Device and method for analysing samples when prospecting

摘要

The present invention relates to a device and a method for prospecting analysis along samples, such as cores or cuttings, extracted during the exploration of natural resources such as ore, oil and gas. The device includes a supporting structure, a receiver for at least one sample and an analysis unit arranged to follow a scanning path along the sample and to produce a scanned data output. The analysis unit and the receiver of the sample are movably arranged relative to each other, whereby the receiver of the sample is movably arranged relative to the support structure by means of a first positioning unit for movement in a first direction, X-direction, and the analysis unit is movably arranged relative to the support structure by means of a second and a third positioning unit for moving the analysis unit in a second and a third direction, Y- and Z- direction. The positioning units are controlled by a control unit. Further, the device comprises a position determining means arranged for determining the position of a ridge path of the sample during the analysis scanning and generating a corresponding ridge path signal. The relative position between the analysis unit and the sample is controlled by means of the control unit in dependence of the ridge path signal, so that a coincidence of the scanning path and the sample ridge path is continuously established and maintained during the analysis scanning process.