AU2016204774B1 - Core tray - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to core trays into which drilling samples are received for preservation during conveyance and storage. Here the core tray has a base shaped so that its upper surface defines a plurality of core-receiving channels and its lower surface defines spaces between the channels. A reinforcement structure beneath the lower surface extends between adjacent channels and comprises intersecting and elements, each of which subtends an acute angle with a longitudinal axis of each channel. The reinforcement reduces the risk of the tray flexing excessively, thereby lowering risk of sample damage or loss.

Description

1 2016204774 08 Μ 2016

Title: CORE TRAY

Field of invention [01] The present invention relates to core trays into which drilling samples are received for preservation during conveyance and storage.

Background to the invention [02] A core drill is a geological exploration tool that has an annular drill bit, used for extracting intact from a sample site an elongate sample representative of the strata through which the drill has passed. It is important to maintain the sample intact for analysis.

[03] Core trays have been developed with a series of parallel channels sized for receiving core lengths and maintaining their separation and structural integrity during transportation off-site and during periods of subsequent storage pending analysis. As numerous samples tend to be collected at each drilling location, the trays need to be stackable and have facility for enabling clear labelling of the samples.

[04] The following patent publications describe the state of the art: a. AU2013204184, which proposes a handle arrangement to facilitate manhandling of trays; b. US application 2010/0018886 Al, which is directed to facilitating removal of the core sample from the tray; c. AU2013251234, which addresses stacking issues; d. AU 2013204793, which addresses drainage of fluid accumulating in the tray.

[05] A drawback of currently available core trays not addressed above is in their structural make-up. The competing drivers of weight, portability, strength and useful 2 2016204774 08 Μ 2016 life tend to lead to compromises in design and resultant expense. In particular the trays are made of generally rigid materials such as plastics and metals. However, these are not without inherent flexure, which is more easily discernible the thinner the material.

Objects of the invention [06] It is an object of this invention to address the shortcomings of the prior art and, in doing so, to provide a core tray having reinforcement against excessive flexure that may otherwise lead to the dropping or damage to samples.

[07] The preceding discussion of the background to the invention is intended to facilitate an understanding of the present invention. However, it should be appreciated that the discussion is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of the material referred to was part of the common general knowledge in Australia or elsewhere as at the priority date of the present application.

[08] Further, and unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words 'comprise', 'comprising', and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense - that is to say, in the sense of "including, but not being limited to" - as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense - that is to say meaning "including this and nothing else".

Summary of invention [09] According to the invention, there is provided a core tray comprising a base having an upper and a lower surface, the base being shaped so that the upper surface defines a plurality of core-receiving channels and the lower surface defines spaces between the channels; the base having a reinforcement structure beneath the lower surface extending between adjacent first and second channels and comprising a pair of intersecting first and second reinforcing elements each of which subtends an acute angle with a longitudinal axis of each channel.

[010] In an embodiment of the invention, the axes are mutually substantially parallel. 3 2016204774 08 Μ 2016 [011] In a preferred form of the invention, the tray comprises a spacer element extending between said first and second channels in a direction substantially orthogonal to said axes.

[012] In a further preferred form of the invention, the reinforcing structure comprises further pairs of intersecting elements such that the structure extends from a first end of the tray to a second, distal end between said first and second channels. Additional intersecting elements may be added. Such additional elements may be desirable for trays intended for service in zones of high core density.

[013] In a preferred embodiment, the intersecting first and second elements are planar and disposed generally vertically to the base. Preferably, the first and second elements intersect to define a lattice.

[014] In a further embodiment, the structure includes a third reinforcing element intersecting with said first and second elements, intersection occurring at a point intermediate opposed ends of at least one other element.

[015] The lattice is further preferably bound between first and second spacer elements extending between the channels in a direction orthogonal to said axes.

[016] Preferably, at least one of the reinforcement elements extends diagonally from corner to corner across a portion of inter-channel space defined between adjacent spacer elements.

[017] In an embodiment, the reinforcing elements are formed to comprise first and second co-planar portions joined to a discontinuity between them. The discontinuity preferably comprises a rod. The rod is preferably integrally formed with the elements and the base.

[018] Further preferably, the core tray comprises at least three channels, wherein the reinforcing element is co-planar with a second reinforcing element of like type and orientation extending between the second and the third channel. 4 2016204774 08M2016 [019] In a core tray according to a preferred embodiment, the reinforcing elements are formed to align in a criss-cross or an X-like pattern having legs extending from one long side of the tray to an opposite long side.

[020] A core tray according to the invention may have channels that are flat-bottomed. It is particularly preferred that the lower surface of the base is planar below each channel. In preferred embodiments, the tray is adapted for the lower planar surface to contact a planar surface on which the tray may be borne, such as when in transit.

[021] According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a core tray having a rectangular base and peripheral sides, the base being shaped to define two or more longitudinally extending channels for receiving respective core samples, and, beneath the base, reinforcement elements extending between the channels and defining a lattice.

[022] Preferably, in the lattice, individual reinforcement elements subtend an angle of 45° or less where meeting each channel.

[023] In a preferred form of the invention, the lattice of tray reinforcement elements is applied between two centrally located adjacent channels of the tray.

[024] In a still further preferred form of the invention, the tray comprises one or more channel spacer elements extending substantially orthogonally between opposed walls of first and second adjacent channels. Each spacer element preferably defines a partition that extends from wall to wall of adjacent channels and continues up the opposed channel sides, preferably to the top of the sides. The spacer elements provide further means of reinforcement for the channel sides, base, and for the tray in general.

[025] Yet further, in a preferred embodiment, the tray of the invention comprises integrally formed peripheral gripping means extending continuously to surround the base. Preferably the gripping means comprises a ledge, further preferably having a concave lower surface. The ledge is located to extend at a uniform level with respect to a planar lower surface of the base. In an embodiment, the gripping means is a grip-bar. 5 2016204774 08 Μ 2016 [026] In a yet further preferred form of the invention, the tray has stabilising engagement means for achieving stable tethering connection between two or more like trays located substantially coplanarly and adjacently. In a preferred embodiment, the engagement means comprises a male formation extending upwardly for receiving a tethering means between it and the adjacent tray.

[027] The male formation is preferably shaped for extending upwardly to engage with a complemental receiving formation of a like tray to be stacked upon it. The tray thus has a complemental formation in the concavity defined by the externally peripheral gripping means, suitable for engaging a male formation from a like tray on which it is stacked, whereby relative movement of the trays is inhibited when stacked.

[028] According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a core tray having a rectangular base bounded by generally vertical sides defining a tray rim, the base being shaped to define at least two longitudinally orientated channels extending from a first end side to a second end side for receiving respective core samples, gripping means extending externally and continuously from the sides at a uniform level below the rim. Preferably the gripping means comprises a ledge. The ledge preferably has a concave lower surface. Furthermore, it is preferably integrally formed with the sides of the tray to provide a grip-bar.

[029] In a preferred form of the invention in this aspect, the tray comprises a reinforcement structure beneath the base and which extends between adjacent first and second channels and comprises at least a pair of intersecting first and second planar elements, each of which subtends an acute angle with a longitudinal axis of each channel.

[030] The structure is preferably integrally formed with the base, such as by way of a conventional plastics injection moulding process.

Brief description of drawings [031] In order that the invention may be readily understood, and put into practical effect, reference will now be made to the accompanying figures. Thus: 6 2016204774 08 Μ 2016

Figure 1 shows in upper perspective view a preferred embodiment of a core tray according to this invention.

Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the channel profile of the tray of Figure 1 taken on line A-A' in Figure 1.

Figure 3 is an underside elevation of the tray of Figure 1.

Figure 4 is an end view of the tray of Figure 1.

Figure 5 is a partially cut away bottom elevational view of the underside of a tray showing an alternative embodiment of the invention.

Detailed description of an embodiment of the invention [032] Referring to Figure 1, showing a preferred embodiment of this invention in perspective view, a core tray is generally denoted by the number 10. It is of substantially rigid construction, made of a high density polyethylene (HDPE), injection moulded to shape, as is well known in the art, but may be made of any other suitable impact resistant substance, including in particular metals and other plastics. The tray is generally rectangular, defined by a base 12 bounded by pairs of opposed longer sides 14, 14' and opposed shorter end walls 16,16' [033] In this embodiment, the tray has four core-receiving channels 18 formed in the upper surface 20 of the base. The channels extend longitudinally along the length of the core tray and are closed at their opposite ends by end walls 16, 16'. The channels have side walls 22 extending upward so that proximate walls of adjacent channels are separated by an interposed joining strip 24 to form an intervening dividing wall, as shown in Figure 2.

[034] The base also has a flat planar underside 26, which will be described with reference to Figures 2 and 3. The planar face of the underside is designed this way so that it will come into stabilising contact with a surface on which the tray is being transported, for example a belt or roller conveyor, or forklift pallet, vehicle load space and the like. The sides 14 and end walls 16 extend downwardly to substantially the same level as the flat undersides 26 of the channels. This correspondence in levels further assists in stabilising 7 2016204774 08 Μ 2016 the tray during transportation, especially when loaded with core samples, by increasing the points and lines of support for the base when under load.

[035] The opposing side walls 22 of each channel slope inwardly and curve further at rounded sections 28 to meet a flat bottomed channel base section 30. It is found that allowing the walls to taper inwardly allows a greater range of core sample diameters and irregularities to be stably supported in their respective channels.

[036] It will be appreciated that even though the channels are flat on the underside, as shown at 26 in Figure 2, they may be defined by differently shaped profiles on their upper (core sample-receiving) surfaces and still fall within the scope of the claims to this invention. The tray dimensions are able to be varied for manufacture to meet particular field requirements.

[037] With reference to figure 3, the underside of tray 10 is shown with like numbering denoting like parts and features. Reinforcing elements of two kinds are illustrated. These help keep the channel side walls 22 from buckling, especially in an outward direction that would increase the channel size and available receiving space for a core sample. Such an increase would lead to sample being less securely held and increase the likelihood of its shifting during transit and the risk of its breaking and disintegrating.

[038] The first kind of reinforcing element 32 is disposed orthogonally to the longitudinal axes of the channels between which it extends and the second kind 34 is disposed non-orthogonally between the walls of adjacent channels.

[039] The first kind of element serves as a spacer between opposing walls of adjacent channels such as 18a and 18b. The second kind 34 is located to extend diagonally between opposing channel walls 22 and from one spacer 32 to the next, for example from 32a to 32b.

[040] The spacer elements of both kinds extend from base level 30 to the top of channel side walls 22, meeting with the underside of inter-channel joining strip 24. By extending a base level from base to base of adjacent channels and continuing up the opposed channel sides to the top, continuous reinforcement is provided to the channel walls where meeting the plane of the reinforcing elements, irrespective of type. 8 2016204774 08 Μ 2016 [041] The spacer elements 32 are shown transversely aligned from channel to channel. They are also transversely aligned with exterior reinforcing elements 36 extending from external side wall 14 to the inside surface of an overhanging peripheral lip 38 (also shown in Figure 2). Lip 38 provides a ledge-like formation which defines a grip-bar, under which personnel may place their fingers to facilitate stable gripping when lifting the tray. This formation extends around the entire periphery of the tray at a constant height in relation to the peripheral rim, to facilitate manual handling. By virtue of its predictable location anywhere around the tray, personnel are less likely to be distracted by seeking a place or formation for gripping, for example when removing a tray from a moving conveyor.

[042] Reinforcement elements 34 define a zig-zag pattern 40 from one end of the tray to the other, being formed head to tail. The central gap 42 defined between the second and third of the four channels has overlapping zig-zag patterns that define a lattice pattern made up of a series of letters 'X', for example as extends diagonally across the rectangular space defined between sequential orthogonal spacer elements 32c, 32d. In the embodiment being exemplified here, the criss-crossing elements 34 have at their central crossover a zone 58 providing a pressing surface for use during manufacture. Below the zone is a rod extending downwardly to provide a hub from which the elements 34 extend to meet the outer surfaces of the channels.

[043] The criss-cross formation is found further to reinforce the structural integrity of the tray by doubling the points of support against which the cores in the two central channels will be likely to abut in use. In addition, in the central gap, a doubling of support is provided to spacers 32 by each 'zig' or 'zag' element 34, in that each spacer 32 is joined to the ends of four separate elements 34. It is somewhat surprisingly found that this central lattice reinforcement pattern permits the application of single zig-zag patterns in each of the adjacent gaps 44, without compromising the adequacy of the tray structure to support a full load of core samples.

[044] With additional reference to Figure 4, the outer side walls 14, 14' are reduced in regard to flexion potential by means of bracing elements 46, which are connected to the wall and overhanging lip 38, to extend between them. Bracing elements 46 are in this embodiment applied at intervals that align with transverse spacer elements 32. Similar bracing elements are installed between lip 38 and end walls 16,16'. 9 2016204774 08M2016 [045] An indicium 50 is applied at one end of the tray to differentiate it from the other end so as to indicate to drilling personnel the desired orientation of the samples when being placed in the tray and to a core analyst which end of the core was obtained at the shallower drilling depth.

[046] The tray further has a moulded flat area 52 suitable for holding an identification tag for identifying the tray contents. A similar area is provided on either side and at the opposite end.

[047] To facilitate tethering of the tray to another of the same design adjacent to it, such as on a transportation pallet, there is provided a protruding formation 54 from the lip 38. These formations are provided at each corner of the tray to provide four points of possible tethering and engagement with a like tray stacked above. This provides for increased stability of a stack of trays against relative movement, such as during transit from drilling site to analytical facility.

[048] The embodiment of figures 1 to 4 demonstrates a tray wherein reinforcement is provided by pairs of intersecting elements 34. In further embodiments, additional support is optionally provided by including a third or further intersecting support element. Figure 5 illustrates and example of such an embodiment, in which intersecting members 34a, 34b are in formation as previously described in Figure 3, but have an additional cross member 35 passing through the intersection point 58 and extending between opposing channel walls 22. The third member is shown extending orthogonally between channel walls 22. Flowever, in other embodiments, it may be at a different angle. Nor need it pass through the same intersection of the pair, as shown at discontinuity 58.

[049] By way of example, a second pair of reinforcement elements may be provided, intersecting to form an 'X', but at a different angle of intersection than that of the first pair 34a, 34b. The second pair may share the same point of intersection as the first, or may intersect elsewhere. The point of intersection may be determined according to optimal structural requirements.

[050] In Figure 5, two lattice 'cells' are shown, beginning at end wall 16 and extending to the right, the first being defined between end wall 16 and a first orthogonal support 32a, 2016204774 08 Μ 2016 10 and the second between support 32a and support 32b. The tray has a plurality of drain holes 62, through which fluid may leave the tray.

[051] These embodiments merely illustrate particular examples of the core tray of the invention providing structural improvements for lowering the risk of destruction of cores during transportation and storage. With the insight gained from this disclosure, the person skilled in the art is well placed to discern further embodiments by means of which to put the claimed invention into practice.

Claims (25)

1. A core tray comprising a base having an upper and a lower surface, the base being shaped so that the upper surface defines a plurality of core-receiving channels and the lower surface defines spaces between the channels; the base having a reinforcement structure beneath the lower surface extending between adjacent first and second channels and comprising a pair of intersecting first and second elements, each of which subtends an acute angle with a longitudinal axis of each channel.

2. A core tray according to claim 1 wherein the respective axes are mutually substantially parallel.

3. A core tray according to claim 1 or claim 2 comprising a spacer element extending between said first and second channels in a direction substantially orthogonal to said axes.

4. A core tray according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the reinforcing structure comprises at least one further pair of intersecting elements such that the structure extends from a first end of the tray to a second, distal end between said first and second channels.

5. A core tray according to any one of the preceding claims wherein said intersecting first and second elements are planar.

6. A core tray according to claim 5 comprising a third element intersecting with said first and second elements, intersection occurring at a point intermediate opposed ends of each respective element.

7. A core tray according to claim 5 or claim 6 wherein the intersecting elements are bound between first and second spacer elements extending between the channels in a direction orthogonal to said axes.

8. A core tray according to claim 7 wherein a reinforcement element extends diagonally from corner to corner across a portion of inter-channel space defined between adjacent spacer elements.

9. A core tray according to any one of the preceding claims in which the reinforcing element is formed to comprise first and second co-planar portions joined to a discontinuity between them.

10. A core tray according to claim 9 in which the discontinuity comprises a rod.

11. A core tray according to any one of the preceding claims comprising at least three channels, wherein the reinforcing element is co-planar with a second reinforcing element of like type and orientation extending between the second and the third channel.

12. A core tray according to claim 11 wherein the reinforcing elements are formed to align in a criss-cross pattern having legs extending from one long side of the tray to an opposite long side.

13. A core tray according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the lower surface of the base is planar below each channel.

14. A core tray according to claim 13 adapted for the lower planar surface to contact a planar surface on which the tray is borne.

15. A core tray having a rectangular base and peripheral sides, the base being shaped to define two or more longitudinally extending channels for receiving respective core samples and, beneath the base, a lattice comprising reinforcement elements extending between the channels.

16. The tray of claim 15 wherein said individual reinforcement elements subtend an angle of 45° or less where meeting each channel.

17. The tray of claim 15 or 16 wherein the lattice is applied between two centrally located adjacent channels of the tray.

18. The tray according to any one of claim 15 to 17 comprising a channel spacer element extending substantially orthogonally between opposed walls of first and second adjacent channels.

19. The tray of claim 18 wherein the spacer element extends from base to base of adjacent channels and continues up opposed channel sides.

20. A tray according to any one of the preceding claims further comprising integrally formed peripheral gripping means extending continuously to surround the base.

21. The tray of claim 20 wherein the gripping means comprises a ledge.

22. The tray of claim 20 wherein the ledge has a concave lower surface.

23. A tray according to any one of the preceding claims further comprising engagement means for achieving stable connection of two or more like trays to each other.

24. The tray of claim 23 wherein the engagement means comprises a male formation extending upwardly for receiving a tethering means between it and an adjacent tray.

25. The tray of claim 24 wherein the male formation is shaped to engage with a complemental receiving formation of a like tray to be stacked upon it, thereby to inhibit relative movement of the trays when stacked.