WO2024166017A1

WO2024166017A1 - Measurement tool installation apparatus and method

Info

Publication number: WO2024166017A1
Application number: PCT/IB2024/051138
Authority: WO
Inventors: Roland Greenwood
Original assignee: Imdex Technologies Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2023-02-08
Filing date: 2024-02-07
Publication date: 2024-08-15
Also published as: AU2023200689A1

Abstract

A method of installing a measurement tool in a drill hole into a formation comprising, in any order: connecting the measurement tool to a cable on a rodder reel, and feeding a measurement tool in the conduit to deploy the tool in the drill hole, wherein the method comprises any one or more the following steps: connecting a flexible or pivotable drill hole tool connector between the measurement tool and the cable; arranging a stabilisation device on the cable, the stabilisation device configured to reversibly prevent the cable freely moving into the drill hole; installing the cable in a cable support; and controlling the maximum speed of the cable reel with a brake. Also the stabilisation device, the drill hole tool, the cable support and the rodder wheel with the maximum speed brake.

Description

MEASUREMENT TOOL INSTALLATION APPARATUS AND METHOD

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to an apparatus and/or method for surveying holes in underground mines or similar.

BACKGROUND

In underground mines, overhead drill holes in the roof of the mine require surveying. Traditionally, that requires the use of an elevated platform (for example a scissor lift) preferably with a basket or similar apparatus to lift a person(s) to the entry point of the hole or as is known in the industry the "collar" of the hole.

This workflow process presents numerous health and safety concerns. To reduce risk while a survey log is taken, then the workflow process usually requires one person to operate the elevated platform with at least two people on the platform or in the basket to position and operate a survey tool to ensure an accurate survey of the hole is carried out with another person on the ground operating the lift or is there for health and safety reasons. In more complicated underground mine sites, more than 3 people may be required.

It should be noted that underground mines, although not too dissimilar from above ground mines, have a different set of problems which are not encountered in above ground mines. These include for example operating within a confined physical space, ensuring adequate ventilation of air, structural integrity of the mine space is maintained, manoeuvrability, poor visibility with limited peripheral vision, trip hazards, obstructing objects etc. However, the economic drivers of the mine to mill comminution process including optimisation of on-site mine workflows, minimization of environmental impacts and increasing health and safety factors equally apply to an underground mine.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to provide a method and/or apparatus for surveying holes in underground mines or similar.

In the specification, reference to top end, bottom end and upright position can be relative to when the installer has been installed and is in use. When the installer is not in use and/or is disassembled (e.g., it might be placed horizontally on the ground), these terms can still be used even if the installer is not upright and/or the ends are not at the top and the bottom. The problems and drivers present in underground mine surveying contribute towards mine sites looking at ways to improve efficiencies in these areas while simultaneously improving health and safety for its employees.

In one aspect the present invention may be said to comprise a stabilisation apparatus for a cable in a drill hole of an underground mine, the stabilisation apparatus comprising: a support for locating the stabilisation apparatus at or near the collar of the drill hole, a cable pathway configured to guide the cable through the stabilisation apparatus, and a cable locker, or locking means, for locking the position of the cable relative to the stabilisation device.

Optionally the cable locker is a friction cable locker.

Optionally the cable locker may be a locking means such as a cam or clamp or spring loaded surface.

Optionally the cable locker comprises a surface configured to engage against the cable, locking the cable between the surface and the support when the cable locker is activated.

Optionally the support comprising a surface configured to engage the cable when the cable locker is activated.

Optionally the cable locker is automatic and/or is engaged by the cable moving through the cable pathway.

Optionally the cable locker comprises a cam or clamp, optionally a spring loaded cam or clamp.

Optionally the cable locker has a release, optionally a lever.

Optionally the cable locker is pivotally attached to the support.

Optionally the support comprises a first end configured to sit above the drill hole and a second end configured to sit inside the drill hole, wherein the first end is wider than the second end.

Optionally comprising a tapering or narrowing surface between the first and second ends. Optionally the tapering or narrowing surface is substantially continuous around the outside of the stabilisation apparatus.

Optionally the tapering or narrowing surface comprising one or more edges of one or more plates.

Optionally the tapering or narrowing surface comprises the outside edges of two or more substantially parallel plates.

Optionally the cable pathway comprises an opening or passageway through the stabilisation apparatus.

Optionally the cable pathway extends from the first end to the second end of the support.

Optionally the cable pathway is substantially cylindrical.

Optionally further comprising a cable opening configured to allow the cable to pass through the support into cable pathway.

Optionally the cable opening comprises a gap or cut out in the support.

Optionally the cable pathway extends along the longitudinal axis of the support.

Optionally comprising an opening in the support structure, the opening configured to provide a line of sight into the hole from above the stabilisation apparatus, in use.

Optionally the support is made from metal or plastic.

In one aspect the present invention may be said to comprise a drill hole tool connector for connecting a cable and a measurement tool for a drill hole, the connector comprising: a first portion connectable to a cable, and a second portion connectable to the measurement tool, the drill hole tool connector configured to move between: a first position wherein the first portion and second portion are substantially coaxial; and a second position wherein the first portion and second portion are angled relative to one another. Optionally the angle between first position and the second position at least 30 degrees, at least 45 degrees, at least 60 degrees, or at least 90 degrees.

Optionally the angle between the cable and the measurement tool in the second position is configured to be substantially 90 degrees or between 85 and 105 degrees.

Optionally the connector comprises any one or more of: A hip joint, a ball joint, an elbow joint, a swivel joint, and a hinge joint.

Optionally the connector is configured to rotate in one direction, or the connector is configured to rotate in a plurality of directions.

Optionally comprising a first connector or connection means at a first end, the first connector or connection means configured to connect to a cable or cable connection.

Optionally comprising a second connector or connection means at a second end, the second connector or connection means configured to connect to a measurement tool.

Optionally the first and/or second connectors or connection means are threaded connection means.

Optionally comprising a cable locker for locking the connector in the first and/or second position.

Optionally comprising the measurement tool, wherein the connector is unitary with, or permanently connected to the measurement tool.

In one aspect the present invention may be said to comprise a rodder reel for use in surveying comprising: rodder reel frame with a base, a cable reel on the rodder reel frame, a brake configured to limit the maximum speed at which the cable reel releases.

Optionally the braking force of the brake increases with the rotational speed of the cable reel.

Optionally the braking force is proportional to the rotational speed of the cable reel.

Optionally the brake is an eddy current brake. Optionally the eddy current brake comprises one or more, or a plurality, of magnets or magnetic elements.

Optionally the magnets comprises permanent and/or electromagnets.

Optionally the cable reel, or at least a portion of the cable reel is a magnetic metal.

Optionally the brake is configured to engage the cable reel.

Optionally the brake is configured to engage the circumferential surface of the cable reel.

Optionally the brake is curved to follow the circumferential surface of the cable reel.

Optionally the maximum speed is configured to be less than 5m/s, less than 4/s, less than 3m/s, less than 2m/s, less than Im/s, between 1 and 2m/s, between 1 and 1.5 m/s and/or between 1.2 and 1.4 m/s.

Optionally the brake is configurable to control the maximum speed.

Optionally the brake is mounted to the rodder reel frame, optionally to the spool gantry.

Optionally comprising a cable reel brake operable to slow or stop the rotation of the cable reel, optionally the cable reel brake is a spindle brake.

Optionally further comprising at least one wheel and a handle for manoeuvring the rodder reel.

Optionally further comprising a gantry extending from the base wherein the is cable reel supported on a gantry that extends from the base.

Optionally further comprising a transport frame coupled to the base via the gantry or directly, wherein the wheel is supported on a transport frame.

Optionally the handle is attached to the transport frame.

Optionally further comprising a gantry attached to the base for supporting an encoder. Optionally the rodder reel frame also comprises a cable reel support and a transportation support.

Optionally the rodder reel frame is a single piece.

Optionally further comprising a handle, and the wheel and the handle are on opposite sides of the rodder reel frame.

In one aspect the present invention may be said to comprise a method of installing a measurement tool in a drill hole into a formation comprising, in any order: Connecting the measurement tool to a cable on a rodder reel, and feeding a measurement tool in the conduit to deploy the tool in the drill hole, wherein the method comprises any one or more the following steps: connecting a flexible or pivotable drill hole tool connector between the measurement tool and the cable; arranging a stabilisation device on the cable, the stabilisation device configured to reversibly prevent the cable freely moving into the drill hole; controlling the maximum speed of the cable reel with a brake; and placing the cable in a cable support.

Optionally placing the cable in the cable support comprises inserting the cable into one or more guides on the cable support.

Optionally placing the cable in the cable support comprises securing the cable within the one or mor guides. Optionally wherein securing comprises closing a closure.

Optionally comprising the step of applying a clamp or brake to the cable, the clamp or brake being or is attached to the cable support.

Optionally wherein the cable support is configured to adjust the orientation of the cable. Optionally wherein the orientation is adjusted from a substantially vertical orientation to a substantially horizontal orientation. Optionally wherein the orientation is adjusted from substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the drill hole to substantially horizontal. Optionally wherein the orientation is adjusted form substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the drill hole to substantially aligned with the axis of the cable leaving the rodder reel. Optionally comprising adjusting the position of one or more of the guides to provide a desired orientation. Optionally wherein the height of the cable is configured to provide a comfortable pulling or pushing height when in use. Optionally wherein this is substantially at a user's hip height or comfortable bending height of or for a user. Optionally the method further comprises initialising the measurement tool and then removing the stabilisation device from the cable to allow the measurement tool to descend into the drill hole.

Optionally the drill hole tool connector, the stabilisation device and/or the brake are as described in any one or more of the previous aspects.

In another aspect the present invention may be said to comprises a method of taking measurements in an underground mine with overhead drill holes comprising using an installation apparatus according to one of the paragraphs above and/or described herein.

In one aspect the present invention may be said to comprise an installation apparatus for a measurement tool in an underground mine with overhead drill holes, the installation apparatus comprising: a support that can be removably secured to the ceiling, wall and/or ground of the mine, and an installation conduit that can be removably coupled to the support and aligned with the drill hole to deploy a survey and/or geophysical tool into the open drill hole.

Optionally the installation apparatus further comprises: a measurement tool support to support the measurement tool and/or peripheral components before and/or after deployment. Optionally the drill hole is: up to or about 50m in length, or up to or about 40m, or up to or about 30m in length and/or at least about 50mm or up to or about 25cm in diameter. Optionally the measurement tool support comprises a base and/or connector to support the tool. Optionally the conduit comprises a viewing and/or communication region to assess the measurement tool. Optionally the support and/or conduit are extendible and/or collapsible in the longitudinal direction, preferably telescopically.

Optionally the support is a pole. Optionally the pole is: a single pole, or a pole with plural sections, optionally with a gap. Optionally the pole has retainers at one or both ends for securing the support to the ceiling, ground and/or wall, wherein optionally the retainers are feet. Optionally the measurement tool is one or more of a survey tool, such as a gyro; a geological data collecting tool to collect geophysical, petrophysical, mineralogical, compositional data and/or hole geometry data.

In another aspect the present invention may be said to comprise a method of installing a measurement tool in an underground mine with overhead drill holes into a formation comprising, in any order: installing a support between the ground, ceiling and/or wall of a mine, attaching an installation conduit to the support, aligning the support and/or conduit with an overhead drill hole, feeding a measurement tool in the conduit to deploy the tool in the drill hole.

Optionally the method further comprises determining if the measurement tool is approaching the overhead drill hole and/or is correctly placed. Optionally the method further comprises retaining the measurement tool and/or peripheral components in a tool support.

In another aspect the present invention may be said to comprise a system to survey overhead drill holes in a mine comprising: a cable reel with cable, an installation apparatus according to any one of the aspects herein, and a measurement tool attached to the cable.

Optionally the installation apparatus further comprises: a measurement tool support to support the measurement tool and/or peripheral components before and/or after deployment. Optionally the drill hole is: up to or about 50m in length, or up to or about 40m, or up to or about 30m in length and/or at least about 50mm or up to or about 25cm in diameter. Optionally the measurement tool support comprises a base and/or connector to support the tool. Optionally the conduit comprises a viewing and/or communication region to assess the measurement tool. Optionally the support and/or conduit are extendible and/or collapsible in the longitudinal direction, preferably telescopically. Optionally the support is a pole. Optionally the pole is: a single pole, or a pole with plural sections, optionally with a gap. Optionally the pole has retainers at one or both ends for securing the support to the ceiling, ground and/or wall, wherein optionally the retainers are feet. Optionally the measurement tool is one or more of survey tool, such as a gyro , a geological data collecting tool to collect geophysical, petrophysical, mineralogical, compositional data and/or hole geometry data.

Optionally the rodder reel comprises a base that supports a cable reel, at least one wheel and a handle for manoeuvring the rodder reel. Optionally the cable reel supported on a gantry that extends from the base. Optionally the wheel is supported on a transport frame that is coupled to the base via a gantry or directly. Optionally the handle is attached to the transport frame. Optionally the wheel is attached to the transport frame. Optionally the system further comprises a gantry attached to the base for supporting an encoder.

In another aspect the present invention may be said to comprise a rodder reel for use in surveying comprising: rodder reel frame with a base, a cable reel the rodder reel frame, at least one wheel and a handle for manoeuvring the rodder reel. Optionally the rodder reel further comprises a gantry extending from the base wherein the is cable reel supported on a gantry that extends from the base. Optionally the rodder reel further comprises a transport frame coupled to the base via the gantry or directly, wherein the wheel is supported on a transport frame. Optionally the handle is attached to the transport frame. Optionally he rodder reel further comprises a gantry attached to the base for supporting an encoder. Optionally the rodder reel frame also comprises cable reel support and a transportation support. Optionally the rodder reel frame is a single piece. Optionally rodder reel further comprises a handle, and the wheel and the handle are on opposite sides of the rodder reel frame.

In a further aspect the invention may broadly be said to consist in a cable support for guiding a cable into a drill hole comprising: a frame; and one or more guides connected to the frame, wherein a first guide is configured to guide the cable into the drill hole; wherein the one or more guides are configured to control a bend radius of the cable.

Optionally the bend radius is a minimum bend radius. Optionally the bend radius is a maximum bend radius. Optionally the bend radius is between 200mm to 800mm. The bend radius may depend or be configured dependent on the radius or diameter of the cable. For example, a 11mm diameter cable may have a bend radius of substantially 450mm (400-500mm), a 13mm diameter cable may have a bend radius of substantially 700mm (650-750mm), a 9mm diameter cable may have a bend radius of substantially 300mm (250-350mm). Optionally comprising at least three guides. Optionally each guide comprises one or more cable contact surfaces. Optionally the cable surfaces comprise wheels. Optionally each guide comprises two opposing cable contact surfaces, configured to secure and/or retain the cable between the contact surfaces.

Optionally comprising a closure configured to prevent the cable leaving the guide. Optionally the first guide is configured or configurable to allow the first guide to align with the drill hole. Optionally the first guide is configured or configurable to direct the cable substantially vertically. Optionally wherein a second of the one or more guides is configured to direct the cable substantially horizontally. Optionally the second guide is located between 0.6m and 1.1m from the ground when the cable support is positioned on the ground. Optionally the first guide is configured or configurable at a first end of the cable support and the second guide is configured or configurable at a second end of the cable support. Optionally comprising a third guide between the first and second guide.

Optionally the one or more guides extend along a curved path. Optionally the support comprises at least two legs, optionally the support comprising at least three legs. Optionally the at least two legs comprise a guide leg, wherein the guides are all mounted to the guide leg. Optionally the guides are mounted to the guide leg with an extension. Optionally, the extension is configured to arrange and/or space the guide from the leg. Optionally the cable support may instead comprise a frame or box supporting the guides. In some cases the cable support may be mounted or fixed on a single leg. Optionally the cable support may be mounted or fixed on, to or into the ground or a wall support. Optionally at least one of the legs is rotatably connected to the remaining legs, optionally the guide leg is rotatably connected.

Optionally the legs comprise a fastener configured to secure the legs in an open and/or closed position. Optionally the guides are rotatably or moveably mounted to the legs. Optionally one or more of the guides are moveably mounted, optionally to the guide leg, the frame or an extension. Optionally one or more of the guides are rotatably mounted to the guide leg at a single location. Optionally wherein the guide leg is curved, or the guides are mounted to a curved support attached to one of the legs. Optionally the guide leg is curved, or as shown, the curved support is attached to a leg to provide a desired curvature. The guides may then be moved along this curve to appropriate positions. In some cases extensions may be used to space the guides from the guide leg or curved guide leg.

Optionally the radius of curvature of the guide leg or curved support is between 200mm to 800mm. Optionally one or more of the guides are positioned on extensions connected to the frame and/or leg. Optionally each of the legs comprises a foot configured to be secured into the ground, when in use. Optionally comprising a clamp for securing the cable relative to the cable support. Optionally the clamp is located between 0.3m to 1.6m. Optionally between 0.6m and 1.1m from the ground when the cable support is positioned on the ground. Optionally the cable support is mountable or configured to be carried by the rodder reel. Optionally the frame is made of one or more of metal or plastic. Optionally the frame is unitary. Optionally the frame is reversibly connected, for example by fasteners. Optionally the cable support has its longest axis substantially parallel to the path of the cable through the cable support.

In a further aspect the invention may broadly be said to consist in a method of supporting a cable, the method comprising: placing a cable support above or about a drill hole; placing a cable in each of the guides in the cable support; and then lowering a tool attached to the cable into the drill hole. The cable support may be as disclosed herein.

Optionally the method comprises attaching the cable to a tool before placing the cable into the cable support. Optionally the method comprises securing or releasing the cable from the cable support. It is intended that reference to a range of numbers disclosed herein (for example, 1 to 10) also incorporates reference to all rational numbers within that range (for example, 1, 1.1, 2, 3, 3.9, 4, 5, 6, 6.5, 7, 8, 9 and 10) and also any range of rational numbers within that range (for example, 2 to 8, 1.5 to 5.5 and 3.1 to 4.7).

The term "comprising" as used in this specification means "consisting at least in part of". Related terms such as "comprise" and "comprised" are to be interpreted in the same manner.

This invention may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, and any or all combinations of any two or more of said parts, elements or features, and where specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which this invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The embodiments described above by way of example only, and should not be considered limiting. Some variations are as follows.

Embodiments will now be described with reference to the following drawings, of which:

Figure 1 shows an installer in use to install a measurement 1 in an overhead drill hole in a mine.

Figure 2 shows the installer in more detail.

Figure 2A shows a foot plate of a support pole and a clamp.

Figure 3 shows a support pole attachment for the installer.

Figures 4A, 4B show a measure tool support for a measurement tool.

Figure 4C shows an alternative measurement tool support for a measurement tool.

Figure 4D shows a connector in detail.

Figure 4E shows a further alternative measurement tool support for a measurement tool.

Figure 4F shows a connector in detail.

Figure 5 shows a rodder reel.

Figures 6 to 8B show an alternative embodiment of a rodder reel.

Figure 9A, 9B shows a rodder reel with two variations of supporting members in place with example equipment in place.

Figures 10 shows another alternative embodiment of a rodder reel. Figure 11 shows a connector for connecting between a cable and a measurement tool Figure 12 shows the connector of Figure 11 connected to a cable.

Figure 13 shows the connector of Figure 11 in a down hole.

Figure 14 shows a stabilisation device for a cable in a drill hole.

Figure 15 shows a cutaway view of the stabilisation device of Figure 14.

Figure 16 shows an alternative stabilisation device for a cable in a drill hole.

Figure 17 shows a cutaway view of the stabilisation device of Figure 16.

Figure 18 shows a top view of the stabilisation device of Figure 16 positioned in a drill hole.

Figure 19 shows a rodder reel with an eddy current brake attached.

Figure 20 is a detail view of the eddy current brake shown in Figure 19.

Figure 21 shows a cable support configured to operate with the cable form the rodder reel.

Figure 22 shows an alternative example cable support with a guide leg.

Figure 23 shows an alternative example cable support with pivotable extensions.

DETAIL DESCRIPTION

Overview

Referring to Figure 1, an installation assembly (system) 1 is shown. It comprises a rodder reel 16 with cable 15 that is coupled to a measurement tool 14; and installer 10. The arrangement enables surveying of drill holes 17 in a manner that will be described further below.

The installer 10 comprises an installation conduit 11 which has a diameter that allows for a measurement tool 14 to pass through. The installer also has a support pole 12 which is permanently or removably coupled to the installation conduit 11, to support and manoeuvre the installation conduit. A measurement tool support (such as a holder/retainer, clip, hook or the like) 13 (see Figures 4A, 4B) is provided, attached to the support pole 12 and/or the conduit 11. The installer 10 may comprise the various components as a permanently integrated arrangement or as individual components, in e.g., a kit of parts, that comes ready assembled and/or are assembled on site as required.

In use, a measurement tool 14 is placed in, on, is attached to, held by and/or is otherwise supported by the support 13 and is connected to the cable 15 on the rodder reel 16. In some embodiments, the cable can provide power, control and/or data communication. Using the support pole 12, the installer 10 is manoeuvred so that a top opening of the installation conduit 11 is aligned with and/or inserted at least partially into an overhead/above head drill hole 17 in the roof of a mine. The pole 12 can be used to support (position, hold upright and/or secure) the installer conduit 11 in position. Once the user has set the tool up for measuring, a user 18 can then feed the cable 15 from the reel 16 and push the measurement tool 14 from the support up through the installation conduit 11 and into the drill hole 17 (as shown in Figure 1), where measurement can take place. A viewing and/or communications region 21 can assist with: visual and communications based assessment of the tool position, control communications (including tool initialisation) with the tool, and/or data communication with the tool. The region can be located at any suitable place along the conduit to allow viewing and communications. Once measurement is complete and communicated to a monitoring device, e.g. a tablet, smartphone, computer or other device that can record data from and/or control the tool, the reverse can happen, wherein the measurement tool 14 can be lowered down from the drill hole 17, while carrying out measurement on the out run and guided down through the installation conduit 11 back to the tool support 13, after which the installer 10 can then be removed, collapsed (e.g. if telescopic) and/or disassembled (in whole or in part) and/or moved to the next drill hole for inspection. In the alternative, the recordings of the measurement (data) are stored in the memory on board the tool itself such that the information is downloaded after being lowered back down hole or at any other suitable time. Alternatively, the data can be downloaded via the cable. The cable can also provide power to the tool.

As a non-limiting example the drill holes could be development holes and/or production holes.

Typically, drill holes will be up to or about 50m, or up to or about 45m, or up to or about 40m, or up to or about 35m, or up to or about 30m, or up to or about 25m, or up to or about 20m in length, with the use of a non-crawler measurement tool. Although the present invention can work for any length drill hole and with crawler measurement tools. The drill holes are at least about 50mm or up to about 25cm in diameter.

Exemplary embodiment - installer apparatus

One example of the installer 10 will now be described. The installer is used to install a measurement tool 14 that is connected to a cable 15 that is fed from a rodder reel 16. The measurement tool 14, cable 15 and rodder reel 16 do not form part of the installer per se, but can be considered part of an overall system that incorporates the installer. Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the installation conduit 11 comprises a plastic (e.g. PVC), metal or other conduit constructed of suitable material. It is preferable that the material from which the conduit is made is as lightweight as possible yet rigid enough to at least partially support its own weight. The length of the installation conduit is configured suitable for the height of the mine it is being used in. Possibly, the length of the installation conduit is configurable, e.g. through telescoping parts - such as shown in Figure 2A. Part or all of the installation conduit could be telescoping, e.g. the top and/or bottom parts of the installation conduit could be telescoping through e.g. nested tubes. As an example, the bottom portion 11A of the conduit is shown telescoping in Figure 2, with nestable sections that slide in and out of each other.

The conduit 11 has a viewing and/or communications region 21, such as a window, opening or the like at a suitable known position so that once the conduit 11 is arranged in place with the drill hole 17, a user can assess (e.g. view) the position of the measurement tool 14 as it approaches a collar (opening) of the drill hole and/or reaches a known position relative to the collar. The region 21 can be at any suitable location. This can assist with tool installation and/or tool communication.

For example, the tool 14 can be provided with an indicator (e.g. light 8) that can be viewed through the viewing/communications region. The indicator can be fixed to the tool at a known position, such that as the light reaches the viewing/communication region 21, the user can determine the position of the tool relative to the conduit and/or drill hole. During installation, the user plays out the cable (with tool attached) from the rodder reel, and feeds the cable and tool into the conduit and up towards the drill hole collar. As the light reaches the viewing region the user can prepare for positioning and operation of the tool (to be described more later).

Alternatively or additionally the viewing and/or communications region 21 (or other part of the conduit) can allow for transmission of electromagnetic (e.g. radio and/or light) signals so the region 21 can also facilitate wireless communications with and/or detection of the measuring tool 14 via suitable sensors and/or transceivers (e.g. through BlueTooth or other wireless transmission protocol). This additionally or alternatively allows the user to determine when the tool 14 has reached the collar and/or a known position relative to the collar and/or has been inserted into the collar. Also, for example, the region 21 can be used to communicate with the tool 14 from a monitoring device 29 to control and/or record data from the device (to be described in more detail later) As shown in Figure 2A cable retainer 27, such as a clamp, can be provided to the pole 12, conduit 11 and/or other part of the installer 10. This allows for securing of the cable in a taught manner to mitigate wobble of the: a) cable in the conduit and b) the tool 14 when the tool is installed and/or while carrying out measurement of the drill hole

The conduit 11 has support pole attachments 30 - see Figure 3. In this embodiment, the support pole attachments take the form of annular collars 30 with a central aperture 31 . The annular collars are positioned around the outer surface of the installation conduit 11, and are spaced apart at suitable intervals along the length of the conduit 11. The attachments 30 can be adhered, friction fit, mechanically fixed (e.g. screws or the like) or otherwise attached to the conduit. Each annular collar 30 has a coupling 32 for a support pole, in this case in the form of a lug 32 extending from the annular collar 30 with an aperture 33 having a diameter commensurate with the diameter of the support pole 12.

The installer support pole 12 is constructed of a metal and/or other material that can support its own weight and also provide support and rigidity to the installation conduit 11. For example, the support pole 12 can be collapsible (e.g. telescopic and/or can be disassembled), lightweight and strong and preferably constructed of materials stiffer than the conduit so it can be the main stabiliser for the installer 10. The support pole 12 is preferably longer than the conduit 11, although this is not essential. The length of the pole is configured suitable for the height of the mine it is being used in and/or the transportation vehicle. Possibly, the length of the pole is configurable, e.g., through telescoping parts and/or parts that can disassemble. The support pole might be telescopic so the length is configurable and allows for ease of transport.

The support pole 12 can pass through the apertures 33 of each attachment collar 30 to attach to the installation conduit 11. The support pole 12 can be removably coupled, or permanently coupled to the installation conduit 11. In the present embodiment, the support pole 12 is removably coupled by way of passing the support pole through the apertures 33 of the attachments 30. There may be somewhat of a friction fit, to provide at least some friction and to prevent free sliding of the conduit 11 relative to the pole 12 through the attachment apertures 33, but also alternatively there may not be any friction fit, and the apertures 33 are large enough to allow the free sliding of the pole 12 within the apertures 33. It will be appreciated that other arrangements of a support pole attachment could be envisaged and this is just one example. In either case, to prevent the installation conduit 11 sliding down relative to the support pole when the installer is installed in an upright position, a positioning adjuster 19 is attached to the support pole and/or installation conduit. The positioning adjuster 19 can be moved up and down the support pole 12 and releasably locked to position the conduit 11 longitudinally relative to the support pole 12. The positioning adjuster 19 comprises a locking nut 19A and/or 19B, that is slidable up and down the pole 12 and which can frictiona lly (or otherwise) lock and unlock to and/or from the support pole 12. The positioning adjuster 19 also has a collar abutment. When the locking nut is locked to the support pole 12, a collar 30 and/or bottom end of the installation conduit 11 will rest under gravity on the collar abutment to prevent the installation conduit 11 sliding further down the support pole 12. When the locking nut is un-done, the locking nut can slide down the pole 12 which also allows for the conduit 11 to slide relative to the pole. This enables the conduit 11 to be positioned along the pole 12 at a certain height when installed in the upright position and also allows the conduit 11 to freely slide travel up and down the pole 12 when and/or as required. The locking nut in this embodiment only prevents sliding of the conduit downwards relative to the support pole 12, but in other embodiments, the locking arrangement could prevent sliding upwards of the conduit 11 also.

It will be appreciated that other arrangements of a positioning adjuster could be envisaged and this is just one example.

The support pole 12 has a stabiliser to secure the support pole (and therefore the conduit 11) to a suitable fixed surface, such as a ceiling, floor and/or wall of the mine. For example, in this embodiment, the stabiliser assists with locating the conduit 11 close to the collar and at an opposite end that engages the ground to lock the conduit into place. As such, the stabiliser comprises:

• At the top end of the support pole 12, forked prongs 26 (or alternatively a plate, e.g. similar to the foot plate 28) for positioning/supporting the installation conduit relative to the mine ceiling/drill hole. The prongs 26 can be placed close to the collar of the hole to enable a force to be applied in an upward direction that is spread about the hole rather than concentrated in one place where the formation may, for example, be crumbly or the like.

• At the bottom end of the support pole 12, a retainer 28 (such as a foot (e.g. claw or similar that is provided to a foot plate)) that is extendable to engage the floor of the mine and lodge the pole 12 in place through force between the ceiling via the prongs and floor. Figure 2A shows an example of the foot plate on the support pole 12, where the foot plate on the underside can be provided with prongs or other projections to engage with the ground and to hold the support pole in place. The plate can then readily be prised up from the ground and as it is provided on a tubular portion, can readily move up along the support pole to enable a user to then readily move the installer to another position.

The retainer and forked prongs can be termed couplings.

The measurement tool support 13 is shown in more detail in Figures 2, 4A, 4B, and in this example (without limitation) takes the form of a holder (it could alternatively be another support, such as, without limitation, a clip, hook, or the like). The holder can take any suitable form where there is a support portion for the measurement tool 14 (and/or peripheral components like cable 15, connectors and the like) and an attachment portion to attach the holder to the installer 10, e.g., the support and/or conduit. In this embodiment, the holder 13 takes the form of a partially cylindrical body/wall 41, with a support base 42 (see insert). The partial cylindrical body 41 has a large lateral opening 43 towards the top end and does not fully close circumferentially at the lower portion to provide a narrow longitudinal opening 44 along the length of the holder 13. This allows for insertion of a measurement tool 14 which is coupled to a cable 15. The measurement tool 14 can be passed laterally through the large opening 43, while a connected cable 15 can slide laterally through the longitudinal opening 44. Likewise, the support base 42 has an aperture 45 and also a radial opening (slot) 48 (which lines up with the narrow opening 44) to allow for a connector 46 of the measurement tool and/or a cable to pass through. The measurement tool 14 once inserted into the holder can be positioned so that a larger diameter portion of the measurement tool sits on the support base 42, while a smaller diameter portion and/or the cable and/or connector protrude through the base aperture 45.

Preferably the holder 13 is removeable. The holder has an attachment portion 47, in the form of a clamp comprising a lateral support 47A at the top of the holder with two closure mechanisms, such as bolts 47B, 47C, and a removable plate 47D. The lateral support 47A and plate 47D can be positioned either side of the support pole 12, and then the bolts 47B, 47C tightened to clamp the holder 13 to the support pole 12. Preferably, the holder 13 is positioned at a suitable length below a bottom opening of the installation conduit 11.

An alternative measurement tool support 13' is shown in Figure 4C. This comprises an annular ring with an opening that supports a portion of the connector 46. This could be the support base 42 of the previous embodiment, for example. The wide portion of the connector rests on the annular ring. The connector 46 and cable 15 can locate on the annular ring 13' and a tool 14 can connect as per previously described.

The connector 46 is shown in more detail in Figure 4D. The connector 46 has a quick release mechanism and generally comprises three parts, that together connect the cable and measurement tool together. The first part is a cable connector 46A, and at one end has a threaded or bayonet fitting (hidden inside the middle part) to connect to a second middle part 46B. A cable 15 is provided to the other end of the cable connector 46A.

The connector has a third part (tool connector) 46C, with a thread provided to couple to the measurement tool 14. The middle part 46B couples the first 46A and third 46C parts together with a quick release mechanism 60. This connector 46 being a quick release is easily detachable to enable the reel 16 containing the cable 15 to be moved away while the measurement tool 14 is retained within the conduit 11 and/or the base of the measurement tool is resting on the support base 42 while the body of the measurement tool is retained within the conduit.

In a yet further alternative embodiment, the tool support 13" could be the middle section 46B of the connector - see Figure 4D. It can be permanently or detachably coupled to the support pole 12. The cable 15 can be attached to the middle section 46B via the first cable connector 46A, and the tool 14 can be attached to the third section/tool connector 46C, which itself is coupled to the middle section 46B.

In yet a further alternative embodiments, two connector options 46' and 46" could be as shown in Figure 4F. Each is a two part version instead of three as shown in Figure 4D. Similar to the embodiment shown in Figure 4D, the connector still has a quick release mechanism to connect the cable and measurement tool together. The first part 46B', 46B" has two ends, where a first end connects the cable and the second end has the quick release mechanism to engage with the second part 46A', 46A" of the connector, wherein the second part further connects to the measurement tool.

The installer may comprise the various components (installation conduit, support rod, holder and any other suitable parts) as a permanently integrated arrangement or as individual components, in e.g., a kit of parts, that come ready assembled and/or are assembled on site as required.

Aspects of the connector

In some cases, particularly with down holes, the tension in the cable 15 causes difficulties in inserting the measurement tool 14 into the drill hole. This is because the cable 15 must flex or curve to move from the cable reel outlet onto the measurement tool and down the drill hole. Particularly when the measurement tool 14 is outside, or near the top of, the drill hole this can force the cable 15 into undesirable positions or require strength or careful arrangement to easily manoeuvre the system. This causes particular problems in confined spaces, such as underground.

Figure 11 and Figure 12 show an elbow joint 400 which may form part of the connector 46. The elbow joint 400 provides a hinge or pivot in the connection to make the connected system more easily manoeuvrable. For example the measurement tool 14 can be positioned near to, or in a drill hole (optionally a downhole) and secured in place.

Then the elbow connector allows the cable 15 to be connected to the measurement tool 14 without a large bend or flex of the cable 15 being required. This is because the elbow 403 can be moved to a 90 degree or right-angle position which aligns to the direction of the cable 14 leaving a rodder reel, or another device. Then, as the measurement tool is fed into, or further into, the drill hole the elbow joint straightens and allows the measurement tool 14 and cable to move smoothly down the drill hole.

Figure 13 shows the connected elbow joint 400 in a downhole. At this point the cable and measurement tool are substantially parallel, or coaxial (with the drill hole) - at least in the region or length directly adjacent the elbow. Thus the tool can slide smoothly down the drill hole.

The elbow joint 400 of Figures 11 and 12 has two threaded couplers 402, 401. A first coupler 402 is configured to connect to the cable (either directly or indirectly through one or more coupling mechanisms). A second coupler 401 is configured to connect to the measurement tool (either directly or indirectly through one or more coupling mechanisms). In some cases the elbow joint may be a unitary, or permanent fixed part of the end of the cable of the measurement tool. Other connectors or coupling means including clips, bayonets and/or sockets may also be used to connect the elbow to the cable and/or tool. Some suitable connection examples have been discussed above, for example in relation to the quick release system, and these may also be applied to the elbow joint 400. In some cases the tool connector 46A may be combined with the elbow 400 to allow a quick release at the elbow connector 400.

Other connectors or connection means capable of changing the angle between the longitudinal axis of the cable 15 and the measurement tool 14 may also be used. For example hip joints, ball joints, swivel joints and hinge joints may be used. In some cases it is advantageous to use a joint which rotates in a single direction as this provides additional control and prevents further movement of the cable. Alternatively a rotatable joint provides flexibility in the location of the rodder reel or cable reel. In some cases part of the connector, or another component of or between the cable and the measurement tool may provide rotational freedom. In a preferred example the elbow joint is capable of moving between a substantially parallel or coaxial arrangement of the cable and tool (or between the first and second portions of the connector, configured to connect to the cable and tool respectively) and a perpendicular arrangement. However a greater or lesser bend may be possible. Perpendicular may include angles between 80 and 100 degrees, or 85 and 95 degrees. The connector may be arranged to create an angle of at least 30 degrees, at least 45 degrees, at least 60 degrees, or at least 90 degrees from the coaxial arrangement. In some cases an elbow locker or locking means (such as a bolt or tighten-able screw) may be used to secure the position of the elbow joint (in either a straight or bent position) to enable a user to fix the device in a desired position.

The elbow joint, or similar connector, therefore, enables the user to readily or easily manoeuvre and/or position the tool in a non-linear position relative to the drill or bore hole. In a particular example, it allows positioning perpendicular to the collar of the bore hole enabling the survey or measuring tool, when used with the locking collar, to be suspended within the bore hole.

The measurement tool 14, cable 15 and rodder reel 16 will now be described in the context of the installer 10. The measurement tool, cable and rodder do not form part of the installer per se, but can be considered part of an overall system that incorporates the installer.

The measurement tool 10 could be any one or more of any suitable device used for interrogating the drill hole to collect data. Nonlimiting examples are

• survey tool, such as a gyro, preferably a continuously measuring gyro.,

• geological data collecting tool to collect geophysical, petrophysical, mineralogical, compositional data and/or hole geometry data.

The data includes but is not limited to any one or a combination of any two or more of the following:

• Gamma radiation emitted by material in the hole

• Density of material in the hole

• Reflectivity of electromagnetic radiation

• Reflectivity of acoustic or ultrasonic waves

• Magnetic susceptibility of material in the hole • Electrical resistivity/cond activity /impedance of material in the hole

• Magnetic vector field

• Hole dip

• Hole temperature

• Sonic velocity

• Contact hardness

• Hole azimuth

• Hole diameter

• Hole profile

• Hole volume

• Water level and/or moisture content of hole

Suitable tools to collect such geological data include calliper, magnetic susceptibility, gamma, conductivity including focused conductivity, and the like.

A centraliser(s) 24 may in some instances be provided on the measurement tool 14 that is commensurate with the size of the drill hole 17 to allow location (e.g., centring) of the measurement tool 14 in the drill hole. The centraliser need not necessarily centre the tool in the drill hole as in some instances it might be desirable to have an eccentric offset of the tool inside the drill hole. Regardless, the centraliser assists with positioning the tool inside the drill hole, and in some embodiments a set of centralisers is used with a first centraliser provided to the bottom of the tool and a second centralizer to the top of the tool.

Optionally, a detector, in the form of e.g. a sensor and/or transceiver can be provided at the top end of the conduit to communicate with the tool 14 to indicate the tool is in position at or relative to the collar of the drill hole. Once positioning is confirmed, then the detector communicates to a receiver (e.g. at the bottom end of the conduit or separate to the conduit 11) to indicate the tool 14 is in position. The communication can utilise the viewing and/or communications region 21 of the conduit. The ability to be able to detect and/or communicate at this point, enables an accurate and repeatable determination of the position of the tool 14 by the user to identify that the tool is at the correct position without having to visually identify the same. That said, visual detection can be used instead or in addition to a detector, e.g. through a light.

The cable can carry power to the measurement tool, assisting with communications and substantially reducing the weight and length of the measurement tool. This can enable the transfer of the measurement data to the user in real time instead of requiring a download of the recorded memory onboard the measurement tool.

Collar, Stabiliser

Some measurement tools, including survey instruments such as north seeking survey instruments need to carry out an initialization process. The initialization process may require the survey instrument to remain as still as possible for a period of time, such as 90 seconds. For example the north seeking survey instrument needs to sit still to find north and is extremely sensitive to movement - they can be thrown off by a gust of wind, for example. Therefore it is important the survey instrument is held still during this initialization process. Movement during this initialisation period, which may be 90s (or any other length of time) can result in the survey instrument not correctly identifying true north, therefore the resultant survey will be incorrect and therefore the survey must be repeated. Repeating the survey costs time, money and leads to inefficiencies - avoiding this situation is desirable. It is difficult for a user to hold the survey tool still for an extended period. Generally the measurement tool is held at the collar (the top of the drill hole) because you want to survey the entire length of the drill hole or borehole. In some instances the borehole can be 10m or less while other boreholes are longer.

Figure 14 shows a stabilisation device 300 configured to stabilise or hold a measurement tool still when the measurement tool is in position in a down hole and the stabilisation device is at the collar of the drill hole. The stabilisation device, which may be referred to as a locking collar has an outside surface 302 (see fig 15) configured to engage with the collar of a drill hole (preferably a down hole) and a cable pathway or space or recess through which the cable passes. The stabilisation device 300 has a cable locker or locking means which is configured to engage with the cable in the cable pathway and secure the cable to the stabilisation device, such that the cable cannot move relative to the stabilisation device and, if the stabilisation device 300 is held in place the cable is also held still.

Figure 14 shows a stabilisation device with an outside or support surface 302 shaped as a cone or is frustoconical in shape. Alternative shapes are possible where the top surface (or surface remaining outside the hole is wider than the bottom). For example a series of discrete steps, including two or more steps may be used. In general as long as there is a narrowing or taper along the length of the stabilisation device it will be able to fit snugly in the mouth of the drill hole. Alternatively support structures may mount or engage with the ground surface inside or outside of the drill hole to securely position the stabilisation device 300. The locking collar or stabilisation device 300 has a frustoconical/funnel shape to accommodate different sizes of a borehole or drill hole. The outer sides abut or cam against the upper side walls of the hole to then sit and stabilize itself within the collar of the borehole. The stabilization device is provided with a mouth to receive the cable and/or head where the cable joins the survey tool. This mouth grabs/holds onto this portion of the cable keeping it still in the hole whilst suspending the same in the hole. The survey tool can then undergo its initialization process, where the user can walk away and wait.

An opening 304 allows the passage of cable 15 through the support surface 302 to the cable pathway 303. The cable pathway 303 is optionally along the central axis of the device so as to reduce uneven pressures or forces that may be acting on the cable. The opening 304 allows the device 300 to be easily slipped over the cable without requiring any disconnections. Alternatively the cable may be threaded directly through the cable pathway before being connected to the measurement tool. For example the loose end of the cable is pushed along the cable pathway and then attached to the measurement tool. Some form of closure, for example a door, or barrier may be used to allow the cable to be placed and secured into the cable pathway 303. For example by opening the door, inserting the cable into the cable pathway and closing the barrier to secure the cable in the cable pathway. This version is optionally made of plastic (although a metal version is possible) and may be transparent or opaque.

Figure 15 is a cutaway view showing the operation of the device 300 of Figure 14. The cutaway view shows cable locker 301 which has a surface or face 307 configured to press against the cable in the cable pathway 303. This forces the cable against the side or wall of the cable pathway which in turn holds the cable in a fixed position relative to the stabilisation device. Optionally this is configured so that movement of the cable through the cable passageway or pathway 303 tightens the locking of the cable in place. Figure 15 shows a spring clamp or cam which pivots around pivot 305 and is urged by spring 306 into the closed position. Protrusion or tip 308 is arranged to allow release of the cable for removal of the stabiliser 300. Face 307 may be roughened or scalloped to improve contact or grip against the cable. Although a single cam or clamp is shown two or more clamps may also be used. The clamps could be arranged vertically to increase the length of the clamping and provide a redundancy, or arranged so that the cable contact faces move towards each other to increase the compression of the cable in the cable pathway 303. The device or the clamp 301 may have a protrusion to reduce the possibility of the cable falling out of the device. Alternatively, or also, the opening between the surface and the cable pathway 3030 may be tortuous so the cable will not fall out. Figure 16 shows an alternative stabilisation device 700. This operates in a similar manner to the previous device 300 with several improved features. The outside surface 702 is now formed by the edges of plates 711, 712. The plates 711, 712 are connected together, by bolts or screws 718. Alternative methods of connecting these plates are known, the device 700 could be produced in fewer or more parts (for instance forged as a single part). The spacing between plates 711, 712 creates an opening or cable pathway in which the cable can run. The bolts used to hold plates 711, 712 together can help define this pathway by blocking the cable access to volumes between the plates. Figure 16 shows that plates 711 have a gap between them to provide an opening through which the cable 15 can be manoeuvred into the cable pathway 703. This example shows that a large variety of outer surfaces will enable suitable engagement with the drill hole so long as they provide suitable support of the stabilisation device in or near the collar of the drill hole. In a further embodiment a single edge could extend from one of the plates, for example from plate 712 towards plates 711 (which could be removed or resized to control the opening to the cable passageway 703. Additional support surfaces could be added - for instance to form a cross (from above) and provide additional support.

Figure 17 shows a cutaway view of the stabilisation device of Figure 16. Similar to the previous embodiment cam or clamp 701 is spring loaded at pivot 705 to hold the cable against the support structure. In this case the support structure is formed by plates 711, 712 and bolts holding them together. In particular bolt 713 sits across from the clamp 701. Bolt 713 is optionally configured to improve clamping, for instance it may have a narrower diameter so as to limit cable movement. The split or divided plate 711 optionally have different shapes to account for the presence of the clamp and/or spring on one of the plates. The plates are optionally metal.

Figure 18 is a top view which demonstrates these features in more detail. The face 707 of the clamp is visible as roughened or serrated although another surface finished are possible. Screw 713 has a reduction in width diameter across from the face of clamp, preferably across all or part of its length. The width reduction provides a recess on the screw to limit the cable ability to slip out of the cable passageway. The clamp also has a radial protrusion or wider portion 714 next to the securing face 707. As the clamp closes or secures the cable the radial protrusion 714 moves across the opening to restrict or block the cable from leaving the cable pathway. Other methods or protrusions may be used to block exit/entry of the cable from the cable passageway during use. Similarly a release is available through tip or protrusion 708. The top view also demonstrates an advantage of the second version, because it allows a user to look through the gaps in the device 700 and view the collar of the hole and/or the cable and/or the top of the measurement tool is suspended at the top of the hole. This allows a user to carefully place the device.

Returning to Figure 13 the stabilizer device 700 is shown in position in a downhole with the cable 15 connected by the elbow joint to a measurement tool 14 sitting just inside the downhole. This is a typical position for initialisation, and the device 700 allows the cable and therefore the tool to be locked in this position, until a user presses the unlock or trigger 708/308 to allow the cable to continue to move or the stabilizer to be removed.

Referring to Figure 5, the rodder reel 16 holds and feeds the cable that attaches to the measurement tool. The reel can be provided with a depthing encoder 50 - this is a tool that measures the amount of cable played out by the reel so that the length of the drill hole and/or cable deployed can be determined. The reel can have a gearing and/or ratchet mechanism. The wheels 100 enables ease of movement by the user and the triangular portion allows stabilization of the rodder reel when in place. Additionally the drum 101 onto which the cable is wound onto, can be disassembled from the rodder reel such that the user can transport the rodder reel in two parts making the lifting and transportation of the rodder reel easier.

The installer tool may be transported assembled in complete form, in collapsed form (if it is telescoping) and/or in disassembled form, or some combination. The size of the installer and/or components is suitable for installation in a mine and/or transportation. As an example, the conduit and/or pole could be between 3-7m in length; and the broken down lengths can be or are configured to fit on the back of a lightweight vehicle tray, which is generally < about 2.5m. The diameter of the conduit is of sufficient size to fit the measurement tool and centralisers that are fitted to the outside of the tool.

In some cases the stabilisation device 300 does not fully close circumferentially. This provides a narrow longitudinal opening 304 along the body or supports 302. This allows for insertion of a measurement tool 14 which is coupled to a cable 15. The cable 15 with or without measurement tool 14 can slide laterally through the longitudinal opening 304. The longitudinal opening 304 may alternatively be described as a radial opening (slot) 48 to allow for a connector 46 and/or a cable to pass through. The stabilisation device has clamp 301 which allows for securing of the cable in a taut manner to mitigate wobble of the: a) cable in the stabilization device and b) the tool 14 when the tool is being initialised. This is optionally achieved by the clamp pressing the cable against a surface of the cable pathway through the stabilisation device. In some cases alternative forms of support for the stabiliser device are provided. These may be similar to those used for the support pole described previously. The support secures or supports the stabilisation device 300, 700 to a suitable fixed surface at or near the drill hole opening. For example, the stabilisation device assists with locating measurement tool close to the collar for the initialisation process. For example the stabilisation device engages the ground to support the stabilisation device (and therefore the cable and measurement tool) into place. In some cases (not shown), the stabilisation device may comprise forked prongs or alternatively a plate for positioning/supporting the stabilisation device near drill hole. The prongs can be placed close to the collar of the hole to enable a force to be applied towards the drill hole that is spread about the hole rather than concentrated in one place where the formation may, for example, be crumbly or the like. The plate(s) on the underside can be provided with prongs or other projections to engage with the ground and to hold the stabilisation device in place.

Exemplary embodiments - rodder reel

The installer 10 apparatus above is described with referenced to a general rodder reel 16 for context. The installation assembly 1 can comprise an installer 10 and a general rodder reel 16 as described above.

In yet another embodiment, an improved rodder reel 16' is provided as described below. However any of the improved rodder reels can be used with the installer 10 above in the overall assembly 1.

In general terms, the rodder reel embodiments have: a rodder reel frame comprising: a base, a cable reel support, a wheel and handle support(s) (together termed "transportation support"); and a cable reel on the cable reel support, and a handle and wheel for transportation on the transportation support.

These can take various forms as shown in the embodiments below. The rodder reel frame and rodder reel generally might also have other items (and components for supporting such items) such as an encoder, additional components, tools and the like.

The rodder reel frame comprising the base, cable reel support and/or transportation support, wheel and handle is configured so that the rodder reel is as best as possible balanced to be easily manoeuvred by a user, even in difficult situations. In general, the rodder reel when provided with a handle, a frame portion with the cable reel, and a wheel on the opposite side to the handle, is very much like a wheelbarrow. The wheelbarrow arrangement has a central front wheel or wheel and a handle on the opposite side of the frame base. This provides a large moment around the pivot which may be the wheel or the frame base at or near the wheel. It also provides good control over the front of the cable reel, at or near the front wheel, allowing this to be aligned towards the drill hole of interest. This wheelbarrow configuration enables greater ease of use through ready manoeuvrability, with a simple lift and move action. The frame portion can be lifted by the handle as it pivots on or about the wheel on the ground, manoeuvred about and then placed down into a resting orientation for ready use, with the frame base on the ground, preferably in a stable condition.

The rodder reel is constructed from materials, and configured in a manner to minimise the weight as much as possible, such as about 20 kg or below. Additionally, the weight distribution and/or the centre of mass being arranged to enable as best as possible this ease of manoeuvrability even in difficult situations, such as when used in underground conditions, uneven ground, presence of ground water, etc.

The base is arranged such that when the rodder reel is set in place, the base provides stability. This is important for surveying, where there needs to be minimal movement to ensure accurate surveying. The base is arranged such that the apparatus can be manoeuvred easily and then simply "dumped" in a suitable location which will be relatively stable, without the need for difficult adjustment or rearrangement.

First alternative embodiment of rodder reel

In one embodiment, an improved rodder reel 16' is provided as described below with reference to Figures 6 to 9. The improved rodder reel 16' can be used with the installer 10 above in the overall assembly 1.

Figure 6 shows the improved rodder reel 16' with a cable 15 reeled thereon. Figure 7 shows the rodder reel 16 without a cable reel (holder). Figure 8A shows the rodder reel in exploded form. Figure 8B shows the cable reel.

The rodder reel 16' comprises a base 61 that provides stability for the rodder reel 16'. The base 61 may take any suitable shape, such as (without limitation) a quadrilateral or partial quadrilateral shape, or a triangular or partial triangular shape. In this case, it is formed as a three sided quadrilateral U-shape, formed of a bent tubular section member (tubing). The base tubing 61 can be aluminium, carbon fibre or any other suitable metal, plastic, composite or other rigid material. Extending up from the base is a spool gantry 62 (cable reel support). The spool gantry can take any suitable shape, but in this case is formed of two tubular section members (tubing) 62 that are coupled to the base 61 and extend upright at a converging angle. The upper end of both tubes 62 are bent into a more vertical orientation, and a cross member component 75, such as a plate or bar, extends therebetween. The spool gantry tubing 62 can be connected in any suitable manner to the base, either integrally or through some type of welding, coupling or other means. Bracing 63 is provided at the bottom of each spool gantry tube 62 where it intersects with the base 61 to provide stability and rigidity. The spool gantry tubing 62 can be aluminium, carbo fibre or any other suitable metal, plastic, composite or other rigid material. It will be appreciated that other configurations of spool gantry 62 are possible.

An encoder gantry 68 is provided. The encoder gantry 68 can take any suitable shape, but in this case is formed of a tubular section member (tubing). The encoder gantry tubing 68 can be connected in any suitable manner to the base 61, either integrally or through some type of coupling 69, such as clamps, welding, integrally formed or other suitable means. The encoder gantry tubing can be aluminium, carbon fibre or any other suitable metal, plastic, composite or other rigid material. It will be appreciated that other configurations of encoder gantry 68 are possible.

A spool 64 is rotatably attached to the spool gantry cross member 75. The spool can take any suitable configuration, such as a circular plate end 65 with a central section that a spindle 66 runs through. A handle 67 for rotating the spool can be provided. Provided on the spool is a cable reel (reel holder) 90, with a central hub 91 and spokes 92 leading to cable brackets 93 that bend in a U-shape and attach to a central annular ring 94. A cable 15 can be spooled on the inside of the brackets 93. The spool 64 and cable reel 90 can jointly be considered a reel.

The rodder reel 16' comprises a transportation frame 71 (transportation support) that is formed from a bent tubular section member (tubing). The transportation frame comprises a base section 71A which is attached to the spool gantry 62, or any other suitable place, for example the base 61. The transportation frame base 71A can be coupled in any suitable way, in this case, bypassing through the spool gantry 62 and attaching with welding or other similar attachment means. The transportation base tubing 71A then bends back on itself at an angle A and extends to form a support section 71B. At the apex of the angle A, there is a bearing arrangement 80 and axle 81, to which a wheel 72 can be rotationally attached. The wheel is formed of preferably some lightweight yet robust material, such as a plastic, metal or similar lightweight material, where the wheel can be provided with spokes. It has a hub 83 to rotate on the axle 81. The spokes 84 support a circumferential bearing surface 85. The bearing surface could take the form of a dual concentric ring with compliant webbing 86 between the rings that provide some degree of compliance to mimic a tyre. There could be one or more wheels.

The other end of the support section 71B is attached to the top of the spool gantry 62, and bends over at an angle B to a handle section 71C. A support section 71D extends between the base section 61 and the handle section 71D to complete the transportation frame 71. A rodder reel handle 74 formed with a central bar 74A has two extending handles (like bike handles/handle bars) 74B, 74C is attached at the central bar 74A to the handle section 71C of the transportation frame 71 connected in any suitable manner to the base 61, either integrally or through some type of coupling 87, such as clamps, welding, integrally formed or other suitable means. The clamp can be provided with a clamp handle 301 that can allow the handle 74 to be moved about allowing the user to raise or lower the handles as required, and for transportation purposes can be folded down to allow for ease of movement. The arrangement is such that the wheel 72 and handle 74 are placed in a manner to enable the rodder reel 16' to be manoeuvred/transported in a similar fashion to, for example, a wheelbarrow. The arrangement can be configured so that the entire assembly is balanced to enable easier transportation and manoeuvrability.

This is just one form of the transportation frame 71, and any other suitable frame 71 could be provided that supports a wheel 72 on the rodder reel assembly 16', and provides a connection point for a handle 74. A transportation frame can be connected to the base gantry or any other part of the rodder reel directly or indirectly in any suitable manner.

The cable reel 90 itself is mounted on one side of the rodder reel frame to enable quick release by a user (similar to a bike wheel).

An electronic device (user interface device), such as a tablet computer, can be supported at a suitable location on the rodder reel frame. For example, it could be supported on the handlebars 74 to enable a user to readily use the user interface device while the rodder reel is in situ or being moved. Alternatively, the user interface device can be above mounted/placed by the handles or on the backside of the reel itself - i.e., on the same side as the encoder. The user interface device could be mounted on a ball joint so that it can rotate around to a suitable place for the user to view. This is important as the user whilst deploying the tool into the hole the user can readily turn to look at the user interface device.

Referring to Figures 6 and 7, the handle 67 can function as a brake handle that also rotates the spindle. A plate is provided on the cable reel and the circular plate 65 acts as a friction brake when the handle is used. This can assist the user while deploying the tool. For example, when the tool is being initialised the brake can stop additional cable being played out. The brake can hold the tool/cable when being fed into an overhead hole. Or, the brake can be used to stop or slow the tool/cable as it moves, in some embodiments this may be downhole.

The base 61 (that can optionally form part of the spool gantry), spool gantry 62 (cable reel support) and transportation frame 71 (transportation support) form a rodder reel frame 89.

With reference to Figure 8A, one side of the rodder reel frame, generally the side opposite to the cable reel 90, is relatively clear/free of any components, and so can optionally be used for supporting items, which might be items that are used with the rodder reel. For example, with reference to Figure 9A and 9B, which show two variations, supporting members 300 (such as brackets, hinges, hooks, clips, shelving, or the like) could be coupled to the opposite side of the rodder reel, such as coupled to the base, transportation frame and/or spool gantry. Such supporting members could support or provide space to support a survey tool 14, installation apparatus 11, electronic devices, tools, any other of the items described herein or the like. This enables one or more components/equipment of the entire system 1 be transported to site, for example, from a vehicle. This has time and increased efficiency advantages as the user can transport everything to the site for surveying, rather than having to go back to the vehicle to collect any other additional components to carry out the survey.

This embodiment has the advantage that the handle does not need to be lifted as far vertically to engage the wheel with the ground and to subsequently clear the base from the ground.

In a variation, the transportation frame 71, base and/or other parts of the rodder reel frame can be configured such that the wheel sits off the ground when the base sits on the ground and the rodder reel is in the resting orientation. For example, base section 71A could extend upwards at an angle and/or support section 71B could be at a shallower angle relative to the ground to position the wheel off the ground during a rest orientation. Angles A, B could change accordingly.

The handle section 71C could be at a steeper angle and/or extend closer to the ground to place the handle 74 closer to the ground. This can facilitate lifting, lowering and manoeuvring.

Second alternative embodiment of rodder reel

In another embodiment, an improved rodder reel 16" is provided as described below with reference to Figure 10. The improved rodder reel 16" can be used with the installer 10 above in the overall assembly 1.

The improved rodder reel 16" has rodder reel frame 101 constructed of a single formed tube 101A that provides the base 61", cable reel support and transportation frame. The rodder reel frame 101 can be aluminium, carbon fibre or any other suitable metal, plastic, composite or other rigid material. The angles and orientations referred to herein are exemplary only, and could differ as will be known to those skilled in the art. The wheel is held off the ground when the rodder reel 16" is set in place on the base 61". This can assist with stability as the wheel is no longer a contact point and stability is provided by the "U" shaped platform. It can be envisaged that the base does not necessarily need to be "U" shaped and can be of any configuration to provide a stable platform.

Figure 10 shows the improved rodder reel 16" with a cable 15 reeled thereon.

In the resting orientation, the rodder reel frame 16" starts as a tube formed as a straight horizontal arm 101A, which can support a handle 74 (handle support), and provides one part of the transportation support.

The tube 101 then bends back on itself at an angle 101B in a vertical plane with the horizontal arm, the tube 101B extending to the ground. A cross member 75" extends across the corner from the angled tube and the handle support arm to provide a spool support. The spool support cross member 75" can be connected in any suitable manner to the base, either integrally or through some type of welding, coupling or other means. The spool support cross member 75" can be aluminium, carbon fibre or any other suitable metal, plastic, composite or other rigid material. It will be appreciated that other configurations of spool gantry 62 are possible. The angled tube 101A, 101B, 75" and spool 64 support form a cable reel 15 support.

The tube then extends at right angles in a horizontal perpendicular base plane into a base 61" that provides stability for the rodder reel 16". The base 61" may take any suitable shape, such as (without limitation) a quadrilateral or partial quadrilateral shape, or a triangular or partial triangular shape. In this case, it is formed as a three sided quadrilateral U-shape, formed of a bent tubular section member (tubing) in a horizontal base plane. There is a support bar 102 coupled between the angled tube 101B and the base 61" to provide stability/support.

The tube 101 then bends upwards at an angle 101C again in a vertical plane (at right angles to the horizontal base plane) being the same as that for the horizontal arm/ cable support plane) and then again at right angles 101D from the vertical plane to form a wheel support (which forms part of the transportation support). This arrangement keeps the wheel 72 off the ground when the rodder reel is in the resting orientation. There is a bearing arrangement 80 and axle 81 on the tube, to which a wheel 72 can be rotationally attached. The wheel 72 is formed of preferably some lightweight yet robust material, such as a plastic, metal or similar lightweight material, where the wheel can be provided with spokes. It has a hub 83 to rotate on the axle 81. The spokes 84 support a circumferential bearing surface 85. The bearing surface could take the form of a dual concentric ring with compliant webbing 86 between the rings that provide some degree of compliance to mimic a tyre. There could be one or more wheels.

An encoder gantry 68 is provided. The encoder gantry 68 can take any suitable shape, but in this case is formed of a tubular section member (tubing). The encoder gantry tubing 68 can be connected in any suitable manner to the base 61, either integrally or through some type of coupling, such as clamps, welding, integrally formed or other suitable means. The encoder gantry tubing can be aluminium, carbon fibre or any other suitable metal, plastic, composite or other rigid material. It will be appreciated that other configurations of encoder gantry 68 are possible.

A spool 64 is rotatably attached to the spool support cross member 75". The spool can take any suitable configuration, such as a circular plate end 65 with a central section that a spindle 66 runs through. A handle 67 for rotating the spool can be provided. Provided on the spool is a cable reel (reel holder) 90, with a central hub 91 and spokes 92 leading to cable brackets 93 that bend in a U-shape and attach to a central annular ring 94 on the other side of the cable reel 90. A cable 15 can be spooled on the inside of the brackets 93. The spool 64 and cable reel 90 can jointly be considered a reel. The cable reel 90 itself is mounted on one side of the rodder reel frame to enable quick release by a user (similar to a bike wheel).

The base 61, spool gantry 62 (cable reel support) and transportation frame 71 (transportation support) form a rodder reel frame 89.

Similar to that shown in Figures 9A, 9B for the first embodiment, the side of the rodder reel frame opposite the cable reel 90 is relatively clear, and so can optionally be used for supporting items, which might be items that are used with the rodder reel. For example, supporting members (such as brackets, hinges, hooks, clips, shelving, or the like) could be coupled to the opposite side of the rodder reel, such as coupled to the base, transportation frame and/or spool gantry. Such supporting members could support or provide space to support a survey tool, installation apparatus, electronic devices, tools, any other of the items described herein or the like. This enables one or more components/equipment of the entire system 1 be transported to site from the vehicle.

This embodiment can be used where the benefit of more stability with the wheel off the ground in the resting orientation. When the user lifts the handle, the rodder reel pivots on the base bar until the wheel engages the ground, at which point the base can be leveraged off the ground where the wheel acts as a pivot point allowing the rodder reel to be moved.

A brake can be provided as per the first embodiment.

Rodder reel supplementary brake Being able to control the deployment of the cable from a cable reel, such as that mounted on the rodder reel is important because the cable on the reel is under tension. If a user inadvertently releases the cable or deliberately does so, knowing that the cable will play out in a controlled and safe manner is very important. The diameter of the cable could be any size, however the diameter of the cable must have a certain bending stiffness/rig id ity to ensure the cable can carry the load of the survey tool so that it does not buckle - as the cable could be 50m long down or up a hole with a survey or measurement tool on the end of the cable. The cable must also have some flexibility so that it can be rolled onto the reel. This stiffness and/or rigidity of the cable when it is wound onto the reel creates a spring loaded tension that is typically high enough to allow the cable to self-unravel from the wheel, particularly after an initial urging. In the worst cases this unravelling can become uncontrollable, and the user may be unable to deploy the spindle brake or stop the movement. This is particularly problematic in constrained locations, such as underground mines that are dark, hot, dirty, muddy etc. The uncontrolled unravelling poses a significant safety issue to the user where it flicks around and becomes very difficult for a user to stop the cable once the unravelling process has begun.

In some cases the potential for uncontrolled unravelling is addressed by a brake configured to limit the maximum speed at which the cable releases. In some cases this is achieved using a brake that applies increased braking force dependent on the rotational speed of the cable reel (i.e. the speed at which the cable is unravelling). Optionally the braking force is proportional to the rotational speed, but there may be a non-linear or more complex relationship. While a friction based brake could be used this may cause additional wear on the system, or limit unrolling.

In some cases an eddy current brake is used. This is a magnetic brake which uses a magnetic field to induce eddy currents in the moving piece (i.e., the reel). The faster the reel is moving the larger the eddy currents produced, and therefore the greater the braking force applied.

Figure 19 shows an example brake on a rodder reel. The brake 500 is connected to the frame 71 by a connection to the spool gantry 62 by frame 502. Other attachment means are possible. The brake acts against the outer circumferential surface of the cable reel 90, which is magnetic to ensure eddy currents are formed. In some cases eddy currents may also, or alternatively, be formed in the cable itself. In some cases an eddy current brake, or other brake, could be implemented in a different arrangement. For example an axial eddy current brake could be arranged on or about spool 64, or a separate braking disk could be added coaxially to the cable reel, or a brake could be arranged around the cable itself as it is leaving the cable reel or rodder reel.

Figure 20 shows detail of the eddy current brake of Figure 19. The eddy current brake 500 has a row of magnets 501 in axial alignment with the outer metal circular ring of the cable reel 90. It is positioned here to act on the continuous ring of metal (central annular ring 94) when the spindle brake is released by handle 67. This magnetic brake generates a braking force on the reel that is proportional to the rotation speed of the reel, where that rotation speed is proportional to the force of deployment from the cable. Hence there is no force when the reel is at rest, as the reel rotation speed increases, the braking force increases to the point where they match the un-ravelling torque of the coiled cable and the rotation speed remains constant. This can be configured, i.e., through control of the magnetic force of the brake, or distance between the reel and the magnets, to a particular speed. In some cases this will at or around a user's walking pace, around 1.2-1.4m/s although alternatively it may be is configured to be less than 5m/s, less than 4/s, less than 3m/s, less than 2m/s, less than Im/s, between 1 and 2m/s, between 1 and 1.5 m/s. In some cases there may be 1, more than 1 or a plurality of magnets or magnetic units on the brake.

In some cases the permanent magnets are replaced by electromagnets which would allow selective switching and/or control. The material of the cable reel may be chosen or selected to improve or control the braking performance, for instance by controlling the doping or magnetic response of the annular ring 94. In some cases the brake may be linear rather than following the curve of the cable reel, this may be easier to manufacture. The brake may be used in conjunction with spool brake 67. The spool brake can be used as the main control (e.g., to ensure storage for movement of the rodder reel) to prevent unravelling of the cable, while the eddy current brake acts in conjunction with the spool brake to slow the cable down as it unravels. Mounting the brake 500 to the frame 62 or base 61, for example with bracket 502, ensures precise location of the brake and therefore performance of the system.

Cable Support

The rodder reel described herein allows a cable to be unreeled into a drill hole, such as a down hole. The drill hole and/or down hole may be in an underground mine. However, there is typically an angle or difference in alignment between the rodder reel and the drill hole. As described the elbow and collar can make this connection easier. In many cases inserting a measurement tool attached to a cable into a drill hole results in a substantial load suspended into the drill hole. This load (comprising the measurement tool/survey tool and the cable) must be lowered into the drill hole before use, then raised from the drill after the survey is completed. This places strain on both the cable and the worker operating the cable.

In some cases a cable support can be provided to control or guide the cable between the rodder reel and the down hole. The cable support may comprise a frame having one or more guides. A first of the guides is arranged to guide the cable into a drill hole. This may be achieved by an orientation or position of the guide. For example, the guide may be aligned (or able to be aligned) with the axis of the drill hole, or substantially aligned with the axis (within 5 degrees or 10 degrees of the axis of the drill hole). The presence of the guides controls the curve, or bend radius of the cable. The bend radius refers to a maximum curve allowed in the cable. Because the guides resist the movement of the cable, they are able to control this bend radius.

Controlling the bend radius of the cable reduces the cable bending stress decreasing the chance of cable breakage or abrasive cable wear. These factors can increase safety of the cable tool and improve reliability and service life. The frame allows the guides (which may be referred to as feeding units) to be correctly positioned to guide the cable into the drill hole (e.g., arranged to allow the cable to smoothly enter the collar or mouth of the drill hole) and to contain the bending forces to limit contact or pressure between the cable/tool and the drill hole. For example, once the cable support holds the cable it may both carry the weight of the cable as well as supporting the spring force of the cable. The cable has a spring force due to its material properties, in particular there is a need to be strong enough to support a tool and flexible enough to be wound onto the rodder reel. Because the cable support provides a curvature and cable guides, the spring force is not transferred to the tool, for example when suspended in a downhole. This improves centralization of the tool in the drill hole as the only substantial force acting on the tool is gravity, thus reducing forces which might otherwise push the tool into contact with the sides of the downhole.

The bend radius is controlled because the guides place limits on the movement of the cable when the cable is inserted in the guides. By positioning the guides appropriately, a desired bend radius, or cable path can be formed from a first guide at or near the collar of the drill hole to a last guide at or near a rodder reel or cable reel. The minimum or maximum bend radius (or both) may be controlled depending on the type of guide(s) used. The selection to control the minimum or maximum bend radius may depend on whether there is too tight of a bend or whether there is a potential loss of control of the cable. Optionally the bend radius is controlled between 200mm and 800mm. The bend radius may depend or be configured dependent on the radius or diameter of the cable. For example, a 11mm diameter cable may have a bend radius of substantially 450mm (400- 500mm), a 13mm diameter cable may have a bend radius of substantially 700mm (650- 750mm), a 9mm diameter cable may have a bend radius of substantially 300mm (250- 350mm).

Additional guides may be used to improve the control over the cable or avoid undesirable bending. For example, having at least three guides may provide control over a cable inlet, a cable outlet and a cable bend radius. In some cases, the guides may be adjustable to allow configuration for different drill holes, for example. Providing contact surfaces on the guides, such as guide wheels or rollers reduces abrasion and/or pressure on the cable as it passes through the guide. The contact surfaces may be fixed, allowing the cable to slide over them, or moveable, rotating to ease the passage of the cable. For example the guides may be wheels or shaped surfaces.

The guides may comprise opposing surfaces arranged to provide upper and lower movement limits to the cable in the guide. In one example these are wheels, or circular surfaces, however they may also be flat. The surface may be fixed or be able to rotate about an axle. A closure, such as a door or bar able to retain the cable within or against a guide may be used to avoid the cable leaving the guide. The closure may be arranged in conjunction with the cable contact surfaces so as to have a first position in which the cable can be inserted into or removed from the guide and a second position in which the cable is secured within the guide. For example, a hinged door may be closed into a position between two contact surfaces. The closure may also allow the cable to first be connected to a tool in the hole, then for the cable to slide into or along the cable support. This means the cable does not need to be run through each of the guides before being connected.

The first guide may be configured to align with a drill hole, such as a down hole, to remove any pressure from the drill hole. Pressure can be generated where the cable pushes against the sides of the drill hole due to the tension in the cable, or a force acting on the cable. This can affect measurements made by the tool. In some examples the drill hole may be substantially vertical (plus or minus 10 degrees), optionally downwards. However, other drill hole orientations may require or prefer a different angle. Alignment may mean the guide has an axis substantially parallel to the drill hole, so that the cable passing through the guide also also passes substantially perpendicular to the axis of the drill hole.

A second guide may be arranged at the far end of the guides, or furthest from the drill hole in use. This guide may be the final guide before the cable returns to the rodder reel. Typically a user is pulling or pushing the cable from this point. This means that it is advantageous if the cable support is able to locate the cable in a suitable position for a user to push or pull. This may be achieved by guiding the cable into a substantially horizontal position. The cable may be guided substantially at hip height, for example 0.6 to l.lmetres from the ground, or where a user would be standing. Allowing the second guide to be substantially horizontal (+ 30 degrees, or + 10 degrees) allows for easier pulling or pushing on the cable by a user during raising or lowering of the cable. This may be assisted by the second guide being at or about a user's hip height, where greater force may be applied. Where the first and second guides are the first and last guides on the cable support (i.e., where the remaining guides are placed between the first and second guides) the arrangement both reduces the forces on the tool within the drill hole and makes retrieval of the cable easier.

A third guide may be used. In some cases multiple further guides are used. The third guide may be positioned between the first and second (or last) guide. The at least three guides help to outline a curved path or bend radius for the cable to follow because the third guide prevents the cable extending outwards between the other two guides. Alternatively, a curved path may be formed by a single or two longer curved guides. For example, a single longer track could be used to route the cable, or a surface attached to the frame could be used. A curved path may provide improved control over the bend radius compared to, for example, only two guides.

The frame may be of various shapes and types so long as it is able to support the cable guides. The frame may comprise at least the legs and optionally a bracket or leg connector. In some cases the legs are directly connected to one another or one or more of the legs is unitary with the bracket or leg connector. A two or three legged support (such as a tripod) provides a lightweight and portable cable support easily configurable around different drill holes in use. By mounting the guides along one of the legs of the support, the support can be arranged into a suitable position while the relative position and/or orientation of the tripod is maintained. The legs may be rotatable, disconnectable, or otherwise arranged to allow the frame to be collapsible for ease of transportation. In some cases one or more or each of the guides are mounted to the leg by one or more extensions. The extensions are configured to arrange and/or space the guide from the leg. This may advantageously create a desired curve or arrangement of the guides. In some cases, the cable support may instead comprise a frame or box supporting the guides. In some cases the cable support may be mounted or fixed on a single leg into the ground or a wall support. The various structures described merely allow the guides to be appropriately positioned and other structures may also be used to achieve this without detracting from the cable support.

In some cases further features are used to improve the transportability of the cable support. For example having at least one of the legs rotatably connected allows the plane of the guides to be rotated to align with the drill hole and/or rodder reel to enable smooth cabling between them. In some cases the guide leg is rotatably connected as this provides a direct relationship between rotation of the leg and alignment of one or more of the guide wheels. The legs may comprise a fastener configured to secure the legs in an open and/or closed position. For example the other legs may be rotationally connected to the guide leg. In some cases the legs may also, or alternatively, be disconnectable from one another to allow easy storage and/or transportation. In some cases the guide leg may be rotatable, with the remaining legs fixed to one-another to form a secure base.

While the guides may be permanently fixed in relation to the leg it may be advantageous to make them rotatably or moveable so as to allow a user to configure or optimise the cable support in used. For example, the guides may slide along a support of the cable support, or be pivotally connected to the support, for example through an extension from the leg. Optionally one or more of the guides are moveably mounted, optionally to the guide leg, the frame or an extension. This allows the guides to be moved along the leg, or a part of the frame, or along the extension from the leg to control the position of the guides. This may be advantageous where different cable diameters are used. An arrangement where multiple guides are pivotally connected about a single point on the guide leg, or frame, allows the cable support to be more readily collapsible. The cable support is then easy to set up by placing the frame in position and rotating each of the guides into a suitable support location. The length of the extensions on which the guides are mounted helps to control the bend radius. These lengths may be the same for each guide or a variety of lengths may be used.

In some cases the guide leg is curved, or a curved support is attached to a leg to provide a desired curvature. The guides may then be moved along this curve to appropriate positions. In some cases extensions may be used to space the guides from the guide leg or curved guide leg. The curvature of the guide leg or curved support may be between 200mm and 800mm. The guides have been said to be on the guide leg this should be understood to include being positioned on extensions or supports which are then attached to the guide leg and include both direct and indirect connection to a leg (although without connection to the remaining legs). Extensions provide additional flexibility and control because the guides can be spaced to form the bend radius required without requiring the leg to be shaped. The extensions may comprise brackets or bars extending perpendicular or at another angle from the frame or guide leg.

The legs may have feet. A foot can be used to improve contact with the ground to secure the cable support. For example, the foot may comprise a spike configured to protrude into the ground. Or the foot may have a non-slip surface or an engagement surface for the ground surrounding the drill hole. A clamp may be used to the secure the cable. This allows a desired amount of cable to pass through the cable support before being stopped, to allow the user to connect the tool to the cable while being simultaneously supported by the cable support, this is also the case when the tool is surveying. In some cases the clamp may be used to stabilise the tool in the hole for a set period, such as when the tool is north seeking where a calibration step must be carried out, in most cases this is at the top of the drill hole before the tool is lowered. The clamp may be placed at any useful height, such as between 0.3m and 1.6m or between 0.6m and 1.1m. The clamp may be near the last guide so as to be close to a user of the cable support or rodder reel.

The cable support may be supplied with the rodder reel. In some cases it may be configured to be mountable to the rodder reel, or to be secured to the rodder reel. The frame may be formed by multiple components or be a unitary structure. A multiple component frame may be secured by fasteners such as bolts, screws or clips or the parts may be interlocked together or otherwise joined. The frame may be formed of a suitable material, such as a metal or plastic, where the material is strong enough to handle the force and/or weight of the cable. The frame may have its longest axis substantially parallel to the path of the cable. This allows the frame to resist the cable forces more efficiently. The guides or guide leg may extend along this longest axis.

Figure 21 shows an example cable support 900. The cable support 900 has three legs 910 (a pair), 912 which support three guides 930, 931, 932 In this example all three guides 930, 931, 932 are supported on one leg, guide leg 912. However this is not required. The legs are connected at a leg connector 915. A fastener 917 may be used to secure or lock the legs 910, 912 into a fixed relative orientation. The fastener maybe a threaded fastener. It may have a handle. In alternative examples the legs 910, 912 may be permanently secured, for example by welding. The legs 910, 912 may have feet 911 which may be configured to improve a ground connection in use. As shown the guides 930, 931, 932 may be attached to extensions 920, 921, 922 to locate them appropriately. The extensions may be brackets 921, or bars 920, 922. The form of bar 920, 922 or bracket 921 is not important. They may be extrusions and or bars such as square, I or T bars.

In some cases guide leg 912 is rotatable, so that the angle of the guides 930 is controllable to better match the rodder reel and the drill hole. In use the cable support 900 is arranged so that a first guide 930, 931, 932 (for example the leftmost guide 932) is arranged above the drill hole. The cable can then be fed through each of the guides 930, 931, 932 so that the guide 930, 931, 932 controls a curve or bend radius of the cable. The guides 930, 931, 932 may also absorb the forces or tension of the cable. This allows the cable to pass into the drill hole along the desired axis and reduces forces between a tool attached to the cable and the sides of the drill hole. The guide 930 is configured for this purpose for a vertical down hole because it is substantially parallel to the ground, or equivalently the mouth or collar of the hole. Where drill holes have different orientations, the support may be repositioning or the guide, e.g. 932, may be made moveable.

The cable, after being unwound from the reel and which may have the tool connected to it, passes from the drill hole, through a first guide 932 to a last guide 930 when in use. The last guide may be positioned to improve safety, improve user comfort, or reduce force required for lifting the cable. This may be achieved by the final guide 930 being substantially vertical (so as the cable runs through the guide 930, or at least leaves the guide substantially horizontally). This improves the angle for pulling or pushing on the cable. The guide 930 may also have a height from the ground chosen for comfort. This may be the hip height of a user, for example between 0.6 and 1.1 meters from the ground. The middle guide 931 prevents the cable from extending upwards (towards the top left of Figure 21). In some cases guides 930, 932 may provide sufficient support without guide 931.

The form of the guides 930, 931, 932, may vary. Figure 21 shows each guide as a pair of wheels. The wheels each form a cable contact surface 936 configured to allow the cable to run through the guide. The wheels may be fixed or may rotate. In some cases each guide may have a single wheel because, for example, the cable may be under tension so only run on the outer guide wheels 935. Although not shown in Figure 21 the guides may have closures 937 as shown in Figure 22. The closures 937 may close the space between each pair of wheels so as to prevent the cable from leaving the guide 930, 931, 932 until the closure 937 is released.

Although the support 900 is shown as a tripod fewer or greater numbers of legs may be used. The frame, formed by legs 910, 912 is configured to support the guides and a frame able to do so will be sufficient. The support 900 may have a clamp 905. The clamp 905 is configured to stop or slow the cable. It may be located on the frame or guides. In some cases it is located at or near the final guide 930 so as to be between the guides and the rodder reel. In some cases the clamp 905 may also be a brake, or is capable of slowing the speed of the cable down as it is unwound/deployed from the rodder reel.

Figure 22 shows a second example cable support 900. Again the support 900 has three legs 910, 912, which may have feet 911. In this example the legs 910 are held in a fixed position with the leg connector 915. The legs 910 may be inserted in recesses or brackets within the leg connector 915. The leg connector may be a bracket or similar structure. Figure 22 shows a rotatable guide leg 912 attached at a pivot 919 to the leg connector 915. This may provide a similar rotation as in the example of Figure 20. In some cases the legs 910 may rotate instead of leg 912, or both may rotate about the leg connector 915 to provide additional flexibility of positioning.

Figure 22 shows guides 930, 931, 932 arranged along a curved support 940. The curved support is connected to guide leg 912. In some cases the curved support 940 could be guide leg 912. However the additional structure may help support the leg 912 as shown. The use of a curved support 940 allows multiple guides 930, 931, 932 to be positioned along a desired radius. In some cases the curved support 940 may be interchangeable, for example to allow a different bend radius for different cable diameters.

Advantageously the guides 930, 931, 932 are moveable along the curved support 940. The curved support 940 may form a track along which the guide are moved. This allows accurate positioning of the guides and appropriate adjustment of the rodder reel to the drill hole position. For example, by moving first guide 932 the angle of the guide relative to the drill hole may be changed. Similarly by moving the final guide 930 the angle and/or height of the cable leaving the cable support may be changed. This may make it easier to pull or push the cable. Although a substantially semi-circular curved support 940 is shown the shape may be varied. For example the shape may be configured to allow a greater choice of adjustment for guide 932 or 930. As with the example of Figure 21 the guides are shown with guide wheels for cable contact surfaces, however other guides may be used. Figure 22 shows a closure 937 across one of the guide 931. The closure 937 spans the gap between wheels, or the inlet of guide 931.

Figure 23 shows a further example cable support 900. Again a tripod is shown with three legs 910, 912 although other configurations could be used. The characteristics of the legs is the same as shown in Figure 22. However the guides 930, 931, 932 are no longer attached to the leg by fixed extensions 920, 921, 922. Instead the guides 930, 931, 932 are rotatably attached to the frame by a pivot 950 on guide leg 912. The guides 930, 931, 932 are supported by extensions 920 so as to space themselves from the connection to the leg 912. The length of the extension(s) 920 may be used to control the bend radius. Four guides 930, 931, 932 (a pair) are shown, but this is not required. The order of the guides 930, 931, 932 may also be changed based on the rotation of the guide 930, 931, 932. In some cases the pivot 950 is attached to a different part of the frame, such as leg 910. In some cases each guide 930, 931, 932 is separately pivotable.

In some cases a clamp 905 (shown in Figure 21, although may be combined with any of the described examples) may be arranged on the frame to allow the cable to be fixed in position. For example a clamp 905 could be positioned at or near the leg connector 915. This position allows good access for a user running the cable through the cable support or from the rodder reel. In some cases one or more clamps 905 are arranged along on the frame and/or next to the guides 930, 931, 932.

Figure 24 shows the cable support 900 in use. The cable support is arranged between the rodder reel 5600 and the down hole into which tool 14 is placed. As can be seen the cable runs in a smooth curve between the rodder reel and the down hole, with the first guide positioned so as to correctly align the cable with the hole. This means that the tension is applied to the cable support 900 instead of the hole wall, improving measurement performance. A user may begin by positioning the rodder reel 5600 and organising the tool 14 for use. A small amount of cable 14 may then be run from the rodder reel and connected to the tool 14. This allows the tool 14 to be safely placed in the drill hole. The elbow 400 or stabilisation device 700 may be used to simplify this process. Once in place, or before, the cable support may be positioned above the drill hole. The cable can then be inserted into the guides 930, 931, 932. In some cases the cable may instead be run through the guides 930, 931, 932 before being connected to tool 14. If closures 937 are present on the guides these can be shut to secure the cable in position. Now as further cable 14 is run out of the rodder reel the tension is taken by the cable support 900 instead of being passed to tool 14. Exemplary embodiment - method of operation

A method of using a measuring tool 14 in a drill hole 17 of the mine, comprising using the installer 10 to install the measuring tool 14 will now be described. The method will be described with reference to actions taken by user 18. It will be appreciated that the method does not have to take place serially in the exact order described, and this is by way of example only.

The components of the installer 10 will be brought to the mine site on a suitable vehicle, in a complete, disassembled and/or collapsed state, as appropriate. The user 18 (there might be more than one user, but will be referred to in the singular here) will then carry each of these components to the work site (underground mine) either individually where the installer will be extended, assembled or in a pre-assembled form.

The cable 15 and rodder wheel 16, 16', 16" will be assembled, and a depthing encoder 50 may optionally be attached to the rodder wheel. The depthing encoder 50 measures the length of cable deployed in order to determine the depth of the hole.

In an alternative embodiment, and for example using the rodder reel 16' of the second embodiment, instead the rodder reel is ready assembled, and/or has various components of the system 1 or otherwise supported on the side of the rodder reel frame opposite the reel. That means that the rodder reel itself and the components are ready and can be transported to site, and then placed suitably in a stable fashion on the base.

The cable end that will attach to the measurement tool 14 can be fitted with a quick release tool and/or the quick release tool is detached into its complementary female and male parts where either the male or female end is attached to the cable and the complementary end of the quick release tool is fitted/attached to the measurement tool.

The support pole 12 and installation conduit 11 are then assembled and laid out on the ground. In other ways, the user can put the measurement tool 14 into the conduit first, then get the support pole and attach it to the conduit. The pole 12 is assembled with the conduit 11 by threading the rod through the apertures 33 on the collars 30 that are spaced along the conduit 11. The conduit is then positioned in place at a suitable height along the support rod using the positioning adjuster 19. If the holder 13 has not already been coupled, the clamp 47 on the holder 13 is attached to the support rod 12.

The measurement tool 14 is coupled to the cable 15 on the rodder reel 16, if not done already. If using the measurement tool support shown in figures 4A/4B, then the measurement tool is placed into the opening 44 at the top of the holder and the cable is passed through the narrow opening 45 in the side of the holder and through the base slot 46. The measurement tool is then placed onto the base 42 of the holder and a coupling portion of the tool and the cable pass through the aperture 45 in the base. If using the other embodiments of the measurement tool support, then it is envisaged that the user will similarly place the measurement tool into the annular ring as shown in Figure 4C or if using the connector shown in 4D/4F to couple the measurement tool to the middle part 46B. The purpose of the measurement tool support is to enable ease of movement of the overall system, as the user can detach the cable on the rodder reel allowing the measurement tool to be retained by, on or within the measurement tool support.

The user takes the conduit 11, support rod 12 and holder 13 assembly. The support pole 12 is then used to manoeuvre the conduit 11, to line up and/or insert the top end/opening of the conduit into the drill hole 17. The viewing/communications region 21 remains visible. The user can manoeuvre the assembled installation apparatus into position, where the conduit 11 facing upwards will be positioned in the mouth/collar of the drill hole 17 and the support pole assists with holding the conduit in the mouth. When the user 18 has placed the assembled installer 10 in or at the collar of the drill hole 17, then they can manoeuvre the support pole 12 so that the installation conduit 11 is correctly placed and then push the conduit 11 into place. The positioning adjuster 19 can be adjusted to configure the correct height from the ground to the top end of the conduit 11. Once in place, the locking nut can be tightened. The conduit 11 is then held in place by the combination of the locking nut abutting both the edge of the conduit 11 and/or the collar 30. The height is configured to ensure there is sufficient space for the correct deployment of the measurement tool 14 and ease of moving this assembled installation unit and measurement tool about.

The support pole 12 is then fixed into an upright position to hold the conduit 11 in place. For example, it can be fixed to the ceiling and floor of the mine e.g. through feet or another retainer, that are extendable to wedge or otherwise secure the pole, and therefore conduit 11, in place. Additionally or alternatively, it could be secured to a wall of the mine. The support rod 12 and conduit 11 might not be in a vertical position, but just in some upright position that is at an angle between the ceiling and the floor. In one example, securing takes place as follows. The prongs 26 at the top end of the support pole 12 are placed close to the collar of the drill hole 17 to enable a force to be applied in an upward direction that is spread about the drill hole opening rather than concentrated in one place where the formation may be crumbly or the like. At the ground (bottom opening of the installation conduit 11) the user, can then embed the support pole into the ground using a claw, foot or other type of retainer on the bottom end of the support pole 12. There can be a base for the user to stand on to embed the retainer into the ground. Alternatively, another retaining mechanism could be used to stabilise/secure the support pole 12 into the ground. It is important that the claw, foot or other retainer holds this position as when the measurement tool 14 is pushed up into the conduit 11, the weight of the tool 14 can cause twisting of the installer 10, so the retainer enables the installer 10 to not twist but retain its position.

With the installer secured in position along with the tool 14 that is retained by the measurement tool support 13, the user can then attach the other end of the connector (quick release tool) on the cable to the tool. The user then feeds the measurement tool 14 and cable 15 up through the conduit 11 as the cable is unwound from the rodder reel, the depthing encoder 50 can measure the length of cable being deployed and thus the length of the hole. The measurement tool then approaches or reaches the top end/opening of the conduit and collar/opening of the drill hole. Correct placement of the measurement tool can be determined using a detector and/or visual assessment. In this way the relative position/offset of the tool relative to a datum (e.g. the collar) is known and recorded. This can be identified by the user visibly seeing the tool through the opening/communication region 21, or the user estimating when the tool has entered the hole by measuring the distance to the collar and then playing out sufficient cable length with reference to the encoder, or there being some other device fitted to both the tool and installer to identify when the tool is at the collar. For example, the tool 14 can be provided with an indicator (e.g. light) that can be viewed through the viewing/communications region. The indicator can be fixed to the tool at a known position, such that as the light reaches the viewing/communication region 21, the user can determine the position of the tool relative to the conduit and/or drill hole. As the light reaches the viewing region the user can prepare for positioning and operation of the tool. In the alternative some type of detector/sensor arrangement could be used in place of the light.

Once the user knows the tool is in place including the centralisers which are within the drill hole, then the user will stop pushing the tool further into the hole. The user can then ensure the cable is secured at the bottom to keep it taught, preventing the cable moving about and therefore moving the tool and affecting the tool measurement or log. This can be achieved by clamping the cable to a fixed point such as on the conduit or support. In other embodiments, the rodder reel 16 could be powered to allow the tool to be fed up the conduit. Once the tool 14 is inside the drill hole and the bottom end of the tool is at the collar of the drill hole or the tool is at a predetermined position that may be relative to the collar of the drill hole or other point such as the communication region 21, then the tool 14 is turned on or initialised via the user operating the monitoring device 29. This is achieved by communicating with the tool using Bluetooth or similar via the communication region. The monitoring device can be a tablet or other device capable of communicating and monitoring the tool. This monitoring device can be handheld, or in some embodiments is a hands free device that is provided to a headset, safety eye glasses or as part of head wear worn by a user that includes a hard hat, safety eye glasses etc. Alternatively the device is mounted on the rodder reel. The tool will then undergo an initialisation step to establish a "zero point" or reference point. When the measurement tool is a survey tool, such as a gyro (e.g., a north seeking gyro) the tool will determine the azimuth and depth at this point to establish the "zero point" in anticipation of logging the drill hole. In another embodiment, prior to the user feeding the measurement tool up through the conduit, the measurement tool can undergo this initialisation step prior to being deployed, such as at ground level. This could be the case where the survey tool is, for example, a reference gyro re a gyro that is not north seeking, thus the "zero point" is provided to such a gyro from an external source, such as a survey station or the like.

At the time of initialisation the tablet and tool must carry out a "hand shake" or other similar synchronisation process between the two devices to enable the timers located on both the tablet and tool to start off together. The initialisation could include a countdown time, for example 60 seconds, at the hand shake to enable the user to have sufficient time to position the tool and carry out other tasks to ensure the tool is ready when it completes the initialisation process. What is important in this part of the workflow is that the tool is in position when it is determining the "zero point" as this establishes the reference point for the resultant logging results.

Logging can now take place.

The measurement tool after it has completed the initialisation step will then take measurements of the formation at its position along the drill hole whilst the user is pushing the tool up the hole. This will continue until the end of the hole is reached. This is a continuous surveying process. In some embodiments, the tool 14 will communicate downhole to the monitoring device via Bluetooth or powered communications through the cable that logging is complete at that location and it is ready to move to the next location. In other embodiments the surveying process is discontinuous. Here the user will know via the tablet that the tool is ready to take another reading as the timers are synchronised. The user will stop pushing the tool up the hole, the tool will take a reading and, then once completed the user will then continue this process until the hole is logged. In other embodiments the measurement tool may take measurements at set distances, (e.g., every 2m) here the encoder 50 which again is controlled by the monitoring device (e.g. tablet) is used, where the user feeds the tool up into the hole while using the encoder to determine the distance travelled by the tool, until the next position is reached where logging takes place again. This continues until the end of the hole is reached. Surveying can also be carried out at the toe of the hole, such that surveying is carried out on both the in run and out run. In some embodiments surveying may just be carried out from the toe of the hole, where the user pushes the tool to the toe and measurement of the hole is carried out only on the out run.

Once the drill hole is surveyed, then the user can extract the measurement tool, by reeling the cable back in and extracting the measurement tool down through the conduit and back into the holder. The support pole can be removed from the ceiling, wall and/or floor and moved to the next drill hole location and the method undertaken again. The cable can optionally be removed and/or a different measuring tool positioned in the holder. Optionally at this time, if the measurement tool has an onboard memory then the user can download the logging results to the tablet.

The rodder reel 16, 16', 16" might be manoeuvred and repositioned multiple times during surveying. Advantageously, if the embodiment rodder reel 16', 16" is used, the repositioning is easy. The rodder reel 16', 16" is configured to make manoeuvring much easier and also stable placement much more likely without too much difficulty/fiddling.

Also the use of the rodder reel 16', 16" is particularly suitable when surface surveying is used, whereby the holes to be surveyed are below ground level, here the reel can be moved to be adjacent to the holes for surveying. In this case an installation apparatus might not be required as the survey tool is being deployed downhole. Irrespective the rodder reel can still be used to transport all of the system equipment on the frame.

Second Exemplary embodiment - method of operation.

A method of using a measuring tool 14 in a drill hole 17 of the mine, optionally comprising using the rodder reel with the maximum speed brake 500, stabilisation device 300, 700 and elbow joint 400 will now be described. The method will be described with reference to actions taken by user 18. It will be appreciated that the method does not have to take place serially in the exact order described, and this is by way of example only. The required components will be brought to the mine site on a suitable vehicle, in a complete, disassembled and/or collapsed state, as appropriate. The user 18 (there might be more than one user, but will be referred to in the singular here) will then carry or otherwise transport each of these components to the work site (underground mine) either individually, assembled or in a pre-assembled form.

The measurement tool 14 and the locking cone or stabilisation device 300, 700 are then assembled and laid out on the ground near the hole. The spindle brake of the rodder reel is released to allow the rodder reel to play out a portion of the cable, then secured to limit further release. The eddy current brake avoids uncontrolled unravelling. The cable end that will attach to the measurement tool 14 can be fitted with a quick release tool and/or the quick release tool is detached into its complementary female and male parts where either the male or female end is attached to the cable and the complementary end of the quick release tool is fitted/attached to the measurement tool. The elbow joint 400 is optionally connected (either with or instead of the quick release tool) to be between the cable and the measurement tool, so as to allow the connection to be made without bending of the cable, or the cable forming a large arch.

The locking cone is placed on the assembled cable, preferably at or near the end of the cable where it connects to the measuring tool (to keep the measuring tool at the top of the hole). Then the measurement tool is placed through the collar of the hole and allowed to enter the down hole. In some cases, prior to this deployment, the measurement tool can start the initialisation process. This may include the tool being turned on and/or the handheld tablet being activated. The spindle brake of the rodder reel is released to allow the cable to play out into the hole. As the measurement tool enters the hole the elbow 400 will bend towards a coaxial or straight position to reduce the tension in the cable and improve the smoothness of the entry of the measurement tool into the hole. After the distal end of the measurement tool enters the hole the stabilisation device 300, 700 will contact and secure to the collar of the hole or the ground surrounding the hole. The cable will attempt to keep moving but will be engaged and locked in place by the clamp of the stabilisation device. Therefore the measurement tool 14 will be held just below the collar of the hole. Correct placement of the measurement tool can be determined by viewing through the openings in the cone or through a transparent cone. The spindle brake may be reengaged to further secure the cable.

Prior to the tool 14 being placed inside the drill hole, the tool 14 is turned on or initialised via the user operating the monitoring device 29. This is achieved by communicating with the tool using Bluetooth or similar. There is usually a time delay, to allow the user to deploy the tool into position (e.g., 90 seconds). Once the delay has completed, then the measurement tool undergoes its initialisation process. In some cases the cable may have a wired connection to allow communication. The monitoring device can be a tablet or other device capable of communicating and monitoring the tool. This monitoring device can be handheld, or in some embodiments is a hands free device that is provided to a headset, safety eye glasses or as part of head wear worn by a user that includes a hard hat, safety eye glasses etc. Alternatively the device is mounted on the rodder reel. The tool will then undergo an initialisation step to establish a "zero point" or reference point. When the measurement tool is a survey tool, such as a gyro (e.g., a north seeking gyro) the tool will determine the azimuth and depth at this point to establish the "zero point" in anticipation of logging the drill hole. In another embodiment, prior to the user feeding the measurement tool into the hole, the measurement tool can undergo this initialisation step prior to being deployed, such as at ground level. This could be the case where the survey tool is, for example, a reference gyro re a gyro that is not north seeking, thus the "zero point" is provided to such a gyro from an external source, such as a survey station or the like.

Logging can now take place.

The measurement tool after it has completed the initialisation step will then take measurements of the formation at its position along the drill hole whilst the user is allowing the cable to play out. This can be performed by removing the locking cone, releasing the spindle brake and deploying a desired length of cable. This will optionally continue until the end of the hole is reached. This surveying may be continuous or discontinuous as described previously. The cable support improves the method of surveying or operating a device on a cable in a drill hole. By locating the frame so that the first guide is positioned close to and/or in alignment with the drill hole (i.e., the collar or mouth of a drill hole or bore hole) the cable direction can be controlled to closely match the hole axis. This will help the measurement tool (for example a gyroscope) to be better centralized in the drill hole. In some cases this will be advantageous for a north seek operation and/or improve survey accuracy.

The cable support also assists in retrieving the cable and tool from the drill hole. Retrieving the cable and tool can require substantial effort because the tool may weigh 10-15kg and the cable 150 grams per meter. This means that for a 40 meter deep hole there may be a combined weight of more than 20 kg. This is difficult to smoothly extract, particularly vertically. The cable support may reorientate the force required to remove the tool by having a substantially horizontal final guide. This allows a user to withdraw (or insert) the cable by applying a horizontal force and allow gripping of the cable at around waist height. This can improve ergonomics considerably, especially for deeper and more numerous holes.

In some cases this method may also comprise using the cable support 900. The cable support 900 provides addition control over the path of the cable between the rodder reel 5600 and tool 14 to avoid large loops of cable forming, additional forces on tool 14 and for user health and safety. The cable support 900 is placed over or about the drill hole. For example the first guide 932 may be placed above a drill hole and/or aligned so as to enable the cable to pass along the longitudinal axis of the drill hole. Once the measurement tool is placed in the collar or mouth of the drill hole (which may be secured by the collar/stabilisation apparatus and/or elbow) the cable can be placed into the guides of the cable support. In some cases the cable may be run through the cable support before being connected to tool 14. In some cases the cable support 900 is used without the collar 700 or elbow 400. The support 900 may provide improved angles and/or orientations for the cable between the support 900 and the rodder reel 5600 or the drill hole.

In some cases the cable support may be attachable or attached to the front of the rodder reel so as to allow the cable to be permanently secured through the support 900. In some cases the guides may have a vertical opening, with a closure allowing this to shut to allow the cable to be inserted from the top or bottom, in use. For example there may be a hinge between the guide wheels. In some cases the clamp is used to secure the cable in place before or after the tool 14 is attached. The clamp prevents uncontrolled release of the cable. In some cases a break is present to slow the run of the cable through the cable support 900. In some cases the brake is on or about one of the guides 930, 931, 932.

Variations and/or additions

The support pole and/or conduit could be extendible and/or collapsible in the longitudinal direction, preferably telescopically. This assists with transportation, assembly, installation and/or configuring to the required heights. As an example, the conduit could be a series of concentric cylindrical sections that telescope within each other. A similar arrangement could be for the support pole (full length pole). Alternatively, the support pole could comprise two or more sections, which are not continuous - e.g., a first upper section that engages the roof of the mine, and a second lower section that engages the floor and/or wall of the mine. There might be a gap between both sections (forming a partial length pole). They could be coupled on the conduit, for example.

The holder can be provided within the conduit or separate from the conduit. In the former situation, the inside diameter of the conduit is provided with retaining members to latch and retain the holder in place.

The cable is not just a deployment mechanism for the tool. Additionally, the cable can carry power, live data for immediate download/transmission in real time. The cable is of sufficient strength to be substantially rigid when deployed uphole yet has flexibility to be wound back onto the drum of the rodder wheel. This enables the user to push the tool up into the hole without there being (or being much) flex in the cable.

The rodder reel with the cable could have another measurement tool on board, such as a depthing encoder. The rodder wheel could alternatively or separately be provided with a battery or other power source to, for example, power the measurement tool thus the measurement tool would not require an onboard battery. The power source or battery could further power the communications and/or control the measurement tool.

The connector between the cable and tool could enable disengagement of the rodder reel and installation apparatus. This provides two pieces of the system being the rodder reel and the conjoined installed apparatus and measurement tool. This enables the agile manoeuvrability by one person of the installation apparatus with the measurement tool as the measurement tool is held in place by the holder. The conduit 14 could be partially, predominantly or completely formed of a transparent or partially transparent material, such as Perspex, which makes the inside of the conduit visible. This construction could also form the viewing and/or communications region 21.

The installation apparatus might further comprise a detector for detecting correct deployment of the measurement tool in the drill hole. The detector could be located on or within the installation conduit and/or pole or elsewhere for detecting correct deployment of the survey tool in the drill hole.

A kit or set of parts may be provided including any one or more aspects of the system. In particular the rodder reel may be provided with the stabiliser device and elbow joint to allow easy connection to the measurement tool. In some cases the elbow joint may be pre-fitted to the cable 15. In some cases the stabiliser device may also be pre-fitted, to the cable, but this would require a disengaged position which enables the cable to freely run through the device while the device is in contact with the collar of the hole. Alternatively one or more parts may be pre-fitted or part of the end of the measuring tool.

Advantages

The installer described can be manually, or semi-manually deployed without the need of an elevated platform or similar apparatus. It can be readily deployed by 2 or fewer person(s) enabling increased efficiencies, improved health and safety and a simple operation that can enable a mine site to survey a greater number of holes i.e., workflows.

The installer described can be light, hard wearing, easy to lift and move about when it is all assembled.

The user can then readily move the conduit and tool to the next drill hole and then reattach the cable of the rodder reel ready to survey the next hole. This ease of movement is assisted by the fact this system enables a low centre of gravity to be created. This is important as the measurement tool may be long and thus it is important to ensure the system can be moved about easily without fear of toppling over.

The ability to detach the reel enables the installer and tool to be moved about as a single unit - where the survey tool is retained within the cavity of the conduit using the holder. The wheelbarrow arrangement enables an easy lift and move. The three bars forming the base enables a stable platform, that does not necessarily need to be flat - however provides sufficient stability for the tool and overall system.

Additionally, this wheelbarrow configuration allows for easy assembly, disassembly, and manoeuvrability for the user as it enables easy removal and re-attachment of the reel. The frame is constructed of lightweight yet rigid material, for example aluminium, carbon fibre or the like making for ease of lifting on and off the back of a truck. This is important when there is only person, especially in an underground situation where is a move towards minimising the number of people working underground.

Further, the wheel is placed on the frame to be opposite the handle in the embodiments herein. This puts the centre of gravity relative to the pivot (wheel) in a better position As it is away from the user and allows for pivoting on or about the wheel. The prior art rodder reels have the transport wheel placed closest to the user/handle, thus when moving the prior art reels the user can often be walking in a crouched or slightly bent position. This is because the centre of gravity and/or pivot are close to the user.

There is an additional requirement of the prior art to have at least two wheels. Only one wheel is required in the present embodiments (although more are possible). With the present configuration the user is able to lift and move the rodder reel in a more upright and convenient position. Where used, a single wheel enables ease of manoeuvrability and is the point about which the direction of movement and/or turning can be made. Whereas with the two wheel configuration of the prior art - turning is much more difficult, especially so as the centre of gravity is close to the user.

Thus anything that assists the user to make their job easier poses great advantages.

Claims

1. A rodder reel for use in surveying comprising: rodder reel frame with a base, a cable reel on the rodder reel frame, a brake configured to limit the maximum speed at which the cable reel releases cable.

2. A rodder reel according to claim 1 wherein the braking force of the brake increases with the rotational speed of the cable reel.

3. A rodder reel according to claim 2 wherein braking force is proportional to the rotational speed of the cable reel.

4. A rodder reel according to any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein the brake is an eddy current brake.

5. A rodder reel according to any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein the cable reel, or at least a portion of the cable reel, is a magnetic metal.

6. A rodder reel according to any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein the brake is configured to engage the circumferential surface of the cable reel.

7. A rodder reel according to any one of claims 1 to 6 wherein the brake is configurable to control the maximum speed.

8. A rodder reel according to any one of claims 1 to 7 further comprising a handle, and the wheel and the handle are on opposite sides of the rodder reel frame.

9. A method of installing a measurement tool in a drill hole into a formation comprising, in any order: connecting the measurement tool to a cable on a rodder reel, and feeding a measurement tool in the conduit to deploy the tool in the drill hole, wherein the method comprises any one or more the following steps: connecting a flexible or pivotable drill hole tool connector between the measurement tool and the cable; arranging a stabilisation device on the cable, the stabilisation device configured to reversibly prevent the cable freely moving into the drill hole, and controlling the maximum speed of the cable reel with a brake.

10. The method of claim 9 further comprises initialising the measurement tool and then removing the stabilisation device from the cable to allow the measurement tool to descend into the drill hole.

11. A cable support for guiding a cable into a drill hole comprising: a frame; and one or more guides connected to the frame, wherein a first guide is configured to guide the cable into the drill hole; wherein the one or more guides are configured to control a bend radius of the cable.

12. The cable support of claim 11 wherein the bend radius is a minimum bend radius.

13. The cable support of claim 11 or 12 wherein the bend radius is a maximum bend radius.

14. The cable support of any one of claims 11 to 13 comprising at least three guides.

15. The cable support of any one of claims 11 to 4 wherein each guide comprises one or more cable contact surfaces.

16. The cable support of claim 15 wherein the cable surfaces comprise wheels.

17. The cable support of any one of claims 15 to 16 wherein each guide comprises two opposing cable contact surfaces, configured to secure the cable between the contact surfaces.

18. The cable support of any one of claims 15 to 17 comprising a closure configured to prevent the cable leaving the guide.

19. The cable support of any one of claims 11 to 18 wherein the first guide is configured or configurable to allow the first guide to align with the drill hole.

20. The cable support of any one of claims 11 to 18 wherein the first guide is configured or configurable to direct the cable substantially vertically.

21. The cable support of any one of claims 11 to 20 wherein a second of the one or more guides is configured to direct the cable substantially horizontally.

22. The cable support of claim 21 wherein the second guide is located between 0.6m and 1.1m from the ground when the cable support is positioned on the ground.

23. The cable support of claims 21 or 22 wherein the first guide is configured or configurable at a first end of the cable support and the second guide is configured or configurable at a second end of the cable support.

24. The cable support of claim 23 comprising a third guide between the first and second guide.

25. The cable support of any one of claims 11 to 24 wherein the one or more guides extend along a curved path.

26. The cable support of any one of claims 11 to 25 wherein the support comprises at least two legs, optionally the support comprising at least three legs.

27. The cable support of claim 26 wherein the at least two legs comprise a guide leg, wherein the guides are all mounted to the guide leg.

28. The cable support of any one of claims 26 or 27 wherein at least one of the legs is rotatably connected to the remaining legs, optionally wherein the guide leg is rotatably connected.

29. The cable support of any one of claims 26 to 28 wherein the guides are rotatably or moveably mounted to the legs.

30. The cable support of claim 29 wherein one or more of the guides are rotatably mounted to the guide leg at a single location.

31. The cable support of any one of claims 26 to 30 wherein the guide leg is curved, or the guides are mounted to a curved support attached to one of the legs.

32. The cable support of claim 31 wherein the radius of curvature of the guide leg or curved support is between 200mm and 800mm.

33. The cable support of any one of claims 11 to 32 wherein one or more of the guides are positioned on extensions connected to frame and/or leg.

34. The cable support of any one of claims 11 to 33 wherein each of the legs comprises a foot configured to secure to the ground, in use.

35. The cable support of any one of claims 11 to 34 comprising a clamp for securing the cable relative to the cable support.