Core Orientation Head with Spring-Loaded Profile Pins
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current core orientation devices lack an efficient and reliable method to record and maintain the profile of a core sample's face for accurate orientation relative to the ground, which is crucial for geological surveying and mining development.
Innovation Solution
A core orientation head with a cylindrical body featuring a bearing scale and a core face profile recording system, including pins that form an interference fit with the core face to record its profile, and a cap with vernier scale for precise alignment and marking, allowing for accurate orientation and marking of the core sample.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a core orientation device uses pins held by rubber bands or O-rings to locate profile points, then the device can provide reference points for core orientation, but the pins cannot reliably maintain their recorded profile positions without axial force applied to the core
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-loading the pins against the core face using springs before the core is inserted. This ensures the pins are already in contact with the core face and can immediately record the profile without requiring subsequent axial force application. The springs are pre-compressed to exert a constant force on the pins, maintaining continuous contact with the core face throughout the orientation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service through the spring-loaded pin mechanism that automatically maintains contact with the core face. The springs self-adjust to accommodate variations in core diameter and maintain optimal contact pressure without requiring external adjustment or manual intervention. The system serves itself by using the spring force to continuously press the pins against the core, eliminating the need for operator-applied axial force.
2Measurement precision
If an orientation head includes a bearing scale and profile recording system, then accurate orientation and profile recording can be achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single integrated orientation head assembly. The bearing scale, profile recording system with spring-loaded pins, and marking mechanism are combined in one compact unit. This integration allows the head to simultaneously perform orientation reference, profile recording, and marking functions without requiring multiple separate devices, thereby managing complexity through functional consolidation.
Solution Approach 2:
The orientation head is designed as a universal device that performs multiple functions: it provides bearing scale references for orientation, records the core face profile using spring-loaded pins, and enables marking of the core. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate orientation and recording devices, achieving measurement precision through integrated components rather than through complex interactions between multiple specialized devices.
Data Source
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AI summary
A core orientation head (12) comprises a substantially cylindrical body (28) having a first end (30) and an opposite end (34). A core face profile recording system (41) is carried by the body (28) to record a profile of the face of a core cut by a core drill in which the orientation head (12) is disposed. The system (41) comprises a plurality of pins (42) housed with an interference fit inside respective axially extending holes (38) provided in the body (28). A bearing scale (48) is marked on an outer circumferential surface 50 of the body (28). A cap (74) is demountably connectable to either of the ends (30) and (34). When connected to the end (30), the caps (74) protects the system (41). The caps (74) is also provided with a vernier scale (110) which, when the cap (74) is connected to the end (34), co-operates with the bearing scale (48) to facilitate marking of the core sample (46).