Subterranean fluid sampling systems and methods
US5487431A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 20, 1994 |
| Grant date | Jan 30, 1996 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 20, 2014 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B7/205
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A subterranean sampling system of the direct push type that employes an elongated push tube in combination with hydraulic means to force the push tube down through subterranean strata includes an improved sampler unit which basically includes a sample retaining cylinder surrounding an elongated slotted tube with a pierce member at the distal end and, at the proximal end, a tube guide member plus an adapter unit by which the sampler unit is connected to the lower end of the push tube. The system enables a new fluid sampling method in which the sampler unit is manipulated by the push tube into three modes. In the first mode, the slotted tube is within the cylinder so none of its slots extend proximally of the cylinder and no ambient fluid can enter. In the second mode, the slotted tube is moved out of the cylinder so only some of its slots extend proximally of the cylinder whereby ambient fluid may enter the cylinder. In the third mode, all of slots of the slotted tube extend proximally of cylinder and no ambient fluid may again enter the cylinder. Ultimately, the sampler unit is withdrawn from the strata without again permitting any of the tube slots to extend distally of the cylind…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.