WO2020181314A1

WO2020181314A1 - Method of and apparatus for obtaining a soil sample

Info

Publication number: WO2020181314A1
Application number: PCT/AU2020/000018
Authority: WO
Inventors: Allan James Yeomans
Original assignee: Allan James Yeomans
Priority date: 2019-03-10
Filing date: 2020-03-10
Publication date: 2020-09-17
Also published as: AU2020236531A1

Abstract

A method of, and apparatus for obtaining a sample of soil in which a hollow tubular body containing a rotatably driven auger is driven into a ground area so that soil is conveyed upwardly to exit the upper end of the tubular body and collect in chamber defined by a skirt surrounding the upper open end of the body. The lower end of the skirt is releasaby held to the tubular body to define an annular collection chamber and a discharge opening is provided at the lower end of the chamber for discharge of collected materials.

Description

METHOD OF AND APPARATUS FOR

OBTAINING A SOIL SAMPLE

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a method of and apparatus for obtaining a soil sample particularly but not exclusively for to obtain an indication of the carbon content of the soil sample and soil from which the sample is taken.

Background Art

[0002] Carbon dioxide in the atmosphere generally considered to be caused by the use of fossil carbon fuels which forms an insulating gas layer or blanket which determines the average temperature of the Earth’s biosphere. Due to the build-up of the carbon dioxide layer in the atmosphere, the biosphere is overheating as a result of the “greenhouse” effect of this layer thereby producing global warming. Reducing the rate at which the layer is increasing in thickness for example by substantially reducing the rate of use of fossil carbon fuels would be insufficient in itself to reduce this heating effect or stop progressive global warming.

[0003] The only current practical, economic and efficient way of removing accumulated excess greenhouse gasses is to sequester carbon dioxide in agricultural soils. In this process carbon in atmospheric carbon dioxide is converted into carbon in organic matter in the soil known as soil humus. Production of soil humus which makes poor soils fertile reduces the need to use strong agricultural chemicals which tends to hinder rapid formation of fertile soil.

[0004] To encourage the use of carbon dioxide sequestration, a scheme has been proposed whereby farmers are paid remuneration based on the tonnage of the carbon dioxide removed from the air by converting it into soil humus or organic matter. One disadvantage of this scheme is that it is difficult to measure organic carbon content in soil.

Substitute Sheet

Rule 26 (RO/AU) [0005] Current methods for measuring carbon content in the soil typically involve the taking of a small sample of soil and testing that sample using chemical analysis or heating in an oven to provide an indication of carbon content in a particular area. The results from these tests are then extrapolated to produce a measure of carbon content over a whole area from which the sample is taken. The current methods are not particularly effective or accurate.

[0006] In my International Patent Application No. PCT/AU2017/059648, I disclose an improved method of and apparatus for obtaining a sample of soil in which a hollow tubular body and a sample collection means in the form of a pliable sheet are provided, the sheet having an opening therein adapted to freely receive the tubular body. The collection means is arranged flat on a ground area and the tubular body positioned in an upright attitude with the lower end thereof arranged within the opening. An auger is inserted into the tubular body and rotated to the tubular body and auger to advance into the ground whereby soil within said tubular body is caused to move relatively upwardly and out of the upper open end of said tubular body to collect on the sample collection means.

[0007] Whilst this method and apparatus have proved an accurate means for collecting a soil sample, usually the procedure is required to be carried out by two persons. Fur thermore, this method and apparatus involves a number of steps and a number of pieces of equipment so that collection of samples can be time consuming.

[0008] The present invention aims to address the above problems or at least provide an alternative method and apparatus for obtaining a soil sample in a reliable and efficient manner. Whilst the method and apparatus of the invention are particularly suited to ob taining a soil sample for carbon content calculations, the method and apparatus may be applied to obtaining soil samples for other purposes.

Substitute Sheet

Rule 26 (RO/AU) Summary of the Invention

[0009] The present invention thus provides in one preferred aspect a method of obtaining a sample of soil from a selected area of ground, said method comprising the steps of providing a hollow tubular body and an auger assembly including an auger and drive means for rotatably driving said auger, a skirt and means for supporting the upper end of said skirt in a position surrounding the upper open end of said tubular body, said skirt extending downwardly from said upper end thereof, means for releasably holding the lower end of said skirt to said tubular body such that said skirt defines with said tubular body, an annular sample collection chamber, inserting said auger into said tubular body, positioning said tubular body in an upright attitude on the ground, and operating said drive means to rotate said auger to thereby cause said tubular body and auger to advance into the ground whereby soil within said tubular body is caused to move relatively upwardly and out of the upper open end of said tubular body to collect in said sample collection chamber.

[0010] Preferably means are provided for defining a discharge opening for discharge of soil from the annular chamber and the method of the invention may also include the steps of positioning the tubular body above a collection container and thereafter permitting the soil sample in the soil collection chamber to be discharged through the discharge opening into the collection container. Preferably the lower end of the skirt is slidably movable along said tubular body between a first elevated position in which said chamber can collect a said soil sample and a lowered position for discharge of collected materials.

[0011] Preferably the auger assembly is detachably secured to the tubular body so as to thereby permit the auger assembly to be rotated or raised relative to the tubular body. This permits soil to be withdrawn from the tubular body or freeing up of the auger where the sampling device is operating for example in highly moist soil.

[0012] In a further preferred aspect, the present invention provides apparatus for obtaining a sample of soil from a ground area, said apparatus comprising a hollow

Substitute Sheet

Rule 26 (RO/AU) tubular body, an auger assembly including an auger adapted to be received in said tubular body, and drive means for said auger, a skirt and means for supporting the upper end of said skirt in a position surrounding the upper open end of said tubular body, said skirt extending downwardly from said upper end thereof, means for releasably holding the lower end of said skirt to said tubular body so as to define with said tubular body, a sample collection chamber whereby when said tubular body is supported on ground area and said auger is rotatably driven said auger and tubular body advance into the ground, said auger causing soil within said tubular body to move relatively upwardly out of the upper open end of said tubular body for collection in said annular collection chamber.

[0013] Preferably, the apparatus includes one or more discharge openings to allow for discharge of soil from the collection chamber. Preferably the discharge opening/s is/are closed during operation of the auger but may be opened to allow for discharge of soil from the annular chamber. Preferably the lower end of the skirt is secured around the periphery of an annular or ring-like member which is located around and radially spaced from the tubular body and the discharge opening or openings is/are defined by the annular space between the annular or ring-like member and the tubular body.

[0014] Preferably releasable closure means are provided to close the annular space. The closure means suitably comprise closure members which may be moved to a position blocking or closing the annular space or moved away from the blocking position to open the annular space to allow discharge of soil from the annular chamber. The closure members in the blocking or closing position preferably lie in a plane extending normal to the longitudinal axis of the tubular body. Preferably the closure members are pivotally movable between the blocking and non- blocking positions. Preferably the closure member are hingedly mounted to the annular or ring-like member and have an edge which is complementary to the outer surface of the tubular body such that in the blocking position, the edge mates with the outer surface of the tubular body. Preferably there are a pair of closure members, each mounted hingedly to respective opposite diametric sides of the annular or ring-like body, and each being of half-annular form. The curved surface of the half - annular body remote from its hinge axis is suitably of a

Substitute Sheet

Rule 26 (RO/AU) radius substantially the same as the radius of the outer surface of the tubular body so as to be able to mate therewith.

[0015] Means are provided for moving the closure members between a position where they extend across the annular space and mate with the tubular body to close the discharge opening to a position where the closure members move away from a mating position with the tubular body to open the discharge opening, Such means may comprise tethers secured to the respective closure members, the tethers extending upwardly through the annular chamber to be accessible from the upper end of the skirt. Tension may be applied to tethers to pivot the closure members towards a closed position or released to allow the closure members to pivot downwardly under the influence of gravity to an open position. The tethers may be anchored or tied off to a part of the apparatus to maintain the closed position. The tethers may comprise a rope, cord or wire however the tethers may comprise rigid elongated members.

[0016] In a further alternative embodiment, the means for releasably holding the skirt to the tubular body comprises a band or tie of elastic material which can surround the skirt lower end and urge it against the outer surface of the tubular body. The elastic band however may be readily released to allow the lower end of the skirt to move away from and free of the tubular body to allow release of the contents of the annular collection chamber. The band typically may comprise“bungy” cord. The band alternately may comprise non-elastic material such as a cord which may be looped around the lower end of the skirt and tightened to hold the end of the skirt against the tubular body.

[0017] In this embodiment, preferably the normal lower end of the skirt is provided with a radial enlargement, The radial enlargement is in the nature of piping and defined sleeve at the normal lower end of the skirt. The member may comprise a length of rope or cord. The radial enlargement acts as a stop cooperating with the elastic cord when the latter secures the lower end of the skirt to the tubular body to prevent detachment of the skirt from the body.

Substitute Sheet

Rule 26 (RO/AU) [0018] Preferably the apparatus includes opposite elongated handles or arms, which are connected rigidly to the tubular body. The tethers may be tied off to the arms. Preferably brackets on opposite diametrical sides of the tubular body support the respective handles or arms to the body... Preferably, the tubular body has a collar at its upper end to which the brackets may be fixed to extend upwardly therefrom. The brackets may also support an annular ring-like member which lies in a plane at right angles to the axis of the auger. The annular ring-like member can also serve as a gripping handle for manipulating the apparatus.

[0019] Preferably the skirt is supported at its upper end to the arms or handles. Preferably the skirt is supported on an annular ring member. Preferably the annular ring member is formed of a rigid material such as a steel rod. Preferably respective hooks are provided on the arms or handle to engage the ring member at opposite diametrical locations thereon and support the ring member in an attitude extending normal to the axis of the tubular body. The hooks as suitably radially outwardly directed.. Suitably, the skirt is provided with a sleeve at its upper end which accommodates the ring member. Suitably the ring member is split at one location in its periphery so that it may be radially and circumferentially expanded to enable engagement with the hooks. Preferably the free ends of the ring member at the spit are adapted for releasable engagement or disengagement with each other. Preferably one end of the ring member defines a spigot adapted for receipt in a socket provided on the opposing end of the ring member. Normally the resilience of the material of the ring member holds the spigot engaged with the socket. Preferably the ring member and thus upper end of the skirt have a greater diameter than the tubular member and lower end of the skirt such that the skirt is of a frustoconical configuration. The lower end of the skirt however for collection of soil samples may be slid upwardly towards the upper end of the skirt so as to form the collection chamber into the shape of a solid of revolution of somewhat toroidal configuration. In this configuration, the effective depth of the chamber will be reduced therefore allowing for increase penetration or the auger and tubular body into the ground. For discharge of materials from the chamber, the lower end of the skirt may be slid downwardly along the tubular body so that the skirt adopts the frustoconical configuration.

Substitute Sheet

Rule 26 (RO/AU) [0020] Preferably means are provided to detachably interconnecting the main body assembly and the auger assembly so that when disconnected the main body assembly can be rotated relative to the auger assembly about an upright axis. Furthermore the auger may be elevated relative to the main body assembly.

[0021] Preferably, the interconnecting means includes a planar support member on the auger assembly and which is adapted to be captured by capturing means on the main body, Preferably the planar member is supported by spaced brackets fixed to opposed sides of the auger assembly such that the planar member lies in a plane at right angles to the axis of rotation of the auger. Preferably the shaft of the auger passes freely through the planar member suitably through an aperture therein.

[0022] The capturing means suitably comprises respective capturing members adapted to locate on opposite sides of the planar member. The respective capturing members define a gap therebetween to allow for rotation of the planar member between a captured position and non-captured position. Preferably the respective capturing members comprise a ledge or ledges on which the planar member may seat and a finger or fingers which is/are spaced from the ledge or ledges to overlie peripheral portions of the planar member.

[0023] Preferably the respective capturing members are defined in brackets which are fixed to the tubular body, Thus when the planar member is supported on the ledges, the ledges serve as stops limiting movement of the auger through the tubular body. Preferably the arrangement is such when the auger assembly and main body assembly are interconnected, the auger extends a short distance beyond the lower end of the tubular body. Preferably however the auger does not project a distance more than half of the diameter of the tubular body beyond the end of the body.

[0024] Preferably the brackets on the body comprise a pair of brackets on opposite diametrical sides of the body. Preferably, the tubular body has a collar at its upper end to which the brackets may be fixed to extend upwardly therefrom. Preferably the

Substitute Sheet

Rule 26 (RO/AU) brackets are also supported intermediate the ledges by an annular ring like member which lies in a plane at right angles to the axis of the auger. The annular ring also serves as a gripping handle for manipulating the apparatus.

[0025] To allow for engagement and disengagement of the planar member from the main body, the planar member is provided in its periphery with one of more slots which may be aligned with one or more fingers respectively on the brackets fixed to the tubular body. The slots are of slightly greater dimensions than the fingers such that when aligned, elevation of the auger assembly will cause the fingers to move through the slots to free the planar member from capture between the fingers and ledges.

[0026] To assist penetration of the tubular body into the ground, the operative lower or leading end thereof is of a saw tooth configuration, the latter comprising a plurality of teeth. When the tubular body is rotated and a downward force applied to the body, the teeth will penetrate the ground irrespective of its makeup permitting the body to move downward into the ground.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiment

[0027] Reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings which illustrate preferred embodiments of the invention and wherein :

[0028] Fig 1 illustrates in exploded isometric front view the components of the apparatus for obtaining soil samples according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0029] Fig 1 A is an exploded view of the region A of Fig 1 ;

[0030] Fig 1 B is a view of the region B of Fig 1 ;

[0031] Fig 1 C is a sectional view of the region C of Fig 1 ;

[0032] Fig 1 D is a cross sectional view in the direction D-D of Fig 1 ;

[0033] Fig 2 is a side view of the apparatus of Fig 1 with the components thereof assembled;

[0034] Fig 3 is an enlarged isometric view of the outlet of the apparatus shown in region E of Fig 2;

Substitute Sheet

Rule 26 (RO/AU) [0035] Fig 4 is a view in the direction F of Fig 3;

[0036] Fig 5 illustrates details of the releasable connection between the auger assembly and main body of the apparatus;

[0037] Fig 6 illustrates the auger assembly when disconnected from the main body of the apparatus;

[0038] Fig 7 illustrates in part-sectional view the apparatus ready for use;

[0039] Figs 8 and 9 illustrate in part- sectional view the apparatus operating at different depths in the ground;

[0040] Fig 10 illustrates in part-sectional view the apparatus discharging collected materials;

[0041] Fig 11 is an enlarged isometric view of the region G of Fig. 10;

[0042] Fig 12 is a view in the direction FI of Fig 11 ;

[0043] Fig 13 illustrates a further embodiment of main soil collection body for apparatus according to the present invention;

[0044] Fig 14 and 15 illustrate how materials are collected by and discharged from the main collection body of Fig 13; and

[0045] Fig 16 shows the soil collection apparatus supported to a vehicle.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiment

[0046] Referring to the drawings and firstly to Fig. 1 , there is illustrated the components of apparatus 10 for obtaining a sample of soil from the ground, the apparatus 10 including an outer ground penetrating body assembly 11 having a tubular body 12 which is open at each end and which is provided at its upper end with a collar 13 typically formed integrally with or attached to the tubular body 12, the collar 13 having an upper peripheral outwardly angled frustoconical surface 14. Mounted to opposite diametrical sides of the collar 13 are a pair of upstanding brackets 15 to which respective opposite arms or handles 16 are rigidly secured, the arms 16 extending in opposite radial directions relative to the collar 13 and body 12..

[0047] In addition, both arms 16 are provided on their lower side with respective radially outwardly directed hooks 17 for supporting a downwardly extending skirt 18 formed of a

Substitute Sheet

Rule 26 (RO/AU) fabric or other pliable material.. The skirt 18 is provided with an upper sleeve 19 which is adapted to receive a rigid circular skirt supporting member 20 in the form of a rod which is split at one position along its periphery as at 21 (see Fig 1A). One free end of the member 20 defines a spigot 22 and the other end of the member is provided with a short tubular member 23 which defines a socket which is adapted to receive the spigot 22.

[0048] To support the member 20 to the arms 16, the spigot 22 is forced out of the socket member 23 against the inherent resilience of the member 20 and the peripheral portion of the member 20 opposite the split portion 21 is engaged with a hook 17. The spigot 22 is then inserted into the hollow socket 23 with the latter being engaged with the other hook 17 so that the circular member 20 is retained to the arms 16 in a position extending normal to the axis of the body 12, the resilience of the member maintaining the spigot 22 in the socket 23.

[0049] The skirt 18 is thus supported to the arms 16 with the upper end thereof surrounding the upper end of the tubular body 12. The skirt 18 is of a frustoconical shape defining a volume which tapers downwardly towards its lower end 24 where it is secured by adhesives and/or mechanical fasteners to the outer surface of an annular or ring-like member 25 which surrounds the tubular body 12 and which has an inner diameter greater than the outer diameter of the body 12 so that an annular gap or opening 26 is defined therebetween (see also Fig 3). Mounted to diametrically opposite sides of the annular member 25 via respective horizontal axis hinges 27 are respective half-annular closure members 28 (see Fig 3, 4, 11 and 12). The members 28 have a free inner surface or edge 29 of a diameter substantially the same as the outer diameter of the tubular body 12 and the distance between a hinge axis and the surface or edge 29 is such that when moved to the position in which the member 28 is normal to the axis of the tubular member 12, the surface or edge 29 will mate with the outer surface of the body 12 as shown in Fig 4. When both closure members 28 are moved to this position, the members 28 cooperate with each other and the tubular body 12 to close the annular gap or opening 26.

Substitute Sheet

Rule 26 (RO/AU) [0050] To enable the members 28 to be pivoted about their hinge axes, respective tethers 30 (see Fig 3) are secured to the members 28 and extended upwardly through the interior of the skirt 18 so as to enable them to be grasped by hand and tied off as describe further below to vary the position of the members 28.

[0051] The tubular body 12 as shown in Fig 1C has at its lower end a sawtooth configuration comprising a plurality of teeth 31. This will assist the body 12 in penetrating the ground when a downward force is applied to the main body assembly

11 and/or the body assembly 11 is rotated manually in opposite directions by means of the arms 16.

[0052] The apparatus 10 additionally includes a high speed power driven auger assembly typically a combustion engine powered auger assembly 32 comprising an auger 33 having a diameter slightly less than the internal diameter of the tubular body

12 and an internal combustion engine 34 coupled to the auger 33 via a clutch 35. The auger assembly 32 alternatively may include an electric drive motor rather that a combustion engine. The auger assembly 32 is further provided with opposite handles

36 which facilitate gripping of and manipulation of the auger assembly 32.

[0053] The auger assembly 32 is adapted to be releasably connected to the body assembly 11 and for this purpose is provided with a planar partly disc-shaped support member 37 which can be captured to the body assembly 11. (see Figs 1 D, 5 and 6}. The auger assembly 32 is provided with a base member 38 of channel-shaped cross- section through which the shaft 39 of the engine 34 or of the auger 33 passes. Fixed such as by bolting to the opposite flanges 40 of the base member 38 are respective T- shaped brackets 41 and the planar member 37 is secured to the legs 4T of the brackets 41 such as by welding so as to lie in a plane at right angles to the shaft 39. The member

37 (see Fig 1 F) which is of a part disc-shaped configuration has a central aperture 37’ through which the shaft 39 may freely pass.

[0054] The brackets 15 attached to the tubular body 12 define at their upper ends respective diametrically opposed ledges 42 upon which the planar member 37 may seat

Substitute Sheet

Rule 26 (RO/AU) (Fig 1 to 5). To retain the planar member 37 in position, the brackets 15 also define fingers 43 which overlie the ledges 42 so that the periphery of the planar member 37 can be captured therebetween. The spacing between the fingers 43 and ledges 42 however is greater than the thickness of the planar member 37 so that the member 37 can be rotated in its own plane relatively to the ledges 42.

[0055] The planar member 37 also includes diametrically opposite slots 44 extending radially inwardly from the outer periphery of the member 37, the slots 44 having a width slightly greater than the width of the fingers 43. The auger assembly 32 may be detached from the main body 11 by rotating the auger assembly 32 about the shaft 39 or shaft axis of the auger 33. This will also rotate the planar member 37 until the slots 44 therein are aligned with the fingers 43. The auger assembly 32 can then be elevated vertically to move the fingers 44 through the slots 43 and disengage the auger assembly 32 from the body 11. This allows the auger assembly 32 to be manipulated by hand independently to remove soil from the tubular body12 or to clear blockages.

[0056] To prevent the auger assembly 32 from inadvertently detaching from the main body 12, a stop or stops may be proved on the member 37 to limit its rotation relative to the brackets 15. For this purpose, the planar member 37 may be provided with holes 45 therein on opposite sides of the slots 44 which can receive respective stop pins, bolts or members which can abut the brackets 15 shown in dotted outline in Fig 1 D to prevent the planar member 37 from rotating to a detaching position unless the stop pins or members are released or removed.

[0057] To enable the apparatus 10 to be readily deployed and moved to a selected location, the auger assembly 32 is provided with a lifting harness 46 in the form of a rigid frame assembly which is mounted such as by bolting to the opposite brackets 41 and extends upwardly to terminate at an apex 47 above the internal combustion engine 31 (see Fig 2). The apex 47 defines a lifting point to which the cable of a lifting device 48 such as crane may be attached (see also Fig 16).

Substitute Sheet

Rule 26 (RO/AU) [0058] For taking a soil sample or samples from a particular area of ground, the lifting device 48 is simply actuated to elevate the apparatus 10 and move it to a desired location. The lower end of skirt 18 and attached annular member 25 are then slid upwardly to a position adjacent the collar 16 which forms the skirt 18 into an annular receptacle or chamber 49 of somewhat of a toroidal shape as shown in Fig 7. Further in this position, tension is applied to tethers 30 to cause the closure members 28 to move to the closed position of Figs. 6 and 7. To hold the closure members 28 in that position, the tethers 30 are tied off to the handles 16. Alternately, the tethers 30 may be provided with stops for example defined by knots, which can cooperate with slots in the handles 16. The tethers 30 also serve to maintain the lower end of the skirt 18 in its elevated position defining the toroidal-shaped chamber 49.

[0059] After the apparatus 10 is positioned where the sample is required to be taken the engine 34 of the auger assembly 32 is operated to rotate the auger 33 at high speed which will cause it to be advanced into the ground as shown in Fig 8. During this operation, the arms 16 are grasped by hand to prevent or limit rotation of the body 12. The tubular body 12 will follow the auger 33 as it is advanced into the ground. As the auger 33 is rotated at a high speed, soil 50 within the body 12 will be conveyed through the tubular body 12 upwardly by the auger flights to exit the tubular body 12 at the upper end thereof and be deposited into the annular receptacle 49 as at 51. (Direction of materials downwardly for collection is further enhanced by the inclined upper surface 14).

[0060] As the auger assembly 32 is continued to be operated, the tubular body 12 advances with the auger 33 into the soil or ground (see Fig 9). To assist in this movement, the tubular body 12 can be rotated by hand by moving the handles 16 in opposite directions so that the teeth 31 penetrate the ground and the body 12 advances downwardly into the soil.

[0061] When the collar 13 of the tubular body 12 and/or brackets 15 nears the ground level or if the chamber 49 becomes full or when sufficient materials have been collected such as shown in Fig 9, the auger assembly 32 is then stopped and the apparatus 10

Substitute Sheet

Rule 26 (RO/AU) can be elevated clear of the ground and positioned over a sample collection container 52 as shown in Fig 10. The lower end of the skirt 18 and annular member 25 can then be slid downwardly along the tubular body 12 to the position of Fig 19 and at the same time the tethers 30 can be released from the handles 16 which will permit the closure members 28 to pivot or swing downwardly to the position of Fig 11 which opens the gap or space 26 between the annular member 25 and tubular body 12 which allows the materials 51 collected in the receptacle 49 to be discharged between the body 12 and annular member 25 at the lower end of the skirt 18 and collect in the container 52.

[0062] In an alternative embodiment shown in Fig 13 in which like components to those of the apparatus of Fig 1 and 2 have been given like numerals, the means for releasably holding the skirt to the tubular body comprises an band 53 of elastic material which can surround the skirt end and urge it against the outer surface of the tubular body. The elastic band however may be readily released to allow the lower end of the skirt to move away from and free of the tubular body to allow release of the contents of the annular collection chamber. The band typically may comprise“bungy” cord but may alternatively comprise a tie of non-elastic material which can be tied around the skirt 18’.

[0063] Preferably the normal lower end of the skirt is provided with a radial enlargement, The radial enlargement is in the nature of piping and defined by a member located in sleeve at the normal lower end of the skirt. The member may comprise a length of rope or cord. The radial enlargement acts as a stop cooperating with the elastic cord when the latter secures the lower end of the skirt to the tubular body to prevent detachment of the skirt from the body.

[0064] In use the apparatus 10’ using the modified skirt 18’ is moved to a desired location and an elastic belt or strap such as a bungy cord 53 is wrapped about the lower end of the skirt 18’ above the piping 55,56 as shown in Fig 13 to urge the lower end of the skirt 18’ into substantial sealing engagement with the tubular body 12. The lower end of skirt 18’ is then slid upwardly to a position adjacent the collar 13 which forms the skirt 18’ into a chamber 57 of toroidal shape. The enlarged piping 55,56 of the skirt 18’

Substitute Sheet

Rule 26 (RO/AU) acts as a stop cooperating with the elastic band 53 to prevent the band 53 sliding off the lower end of the skirt 18’ when materials are received in the chamber 57 as shown in Fig 14.

[0065] The apparatus 10’ is operated in the same manner as that described for the apparatus 10 with the engine 34 of the auger assembly 32 being operated to rotate the auger 33 at high speed which will cause the tubular body 12 to be advanced into the ground as shown in Fig 14. As the auger 33 is rotated at a high speed, soil 58 within the body 12 will be conveyed through the tubular body 12 upwardly by the auger flights to exit the tubular body 12 at the upper end thereof and be deposited into the chamber 57 as at 59.

[0066] When the collar 13 of the tubular body 12 and/or brackets 15 reaches or nears the ground level or it the receptacle 57 becomes full or when sufficient materials have been collected, the auger assembly 32 is then stopped and the apparatus 10’ can be elevated clear of the ground and positioned over a sample collection container 60 as show in Fig 15. The end of the skirt 18’ can then be slid downwardly to the position of Fig 15 and the elastic band 53 can then be released which frees the lower end of the skirt 18’ from the body 12 and allows the materials 59 collected in the receptacle 57 to be discharged between the body 12 and skirt 18’ through the opening 61 at the lower end of the skirt 18’ to collect in the container 60.

[0067] For ease of operation, it is preferred to provide the apparatus 10 {and 10’) as a vehicle mounted apparatus and for this purpose, the apparatus 10 may be supported by a davit- like crane 48 or other lifting device mounted on the tray 63 of a vehicle (see Fig 16). The crane 48 is provided with a lower base member 64 fixed to the tray 63 and an upstanding leg 65 mounted to the base member 64 for rotation about a vertical axis. A telescopic arm assembly 66 is pivotally connected to the upper end of the leg 65 and a ram 67 between the leg 65 and arm assembly 66 allows the arm assembly 66 to be raised and lowered. A remotely controlled electric winch 68 has a winch cable 69, which passes around a sheave at the end of the arm assembly 66 for connection to a load in this case to the apex 47 of the lifting frame assembly 46 of the apparatus 10 (or

Substitute Sheet

Rule 26 (RO/AU) 10’). The vehicle-mounted crane 48 enables the apparatus 10 (or 10’) to be transported to site, to be rotated, elevated and lowered to position the apparatus 10 (or 10”) where required for taking of a soil sample. The crane 62 further permits the elevation of the apparatus 10 (or 10’) at the completion of the collection operation, the apparatus 10 (or 10’) to be positioned over a container for collection of the sample and then loaded back onto the tray enable its transport to another site. Thus all operations can be carried out by a single operator.

[0068] The term“soil” as used throughout the specification and claims includes earth or ground of any form and any mixture of organic and inorganic materials.

[0069] It will be appreciated that the apparatus of the invention may be/ in many different configurations other than that illustrated and described to perform the method of the invention. The mounting arrangement for the skirt 14 may be other than that described and illustrated in the embodiment and other means may be provided for releasably interconnecting the auger assembly 32 and main body assembly 11.

[0070] Any reference to prior art herein is not to be taken as an acknowledgement that such art constitutes common general knowledge. Further the terms“comprising” or “comprises” as used throughout the specification and claims are taken to specify the presence of the stated features, integers and components referred to but not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other feature/s, integer/s, component/s or group thereof.

[0071] Whilst the above has been given by way of illustrative embodiment of the invention, all such variations and modifications thereto as would be apparent to persons skilled in the art are deemed to fall within the broad scope and ambit of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Substitute Sheet

Rule 26 (RO/AU)

Claims

1. A method of obtaining a sample of soil from a selected area of ground, said method comprising the steps of providing a hollow tubular body and an auger assembly including an auger and drive means for rotatably driving said auger, a skirt and means for supporting the upper end of said skirt in a position surrounding the upper open end of said tubular body, said skirt extending downwardly from said upper end thereof, means for releasably holding the lower end of said skirt to said tubular body such that said skirt defines with said tubular body, an annular sample collection chamber, inserting said auger into said tubular body and positioning said tubular body in an upright attitude on the ground, and operating said drive means to rotate said auger to thereby cause said tubular body and auger to advance into the ground whereby soil within said tubular body is caused to move relatively upwardly and out of the upper open end of said tubular body to collect in said sample collection chamber.

2. The method of claim 1 wherein means are provided defining a discharge opening for discharge of soil from said annular chamber and including the steps of positioning the tubular body above a collection container and thereafter permitting the soil sample in the soil collection chamber to be discharged through the discharge opening into the collection container.

3. The method of claim 2 wherein said lower end of said skirt is slidably movable along said tubular body between a first elevated position in which said chamber can collect a said soil sample and a lowered position for discharge of collected materials.

4. Apparatus for obtaining a sample of soil from a ground area, said apparatus comprising a main body assembly having a hollow tubular body, an auger assembly including an auger adapted to be received in said tubular body, and drive means for said auger, a skirt and means for supporting the upper end of said skirt in a position surrounding the upper open end of said tubular body, said skirt extending downwardly from said upper end thereof, means for releasably holding the lower end of said skirt to said tubular body so as to define with said tubular body, an annular sample collection chamber whereby when said tubular body is supported on ground area and said auger

Substitute Sheet

Rule 26 (RO/AU) is rotatably driven said auger and tubular body advance into the ground, said auger causing soil within said tubular body to move relatively upwardly out of the upper open end of said tubular body for collection in said annular collection chamber.

5. Apparatus as claimed in claim 4 and including one or more openable discharge openings to allow for discharge of soil from the collection chamber.

6. Apparatus as claimed in claim 5 wherein the lower end of the skirt is secured around the periphery of an annular or ring-like member which is located around and radially spaced from the tubular body and wherein the discharge opening or openings are defined by the annular space between the annular or ring-like member and the tubular body.

7. Apparatus as claimed in claim 6 wherein releasable closure means are provided to close the annular space, said closure means comprising one or more closure members which may be moved to a position blocking the annular space or moved away from the blocking position to open the annular space to allow discharge of soil from the annular chamber.

8. Apparatus as claimed in claim 7 wherein the closure members are hingedly mounted to the annular or ring-like member and have an free edge which is complementary to the outer surface of the tubular body such that in the blocking position, the edge mates with the surface of the tubular body

9. Apparatus as claimed in claim 8 wherein there are two closure members mounted hingedly to opposite diametrical sides of the annular or ring-like body, and each being of half-annular form, the curved surface of the half - annular body remote from the hinge axis being of a radius substantially the same as the radius if the outer surface of the tubular body so as to be able to mate therewith.

10. Apparatus as claimed in claim 9 wherein means are provided for moving the closure members between a position where they extend across the annular space and mate

Substitute Sheet

Rule 26 (RO/AU) with the tubular body to close the discharge opening to a position where the closure members move away from a mating position with the tubular body to open the discharge opening.

11. Apparatus as claimed in claim 4 wherein a tie or band is provided to releasably secure said lower end of said skirt to said tubular body, said discharge opening being defined between the lower end of said skirt and said tubular body when said tie or band is released.

12. Apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 4 to 10 and including opposite elongated handles or arms which are connected rigidly to the tubular body and wherein brackets on opposite diametrical sides of the tubular body support the respective handles or arms to the body.

13. Apparatus as claimed in claim 12 wherein said skirt is supported at its upper end on an annular ring member detachably secured to said arms or handles.

14. Apparatus as claimed in claim 12 wherein respective hooks are provided on the arms or handle to engage the ring member at opposite diametrical locations thereon and support the ring member in an attitude extending normal to the longitudinal axis of the tubular body.

15. Apparatus as claimed in claim 14 wherein said ring member is split at one location in its periphery so that it may be circumferentially expanded to enable engagement with the hooks and wherein the free ends of the ring member at the spit are adapted for releasable engagement or disengagement with each other.

16. Apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 15 wherein said ring member and thus upper end of the skirt have a greater diameter than the tubular member and lower end of the skirt such that the skirt is of a frustoconical configuration.

Substitute Sheet

Rule 26 (RO/AU)

17. Apparatus as claimed in claim 16 wherein said lower end of said skirt for collection of soil samples may be slid upwardly towards the upper end of the skirt so as to form the collection chamber into the shape of a solid of revolution of part toroidal configuration.

18. Apparatus as claimed in claim 17 wherein for discharge of materials from the chamber, said lower end of said skirt may be slid downwardly along said tubular body so that the skirt adopts the frustoconical configuration.

19. Apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 4 to 18 wherein means are provided to detachably interconnecting the main body assembly and the auger assembly so that when disconnected the main body assembly can be rotated relative to the auger assembly about an upright axis and the auger may be elevated relative to the main body assembly.

20. Apparatus as claimed in claim 19 wherein said interconnecting means includes a planar support member on the auger assembly and which is adapted to be captured by capturing means on the main body assembly, the capturing means comprising respective capturing members adapted to locate on opposite sides of the planar member, the respective capturing members define a gap therebeween to allow for rotation of the planar member between a captured position and non-captured position.

Substitute Sheet

Rule 26 (RO/AU)