuminate the geological samples 15 in a stable and repeatable manner.

[0085] The light source 48 is a visible light source, for example, a broadband light source or a narrowband light source. It is, for example, of the annular type to limit the formation of shadow areas on the illuminated geological samples 15, or of the standard linear type.

[0086] The imaging module 20 further includes a base 50 for supporting at least one geological sample 15.

[0087] The base 50 includes, for example, a compartment 53 defining a housing for receiving the geological sample 15 to be analyzed. The compartment 53 is positioned in the field of view of the image recording unit 40 along the elevation direction L, within the internal volume 24 of the enclosure 22 of the imaging module 20.

[0088] At least one of the imaging modules 20 further comprises an imaging sub-module, selected from a filter blocking one or more wavelength ranges of the light source 48, a calibration tool for the image recording unit 40, a sensor and / or a device for measuring physical and / or chemical parameters of the geological samples 15, an ambient environment control unit in the imaging module 20, and a geological sample preparation unit 15.

[0089] For example, each imaging module 20 in the plurality of imaging modules is distinguished from the other imaging modules 20 by the sub-module it comprises. It is understood that an imaging module 20 may comprise several of the sub-modules described above.

[0090] When the imaging sub-module is a blocking filter, the filter is for example movable in a shutter position, in which the filter blocks one or more wavelength ranges of the light source 48 of the corresponding module, and a free position, in which the filter is not positioned in front of the light source 48 and does not interfere with the light rays from the light source 48.

[0091] Such a filter offers the possibility of acquiring one or more images of a sample 15 representative only of the light reflected by the samples 15 in specific ranges of wavelengths, for example under red, blue or green lighting.

[0092] When the imaging submodule is a calibration tool for the image recording unit 40, it is configured, for example, to adjust parameters of the image recording unit 40 such as the color of the recorded image, the position and distance of the image recording unit 40 relative to the geological sample 15.

[0093] When the imaging submodule is a sensor and / or a device for measuring physical and / or chemical parameters of geological samples 15, the submodule includes, for example, a color, brightness, temperature, pressure sensor, and / or a device for measuring X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF), plasma atomic emission spectrometry (LIBS), and / or a device for manipulating chemical compounds, or others.

[0094] When the imaging sub-module is an ambient environment control unit in the imaging module 20, it includes, for example, a set of temperature sensors, heating and / or air conditioning and / or ventilation system sensors, etc.

[0095] Such a diversity of imaging sub-modules available to assemble the necessary 10 offers an operator a wide choice of functionalities depending on the type of samples 15 to be analyzed, the type of installation from which the samples 15 come, the specific needs of the operator, etc.

[0096] With reference to Figure 4, the 30 expansion module will now be described in detail.

[0097] Each extension module 30 includes a sub-extension module chosen from a geological sample handling device, and a calibration tool for the imaging module 20.

[0098] For example, each extension module 30 in the plurality of extension modules is distinguished from other extension modules 30 by the sub-module it comprises. It is understood that an extension module 30 may comprise several of the sub-modules described above.

[0099] When the extension module 30 is assembled on the imaging module 20 and the extension sub-module is a calibration tool for the imaging module 20, the sub-module is configured, for example, to adjust parameters of the image recording unit 40 such as the color of the recorded image, the position and distance of the image recording unit 40 relative to the geological sample 15.

[0100] When the extension sub-module is a geological sample handling device, it includes, for example, a support tray 60 for geological samples 15.

[0101] The support platform 60 includes, for example, at least one compartment 62 intended to receive a geological sample 15.

[0102] The support platform 60 is for example divided into two sub-platforms, one comprising at least one compartment 62 intended to receive a geological sample 15 of a given size, and the other defining a flat surface intended to receive a sample 15 of a larger dimension.

[0103] The two sub-platforms are for example superimposed on each other, and movable relative to each other in order to place each platform successively in the field of vision of the image recording unit 40, when the extension module 30 is assembled with the imaging module 20.

[0104] In a particular embodiment, in which the extension module 30 is assembled on the imaging module 20, at least one of the tray 60 and the image recording unit 40 is movable relative to the other of the image recording unit 40 and the tray 60, in order to place at least a part of the or each compartment 62 in the field of vision of the image recording unit 40.

[0105] Advantageously, the movement of one and / or the other of the plate 60 and the image recording unit 40 is automated.

[0106] For example, the necessary 10 includes a motor integrated into the extension module 30, not shown, capable of generating the movement of the platform 60 and / or the image recording unit 40.

[0107] Thus, when a geological sample 15, placed in a compartment 62, is too large to fit entirely within the field of view of the image recording unit 40, moving the image recording unit 40 and / or the platform 62 allows the entire geological sample 15 to be successively placed within the field of view of the image recording unit 40 in order to acquire at least one image for each part of the geological sample 15. The plurality of images recorded per sample is then, for example, processed by software or a computer program, not shown, in order to recreate an image of the entire sample.

[0108] In one embodiment, the 60 platform also contains a set of calibration cards (color / scale), so as to automate the calibration of the image recording unit 40.

[0109] In another particular embodiment, the platform 60 comprises a plurality of separate compartments 62, each compartment 62 being configured to contain a geological sample 15. The movement of one of the platform 60 and the image recording unit 40 relative to the other of the image recording unit 40 and the platform 60 is configured to place successively and individually each compartment 62 opposite the field of view of the image recording unit 40.

[0110] Thus, the precise location of each geological sample 15 in a dedicated compartment 62 allows the platform 60 and / or the image recording unit 40 to be moved precisely from one sample 15 to another, in order to acquire one or more images of each sample successively.

[0111] In the example shown in the figures, the plate 60 is movable relative to the image recording unit 40.

[0112] The image recording unit 40 is, for example, fixed in each transverse plane perpendicular to the elevation direction L. In other words, the image recording unit 40 is mobile only along the elevation axis 44 according to the elevation direction L.

[0113] In particular, the platform 60 is movable in at least one transverse plane, perpendicular to the elevation direction L, in order to place at least a part of the or each compartment, and / or in order to place successively and individually each compartment 62 in the field of vision of the image recording unit 40.

[0114] For this purpose, the geological sample handling device includes, for example, at least two actuators 65 operating perpendicularly, each actuator 65 causing the movement of the platform 60 in a direction of movement perpendicular to the direction of elevation L.

[0115] Thus, the actuators 65 allow the movement of the plate 60 in said transverse plane, so as to move successively each part of each compartment 62 in relation to the field of vision of the image recording unit 40.

[0116] Each actuator 65 is, for example, a linear actuator such as a cylinder. Each actuator 65 is, for example, actuated by the previously mentioned motor. The control of the position of the platform 60 (for example, the calibration of the motor(s) actuating the actuators 65 to reach a certain position) is, for example, automated.

[0117] In a first variant, not shown, each imaging module 20 includes a camera or lens operating in the visible and / or infrared and / or ultraviolet range. Each imaging module 20 may then include a sub-module comprising an image recording unit for the images viewed by the camera or lens, the image recording unit being configured to image the geological samples 15 in a given field of view and to store such images.

[0118] In another variant, not shown, only the image recording unit 40 is mobile relative to the platform 60. For this purpose, the lighting system 46 is configured for example to move with the image recording unit 40 in order to illuminate in a stable and repeatable manner each sample 15 or part of a sample 15 that is in the field of vision of the image recording unit 40.

[0119] In yet another variant, not shown, the geological sample handling device is integrated into the imaging module 20, for example replacing the support base 50. In such a configuration, it is possible to use this imaging module 20, equipped with the geological sample handling device, independently with the automation module 30, without necessarily having the other imaging modules 20 and / or the other automation modules 25 and / or the other extension modules 30 that are part of the required set 10.

[0120] A geological sample imaging method implemented with such a necessary 10 will now be described.

[0121] A first step consists of reversibly assembling at least the automation module 25 and the imaging module 20 one on top of the other.

[0122] For this purpose, an operator chooses, for example, an automation module 25 from among the plurality of automation modules and an imaging module 20 from among the plurality of imaging modules, and fixes the chosen automation module 25 with the chosen imaging module 20 using the reversible fixing systems 35.

[0123] During this step, the operator can also choose to reversibly assemble an extension module 30, chosen for example from the plurality of extension modules, onto the automation module 25 and the imaging module 20.

[0124] The process then includes a step of loading one or more geological samples 15 from the subsoil into the tray 60, specifically into compartment(s) 62 when the extension module 30 is assembled, and / or into compartment 53 when the extension module 30 is not assembled. A second step consists of acquiring one or more images of a geological sample 15 using the imaging module 20.

[0125] For this purpose, an optional step of moving, automatic or manual, the image generation unit 40 and / or the platform 60 can be provided before the acquisition in order to place at least part of at least one compartment 53 or 62 in the field of vision of the image recording unit 40.

[0126] For example, the tray 60 is moved using the actuators 65 in order to place at least part of at least one compartment 53 or 62 in the field of vision of the image recording unit 40.

[0127] The image recording unit 40 then acquires one or more images of the part of the geological sample 15 being disposed in said part of at least one compartment 53 or 62 being in the field of view of the image recording unit 40.

[0128] During this image acquisition step, the extension module 30 is disassembled from the automation module 25 and the imaging module 20 or is assembled onto the automation module 25 and the imaging module 20, depending on the operator's needs.

[0129] When several samples 15, each arranged in a separate compartment 62 of the tray 60, are to be imaged, the method includes a step of moving one of the tray 60 and the image recording unit 40 relative to the other of the image recording unit 40 and the tray 60 to successively and individually place each compartment 62 opposite the field of vision of the image recording unit 40.

[0130] A final step in the process, implemented after image acquisition, consists of disassembling, where appropriate, each of the automation modules 25, imaging modules 20, and the extension module(s) 30, and jointly storing and transporting each imaging module 20, each automation module 25, and each extension module 30 into the container.

[0131] For example, the imaging modules 20 and automation modules 25 are transported and stored together, in the assembled state, in the container.

[0132] The necessary 10 according to the invention has many advantages.

[0133] Initially, the modularity of the system 30 allows the operator to choose the modules that are useful for their specific needs and desired application. This enables them to meet constraints such as volumetric, temporal, or analytical requirements. The analysis of the samples 15 is then optimized according to the requirements, without increasing costs. Secondly, the mobility between the platform 60 and the image recording unit 40 allows for the automated, rapid, and repeatable movement of the samples 15 in front of the image recording unit 40 and / or vice versa. A large number of samples 15 can then be imaged quickly, simplifying the operator's analysis task.

Claims

DEMANDS 1. Geological sample imaging kit (10) comprising at least one geological sample imaging module (20) configured to image geological samples (15), at least one automation module (25) configured to power and connect the imaging module (20) to an image control and storage unit, and at least one extension module (30) configured to provide additional functionality to the operation of the kit (10), the kit (10) being configured to be assembled in at least a first configuration in which the imaging module (20) and the automation module (25) are reversibly assembled on top of each other without the extension module (30), and a second configuration in which the imaging module (20), the automation module (25), and the extension module (30) are reversibly assembled on top of each other.

2. Necessary (10) according to claim 1, comprising a plurality of imaging modules, each imaging module (20) comprising an image recording unit (40) configured to image geological samples (15) in a given field of view, and a lighting system (46) comprising at least one light source (48).

3. Necessary (10) according to claim 2, wherein at least one of the imaging modules (20) further comprises an imaging sub-module, selected from a filter blocking one or more wavelength ranges of the or each light source (48), a calibration tool for the image recording unit (40), a sensor and / or a device for measuring physical and / or chemical parameters of geological samples (15), an ambient environment control unit in the imaging module (20), and a geological sample preparation unit (15).

4. Necessary (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a plurality of automation modules (25), each automation module (25) comprising at least one electronic control unit and one power supply unit.

5. Necessary (10) according to claim 4, wherein at least one of the automation modules (25) further comprises an automation sub-module, selected from a communication unit, and a human-machine interface.

6. Necessary (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a plurality of extension modules (30), at least one of the extension modules (30) comprising an extension sub-module selected from a geological sample handling device, and a calibration tool for the imaging module (20).

7. Necessary (10) according to claims 2 and 6, wherein the geological sample handling device comprises a geological sample support tray (60) (15) comprising at least one compartment (62) for receiving a geological sample (15), the tray (60) being movable, in the second configuration of the necessary (10), relative to the image recording unit (40), in order to place at least a part of the or each compartment (62) in the field of vision of the image recording unit (40).

8. Necessary (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each module (20, 25, 30) comprises an enclosure (22, 27, 32) defining an internal volume (24, 29, 34), and a reversible fastening system (35) intended to be fixed to a complementary reversible fastening system of a separate module (20, 25, 30).

9. Necessary (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a container configured to jointly contain and transport at least one geological sample imaging module (20), at least one automation module (25) and at least one extension module (30).

10. A method for imaging geological samples implemented with a necessary component (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, the method comprising the following steps: reversible assembly of at least the automation module (25) and the imaging module (20) one on top of the other, and acquisition of images of at least one geological sample (15) by the imaging module (20).

11. Method according to claim 10, comprising a step prior to image acquisition, reversible assembly of the extension module (30), the automation module (25) and the imaging module (20) on top of each other.

12. Method according to claim 10, wherein in the image acquisition step, the expansion module (30) is disassembled from the automation module (25) and the imaging module (20).

13. A method according to any one of claims 10 to 12, comprising after the image acquisition step, a step, if necessary, of disassembling the automation module (25) and the imaging module (20) with respect to the extension module (30), then the joint storage and transport of at least one imaging module (20) of geological samples, at least one automation module (25) and at least one extension module (30) in a container.

14. Subsurface exploitation installation comprising an imaging kit (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, and at least one geological sample (15), the geological sample (15) being taken from the subsurface.

15. Installation according to claim 14, comprising at least one subsurface drilling station and a station for collecting geological samples (15) from the drilling station.

16. Geological sample imaging system comprising an enclosure (22, 27) defining an internal volume (24, 29) in which are housed: - an image recording unit (40) configured to image geological samples (15) within a given field of view, and - a support platform (60) for geological samples (15), the platform comprising at least one compartment (62) for receiving a geological sample (15), characterized in that at least one of the platform (60) and the image recording unit (40) is movable relative to the other of the image recording unit (40) and the platform (60), in order to place at least a part of the or each compartment (62) in the field of vision of the image recording unit (40).

17. An imaging system according to claim 16, wherein the tray (60) comprises a plurality of separate compartments (62), each compartment (62) being configured to contain a geological sample (15), the movement of one between the tray (60) and the image recording unit (40) relative to the other of the image recording unit (40) and the tray (60) being configured to place successively and individually each compartment (62) in relation to the field of vision of the image recording unit (40).

18. Imaging system according to claim 16 or 17, comprising a lighting system (46) disposed in the internal volume (24, 29), the lighting system (46) being configured to illuminate the or each compartment (62) in the field of vision of the image recording unit (40).

19. Imaging system according to claim 18, wherein the lighting system (46) comprises at least one visible and / or infrared and / or ultraviolet light source (48), and at least one filter movable in a shutter position, wherein the filter blocks one or more wavelength ranges of the or each light source (48).

20. Imaging system according to any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein the movement of one and / or the other of the platform (60) and the image recording unit (40) is automated.

21. Imaging system according to any one of claims 16 to 20, wherein the image recording unit (40) is mounted on a longitudinal axis (44), the image recording unit (40) being movable in translation along a longitudinal direction (L) along the longitudinal axis (44), and being fixed in each transverse plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L), the field of view of the image recording unit (40) extending along the longitudinal direction (L).

22. Imaging system according to claim 21, wherein the tray (60) is movable in at least one transverse plane in order to place at least a part of the or each compartment (62) in the field of vision of the image recording unit (40).

23. Imaging system according to claim 22, comprising at least two actuators (65) operating perpendicularly, each actuator (65) causing the movement of the platform (60) in a direction of movement perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L).

24. A method for imaging geological samples implemented using an imaging system according to any one of claims 16 to 23, the method comprising the following steps: - displacement of the image generation unit (40) and / or the support tray (60) in order to place at least part of at least one compartment (62) within the field of vision of the image recording unit (40), and - acquisition of one or more images of at least a part of a geological sample (15) located in said part of said compartment (62), using the image recording unit (40).

25. Imaging method according to claim 24, wherein the tray (60) comprises a plurality of separate compartments (62), each compartment (62) being configured to contain a geological sample (15), the method comprising a step of moving one of the tray (60) and the image recording unit (40) relative to the other of the image recording unit (40) and the tray (60) to successively and individually place each compartment (62) opposite the field of view of the image recording unit (40).

26. Subsurface exploitation installation comprising an imaging system according to any one of claims 16 to 23, and at least one geological sample (15), the geological sample (15) being taken from the subsurface.

27. Installation according to claim 26, comprising at least one subsurface drilling station and a station for collecting geological samples (15) from the drilling station.

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