'Modular core guidance system, method of using a core guidance system and research tool system'

摘要

A core sample orientation system (10) comprising a first portion (11) and a second portion (12). The first portion (11) comprises a downhole unit adapted to be connected to a core tube of a core drill, and the second portion (12) comprises a control unit. The downhole unit (11) is adapted for cooperation with a core tube for recording data relating to the orientation of the core tube, and the control unit (12) is adapted to cooperate with the downhole unit to receive and process orientation data from the downhole unit and provide an indication of the orientation of a core sample within the core tube at a time prior to separation of the core sample from the underground environment from which it was obtained. The downhole unit (11) is configured to cooperate with the control unit (12) to establish an operative connection therebetween. More particularly, the downhole unit (11) and the control unit (12) are configured to provide a coupling (23) for releasably connecting them together in a manner allowing selective rotation therebetween. The coupling (23) comprises a combination of magnetic coupling and mechanical coupling.