Automated Drill Cutting Digitization for High-Throughput Sample Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
The large volume of drill cutting samples collected over decades poses a challenge for efficient digitization and analysis, as traditional methods are labor-intensive and limit the utilization of this valuable subsurface data.
Innovation Solution
A modular system comprising a central processing unit, robotic arms, conveyors, and sensors is employed to automate the digitization process, including extraction, measurement, and packaging of drill cutting samples, utilizing cameras and RFID for sample identification and high-resolution imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional manual methods are used for digitization, then measurement accuracy can be maintained, but productivity is low and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular functional stations including extractor, digitizer, and packager, each handling specific tasks in the digitization workflow. This segmentation allows parallel processing of multiple samples while maintaining measurement accuracy, thereby increasing overall productivity without overwhelming system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical operations are replaced with automated robotic arms equipped with sensors and imaging devices. The robotic system performs sample extraction, positioning, and packaging while optical sensors and cameras capture high-resolution images and measurements, eliminating labor-intensive manual handling while maintaining data quality
2Productivity
If automated robotic arms are used, then productivity increases, but ease of operation decreases due to system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic arms are equipped with integrated sensors, cameras, and control systems that enable autonomous operation. The system automatically detects sample positions, adjusts imaging parameters, and performs measurements without continuous human intervention, maintaining high productivity while reducing operational complexity through self-regulating mechanisms
3Measurement precision
If multiple measuring sensors are used, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The digitizer station integrates multiple types of sensors including optical cameras, X-ray fluorescence sensors, and ultraviolet sensors within a single modular unit. Each sensor type targets specific analytical needs (morphology, composition, surface properties) but all are coordinated through a unified control system, achieving comprehensive measurement precision while managing complexity through functional integration
4Loss of information
If high-resolution imaging and multiple measurements are performed, then information completeness improves, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor system enables continuous sample transport through the digitization station, with robotic arms and sensors operating in continuous cycles rather than discrete batch operations. Multiple sensors capture different types of data simultaneously as samples pass through the measurement zone, ensuring complete information acquisition without sequential delays that would increase processing time
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
This system enables high-throughput, accurate digitization of large sample volumes, enhancing exploration and development operations by providing consistent and efficient digitized data for analysis.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one robotic arm is configured with at least one of an air hose, a water hose, a clasp, a vacuum suction cup, and a cutter
Implementation Method 2
A label is in a form of a passive radio frequency identification device (RFID). A chip id of the RFID is appended to the metadata
Data Source
AI summary
A modular system provides automated legacy drill cutting samples digitization. The system includes a central processing unit, at least one robotic arm, a conveyor, and a retractable stand. The robotic arm, which is controlled by the central processing unit, opens drill cutting samples already bagged and stored in a laboratory. The conveyor transports the drill cutting samples between a plurality of stations that include an extractor, a digitizer, and a packager. The extractor extracts the drill cutting samples; the digitizer performs a plurality of measurements on the extracted samples using one or more measuring sensors attached to the retractable stand; and the packager labels and packs the extracted samples into a collection box.