Core drilling tools with external fluid pathways

摘要

Implementations of the present invention include a core barrel assembly including external fluid pathways extending generally axially long the outer surface of the core barrel assembly. The one or more external fluid pathways can allow for increased fluid flow around a latch mechanism. The increased fluid flow around the latch mechanism can allow the core barrel assembly to travel faster within the drill string, can allow drilling fluid to pass by the latch mechanism when engaged. Implementations of the present invention also include drilling systems including external fluid pathways, and methods of retrieving a core sample using such drilling systems.

主权项

1. A latch body of a core barrel assembly, comprising:
a tubular body comprising a first member, a sleeve, an outer surface, and an inner surface, the first member being moveably coupled to the sleeve, wherein the tubular body is adapted to house a latch mechanism for securing the tubular body to a drill string; at least two latch openings extending through the tubular body; at least one fluid groove extending into the outer surface of the tubular body, wherein the at least one fluid groove extends axially along the outer surface of the tubular body; a first fluid port extending through the tubular body, and a driving member coupled to the first member, the driving member being configured to be received within the sleeve, wherein the first fluid port is adapted to allow fluid to flow between the inner surface and the outer surface, wherein the first fluid port is positioned proximate a first end of the tubular body, and wherein at least one fluid groove intersects the first fluid port.