Soil sampling device with latch assembly having a variable circumferential shape
US5587540A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 16, 1995 |
| Grant date | Dec 24, 1996 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 16, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N33/24
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The invention relates to an improved sampler which can be operated in any orientation. The design features a positive gripping of the operating rod in a manner to reduce point loads so as to reduce any possibility of jamming of the rod on a retraction stroke until such time as it is positively retained in the fully withdrawn position. In the preferred embodiment, a pair of mating cylindrical latch pieces, held together by a circumferential spring, are used for positive actuation. The inner rod has an angular cut-out which provides the base for the latch when aligned with the latch. A release fixture can be used to free the latch from the cone rod after actuation. The latches are formed in such a manner as they may support themselves within the housing of the sampler until they engage the operating rod.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.