KORE Geosystems SPECTOR

Currently geologists are spending half their time entering data instead of analysing core samples. Geologists are highly trained, expensive and in demand and, due to the current core logging process, are not being utilized efficiently. Current core logging techniques employ time-consuming manual photography which can lead to poor quality imaging and core samples deteriorating before they can be analysed. Our challenge was to design and develop an automated core scanning solution that could be used on-location at geological drilling sites around the world, allowing geologists to spend more time analysing samples rather than manually capturing and logging them.

We developed a high-resolution instrument built on a robust platform designed to withstand the harsh conditions, dust and temperature variations found on drilling sites. When fully assembled SPECTOR weighs over 400kg, so shipping considerations were integral to the design, from the strengthened forklift points to the robust internal chassis which houses the highly sensitive lighting and optical capture system. The user interface features a large touchscreen display, ergonomically mounted on an articulated arm, for viewing and logging of core scans. Due to the heavy and repetitive loads involved, usability research was undertaken using VR simulations to optimise safety for users.

SPECTOR has the potential to have a disruptive impact on mining geology. Its ability to scan an average of 1000 meters of core per day, plus the cost benefits of having geologists spend more time analysing samples than manually capturing and logging them, offers substantial cost benefits. SPECTOR employs Artificial Intelligence (via SPECTOR Geo software and cloud-based AI) to predict the geological attributes of scanned samples, further increasing the cost benefits. SPECTOR’s impact is not limited to cost saving and efficiency, it also improves the consistency and accuracy of core logging, giving businesses the ability to make more informed decisions.

• High-precision linear positioner advances the high-definition camera (housed within an IP67 enclosure) along the length of the imaging area. • Adjustable core tray backstop to accommodate different sized core trays. • Drawer locks in the open and closed position to allow for safe loading of core trays onto drawer. • Internet connectivity using Wi-Fi or Ethernet. • Edge computing allowing image calibration and processing on board to reduce the amount of data transmitted to the cloud. • Designed to analyse wet and dry core. Instrument has been designed to allow the user to wet the core when it's inside the instrument to avoid double handling. • Onboard diagnostics that allows remote monitoring and remote issue resolution reducing in-field support costs. • Designed for a 12-month maintenance cycle.