Bore Hole Depth Strip Material Tuning to Prevent Tangling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dip tapes for measuring bore hole depth are prone to tangling, breaking, and catching on obstructions, leading to inefficiencies in drilling and blasting operations.
Innovation Solution
A bore hole depth measuring apparatus with an elongated strip made of polypropylene or reinforced polypropylene, having a Young's modulus between 0.5 and 2.0 GPa, and a weight at one end, featuring linear measurement markings and specific dimensions to prevent tangling and catching, ensuring accurate depth measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a flexible dip tape is used for measuring bore hole depth, then the tape can be easily inserted into the bore hole, but it tends to tangle and get caught on obstructions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the measuring element by specifying a Young's modulus between 0.5 and 2.0 GPa, which optimizes the balance between flexibility for insertion and stiffness to prevent tangling. This parameter optimization resolves the contradiction by finding the specific material property range that simultaneously enables easy insertion while resisting tangling and catching on obstructions.
2Ease of manufacture
If a weak material is used for the dip tape, then the tape is easier to manufacture and cheaper, but it breaks and wears away with use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies a Young's modulus range (0.5-2.0 GPa) that represents an optimized balance between material strength and manufacturability. This parameter specification ensures the material is strong enough to resist breaking and wearing away during repeated use, while still being relatively simple to manufacture compared to using metals or highly engineered materials.
3Length of stationary object
If a long dip tape is used to measure deep bore holes, then the measurement coverage is sufficient, but the tape is more prone to tangling and breaking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the Young's modulus parameter to a specific range (0.5-2.0 GPa) that enables the tape to maintain sufficient length for deep bore hole measurement while having the structural properties to resist tangling and breaking. This parameter optimization allows the tape to be long enough for the application while remaining reliable enough to function effectively.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The apparatus allows for quick and reliable measurement of bore hole depth, reducing the need for reinsertion of the drill string and minimizing operational delays due to tangling or breaking, thereby enhancing drilling efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an elongated strip comprised of material that has an elastic (Young's) modulus of greater than 0.5 and less than 2.0 GPa (gigapascals)
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an apparatus for measuring a depth of a bore hole. The apparatus includes an elongated strip including linear measurement markings along at least a portion of a length of the strip. A weight is provided at an end of the strip and the strip is comprised of material that has an elastic (Young's) modulus of greater than 0.5 and less than 2.0 GPa. Embodiments of the invention are adapted to quickly and effectively measure the depth of a bore hole or a depth to any major obstructions such as loose rocks that may have fallen into the bore hole.