Automated Core Sample Handling System with Articulated Arm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for analyzing core samples from wellbores lack efficient systems for maintaining orientation and identification, which hinders accurate analysis and correlation of data with imaging results.
Innovation Solution
An automated system utilizing a core handling system with an articulated arm to insert and manipulate core samples into an imaging device, combined with a mobile enclosure and scanner for precise orientation and imaging, and a controller for managing the process, ensuring accurate data correlation and sample handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual handling methods are used for core samples, then operational simplicity is maintained, but orientation and identification accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a scanner to automatically read identification tags on core samples and an articulated arm with multiple degrees of freedom to autonomously position and orient samples. The controller automatically correlates scanned information with imaging data, eliminating manual intervention while maintaining high precision in orientation and identification.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical handling is replaced with an automated articulated arm mechanism controlled by a computer system. The articulated arm uses motorized joints and sensors to precisely position core samples, substituting human manual operations with an automated mechanical-electrical-control system that provides superior precision and repeatability.
2Manufacturing precision
If automated handling systems are implemented, then handling precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated handling system is divided into modular components: an articulated arm with multiple independent joints, a scanner unit, an imaging device, and a controller. Each component performs a specific function and can be independently controlled or replaced, allowing high precision handling while managing system complexity through functional segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulated arm serves multiple functions: positioning core samples for imaging, orienting samples at precise angles, and transporting samples between different analysis stations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized mechanisms, achieving high handling precision without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
3Loss of information
If core samples are not maintained in designated orientation, then handling speed is improved, but data correlation accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The scanner reads identification tags and the controller determines the required orientation before imaging begins. The articulated arm pre-positions the core sample in the correct orientation during the handling process, so that when imaging occurs, the sample is already properly oriented. This preliminary orientation action ensures data correlation accuracy is maintained while the automated system operates at high speed without manual intervention delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the scanner reading identification tags and from sensors monitoring sample position and orientation. The controller continuously adjusts the articulated arm's positioning based on this feedback to maintain the designated orientation throughout the imaging process, ensuring accurate data correlation while operating efficiently at automated speeds.
Data Source
AI summary
An automated system for handling core samples in and out of an imaging device retrieves the samples from a staging area. During handling, the identity of each core sample is known to the system so that the imaging results are correlated appropriately. The system positions the core sample so the vertical and slab side orientations of the core sample discernable during handling. Core samples are staged in a location, and the automated system includes a robotic arm, which senses the core sample to discern its vertical and slab slot orientations, and then loads the core sample into the imaging device. When imaging is complete, the automated system removes the core sample from the imaging device; and in designated circumstances, transfers the core sample to a location for further analysis. In one example the further analysis is based on analyzing areas of interest identified in the core sample.