GB2466016A

GB2466016A - Inclinometer having a plate extending beyond the main body

Info

Publication number: GB2466016A
Application number: GB0822300A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Edward Paul Haslam; Peter Russell Nicolas Hobbs
Original assignee: Natural Environment Research Council
Current assignee: Natural Environment Research Council
Priority date: 2008-12-06
Filing date: 2008-12-06
Publication date: 2010-06-09
Also published as: GB0822300D0

Abstract

An inclinometer or clinometer apparatus 10 comprises a body 12, the body having a plate 16 fixedly secured to the body and arranged to extend beyond an envelope defined by the body, the plate being arranged for alignment with a plane for measuring the angle of inclination of the body. The plate can be inserted into a geological feature which may be hidden, allowing measurements which have hitherto been difficult or impossible. The plate may be retractable or detachable and a number of such plates, having different shapes and sizes, may be provided (see Figure 8). The apparatus may also include a compass for determining the bearing of a plane.

Description

INCLINOMETER APPARATUS

The invention relates to an inclinometer apparatus, and a method for use thereof.

An inclinometer, also known as a clinometer, is a device that may be used for measuring an angle of inclination or declination of a surface. Such a device may be used by a geologist, or field engineer to measure geological features or structures such as bedding planes, sedimentary planes, joint lines, fault lines etc. It is known to provide a mechanical inclinometer device having a body with a lid which is attached to the body by a hinge. The body has a bubble gauge to determine when it is lying in a horizontal plane. The hinge has a mechanical angular gauge to determine the angle of the hinge relative to the body. In use, the lid is placed on a surface or aligned with a rock feature, and the body is moved to the horizontal plane using the bubble gauge. An angle of inclination of the surface relative to the horizontal plane can then be read using the angular gauge. The device also has a compass which can be used to determine a bearing for the surface at its maximum inclination or declination. To measure the bearing the user must align the lid with an estimated position of the maximum inclination of the plane.

Problems associated with the mechanical inclinometer device are the lack of accuracy, and the lack of usability of the device. These problems may be made worse for a geological feature that is difficult to reach. To determine a horizontal position for the body the bubble gauge must be viewed, which may not always be convenient and may introduce an inaccuracy into any measurements. Furthermore, to determine the angle of inclination the lid must be placed against a geological feature and the angular gauge must be read, which may also be inconvenient and inaccurate.

In addition, if the geological feature is enclosed, which may be the case for a fissure or a crack, the lid may be impractical to use. In this situation, the user may need to guess the orientation of a plane using a book and then place the device on the book to determine the angle of inclination and the bearing. This introduces a large degree of inaccuracy into the measurements. Overall the device is cumbersome to use and not very accurate.

What is required is an improved inclinometer that may minimise or reduce the above mentioned problems.

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided an inclinometer apparatus comprising a body a nd an inclinometer means to measure an angle of inclination of the body, the body having a plate fixedly secured to the body and arranged to extend beyond an envelope defined by the body, wherein the plate is further arranged for alignment with a plane for measuring the angle of inclination of the body.

Such an apparatus provides the advantage of allowing the plane to be more accurately aligned with the apparatus which may result in a more accurate measurement for the angle of inclination. Fixedly securing the plate to the apparatus so that it is not movable relative to the body also assists with the accuracy of measurement. The plate can be inserted into a geological feature which may be hidden which provides an additional usability to the inclinometer apparatus. Overall the inclinometer apparatus may be more readily useable in the field, and may have the advantage of providing greater accuracy and measurements that are more repeatable.

Preferably the plate is detachably secured to the body. This allows the plate to be replaced as required.

In an alternative arrangement the plate is slidably secured to the body and arranged to be at least partially retractable within the envelope of the body.

This may provide the advantage of allowing the inclinometer apparatus to be more compact in dimension.

Preferably the plate has at least one portion thereof suitable for placement against a geological feature. Preferably the portion is triangular in shape.

Alternatively the portion may be one of rectangular, circular, and square in shape.

In one embodiment the plate is provided with a plurality of portions suitable for placement against a geological feature. This may provide additional functionality to the inclinometer apparatus.

Preferably the inclinometer apparatus further includes a display for displaying measurements of the apparatus. The display may be mounted on the body. Preferably the display is remote from the apparatus, and preferably the display is arranged to be in communication with the apparatus via a cable.

In one embodiment the cable is connectable to more than one side of the body. This may have the advantage of allowing the cable to be plugged into the inclinometer apparatus on different sides so that it does not interfere with placing the inclinometer apparatus on or adjacent to a geological feature.

Preferably the display includes a first linear scale representing an angle of inclination of the inclinometer apparatus relative to a level position.

Preferably the display includes a second linear scale for representing an angIe of inclination of the inclinometer apparatus relative to a level position, wherein the first and the second scales are perpendicular to one another. The perpendicular arrangement of the two linear scales may provide a convenient way to determine a level position for the inclinometer apparatus.

Preferably the apparatus further includes an alert means to indicate a level position of the apparatus. The alert means may be arranged to be provided in the form of a light or a sound. Such an alert means may be useful to determine the level position of the inclinometer apparatus when working on a relatively inaccessible geological feature.

Preferably the apparatus is further arranged to export data from the apparatus. The apparatus may be arranged to wirelessly export data from the apparatus, or to export data via a physical link. The physical link may be connectable to more than one side of the body. This ensures that the physical link does not interfere with placing the inclinometer apparatus on or adjacent to a geological feature.

Preferably the body includes a plurality of rectilinear surfaces. Preferably the body is substantially cuboid in shape. This has the advantage of allowing the body to be aligned with a geological feature using any surface of the body.

Preferably the apparatus further includes a compass means for determining a bearing direction of the plane, and preferably the compass means comprises a solid state compass. Preferably the inclinometer means comprises a solid state inclinometer. Preferably the inclinometer means is arranged to measure the angle of inclination about a plurality of axes.

The plate may be up to twice the length of the body, and in a preferred embodiment the plate is one and a half times the length of the body.

Preferably the plate is symmetrical in shape. Preferably the plate is made of a non-ferrous material.

The apparatus may further include a lamp for illuminating a work area.

According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a kit comprising the apparatus according to the first aspect of the invention and a plurality of plates.

According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided a method of using an inclinometer apparatus, the inclinometer apparatus comprising a body and an inclinometer means, the body having a plate arranged to extend beyond an envelope defined by the body and being fixedly secured to the body, the method including: aligning the plate with a plane; and measuring an angle of inclination of the body using the inclinometer means.

The method may include using a plate which is detachably secured to the body, the method including detaching the plate and replacing it with another plate having a different shape.

The method may include using a plate which is slidably secured to the body, the method including at least partially retracting the plate within the envelope of the body, or at least partially sliding the plate outside the envelope of the body.

Preferably the method includes aligning at least one portion of the plate with a geological feature.

Preferably the method includes providing the apparatus with an alert means to indicate a level position of the apparatus, the method including moving the apparatus to a level position in response to the alert means.

Preferably the method includes measuring the angle of inclination about a plurality of axes.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention there is provided a plate for an inclinometer apparatus, the inclinometer apparatus comprising a body and an inclinometer means to measure an angle of inclination of the body, the plate for securing to the body such that it is arranged to extend beyond an envelope defined by the body, wherein the plate is further arranged for alignment with a plane for measuring the angle of inclination of the body.

The plate may be arranged to be slidably secured to the body and arranged to be at least partially retractable within the envelope of the body.

Preferably at least one portion of the plate is suitable for placement against a geological feature. Preferably the portion is triangular in shape.

Alternatively the portion is one of, rectangular, circular, and square in shape.

In one embodiment the plate is further provided with a plurality of portions suitable for placement against a geological feature.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention there is provided a method of using an inclinometer apparatus, the inclinometer apparatus comprising an inclinometer means and a compass means, the method including: aligning the inclinometer apparatus with the plane; rotating the inclinometer apparatus whilst the inclinometer apparatus is held in the plane; determining a bearing measurement using the compass means at a horizontal pitch position and/or at a horizontal roll position of the inclinometer apparatus to determine an attitude of the plane.

According to an alternative characterisation of the invention there is provided an inclinometer apparatus comprising a body and an inclinometer means to measure an angle of inclination of the body, the body having a planar part arranged to extend beyond an envelope defined by the body, wherein the planar part is further arranged for alignment with a surface for measuring the angle of inclination of the body.

In a preferred embodiment the planar part is a plate. The plate may be fixedly secured to the body. Preferably the plate is detachably secured to the body. In an alternative arrangement the plate is slidably secured to the body and arranged to be at least partially retractable within the envelope of the body.

It will be appreciated that preferred or optional features of one aspect of the invention may also be preferred or optional features of other aspects of the invention.

Embodiments of the invention will now be described in more detail by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a drawing of an inclinometer apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 2 shows axes of rotation of the apparatus of Figure 1; Figure 3 shows a display screen of the inclinometer apparatus shown in Figure 1 according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 4 shows a display screen of the inclinometer apparatus shown in Figure 1 according to another embodiment of the invention; Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of modules of the inclinometer apparatus shown in Figure 1; Figure 6 shows an inclinometer apparatus according to another embodiment and a geological feature; Figure 7 shows a photograph of an inclinometer apparatus shown in Figure 6; Figure 8 shows different shapes for a plate of the inclinometer apparatus shown in Figures 1 and 7; Figure 9 shows a schematic diagram of the inclinometer apparatus of Figures 1 and 7 measuring an attitude of a plane; Figure 10 shows a schematic diagram of the inclinometer apparatus of Figures 1 and 7 measuring an attitude of a plane; Figure 11 shows a geological feature having an exposed plane; Figure 12 shows a geological feature having an exposed plane; Figure 13 shows a schematic diagram of the inclinometer apparatus of Figures 1 and 7 used for measuring a lineation; Figure 14 shows steps of a method used for the measurements described with reference to Figure 9; and Figure 15 shows steps of a method used for the measurements described with reference to Figure 13.

Figure 1 shows a drawing of an inclinometer apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention, generally designated 10. The inclinometer apparatus 10 has a body 12 which is substantially cuboid in shape, with one end 14 of the cuboid being rounded like a half cylinder. The body 12 has a plate 16 fixedly secured on a bottom surface 1 8 of the body 12. The plate 16 conforms in shape to the body 12 on three straight sides of the bottom surface 18, and extends beyond the rounded end 14 such that the plate 16 has a free end 17. In this way the free end 17 extends beyond an envelope defined by the body 12.

The plate 16 is preferably fixedly secured to the body 12 such that it is permanently attached and is not movably attached to the body 12.

Alternatively the plate 16 may be detachably secured to the body 12 such that it can be readily removed from the body 12 and replaced with a different plate as discussed with reference to Figure 8. S uch detachable securement may be provided by screws, or a releasable catch. In a further embodiment the plate is slidably attached to the body 12 such that it can be at least partially retracted within the envelope of the body 12. This may allow the inclinometer apparatus 10 to be more compact in dimension when it is not in use.

In the embodiment of Figure 1 the plate 16 is approximately one and a half times the length of the body 12. The body 12 has a solid state inclinometer and a solid state compass a s discussed below, t o determine an angle of inclination of the body 12 and a bearing direction in which the body 12 is oriented. The body 12 also has a temperature sensor as discussed below.

The body 12 is optionally provided with a display screen 20 to display the measurements from the inclinometer, the compass, and the temperature sensor. Alternatively the measurements can be sent via a cable 22 or wirelessly transmitted to an electronic display device such as a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) or a lap top computer. I f the measurements are transmitted wirelessly the BLUETOOTH protocol may be used.

Alternatively the ZIGBEE, 802.1 lb/g, or other suitable wireless protocols may be used.

The cable 22 is connected to the inclinometer apparatus 10 via a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connector and port. Whereas the cable 22 is shown connected to one side of the inclinometer apparatus 10, it may alternatively be connectable to more than one side such that there may be more than one USB port provided on the inclinometer apparatus 10. This may have the advantage of allowing the cable 22 to be plugged into the inclinometer apparatus 10 on different sides so that it does not interfere with placing the inclinometer apparatus 10 on or adjacent to a geological feature. It will be appreciated that the USB cable and port may also be used to power the inclinometer apparatus 10. Providing the data capture and/or readout via the cable 22 to a PDA or laptop computer allows the inclinometer apparatus 10 to be used to take measurement at locations normally inaccessible to known inclinometer devices. A memory stick may be connectable to the USB port for downloading or uploading data from or to the inclinometer apparatus 10. It will be appreciated that instead of the USB cable and port, the inclinometer apparatus 10 may be provided with Serial port (RS232) and Firewall data communications as required.

The body 12 has an elongate recess 24 on either side to allow it to be gripped and held more easily. A button 26 is provided at one end of the elongate recess 24 operable to display or store measurements from the inclinometer, compass and temperature sensor. The arrangement of the elongate recess 24 and the button 26 at one end thereof may be advantageous when operating the inclinometer at a geological feature, and may assist with operating the apparatus 10. The body 12 may also be provided with a light 27, such as a Light Emitting Diode (LED) to illuminate the geological feature.

The free end 17 of the plate 16 has a V-shaped part or triangular part 28 which is symmetrical about a longitudinal centre line 29. The triangular part 28 is a useful feature for inserting into a fissure 95 of a rock face 96 as discussed with reference to Figure 6.

Figure 2 shows axes of rotation of the apparatus of Figure 1. Like features to the arrangements of Figure 1 are shown with like reference numerals. In Figure 2 the plate 16 is shown having a roll axis 30, and a pitch axis 32 which may both be used to measure an angle of inclination of the inclinometer apparatus 10 as discussed below. Figure 2 also shows that a bearing direction 34 is measured from the roll axis 30 using the solid state compass of the apparatus. It will be understood that the bearing direction may also be referred to as the azimuth direction.

Figure 3 shows a display screen of the inclinometer apparatus shown in Figure 1 according to an embodiment of the invention, generally designated 40. The display screen 30 shows that the inclinometer apparatus 10 is arranged to capture and display a compass bearing direction 42 from the 3600 solid state compass. A pitch angle 44 and a roll angle 46 are also captured from the solid state inclinometer in degrees. The roll angle 46 may also be known as a dip angle when the inclinometer apparatus 10 is used to measure a strike direction described below with reference to Figure 9. In Figure 3 the inclinometer apparatus 10 is also arranged to capture a temperature reading 48 in °C, and may also show when data logging 50 of measurements is taking place. The display screen 40 is arranged so that the bearing direction 42, pitch angle 44, roll angle 46, and temperature reading 48 are continuously displayed in real-time. The display screen 40 may also display the current date and/or time if required. This data may also be stored in internal memory as mentioned below with reference to Figure 5, or on the PDA or lap top computer as required so that data processing may be performed. The button 26 shown in Figure 1 may be arranged so that when it is pressed the display screen 40 shows the measurements 42, 44, 46, 48 and/or that data logging 50 is taking place.

Figure 4 shows a display screen of the inclinometer apparatus shown in Figure 1 according to another embodiment of the invention, generally designated 52. The display screen 52 shows two linear scales 54, 56 perpendicular to one another and at the edges of the display screen 52. Each linear scale 54, 56 shows the deviation of the inclinometer apparatus 10 from the level position by showing the position of a marker 58, 60 from a middle position 62, 64. The linear scales 54, 56 may be used in addition to the numerically presented values of the pitch measurement 44 and the roll measurement 46 to assist a user to locate the inclinometer apparatus 10 at a level position. Alternatively, the linear scales 54, 56 may be provided in the form of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs).

The inclinometer apparatus 10 may be further provided with a light or a buzzer to indicate that the level position has been found. The linear scales 54, 56 permit the level position of the inclinometer apparatus 10 to be determined more easily. It will be appreciated that the display screen 40 of Figure 3 and the display screen 52 of Figure 4 may be overlaid with one another.

Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of modules of the inclinometer apparatus shown in Figure 1, generally designated 70. Figure 5 shows a microprocessor 72 which is arranged to accept data from an inclinometer and compass module 74, a temperature sensor 76, and a real-time clock 78.

A memory 80 is provided, which may be 4 X 512Kb is size, to store any measurements that may be taken in the form of text or EXCEL files. The real-time clock 78 may also have a direct link to the memory 80 to provide a date/time stamp for the data stored in the memory. If required the measurements may be displayed on a display 82 connected to the microprocessor 72.

A USB communication port 84 is also shown connected to the microprocessor 72 for exporting data 86 from the memory 80 which may be via the microprocessor 72. It will be understood that the power supply for the inclinometer apparatus 10 may be provided via a USB bus 88 which may require a voltage regulator 90 at the USB port 84. A battery backup 92 is also shown for the inclinometer apparatus 10 as required.

A suitable inclinometer and compass module 74 is manufactured by HONEYWELL which is a three-axis device that may be tilt-compensated.

The inclinometer and compass module 74 utilises a two-axis accelerometer, such as a HONEYWELL HMC1O22, to provide the pitch measurement 44 and the roll measurement 46 which is operational up to 600 pitch and 60° roll. Alternatively a PNI TCM-5 unit may be used which is operational up to 90° pitch and 90° roll. The pitch measurement 44 and the roll measurement 46 are provided in the form of X-axis and Y-axis Cartesian coordinates. The inclinometer and compass module 74 also utilises a single-axis accelerometer, such as a HONEYWELL HMCIO2IZ, to provide magnetic sensing of the earth's field in the form of Z-axis Cartesian coordinates. Using the inclinometer and compass module 74 the inclinometer apparatus 10 is capable of providing a three dimensional computation of a particular direction, which may be used to determine the bearing direction of a plane as discussed with reference to Figures 9 and 10. It will be appreciated that preferably the plate is made of a non-ferrous material so that it does not interfere with the inclinometer and compass module 74. Accuracy of the inclinometer and compass module 74 is maintained by an intuitive calibration routine that compensates for local stray magnetic fields due to hard or soft iron. Furthermore, the inclinometer and compass module 74 may also be able to compensate for the magnetic

declination of the Earth's magnetic field.

It will be appreciated that the microprocessor 72 may be arranged to periodically query the inclinometer and compass module 74 and to perform any offset corrections that may be required, for example, due to local magnetic field anomalies, before outputting the measurements 42, 44, 46, 48. The microprocessor 72 also performs the external data interface with the USB port 84, and housekeeping functions such as any calibration routines that may be required and displaying data on the display 82. If the inclinometer apparatus 10 is held in the horizontal position, the pitch measurement 44 and the roll measurement 46 are zero and the X-axis and Y-axis sensor inputs dominate the bearing direction 42. When the inclinometer apparatus 10 is tilted, the Z-axis magnetic sensor and the X-axis and Y-axis sensor inputs are used to calculate the bearing direction 42.

All data is converted to an ASCII format before being sent to the microprocessor 72.

Figure 6 shows an inclinometer apparatus 92 according to another embodiment, and a geological feature 94. Like features to the embodiment of Figure 1 are shown with like reference numerals. In Figure 6 the inclinometer apparatus 92 has a flat end 95 instead of the rounded end 14 of the inclinometer apparatus 10 of Figure 1, such that the body 12 of the inclinometer apparatus 92 of Figure 6 is substantially cuboid. All six sides of the body 12 are rectilinear such that the surfaces of the body 12 meet substantially at a right angle to one another. This has the advantage that the body can be aligned against geological features using any surface of the body 12. It will be appreciated that the sides of the body 12 are intended to be relatively accurately rectilinear so that accurate measurements can be obtained. For example, adjacent surfaces may be manufactured to have an accuracy of 90° � 0.2°, and preferably 90° � 0.05°.

The geological feature 94 comprises the fissure 97 in the rock face 96 mentioned above with reference to Figure 1. In Figure 6 the fissure 97 is typically a vertical recess having a flat base 98. The flat base 98 may typically be part of a larger plane 100 which is hidden within the rock face 96. In use the triangular part 28 of the plate 16 can be placed on the flat base 98 of the fissure 95 so that the inclinometer apparatus 92 can be used to measure the angle of inclination of the larger plane 100. The triangular part 28 is a projection from the plate 16 which assists in the measurement of the hidden plane 100 within the rock face 96.

Figure 7 shows a photograph of the inclinometer apparatus 92 shown in Figure 6. Like features to the embodiment of Figure 1 are shown with like reference numerals. In Figure 7 the rectilinear surfaces of the body 12 are shown. The edges of the body 12 are rounded to provide an ergonomic design of the inclinometer apparatus 92. The button 26 is also shown protruding from one surface but it will be appreciated that the button 26 may be provided on any surface of the inclinometer apparatus 92. In another embodiment more than one button 92 is provided on more than one surface of the body so that each button is able to activate the inclinometer apparatus 10 to display or record measurements 42, 44, 46, 48, 50. In a preferred arrangement each button is recessed so that they do not protrude from the surface of the inclinometer apparatus 92. This has the advantage that the one or more buttons do not interfere with the rock surfaces 96, 97, 98 whilst a measurement is being taken. In one embodiment the button 26 and USB port are in an upper surface 99 of the inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 so that all of the other surfaces can be used for placement against the geological feature 94 if required.

The inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 has dimensions of approximately 155mm x 90mm x 30mm, and a weight of approximately 440g. The body 12, containing the electronics, may be machined from billet nylon or other engineering plastic such as DELRIN, or may be moulded as required. Using such a body may improve the dimensional tolerance to which the inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 is made. Such a body may also help with improving dimensional stability caused by heat expansion. Machining the body may help with improving the accuracy of the rectilinear surfaces. It will be understood that the inclinometer and compass module 74 mentioned with reference to Figure 5 is required to be accurately mounted within the body 12. This may be achieved by potting the inclinometer and compass module 74 within the body 12.

In one arrangement the plate 16 is made of titanium although other materials may be used provided they have a sufficient wear resistance, strength, dimensional stability and are non-ferrous, such as carbon fibre reinforced plastic or anodised aluminium. In one embodiment the plate 16 is made of a see-through material such as PERSPEX to allow the underlying geological feature to be viewed. Alternatively the plate may be provided with a window to allow the underlying geological feature to be viewed. Preferably the inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 is waterproof or splash proof so that the electronics within the body 12 are kept dry, and can be protected from the weather. It will also be appreciated that the cable 22 and associated connector would also be required to be waterproof or splash proof. The inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 is intended to be used in an outdoor environment and is intended to be compact and rugged. The inclinometer apparatus also has the advantage of having no moving parts to determine the measurements 42, 44, 46, 48, 50.

In one embodiment the plate 16 of the inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 has a bevelled edge, which may assist with accurate placement of the inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 against a geological feature. The plate 16 may also be provided with a measurement scale for measuring the length of geological features.

Figure 8 shows different shapes for the plate 16 of the inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 shown in Figures 1 and 7. Figure 8 includes diagrams of seven different plates 16 in Figures 8a -8g. Figure 8a shows a rectangular portion or part 102 of the plate 16 instead of the triangular part 28 of Figures 1 and 7. The rectangular part 102 may be a more convenient shape to insert into the fissure 97 of the rock face 96. The rectangular part 102 is about half of the width of the plate 16, and is located at the centre of the plate 16 so that the plate is symmetrical about the centre line 29. The rectangular part 102 projects from the plate 16 from a longer edge of the rectangular part 1 02.

Figure 8b shows a semi-circular part 104 of the plate 16 instead of the triangular part 28 of Figures 1 and 7. The semi-circular part 104 may be a more convenient shape to insert into the fissure 97 of the rock face 96. The semi-circular part 104 is about half of the width of the plate 16, and is located at the centre of the plate 16 so that the plate is symmetrical about the centre line 29.

Figure 8c shows a square part 106 of the plate 16 instead of the triangular part 28 of Figures 1 and 7. The square part 106 may be a more convenient shape to insert into the fissure 97 of the rock face 96. The square part 106 is about one quarter of the width of the plate 16, and is located at the centre of the plate 1 6 so that the plate is symmetrical about the centre line 29.

Figure 8d shows an elongate plate 108 having the triangular part 28 of Figures 1 and 7. The elongate plate 108 is about twice the length of the body 12 of the inclinometer apparatus 10, 92. The elongate plate 108 may be a more convenient shape to insert into a crack in the rock face 96 or into the fissure 97 of the rock face 96. The elongate plate 108 may further be useful to measure a relatively longer geological feature.

Figure 8e shows the plate 16 having an elongate rectangular part 110 instead of the triangular part 28 of Figures 1 and 7. The elongate rectangular part 110 is about one quarter of the width of the plate 16, and is located at the centre of the plate 16 so that the plate is symmetrical about the centre line 29. The elongate rectangular part 110 may be a more convenient shape to insert into a crack of a rock face 96 or the fissure 97 of the rock face 96. The elongate rectangular part 110 projects from the plate 16 from a shorter edge of the elongate rectangular part 110.

Figure 8f shows the rectangular part 102 of Figure 8a offset from the centre line 29 so that a shorter edge of the rectangular part 102 aligns with a longitudinal edge of the plate 16. In Figure 8f the plate 16 is asymmetrical about the centre line 29. It will be appreciated that the plate 16 or the elongate plate 108 may be provided with the rectangular part 102, or the semi-circular part 104, or the square part 106, or the elongate rectangular part 110 in a symmetrical or asymmetrical arrangement.

Figure 8g shows a multi-tool plate 112 which includes the triangular part 28, the elongate rectangular part 110, and the square part 106. In the arrangement of Figure 8g a corner of the triangular part 28 is shown to be at the longitudinal edge of the multi-tool plate 112, the elongate rectangular part 110 is shown to be slightly offset from the centre line 29, and the square part 106 is shown projecting form the longitudinal edge of the multi-tool plate 112. The plate 16 of Figure 8g is asymmetrical about the centre line 29. The multi-tool plate 112 may be arranged with different shaped parts 28, 1 06, 110 or with the parts located at different positions on the multi-tool plate 112 as required.

The plate 16, 108, 112 may be arranged to be readily detachable from the body 12 so that is can be readily replaced. In this embodiment the inclinometer apparatus 12, 92 may be provided as a kit of parts. An inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 having such a readily replaceable plate 16, 108, 112 has the advantage of being able to take measurements 42, 44, 46, 48, 50 for many different types or shapes of geological feature 94, and is a more flexible tool. It will be understood that the plates 16, 108, 112 of Figures 8a -8g all have one or more portions 102, 104, 106, 28, 110 that can be inserted into or placed against the geological feature 94 which may assist the inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 to take measurements relating to the geological feature 94.

Figure 9 shows a schematic diagram of the inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 of Figures 1 and 7 measuring an attitude of a plane 120. In Figure 9 the body 12 of the inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 has been omitted for the purposes of clarity. An edge 122 of the plate 16 is aligned with a horizontal line 124 on the plane 120 which represents a bearing direction of the plane 120, also known as a strike direction. It will be understood that the line 124 is at a right angle to the direction of maximum slope of the plane 120 and may be determined when the roll measurement 46 is at zero. With the edge 122 held against the line 124 the plate 16 is moved to the horizontal position by ensuring that the pitch measurement 44 is at zero. Once the plate 16 is in the horizontal position the bearing measurement 42 can be read from the inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 which represents a direction shown by the black arrow 126. It will be understood that the black arrow 126 is the azimuth bearing direction, which may also be known as the strike direction.

The plate 16 is then tilted to lie on the plane 120 as shown at 128. The roll measurement 46 can then be read from the inclinometer apparatus 1 0, 92 which represents the angle of inclination of the plane 120, which may also be known as a dip angle of the plane 120. Together the bearing measurement 42 and the roll measurement 46 define an attitude of the plane 120, also known as a strike direction and dip of the plane 120.

Figure 10 shows a schematic diagram of the inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 of Figures 1 and 7 measuring an attitude of a plane 120. Like features to the embodiment of Figure 9 are shown with like reference numerals. In Figure the body 12 of the inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 has been omitted for the purposes of clarity. An edge 122 of the plate 16 is aligned with a line which represents a maximum angle of inclination of the plane 120. It will be understood that the line 125 will be read from the compass module 74 of the inclinometer apparatus 10 as the azimuth bearing direction shown by the white arrow 130. The plate 16 is laid on the plane 120 and the pitch measurement 44 is then read which represents the angle of inclination of the plane 120, that may also be known as a dip angle of the plane 120.

Together the bearing measurement 42 and the pitch measurement 44 define an attitude of the plane 120, also known as a dip direction and dip angle of the plane 120.

Figures 9 and 10 show how to measure the angle of inclination of the plane 120 using two different methods. Whereas Figures 9 shows how to measure dip angle and strike direction, Figure 10 shows how to measure dip angle and dip direction. Either method may be used to measure the angle of inclination and bearing direction of a plane depending on the preference of the user. The provision of the two methods may also be a useful feature of the inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 where space is limited for measuring the angle of inclination. Such limited space may be encountered on a rock face where only a small or narrow plane is exposed as shown in Figures 11 and 12.

Figure 11 shows a geological feature 127 having an exposed plane 129. The exposed plane 129 has a maximum angle of inclination shown by the white arrow 130, which is shorter than the length of the plate 16. The space is restricted in the dip direction such that the angle of inclination can only be determined from the roll measurement 46.

Figure 12 shows a geological feature 127 having an exposed plane 129. The exposed plane 129 has a maximum angle of inclination shown by the white arrow 130, which has a shorter width than the length of the plate 16. The space is restricted in the strike direction such that the angle of inclination may be best measured using the pitch measurement 44.

In an alternative arrangement the solid state inclinometer and compass module 74 of the inclinometer apparatus 10 is arranged to measure an attitude of the plane 120 by combining a reading of rotation about the pitch axis 32 with a reading of rotation about the roll axis 30. This is achieved by placing the plate 16 of the inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 on the plane 120 as shown at 128 and rotating the inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 whilst the plate 16 is held against the plane 120. As the plate 16 is rotated each of the pitch axis 32 and the roll axis 30 of the inclinometer apparatus will be horizontal at some point. The microprocessor 72 is then arranged to take the bearing measurement 42 at the horizontal pitch measurement 44 or the horizontal roll measurement 46 so that the attitude of the plane 120 can be determined. This method of determining the attitude of the plane 120 has the advantage that the user is not required to determine the position of the line 124 manually. Instead the microprocessor 72 determines the position of the line 124 as the inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 is rotated on the plane 120.

Figure 13 shows a schematic diagram of the inclinometer apparatus of Figures 1 and 7 used for measuring a lineation 132. Like features to the embodiment of Figure 9 are shown with like reference numerals. In Figure 13 the body 12 of the inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 has been omitted for the purposes of clarity. An edge 122 of the plate 16 is aligned with the lineation 132 which is a line formed by the intersection of two planes 134, 136 which may be different geological features. The bearing measurement 42 of the lineation 132 is then read from the inclinometer apparatus 10, 92.

The plate 16 is then rotated about a rear edge 138 of the plate 16 so that it lies in the horizontal position as shown at 140. The pitch measurement 42 can then be read from the inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 which is the angle of inclination or plunge of the lineation 132.

The inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 may be arranged to provide an indication such as a sound or a light to indicate when the horizontal position of either the pitch measurement 44, or the roll measurement 46 has been reached.

This may be an advantageous feature when it is not possible to view the display screen 20 of the inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 which may be the case at a geological feature 94 that may be awkward to reach. Such an arrangement may be simply provided by the LED 27 or by a sound emitter 23 of the device as shown in Figure 1.

Figure 14 shows steps of a method used for the measurements described with reference to Figure 9. In Figure 14 the method begins at step 150 by aligning the plate 16 with the geological feature 124. The inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 is then rotated to the horizontal position shown at step 152 so that the bearing measurement 42 can be read as shown at step 154. The plate 16 is then tilted to lie against the plane 120 as shown at step 156.

Finally the roll measurement 46 is read at step 158.

Figure 15 shows steps of a method used for the measurements described with reference to Figure 13. In Figure 15 the method begins by aligning the plate 16 with a geological feature 132 as shown at step 160. The bearing measurement 42 is then read as shown at step 162. The inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 is then rotated to the horizontal position as shown at step 164. Finally the pitch measurement 44 is read as shown at step 166.

The inclinometer apparatus 10 described above is a digital inclinometer apparatus having a compass which a field geologist may use as a hand-held instrument for measuring geological features. Such measurements are often required when measuring the attitude of natural geological features such as a fault, a joint, a foliation, bedding planes, and other types of discontinuity within rock masses. It will be appreciated that the inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 may be a useful tool for geologists, and may be useful when quarrying, mining, surveying, and undertaking various civil engineering activities. The inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 may be provided with a sighting means, such as a notch at either end of the body 12, to allow the inclinometer apparatus 10, 92 to be used for direction finding of larger geological features.

It will be understood that the invention is not limited to the embodiment above-described and various modifications and improvements can be made without departing from the various concepts described herein. Any of the features may be employed separately or in combination with any other features, and the invention extends to and includes all combinations and sub-combinations of one or more features described herein in any form of inclinometer apparatus.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An inclinometer apparatus comprising a body and an inclinometer means to measure an angle of inclination of the body, the body having a plate fixedly secured to the body and arranged to extend beyond an envelope defined by the body, wherein the plate is further arranged for alignment with a plane for measuring the angle of inclination of the body.
2. An apparatus according to claim I wherein the plate is detachably secured to the body.
3. An apparatus according to claim 1 or 2 wherein the plate is slidably secured to the body and arranged to be at least partially retractable within the envelope of the body.
4. An apparatus according to claim 1, 2 or 3 wherein the plate has at least one portion thereof suitable for placement against a geological feature.
5. An apparatus according to claim 4 wherein the portion is one of triangular, rectangular, circular, and square in shape.
6. An apparatus according to claim 4 or claim 5 wherein the plate is further provided with a plurality of portions suitable for placement against a geological feature.
7. An apparatus according to any preceding claim and further including a display for displaying measurements of the apparatus.
8. An apparatus according to claim 7 wherein the display is remote from the apparatus.
9. An apparatus according to claim 7 or 8 wherein the display is arranged to be in communication with the apparatus via a cable.
10. An apparatus according to claim 9 wherein the cable is connectable to more than one side of the body.
11. An apparatus according to any of claims 7 -10 wherein the display includes a first linear scale representing an angle of inclination of the inclinometer apparatus relative to a level position.
12. An apparatus according to claim 11 and further including a second linear scale for representing an angle of inclination of the inclinometer apparatus relative to a level position, wherein the first and the second scales are perpendicular to one another.
13. An apparatus according to any preceding claim and further including an alert means to indicate a level position of the apparatus.
14. An apparatus according to claim 13 wherein the alert means is arranged to be provided in the form of a light or a sound.
15. An apparatus according to any preceding claim further arranged to export data from the apparatus.
16. An apparatus according to claim 15 further arranged to wirelessly export data from the apparatus.
17. An apparatus according to claim 15 further arranged to export data via a physical link.
18. An apparatus according to claim 17 wherein the physical link is connectable to more than one side of the body.
19. An apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the body includes a plurality of rectilinear surfaces.
20. An apparatus according to claim 19 wherein the body is substantially cuboid in shape.
21. An apparatus according to any preceding claims and further including a compass means for determining a bearing direction of the plane.
22. An apparatus according to claim 21 wherein the compass means comprises a solid state compass.
23. An apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the inclinometer means comprises a solid state inclinometer.
24. An apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the inclinometer means is arranged to measure the angle of inclination about a plurality of axes.
25. An apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the plate is up to twice the length of the body.
26. An apparatus according to claim 25 wherein the plate is one and a half times the length of the body.
27. An apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the plate is symmetrical in shape.
28. An apparatus according to any preceding claim and further including a lamp for illuminating a work area.
29. An apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the plate is made of a non-ferrous material.
30. An apparatus substantially as described herein.
31. An apparatus substantially as described with reference to the Figures.
32. A kit comprising the apparatus according to any preceding claim and a plurality of plates.
33. A method of using an inclinometer apparatus, the inclinometer apparatus comprising a body and an inclinometer means, the body having a plate arranged to extend beyond an envelope defined by the body and being fixedly secured to the body, the method including: aligning the plate with a plane; and measuring an angle of inclination of the body using the inclinometer means.
34. A method according to claim 33 wherein the plate is detachably secured to the body, the method including detaching the plate and replacing it with another plate having a different shape.
35. A method according to claim 33 or 34 wherein the plate is slidably secured to the body, the method including at least partially retracting the plate within the envelope of the body, or at least partially sliding the plate outside the envelope of the body.
36. A method according to claim33, 34 or 35 further including aligning at least one portion of the plate with a geological feature.
37. A method according to any of claims 33 -36 wherein the apparatus is further provided with an alert means to indicate a level position of the apparatus, the method including moving the apparatus to a level position in response to the alert means.
38. A method according to any of claims 33 -37 and further including measuring the angle of inclination about a plurality of axes.
39. A method substantially as described herein.
40. A plate for an inclinometer apparatus, the inclinometer apparatus comprising a body and an inclinometer means to measure an angle of inclination of the body, the plate for securing to the body such that it is arranged to extend beyond an envelope defined by the body, wherein the plate is further arranged for alignment with a plane for measuring the angle of inclination of the body.
41. A plate according to claim 40 arranged to be slidably secured to the body and arranged to be at least partially retractable within the envelope of the body.
42. A plate according to claim 40 or 41 wherein at least one portion thereof is suitable for placement against a geological feature.
43. A plate according to claim 42 wherein the portion is one of triangular, rectangular, circular, and square in shape.
44. A plate according to claim 42 or 43 further provided with a plurality of portions suitable for placement against a geological feature.
45. A plate according to any of claims 40 -44 which is up to twice the length of the body.
46. A plate according to claim 45 wherein the plate is one and a half times the length of the body.
47. A plate according to any of claims 40 -46 which is symmetrical in shape.
48. A plate according to any of claims 40 -47 which is made of a non-ferrous material.
49. A plate substantially as described herein.
50. A plate substantially as described with reference to the Figures.
51. A method of using an inclinometer apparatus, the inclinometer apparatus comprising an inclinometer means and a compass means, the method including: aligning the inclinometer apparatus with the plane; rotating the inclinometer apparatus whilst the inclinometer apparatus is held in the plane; determining a bearing measurement using the compass means at a horizontal pitch position and/or at a horizontal roll position of the inclinometer apparatus to determine an attitude of the plane.