3D Laser Scanning Drill Core Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for analyzing drill core samples, such as those used in natural resource exploration, are prone to manual errors and produce false data due to their reliance on ocular inspection and manual recording, which hampers the accuracy and reproducibility of measurements for discontinuities and other physical features.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a contactless 3D laser sensor to generate point clouds and three-dimensional polygon meshes for detailed analysis of drill core samples, allowing for automatic or semi-automatic data derivation and visualization, including the calculation of Alpha and Beta angles of planar discontinuities relative to the core axis and orientation line.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual ocular inspection and recording methods are used to measure discontinuities in drill core samples, then the process is simple and requires minimal equipment, but the measurement precision and data reliability deteriorate due to manual errors and false data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement methods (goniometer with visual inspection) with an automated optical scanning system using laser line sensors and cameras. The system captures images of drill core samples and automatically processes them to extract discontinuity measurements, eliminating manual errors while maintaining measurement capability through non-contact optical fields.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the drill core sample by capturing its image through the scanning system. This digital representation is then processed to extract measurement data, replacing the need for direct manual measurement while preserving all geometric information about discontinuities, orientations, and spatial relationships.
2Reliability
If automated 3D laser scanning is implemented to improve measurement accuracy and eliminate manual errors, then measurement precision and data reliability improve, but the device complexity and system cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into a single scanning system: the laser line sensor and camera combination performs both 3D geometric scanning and visual documentation simultaneously. The system can measure discontinuity orientations, calculate spatial parameters, and generate comprehensive reports, replacing multiple separate manual processes with one unified automated instrument.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a computer-based image processing system as an intermediary between the physical drill core sample and the final measurements. The scanning system captures images, and software algorithms automatically extract discontinuity parameters, serving as a mediator that eliminates direct human involvement in measurement while ensuring data reliability through consistent automated processing.
3Productivity
If manual recording methods are used, then the ease of operation is maintained with simple equipment, but the productivity and efficiency deteriorate due to time-consuming manual processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the system to perform measurements and calculations automatically without requiring operator intervention for each measurement point. The scanning system captures the entire drill core sample, and the embedded software automatically identifies discontinuities, calculates orientations, and generates results, allowing the system to serve itself in the measurement process while significantly increasing productivity.
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 system significantly improves data accuracy and reproducibility by providing a precise, automated method for analyzing drill core structures, reducing the likelihood of false data and enhancing the quality of measurements for drill core analysis.
Implementation Method 1
The contactless analytical apparatus comprises a laser 3 D sensor
Data Source
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AI summary
A System for collecting and processing data concerning physical features of drill core samples with three-dimensional shape and appearance. The system comprises a contact less analytical apparatus for measuring and collecting data of at least some part of the outer surface of the drill core samples, a first data-storing means for storing data collected by the analytical apparatus,a processing unit that applies one or more data evaluation algorithms on the data stored in the first data storage means in order to extract data regarding physical features of the drill cores (1) as an output,and a second data storage means for storage of the resulting output from the processing unit. The system is also related to a method for measuring and collecting data on the three-dimensional shape and appearance of drill core samples, such as planar discontinuities including orientation marks on the drill core samples.