Dual Distance Measurement for Core Sample Depth Correlation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current core sampling technologies, such as vibracoring, lack the ability to accurately determine if sediment is entering the core sampling tube and may result in inadequate or compressed samples, leading to uncertainties in correlating core sample zones with actual subterranean depths.
Innovation Solution
A device and system utilizing a rig frame with a core sampling tube and two distance measuring devices, one internal and one external, to measure the decreasing and increasing distances as the tube penetrates the ground, allowing for accurate correlation of core sample zones with actual subterranean depths through differential measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If vibracoring is used to obtain core samples, then the core sampling process can penetrate sediment layers effectively, but the operator cannot confirm whether sediment is entering the core sampling tube and the true subterranean depth of sample zones cannot be determined
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by using distance measuring devices to continuously monitor and provide information about the position of the core sampler puck and the penetration depth of the core sampling tube. This feedback loop allows the operator to confirm sediment entry and determine actual subterranean depths accurately, resolving the information loss problem.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual estimation and experience-based judgment with automated electronic distance measuring devices. These devices use optical or electronic fields to measure distances, substituting mechanical measurement methods and providing precise, objective data about sediment entry and depth without relying on operator experience.
2Measurement precision
If core sampling is performed without depth correlation, then the process is simpler and faster, but the accuracy of correlating core sample zones with actual subterranean depth is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement function into two independent distance measuring devices: one measuring the position of the core sampler puck relative to the tube, and another measuring the penetration depth of the tube. This segmentation allows each device to be optimized for its specific measurement task while maintaining overall system manageability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a processing unit as an intermediary that receives data from both distance measuring devices, processes the information, and correlates the core sample zones with actual subterranean depths. This intermediary component manages the complexity by centralizing the correlation logic and providing a unified output.
3Productivity
If core samples are taken without real-time depth measurement, then equipment and operation are simpler, but repeated sampling may be required consuming time and resources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary measurement and correlation during the core sampling process itself, rather than requiring post-processing or repeated sampling. The distance measuring devices continuously track depth and sediment entry during sampling, ensuring adequacy before extraction, thereby preventing the need for repeated operations.
4Measurement precision
If core sample zones are not correlated with actual depth during sampling, then the measurement process is simpler, but dredging operations may be inaccurate leading to increased costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides real-time feedback during core sampling that correlates sample zones with actual subterranean depths. This information feedback enables accurate planning of dredging operations beforehand, allowing technicians to know precise depths to dig to, thereby avoiding the costs associated with inaccurate dredging while the correlation system remains manageable through automated processing.
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
Enables operators to confirm the entry of sediment into the core sampling tube and accurately determine the true subterranean depth of core sample zones, reducing the need for repeated sampling and improving the accuracy of sediment analysis.
Implementation Method 1
a first distance measuring device in communication with a core sampler puck where the core sampler puck is maintained within and movable along an internal length of the core sampling tube and a second distance measuring device in communication with an external point located near an upper end of the core sampling tube
Implementation Method 2
the second distance measuring device is provided for measuring an increasing distance between the upper end of the core sampling tube and the component mounting surface as the core sampling tube is depended through the rig foot aperture into the ground
Implementation Method 3
In the case of weighted and vibrational forces, vibrational energy is applied to the core sampling tube as it is allowed to enter the ground or seabed as a downward force is applied either under gravity or a net applied downward force. The application of the vibrational energy to the core sampling tube, known as vibracoring, and the resulting vibratory displacement causes a partial fluidization of the sediment in direct contact with the core sampling tube and thus the friction between the core sampling tube and the sediment is reduced.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a device and method for correlating core sample zones with an actual subterranean depth. The disclosed device has a pair of independent distance measuring devices operably in communication with a core sample apparatus where a first distance measuring device measures the length of a core sample entering a core sampling tube and a second distance measuring device measures a drive depth of the core sampling tube entering into the ground. A processing unit is provided for correlating the two distances so as to allow a determination as to the actual depth below ground from where a given zone of the core sample is extracted.