WO2024229515A1

WO2024229515A1 - Method and system for verifying a borehole measurement device

Info

Publication number: WO2024229515A1
Application number: PCT/AU2024/050440
Authority: WO
Inventors: Christopher Thomas Koplan; John Carl JACKSON; Cory Bryce WILSON; Fredrick Allan Blaine
Original assignee: Imdex Technologies Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2023-05-08
Filing date: 2024-05-06
Publication date: 2024-11-14

Abstract

A method for verifying the operation of a borehole measurement device (MD) executed by at least one processor of a computing device. The at least one processor receives test data indicating measurement values of at least one geological parameter. The test data is generated by one or more measurement components of the MD in response to test stimuli provided by one or more testing components of an external verification device used to perform in-field testing of the MD. The test data is processed to generate verification data of the MD. The verification data is used to evaluate the functionality of the one or more measurement components.

Description

"Method and system for verifying a borehole measurement device"

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to methods and devices for verifying the function of a borehole measurement device, and specifically to performing in-field testing of the measurement device to facilitate automated borehole logging on a mine site.

Background

[0002] The term “borehole” is used to collectively refer to any of the various types of holes that may be drilled into a ground surface. Boreholes are created by a drilling process generally performed by a drill rig, for example in order to perform resource extraction or geotechnical investigation or assessment of an environmental site, such as a mine site, for example to enable the collection of soil samples, water samples or rock cores, or to install monitoring wells or piezometers.

[0003] It is often desirable to obtain measurements from a borehole to provide an indication of, for example, the occurrence of particular geological features of strata and/or formation surrounding the borehole (e.g., the occurrence of mineral deposits). Measurement of a borehole is typically performed during a geological survey of the borehole, and the generation, storage, and/or processing of the measurement data is often referred to as “logging” the borehole.

[0004] The ability to generate relevant and accurate measurement data for logging a borehole may lead to an improved ability to model geological information of the strata in and/or surrounding the vicinity of the borehole. The ability to perform effective borehole logging therefore provides utility in various applications, including, for example, green fields exploration, or in other activities where exploratory holes have been drilled. [0005] The logging of one or more boreholes is a particularly significant activity in mining applications. The ability to source and extract mineral and resource deposits is becoming increasingly difficult, particularly as the deposits in more accessible areas have been identified and extracted with priority and have therefore become depleted over time. Understanding the geology of a mine site is therefore increasingly important, and this is typically reliant on the ability to perform logging for many boreholes across a particular area of interest (referred to as a “bench”). This enables the creation of a model of the sub-surface (formation/strata) in terms of its geological properties. This information can feed into a geological profile that provides utility for assessing the subsurface and each individual borehole within. Such models are used to increase efficiencies in planning and operating a mine site, for example, during the blasting process.

[0006] Specifically, conducting an effective borehole logging of a mine site enables greater information to be obtained in relation to, for example, the waste/ore boundaries, identification of grades of minerals, the degree of fragmentation of the deposits etc. This may lead to the development of resource models, and/or other models, associated with the geological information of the strata in and/or surrounding the vicinity of the borehole, which in turn enables increased mining efficiencies to be obtained. For example, in some cases an explosives loading plan may be modified to take account of the waste/ore boundaries, where the waste material is of a larger blast size than the ore, leading to improved blast efficiencies and yields.

[0007] The need to obtain logging data from multiple processes, and from different sources (e.g., across a set of boreholes located over a common bench) distinguishes borehole logging operations and systems in mining from other applications. As a result, there is benefit to ensuring that the logging activities produce data that is correct (i.e., accurate) and with a capability to be consistently generated by a particular equipment deployed to the mine site (i.e., to allow a common set of systems and/or devices to be efficiently operated on site, or “in-field”, to log the one or more boreholes of the bench). Summary

[0008] There is provided a method for verifying the operation of a borehole measurement device (MD) executed by at least one processor of a computing device, the method comprising: receiving test data indicating measurement values of at least one geological parameter, wherein the test data is generated by one or more measurement components of the MD in response to test stimuli provided by one or more testing components of a verification device used to perform in-field testing of the MD, wherein the one or more testing components are coupled to or integrated with a support member that is separable from the MD; processing the test data to generate verification data of the MD; and using the verification data to evaluate the functionality of the one or more measurement components.

[0009] In some embodiments, generating the verification data of the MD is performed in real-time, or substantially real-time, with the generation of the test data by the MD.

[0010] In some embodiments, generating the verification data comprises comparing the measurement values of the test data with corresponding target values to determine a measurement error value (MEV) for at least one of the measurement components.

[0011] In some embodiments, the target values are obtained by processing corresponding target data of the verification device.

[0012] In some embodiments, generating the verification data comprises: (i) determining the measurement error value (MEV) for at least one measurement component; (ii) comparing each of the MEVs of the at least one measurement component to a corresponding threshold value; and (iii) generating, based on the comparison, an indication of whether the at least one measurement component is functioning abnormally.

[0013] In some embodiments, the method further comprises calculating a weighted sum of one or more MEVs determined for the measurement components of the MD. [0014] In some embodiments, the method further comprises processing the verification data to generate an accuracy score associated with the MD.

[0015] In some embodiments, the method further comprises validating geological data generated by the one or more measurement components of the MD based on the verification data.

[0016] In some embodiments, the method further comprises, in response to validating the geological data, correcting the geological data based on the verification data.

[0017] In some embodiments, the support member is configured to position the testing components collectively in a fixed relative arrangement.

[0018] In some embodiments, a plurality of the testing components are positioned on a surface of the support member.

[0019] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of the testing components are spaced apart in either or both of a longitudinal and a non-longitudinal dimension of the support member.

[0020] In some embodiments, the plurality of the testing components includes a first set of one or more testing components, and a second set of one or more testing components positioned spaced apart from the first set of one or more testing components by a predetermined minimum distance.

[0021] In some embodiments, the support member has an internal volume configured to receive the MD.

[0022] In some embodiments, the support member is cylindrical, and the testing components are each shaped to extend substantially around the circumference of the support member.

[0023] In some embodiments, the support member is a protective cover of the MD. [0024] In some embodiments, the generation of the test data comprises: positioning the one or more testing components relative to the MD to apply the test stimuli to corresponding measurement components of the MD; operating the one or more measurement components to obtain a set of outputs in response to the stimuli provided by the one or more corresponding testing components; and generating the test data based at least in part on the set of measurement component outputs.

[0025] In some embodiments, positioning the one or more testing components relative to the MD involves holding the one or more testing components stationary in respective positions in which the test stimuli is applied to the corresponding measurement components for at least a pre-determined time period.

[0026] In some embodiments, the generation of the test data comprises: performing a relative movement to cause the one or more testing components to be positioned into, and out of, the vicinity of the corresponding measurement components; and obtaining outputs from the corresponding measurement components both in response to the stimuli applied by the one or more corresponding testing components and without the stimuli.

[0027] In some embodiments, the generation of the test data further comprises: activating one or more of the testing components with electrical power such that the activated testing components provide stimuli with controllable target values of the geological parameter.

[0028] There is also provided a verification device (VD) for verifying the operation of a borehole measurement device (MD) during in-field testing of the MD, the VD comprising one or more testing components configured to apply test stimuli to one or more measurement components of the MD, wherein the one or more testing components are coupled to or integrated with a support member that is separable from the MD, wherein the application of the test stimuli causes the one or more measurement components to generate test data indicating measurement values of at least one geological parameter, and wherein the test data is adapted to be received by a computing device, the computing device being configured to: process the received test data to generate verification data of the MD; and use the verification data to evaluate the functionality of the one or more components of the MD.

[0029] In some embodiments, the one or more testing components include one or more emitting components configured to stimulate one or more sensors of the measurement components by applying an electric or magnetic field to, or emitting electromagnetic radiation at, the sensors.

[0030] In some embodiments, the one or more sensors are configured to measure one or more geological parameters including but not limited to: Gamma radiation emitted by a material; a density of a material; reflectivity of electromagnetic radiation; reflectivity of acoustic or ultrasonic waves; magnetic susceptibility of a material; electrical resistivity or conductivity or impedance of a material; magnetic field strength; a degree of dip and/or azimuth of the borehole; a temperature; sonic velocity; contact hardness of a material; a physical diameter or profile or volume of the borehole; and a level of fluid in the borehole.

[0031] In some embodiments, the emitting components each generate an electric field, a magnetic field, or electromagnetic radiation detectable by the one or more sensors in response to the operation of the sensors to measure a corresponding geological parameter.

[0032] In some embodiments, the one or more testing components include a barrier component configured to provide a stimulus for a caliper set of the measurement components.

[0033] In some embodiments, the support member is configured to position the testing components collectively in a fixed relative arrangement.

[0034] In some embodiments, a plurality of the testing components are configured to be selectively positioned on a surface of the support member. [0035] In some embodiments, the plurality of the testing components are spaced apart in either or both of a longitudinal and a non-longitudinal dimension of the support member.

[0036] In some embodiments, the plurality of the testing components includes a first set of one or more testing components, and a second set of one or more testing components positioned spaced apart from the first set of one or more testing components by a predetermined minimum distance.

[0037] In some embodiments, the support member has an internal volume configured to receive the MD.

[0038] In some embodiments, the support member is cylindrical, and the testing components are shaped to extend substantially around the circumference of the support member.

[0039] In some embodiments, the support member is a protective cover of the MD configured to sheath the MD between deployments of the MD into a borehole.

[0040] In some embodiments, one or more of the testing components are active testing components configured to receive electrical power, wherein each active testing component provides test stimuli with a controllable target value of the geological property measured by a corresponding measurement component.

[0041] There is also provided a method for logging a borehole executed by at least one processor of a computing device, the method comprising: receiving geological data indicating values of at least one geological property of the borehole, wherein the geological data is generated by a measurement device (MD) in response to a deployment of the MD into the borehole; verifying the operation of the MD by performing in-field verification testing of the MD according to the any of the methods above; and in response to verifying the operation of the MD, determining whether to log the borehole using the geological data or data derived from the same. [0042] In some embodiments, the method further comprises, in response to verifying the operation of the MD issuing instructions to obtain further data to log the borehole.

[0043] In some embodiments, the method further comprises, in response to verifying the operation of the MD, performing one or more data quality control operations on the geological data generated by the MD.

[0044] In some embodiments, the method further comprises, in response to verifying the operation of the MD, performing one or more equipment analysis and/or calibration operations in relation to the MD.

[0045] In some embodiments, the method further comprises: processing verification data generated by verifying the operation of the MD to determine a degree of reliability of the geological data; and performing the one or more equipment analysis and/or calibration operations based on the degree of reliability of the geological data.

[0046] In some embodiments, the method further comprises: transmitting at least the verification data to a remote computing system, wherein the remote computing system is configured to process the verification data to generate one or more data parameters related to the MD or the borehole.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0047] Some embodiments are described herein below with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0048] Figure la is a schematic diagram of an automated borehole logging platform for logging a borehole with a measurement device, in accordance with some embodiments;

[0049] Figure lb is a schematic diagram a configuration of the borehole logging platform of Figure la for performing in-field testing of the measurement device, in accordance with some embodiments; [0050] Figure 1c is a schematic diagram of the configuration of the borehole logging platform of Figure lb with the measurement device deployed into the borehole to collect measurements following, or prior to, the in-field testing, in accordance with some embodiments;

[0051] Figure 2 is a block diagram of the components of the platform of Figure la including the measurement device and a verification device, in accordance with some embodiments;

[0052] Figure 3 is a flow diagram of a method for logging a borehole using the platform including performing in-field verification of the measurement device with the verification device, in accordance with some embodiments;

[0053] Figure 4 is a flow diagram of a method for generating test data using the verification device to perform the in-field verification of the measurement device, in accordance with some embodiments;

[0054] Figure 5a is a diagram of a first exemplary configuration of the verification device with test components coupled directly to the measurement device;

[0055] Figure 5b is a diagram of a second exemplary configuration of the verification device with test components coupled to, or integrated with, a support member of the verification device;

[0056] Figure 5c is a diagram of a third exemplary configuration of the verification device with test components coupled to, or integrated with, a support member of the verification device;

[0057] Figure 5d is a diagram of a fourth exemplary configuration of the verification device with test components coupled to, or integrated with, a support member of the verification device; [0058] Figure 6a is a diagram of a first configuration of the verification device and the measurement device during the generation of the test data, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0059] Figure 6b is a diagram of a second configuration of the verification device and the measurement device during the generation of the test data, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0060] Figure 7a is a diagram of a measurement device including exemplary instrument and sensor measurement components, in accordance with some embodiments;

[0061] Figure 7b is a diagram of the operation of a caliper set instrument of the measurement device of Figure 7a in response to the test stimuli;

[0062] Figure 8 is a flow diagram of a method for generating verification data representing a degree of error in the test data values specific to each measurement component of the measurement device, in accordance with some embodiments;

[0063] Figure 9 is a graph of an accuracy score value of a measurement device as a function of a device error value determined by in-field verification testing of the measurement device, in accordance with some embodiments; and

[0064] Figure 10 is a flow diagram of a method for autonomous logging of a borehole using the automated logging platform of Figure la.

Description of Embodiments

[0065] In this specification and claims, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the following definitions apply.

[0066] “Bore hole”, “hole” and “borehole” refer to a hole drilled by a drill rig in a formation or area of interest or bench which is to be surveyed. [0067] “Surveying” (of a borehole) refers to the process of determining measurements of one or more parameters of the borehole by a measurement device, as the measurement device is moved through the borehole, along a path, over time.

[0068] “Geological surveying” refers to the process of determining at least geological data indicating, for example, the mineralogical, structural, or physical characteristics of the formations penetrated by a borehole, using a geo-sensing component of the measurement device.

[0069] “Geological data” refers to any data relating to the geophysical, petro-physical, mineralogical, hole geometry, chemistry and/or compositional data of the borehole itself, and/or of material in and/or surrounding strata/formation of the borehole itself, as described herein below. The geological data may comprise measurements of one or more geological parameters, as represented by a physical quantity or variable. For example, the geological data may comprise a measurement of magnetic susceptibility of the borehole strata, as represented by a value of the total magnetic flux density determined by a measurement component of a device used to survey the borehole.

[0070] “Depth data” refers to data values indicating a depth within a borehole of a reference device, typically a measurement device also used to generate geological data, the depth being an indication of the substantially linear distance between the position of the device, and a collar position of the borehole, along the axis of the borehole.

[0071] “Measurement data” refers to data generated during a surveying process of a borehole by a measurement device at one or more time instants (typically as the measurement device is moved through the borehole), and may comprise, in some cases, of geological data and corresponding depth data.

[0072] “Test data” and “verification data” refer to data generated during verification of the operation of a measurement device. Test data is a type of sample geological data generated by the measurement device, such as to measure one or more geological parameters that are simulated by the verification testing process. For example, the test data may comprise values of total magnetic flux density to test measurement of the magnetic susceptibility by the measurement device. Verification data represents one or more values or indications of the functional ability or operation of the measurement device and/or its constituent components (e.g., indications of error of a measurement component).

[0073] “Logging” refers generally to making a record of geological data associated with a borehole. In some cases, logging refers to the storage of measurement data generated during a surveying process of the borehole (the “logging data”), where the storage occurs either within the measurement device obtaining the measurements (“on- device”) (e.g., when a wireline is not used), or on another device (“off-device”) (e.g., when a wireline is used to transmit the measured data to another device at the surface). In other cases, logging also refers to the collection, generation, and/or processing of the measurement data. In some cases, logging the borehole may involve transmitting or sending measurement data generated by the measurement device to one or more external devices or systems for subsequent recording of the data.

[0074] “Borehole profile data” refers to a collection of data that describes one or more characteristics or properties of a particular borehole, which may include, but is not limited to, logging data of the borehole. For example, borehole profile data may include logging data and additional data, such as locational data (e.g., specifying a position of the collar of the borehole in a mine site), environmental data (e.g., data relating to topography, fault lines, geographical planes, etc.), and/or model data (e.g., representing a reconstruction or simulation of the borehole). In some examples, the additional data includes logging data of another or adjacent borehole, and/or logging data of a borehole obtained from another logging platform.

[0075] “Surface” refers to the top of the ground/formation and/or area of interest including, but not limited to, whatever earth, soil, or land that lies above superincumbent upon or about the collar of the borehole. [0076] “Sub-surface” refers to the region below the surface including, but not limited to, the collar of the borehole into which the borehole (cavity) extends.

[0077] “Collar” (of a borehole) refers to the mouth or opening of the borehole onto the surface, typically created by a drilling operation carried out by a drill rig.

[0078] Conventional approaches to borehole logging rely on the deployment of a measurement device into the borehole to perform the logging operation as the device travels through the borehole. The measurement device typically includes a set of measurement components, comprising various sensors, instruments, tools, or similar that are adapted to perform a geological survey by using, for example, electrical, acoustical, nuclear and/or magnetic energy signals to stimulate the formation surrounding strata of the borehole and to then measure the response.

[0079] The utility provided by the geological survey is dependent on the accuracy of the geological data as generated by the measurement components. The measurement components are typically configured during a factory calibration process performed prior to deployment of the measurement device to the site. Once in the field, the measurement device operates by using the factory calibrated components to measure the geological parameters of the formation surrounding a borehole (e.g., in response to deployment of the measurement device into the borehole).

[0080] There is a need to ensure that the components of the measurement device remain operational, and significantly, remain capable of generating accurate measurements of the formation strata throughout a period of in-field use of the measurement device. Specifically, the exposure of the measurement device to physically hazardous or harsh environments results in a risk that one or more of the components will experience degradation that negatively impacts upon the capability of the device to provide accurate measurements.

[0081] Without a means to verify the operation of the measurement device (i.e., to assess the capability of the components), the geological data collected during a logging operation may be compromised, for example if the device is not functioning properly or if any of the individual components are off calibration.

[0082] However, as the measurement device is typically deployed to a work site for a prolonged period of time (e.g., days, weeks, or months), it is often not possible or practical to perform regular testing or maintenance on the device and/or the measurement components whilst on site. For example, when deployed in a mining environment the device may be tasked to log tens or hundreds of boreholes per day, every day for weeks or months. Therefore, there is no opportunity for the measurement device to be relocated (i.e., taken off-field) for evaluation and/or servicing or calibration. As a result, it is important to be able to verify that the measurement device is operational, in the sense that the measurement components (e.g., sensors or mechanical tools or the like) are functioning properly, while the device is on the mine site. Accordingly, it is desired to develop apparatus, devices, and methods that address one or more of these problems, or other problems, or that at least provide a useful alternative.

Overview

[0083] Described herein with reference to the accompanying figures are methods and systems for in-field verification of a borehole measurement device (“MD”) 104. Verification of the MD 104 involves testing the functional capability of one or more measurement components 132 of the MD 104 used to generate measurements of corresponding geological parameters of the formation or strata of a borehole 101. A computing device (the “controller” or “controller device”) 120 is configured to receive and process test data generated by the measurement components 132 of the MD 104 in response to test stimuli provided by one or more testing components of a verification device (VD) 102 used to perform in-field testing of the MD 104. That is, the MD 104 generates test data by performing measurements of the stimuli provided by the testing components of the VD 102 to simulate the measurement functionality that would be performed, or has been performed, during logging of the borehole 101 with the MD 104. [0084] The controller 120 in addition may operate as an edge-processing device configured to receive data and signals, including logging data, from the MD 104, retrieve data from one or more remote devices, such as for example from devices of a cloud-based bench management system 160, and transmit corresponding data and signals to the MD 104. In other embodiments, the functionality of the controller 120 to generate and process verification data may be performed by analogous components of the MD 104 itself. Generation of the verification data may be performed by the controller 120 in real-time, or substantially real-time, with the generation of the test data by the MD 104. This enables the individual measurement components of the MD 104 to be assessed dynamically and on an ad-hoc basis while the device is in-field.

[0085] The controller 120 evaluates the functionality of the measurement components of the MD 104, and therefore the operational capability of the MD 104, by processing the test data. In some embodiments, processing the test data includes comparing the measurement values of test data generated in response to the test stimuli with corresponding target or expected values (i.e., values expected from a properly calibrated and functioning component).

[0086] For example, the measurement values of the test data may be compared to minimum and maximum values defining a predetermined range of acceptable outputs of a component that accurately measures the geological property. In other examples, the functionality of a measurement component is determined by calculating one or more statistical error variables, e.g., the Mean Square Error (MSE) or Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) to quantify a degree of accuracy of the measurement component of the MD 104. An indication of the overall operation of the MD 104 may be obtained by processing the statistical error variable value(s) e.g., by calculating a weighted sum of one or more error values determined for each measurement component of the MD 104.

[0087] In some embodiments, the measurement components 132 of the MD 104 include sensors, mechanical tools, or other analogous instruments. The corresponding testing components may include particular materials with electrical and/or magnetic properties configured to stimulate the one or more measurement components by applying an electric or magnetic field to, or emitting electromagnetic radiation at, the same. In some embodiments, the measurement components of the MD 104 may comprise one or more mechanical or electromechanical instruments configured to make physical contact with a part of the formation/strata of the borehole. Corresponding testing components may be configured to simulate the physical formation/strata for the purpose of testing the measurement ability of the mechanical or electromechanical tools (e.g., for the purpose of detecting a diameter of the borehole 101).

[0088] The test data is generated by the MD 104 in response to the application, by the one or more testing components, of the test stimuli to corresponding measurement components 132. In some embodiments, the one or more testing components are positioned relative to the MD 104 to apply the test stimuli to the same. For example, the one or more testing components may be attached directly to the MD 104. This enables the one or more testing components to be positioned in any arbitrary configuration prior to commencing the verification, for example by removable attachment of each testing component to an outer surface of a housing of the MD 104 (e.g., at respective locations on the surface proximate to corresponding measurement components 132 disposed within).

[0089] In other embodiments, the one or more testing components are coupled to an inner or outer surface of, or formed integrally with, a support member being a body, frame, or other structure that is physically separable from the MD 104. In some embodiments, the support member is configured to position the testing components collectively in a fixed relative arrangement. The fixed relative arrangement of the testing components may enhance or improve an ability to apply the test stimuli to the measurement components 132. Alternatively, the support member is configured to position the testing components collectively in a non-fixed relative arrangement for application of the test stimuli to the measurement components 132. For example, the support member may comprise one or more slidable fixtures, grooves, and/or other features that enable a degree of relative movement between at least some of the testing components that are coupled to, or formed integrally with, the support member. [0090] In some embodiments, the test data is generated in response to the relative movement of the MD 104 with respect to the one or more testing components. In embodiments in which the one or more testing components are coupled to, or formed integrally with, a support member, the support member may comprise an internal volume configured to receive the MD 104. For example, the support member may be a protective cover of the MD 104, such that the insertion of the MD 104 within the protective cover positions the one or more testing components of the VD 102 to apply the test stimuli to the one or more measurement components of the MD 104.

[0091] Many different arrangements of the testing components and support member (if included) may be implemented according to various embodiments of the VD 102. In some embodiments, the VD 102 comprises a plurality of testing components that are, when positioned to apply the test stimuli, relatively spaced apart with respect to a longitudinal and/or a non-longitudinal dimension of the MD 104 housing, or support member. This is advantageous to minimize or eliminate electrical and/or magnetic interference or interaction associated with the application of stimuli by distinct testing components.

[0092] The proposed method and systems advantageously provide a solution for verifying the operation of a borehole measurement device while the measurement device is in-field (e.g., as part of the logging workflow, or as an ad-hoc process performed between logging activities). Verification of the MD 104 may occur in response to a movement of the MD 104 relative to the one or more testing components, such as, for example, in response to a movement of the MD 104 into, or out of, a protective cover into which the MD 104 is inserted prior to, or following from, a borehole logging activity. This allows for an assessment of the functionality of the measurement components of the MD 104 without removing the MD 104 from the infield use, particularly the mine site (thereby avoiding the extended disruption of surveying activities and promoting efficiency in the logging processes).

[0093] Verification of the operation of the MD 104 used to log a borehole 101 also advantageously provides a means to validate a set of geological data associated with the borehole 101 (i.e., as obtained from the measurement device 104). For example, an accuracy score associated with the MD 104, as generated based on the total error in the testing data, may be used to infer a reliability of geological data generated by the MD 104. Geological data validation may be performed shortly before or after the deployment of the MD 104 to conduct the logging activity. By verifying that the measurement components of the MD 104 were, or are, operating according to expected settings (e.g., within a known range of the factory calibration setting), an objective degree of confidence is provided that the geological data collected (or to be collected) is reliable, particularly in the presence of anomalies within the geological data.

Borehole logging platform

[0094] Fig. la illustrates one embodiment of an automated borehole logging platform 100 configured to collect measurements from, and generate corresponding logging data for, a borehole (or “hole”) 101 drilled into surface 109 at a site, such as a mine site. As shown in Fig. la, platform 100 includes a control vehicle 106 configured to control the operation of a measurement device (MD) 104 to enable the MD 104 to collect measurements of a geological formation 107 associated with the borehole 101. The control vehicle 106 may be part of a drilling rig used to form the borehole 101, or another special purpose vehicle, such as an automated, autonomous, or semi- autonomous ground vehicle (AGV) configured to position itself at a logging position B on the surface 109 prior to deploying the MD 104 into the borehole 101.

[0095] In the described embodiments, the platform 100 includes controller 120, in the form of a computing device including one or more processors configured to execute computer readable instructions enabling the controller 120 to receive, process, generate, and transmit data for logging the borehole 101. The controller 120 is configured as an edge-processing device that controls the operation of the MD 104 for measuring the borehole 101. The controller 120 is in communication with the MD 104 and a logging apparatus 110. Logging apparatus 110 is configured to facilitate the operation of the MD 104 with respect to the borehole 101, including the movement of the MD 104 and the measurements performed by the MD 104, in response to corresponding control signals from the controller 120.

[0096] In the described embodiments, the controller 120 is implemented on, or integrated with, the control vehicle 106, for example, as a standalone computing device that performs computational operations for the vehicle 106 (i.e., as a “computing box” or “communications box” of the vehicle 106). In some embodiments, the controller 120 is detachable from the control vehicle 106 for implementation on, or coupling to, another like vehicle. The controller 120 communicates with a remote computing system 160 including one or more processing devices 161 and data stores 162. Remote computing system 160 is configured as a bench management system (BMS) to receive, store and process data associated with boreholes 101, 101a and 101b of the bench within the surface 109. The controller 120 communicates with the BMS 160 via an intermediate communications network 150, such as the Internet, or another wide area network such as a Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) network enabling the BMS 160 to be physically separated from the controller 120.

[0097] In some embodiments of the platform 100, particular components and/or functionality of the controller 120 may be incorporated into the MD 104 to facilitate performing the borehole logging operations described herein in an “on device” mode. In some embodiments, the controller 120 may be physically decoupled from the vehicle 106, for example where the controller 120 is deployed at a fixed position on the surface 109 (e.g., as part of a base station or outpost within the mine site). In such embodiments, control vehicle 106 may include a transceiver device and corresponding communication modules enabling the vehicle 106 to relay measurement data obtained from the MD 104 to the controller 120, and control signals obtained from the controller 120 to the logging apparatus 110 and/or MD 104.

[0098] As shown in Fig. la, the as drilled borehole 101 extends into the ground at the first (“collar”) position A and terminates at a second (“end” or “toe”) position A’. The logging of the borehole 101 involves deploying the MD 104 into the borehole 101 during which the MD 104 moves within the borehole 101, typically substantially along axial path X between the collar A and end A’ positions of the borehole 101. During the deployment, the MD 104 is configured to operate the measurement components to generate measurement data for measuring the borehole 101.

[0099] In the described embodiments, logging apparatus 110 includes a deployment mechanism 114 and corresponding connection means 119 physically connecting the MD 104 to the control vehicle 106 (via the deployment mechanism 114). The deployment mechanism 114 and connection means 119 are collectively configured to: control the physical movement of the MD 104; and enable the exchange of control signals and data between the logging apparatus 110 or directly with the controller 120 and the components of the MD 104 (e.g., one or more sensors) to facilitate the measurement of the borehole 101.

[0100] In one example, insertion of the MD 104 into the borehole 101 involves a movement of the MD 104 to traverse the borehole 101 along path X, and in a direction heading into the borehole (i.e., from A towards A’). The movement ceases in response to the distal end of the MD 104 reaching the end position A’ (or a position as close as possible thereto). In a second movement, the MD 104 is extracted from the borehole 101 by following substantially the path taken during the first movement, but in an opposing direction (i.e., heading from A’ towards A), until the distal end of the MD 104 reaches the collar position A of the borehole 101. An operational mode specifies operational characteristics of the MD 104 used to measure the borehole 101, including at least a set of speeds of the MD 104, measured relatively along the axial path X, during the movements, and a set of the measurement components that are activated to produce measurement data.

[0101] The generation of measurement data may enable the platform 100 to perform an analysis of the formation of a borehole in the site. For example, with reference to Fig. la formation 107 may contain a plurality of distinct geological materials 107a, 107b that occur with a degree of spatial continuity with respect to the depth dimension of the formation 107, and therefore the borehole 101 that passes through the same. The analysis may identify, for example, the spatial regions of interest (ROIs), also referred to as “lithological units” or “rock zones”, in which distinct geological material 107a, 107b exist relative to the material of the bulk of the formation 107 or differences in quality exist within each of the lithological zones in the ROI, for example, in coal there could be variations in coal quality in the same zone or seam of coal.

[0102] Fig. la demonstrates an in-field, or on-site, use case of the MD 104 to log borehole 101. Verification of the MD 104 may also be performed in-field via the use of the VD 102 (not shown). For example, the VD 102 may be configured to test the functional capability of one or more measurement components of the MD 104 before deployment of the MD 104 into the borehole 101 (as a pre-measurement verification) and/or after extraction of the MD 104 from the borehole 101 (as a post-measurement verification).

[0103] For example, as described below, the VD 102 may comprise a protective cover of the MD 104, where the testing components are coupled to, or integrated with, the cover. The MD 104 resides in the cover prior to deployment of the MD 104 into the borehole 101, and is received into the cover following extraction from borehole 101. This improves the ease and efficiency with which verification testing may be performed before or after measurement of borehole 101 by the MD 104.

[0104] Fig. lb illustrates a configuration of the platform 100 for performing in-field testing of the MD 104 using a protective cover. In one example scenario, testing is performed at a time prior to deployment of the MD 104 into the borehole 101. A configuration and initialization of the MD 104 may be performed at this time, including, for example, a system check of the measurement components 132 and of the MD 104 itself. The MD 104 may optionally be retained within the cover during configuration and initialization. The MD 104 is then deployed into the borehole 101 to perform surveying by passing the MD 104 through the cover of the VD 102. The MD 104 passes into the borehole through collar point A and collects data from the sensors and/or instruments as the MD 104 moves through the borehole 101, as shown in Fig. 1c. [0105] Once the MD 104 reaches the bottom of the hole at position A’, the MD 104 is retrieved from hole 101 in the same manner as it was deployed. As the MD 104 is retrieved back into the cover, in a configuration identical to that depicted in Fig. lb, further testing of the sensors and/or instruments may be carried out by generating test data from the testing components that are attached to the cover. In some embodiments, the MD 104 is configured to remain in a fixed position, relative to the testing components of the VD 102, for a predetermined time period during the generation of the test data (i.e., to ensure that sufficient data from the now stimulated measurement components is collected). In some embodiments, this type of post-measurement in-field testing is carried out as the deployment vehicle 106 moves to another borehole (e.g., boreholes 101a, 101b in Fig. la).

[0106] Figs, lb and 1c illustrate configurations of the platform in which VD 102 includes a protective cover of the MD 104 to support the testing components. The protective cover may be in the form of a tube, or other enclosed shape, with an internal volume configured to receive the MD 104. In alternative configurations, the testing components are supported by a body, frame, or other structure that does not enclose the MD 104, such as for example a tray or a wire frame. It will be appreciated that the logging and in-field testing workflows illustrated by Figs, lb and 1c are equally applicable for the alternative configurations.

[0107] The generated test data is transmitted from the MD 104 to the controller 120. The transmission of the test data may occur at a time following the testing process, or in real-time as the test data is generated in response to the stimulation of the measurement components by the testing components. The transmission of the test data may occur together with the transmission of geological data obtained during deployment of the MD 104. The test data may be processed by the controller 120 in various ways to generate verification data for determining the functionality of the MD 104 and its components. This enables the logging platform to, for example, automatically determine if there is a problem or functional abnormality with a sensor, instrument, or other component of the MD104. [0108] In some embodiments, in response to the identification of a problem or abnormality a notification is generated by the controller 120, where the notification is subsequently transmitted or otherwise communicated to an operator of the platform. Various equipment and/or data analysis activities may be performed on the MD 104 in response to the notification. For example, further testing may be conducted to determine the validity of geological data associated with the MD 104, or to compensate for errors in the components of the MD 104, by generating quality controlled data. Boreholes surveyed by the MD 104, such as borehole 101, may then be logged using the validated, or compensated and/or corrected, corresponding geological data.

[0109] In some embodiments, the platform 100 is configured such that the one or more testing components of the VD 102 are positioned to perform the verification testing of the MD 104 seamlessly with the deployment and extraction of the MD 104 to and from the borehole 101. For example, the testing process may be performed in a time period that is no more than the time taken for the deployment vehicle 106 to move to the next borehole. This is advantageous in providing an automated verification process that is seamlessly integrated with the logging workflow of the mine site such that no additional time is lost performing the in-field testing.

[0110] Fig. 2 illustrates components of the borehole logging platform 100 depicted by Figs, la-c, including the controller 120, logging apparatus 110, BMS 160, MD 104 and corresponding VD 102. The controller 120 is coupled to the deployment vehicle 106 and is configured to receive measurement data, including geological data representing values of geological parameters generated by the MD 104. The measurement data may be live data sampled by the MD 104 during deployment into the borehole 101, or test data generated by the MD 104 in response to test stimuli provided by the VD 102. The controller 120 processes the test data, as generated by the MD 104 in response to test stimuli provided by the VD 102, to generate verification data specific to the MD 104, and evaluates the functionality of the one or more measurement components based on the verification data. [0111] In some embodiments, the controller 120 is further configured to control logging operations of the MD 104 including: moving/positioning the vehicle 106 in accordance with hole drilling data, hole pattern data, or other data; configuring the MD 104 for measurement of the borehole 101; instructing the logging apparatus to deploy and/or extract the MD 104; receiving data representing live measurements (“measurement data”) of at least one geological parameter of the borehole 101 collected by the MD 104; evaluating the measurement data of the borehole 101; and logging the borehole 101 using at least the same. In some embodiments, the controller 120 is further configured to selectively control the mode of operation of the MD 104 used to generate measurement data, and corresponding logging data, for the borehole 101.

[0112] In the described embodiments, controller 120 is implemented as a standalone computing device, and comprises a central system bus (not shown), a memory system 203, a central processing unit (CPU) 202, communications module 206, and I/O device interfaces 204. The CPU 202 may be any microprocessor which performs the execution of sequences of machine instructions, and may have architectures consisting of a single or multiple processing cores such as, for example, a system having a 32- or 64-bit Advanced RISC Machine (ARM) architecture (e.g., ARMvx). The CPU 202 issues control signals to other device components via the system bus, and has direct access to at least some form of the memory system 203.

[0113] The memory system 203 provides internal media for the electrical storage of the machine instructions required to execute the user application. The memory system 203 may include random access memory (RAM), non-volatile memory (such as ROM or EPROM), cache memory and registers for fast access by the CPU 202, and high volume storage subsystems such as hard disk drives (HDDs), or solid state drives (SSDs).

[0114] The processes executed by the controller 120 are implemented as programming instructions of one or more software modules stored on non-volatile storage of the memory system 203. In some other embodiments, the processes may be executed by one or more dedicated hardware components, such as field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) and/or application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). The one or more software modules include: an evaluation module 213 which is configured to process measurement data generated by the MD 104 (either as live data measured from borehole 101, or test data generated in response to stimuli provided by the test components of VD 102) and generate evaluation or verification data to evaluate the measurements therein; a mode generator module 214 configured to set operational parameter values of a mode of the MD 104; a MD analysis module 215 configured to at least make assessments about the functionality of one or more of the measurement components 132 of the MD 104; and a data QA/QC module 216.

[0115] The data QA/QC module 216 and MD analysis module 215 are respectively configured to assess the measurements of the MD 104, and to perform operations that analyze the MD 104 for example to enable a determination of whether a repair and/or recalibration of the MD 104 may be useful, in response to any determined abnormalities or errors (e.g., instructing the diagnostic tests to be executed on the MD 104). Memory 203 may also include one or more general application programs providing methods, data structures or other software services that define data or perform functions as required by the controller 120 (e.g., an operating system). The data and instructions may reside in multiple parts of the memory system 203, including registers, cache, main memory, and high volume storage.

[0116] The I/O device interface 204 provides functionality enabling the user to interact with the device 120 via one or more I/O devices. In some embodiments, the device 120 includes one or more onboard input devices such as a touchpad or touch screen enabling a user to interact with the device 120. The I/O device interface 204 also provides functionality for the device 120 to instruct output peripherals, which may include displays, and audio devices.

[0117] In the described embodiments, the MD 104 is connected to the controller 120 via a specialized I/O connector port of interface 204 enabling the transfer of measurement data, including geological and depth and/or position values, to the controller 120 in real-time, or substantially real-time. In some embodiments, the controller 120 is configured to store the measurement data values as a function of time in order to enable post-processing of the data. In other embodiments, the received measurement data values are only processed dynamically in real-time, for example by the invocation of the evaluation module 213 with the received data (e.g., test data) and the subsequent invocation of the mode 214, MD analysis 215, and/or QA/QC 216 modules in response to the generated verification data.

[0118] Communications module 206 is a modem or transceiver device configured to enable the establishment of a logical connection between the controller 120 and other computing devices through a wireless or wired transmission media. For example, in the described embodiments the device 120 is configured to receive borehole data representing the logging data of other boreholes lOla-b from the BMS 160 via intermediate WAN 150.

[0119] The controller 120 implements one or more service modules including a data storage and retrieval module (not shown) enabling data to be stored in, and retrieved from, a data store 208. In some embodiments, the data store 208 includes, for example, an SQL database and/or a file management system. In some embodiments, the data store 208 is formed within the memory system 203 and includes data tables, or other structures, configured to store, for the borehole 101: measurement data 210, as live data and/or test data, generated by the MD 104; logging data 211 and verification data 217 created by the controller 120 from the measurement data 210; and profile data 212 of the bench. In some embodiments, the data store 208 is configured to store other data associated with borehole 101, such as hole pattern data. In some embodiments, the logging data 211 includes one or more types of correction data associated with the measurement data 210, such as for example corrected depth values that account for the determined error, as generated by the controller 120. In some embodiments, the data store is configured to additionally store target data (not shown) of the VD 102, the target data including one or more target values corresponding to the values of generated test data. [0120] The skilled person in the art will appreciate that many other embodiments may exist including variations in the hardware configuration of device 120, and the distribution of program data and instructions to execute the borehole logging methods described herein.

[0121] Measurement device 104 comprises one or more measurement components 132 and a MD controller 130 configured to control, at least, the operation of the measurement components 132. In some embodiments, the MD 104 is configured as an embedded system where the MD controller 130 is configured with a processor and memory (not shown), implemented for example as an integrated microcontroller with a RISC architecture, and the sensors 132 configured as peripheral devices providing data to, and receiving control data from, the MD controller 130.

[0122] In some embodiments, the MD controller 130 includes one or more operational modules configured to store data including, at least, the measurement values generated by the measurement components 132. In some embodiments, the MD controller 130 is configured to store additional data including: position data; and optionally depth offset, correction and/or adjustment data generated by, or provided to, the MD 104. For example, depth offset data may include a depth offset value enabling the MD 104 to correct the depth values recorded during measurement of the borehole 101 (i.e., where the depth values may be provided to the MD 104 by the logging apparatus 110, and/or generated on-device by the MD 104).

[0123] The MD 104 is configured to communicate with the controller 120 via the I/O interface 204 and a corresponding interface within the MD 104. In one embodiment a wired connection is established between the MD controller 130 of the MD 104 and the controller 120, such as via an Ethernet cable passed through, or integrated with, the wireline 119. For example, where the controller 120 is located on the deployment vehicle 106, the cable may be housed within a cable enclosure of the wireline 119 and passed through the deployment mechanism 114 (not shown). The logging apparatus 110 is configured to relay signals and data from the MD controller 130 to the controller 120 via the I/O 204 connection means. In other embodiments, the MD controller 130 may include a wireless network interface implementing the IEEE 8O2.xx family of networking protocols enabling the exchange of information wirelessly with the controller 120 (e.g., over technologies such as WiFi). Communication between the logging apparatus 110 and the controller 120 may also occur over a wireless channel, for example in embodiments where the controller 120 is deployed remotely to vehicle 106.

[0124] In the described embodiments, the MD 104 is a geological logging tool configured to measure one or more geological parameters in response to the deployment of the device 104 into the borehole 101 by the logging apparatus 110. Measurement data, in the form of test data is also generated in response to test stimuli provided to the measurement components 132 of the MD 104 by testing components of the VD 102. The measurement components 132 include one or more geological sensors organized into one or more groups 132a, 132b and/or one or more tools or instruments 132c collectively configured to generate the geological parameter measurements.

[0125] In some embodiments, the MD 104 can include local positioning components configured to determine positional and/or orientation information of the MD 104 itself and/or the measurement components 132. The local positioning components may include, for example, gyroscopes, magnetometers, and/or accelerometers configured to generate data indicating a position, slew, and/or angle of the depth sensors with respect to a local reference point defined at another position on the MD 104. In the described embodiments, the local reference point is the point of connection of the deployment mechanism of logging apparatus 110 to a housing 139 of the MD 104. Alternatively, the local reference point could be any other known or identified reference point on the MD 104.

[0126] The logging apparatus 110 includes one or more electrical and/or mechanical components configured to collectively: exchange control signals and data with the controller 120; and operate the device 104 to measure the borehole 101 in accordance with control signals received from the controller 120. In some embodiments, the logging apparatus 110 is mechanically and/or physically integrated with the deployment vehicle 106 to collectively form an autonomous, automated or semi- autonomous vehicle, robot or logging apparatus configured to perform automated logging of the borehole 101 that is dynamically controlled by the controller 120 (which may be separated from the vehicle 106).

[0127] For example, the logging apparatus 110 may include a signal processing device, such as a computing device with at least one processor, configured to receive control signals and data from the controller 120. The signal processing device operates the MD 104 in response to the control signals and data received from the controller 120 via the generation and transmission of corresponding signals and data to the deployment mechanism 114. In some embodiments, the logging apparatus 110 is also configured to transmit and receive data from the MD controller 130 of the MD 104, such as for example to set, modify or adjust operational characteristics of the MD 104 in response to instructions from the controller 120.

[0128] The deployment mechanism 114 is configured to enable the movement of the MD 104 in the borehole 101, where the characteristics of the movement experienced by the MD 104 within the borehole 101 are controlled according to an operational mode of the device 104. The deployment mechanism 114 may include, for example: a wireline 119 provided with an overshot that can engage with the MD 104; and a winch (not shown) connected to the wireline 119 to lower the MD 104 downwards through the borehole 101 and raise the MD 104 upwards through the borehole 101.

[0129] Fig. 2 illustrates an example configuration of the MD 104. The components of the MD 104 are arranged in interconnected sections enabling the modular attachment and detachment of the components in accordance with a desired function of the MD 104. In the example of Fig. 2, components of the MD 104 include: a deployment connector 133 enabling the device 104 to be lowered into the borehole 101 via the wireline 119; one or more geological sensors (e.g., electrical or electronic sensors) and one or more instruments 132 collectively configured for geological parameter surveying; and a housing 139 that encapsulates the components. The housing 139 is composed of a resilient material, such as a metal or hard plastic, to provide protection to the internal modules during movements of the MD 104 within the borehole 101.

[0130] The geological sensors may be grouped into one or more sensor sets 132a, 132b positioned at physically distinct locations along the axial length of the MD 104. For example, geological sensing modules 132a, 132b form the set of sensors that are collectively configured to generate data representing one or more geological data measurements of the borehole 101 formation/strata, or of the testing components, during a borehole measurement process or a verification process respectively.

[0131] In some embodiments, the MD 104 may include, for example, a gamma sensor system 132a configured to detect gamma radiation through the scintillation of light produced by the interaction of the gamma rays with a scintillator crystal material.

[0132] In some embodiments, the MD 104 may include a magnetic susceptibility/conductivity/focused conductivity sensor system 132b that can obtain this geological data measurements from a region surrounding the MD 104.

[0133] In some embodiments, the MD 104 includes atemperature sensor, a water sensor, a deviation sensor that can sense pitch, roll and heading, or any other number of varying modules in addition to or instead of the modules discussed herein.

Additionally, in some embodiments the MD 104 is provided with centralizers 134 at, or adjacent to, proximate and distal ends of the MD 104 that are positioned about the housing 139. The centralizers 134 may assist with stabilizing the MD 104 within the borehole 101 which may further assist the functionality of sensors 132a, 132b (e.g., the magnetic susceptibility sensor).

[0134] In some embodiments, the geological sensor systems 132a, 132b of the MD 104 are configurable to include individual geological sensors that are calibrated to measure one or more arbitrary geological parameters. The geological parameters may include but are not limited to: Gamma radiation emitted by a material; a density of a material; reflectivity of electromagnetic radiation; reflectivity of acoustic or ultrasonic waves; magnetic susceptibility of a material; electrical resistivity or conductivity or impedance of a material; magnetic field strength; a degree of dip and/or azimuth of the borehole 101 ; a temperature; sonic velocity; contact hardness of a material; a physical diameter or profile or volume of the borehole 101; and a level of fluid (e.g., water) in the borehole 101.

[0135] In some embodiments, the measurement instruments 132c include one or more tools or mechanical or electromechanical devices configured to make physical contact with the formation/strata of a borehole during the measurement process. For example, the measurement instruments 132c may include a caliper set having a number of caliper fingers that, when activated, extend outwards from a body of the MD 104 to collectively provide a measurement of the diameter of the borehole 101.

[0136] Fig. 2 also shows an example configuration of VD 102 for verifying the operation of a MD 104 during in-field testing of the MD 104. The VD 102 includes a set of one or more testing components (TC) labelled 141 .. . 14N. The form, composition, and function of the testing components 141 ... 14N of the VD 102 is variable depending on the corresponding measurement components of the MD 104. In some embodiments, the one or more testing components are coupled to or integrated with a support member 180 of the VD 102.

[0137] The testing components 141 ... 14N are configured to apply test stimuli 190 to corresponding measurement components of the MD 104, including for example any of the geological sensor systems 132a, 132b and/or the measurement instruments 132c. The application of the test stimuli 190 causes the one or more measurement components 132 to generate test data indicating measurement values of at least one geological parameter. The test data is received by a processor of the controller 120, where the controller 120 is configured to verify the operation of the MD 104 according to the methods described herein.

[0138] In some embodiments, one or more of the testing components 141 .. . 14N include one or more emitting components configured to stimulate one or more geological sensors 132a, 132b of the measurement components 132 by applying an electric or magnetic field to, or emitting electromagnetic radiation at, the same. The emitting components each generate an electric field, a magnetic field, or electromagnetic radiation that is detectable by the sensors 132 of the MD 104 to measure a corresponding geological parameter.

[0139] One or more of the testing components 141 .. . 14N may be configured to apply the test stimuli 190 inherently and without receiving an electrical signal (referred to as a “passive” testing component). Other ones of the testing components 141 .. . 14N are configured such that the component provides a stimulus in response to, and/or proportional to, a received signal (referred to as an “active” testing component).

[0140] In some configurations, each active testing component provides a variable stimulus capable of controlling an expected or target value of the geological property generated by the corresponding measurement components 132. The function of the component may therefore be evaluated with increased accuracy (i.e., to determine the extent to which it can measure a range of values of the geological property).

[0141] In some embodiments, the VD 102 includes atesting component (TC) control system 140 configured to control one or more active components of the test component set 141 . . . 14N. The TC control system 140 may include an electrical power source (e.g., a battery) and/or a microprocessor configured to control the delivery of electrical signals, including power signals, to the active components of the test component set 141 .. . 14N. The TC control system 140 activates one or more of the testing components 141 .. . 14N with electrical power such that testing components, in their activated state, provide stimuli with controllable target values of the geological parameter.

[0142] For example, in some embodiments the microprocessor may control one or more signal properties, such as for example the frequency, amplitude and/or phase, of an electrical signal applied to power one or more coiled wires of a conductivity testing component of the VD 102. The one or more coiled wires of the conductivity testing component receives a current from the electrical signal that is controllable, in accordance with the signal properties, resulting in a change in the effective resistance of the coil as measurable by a properly functioning conductivity sensor 132b of the MD 104.

[0143] The skilled addressee will appreciate that the application of test stimuli may refer to any effect induced by the corresponding testing components 141 .. . 14N that results in change in a measurable physical property or phenomena capable of detection by the measurement components of the MD 104. As such, applying a test stimuli may include for example the generation of electrical and/or magnetic fields or forces enabling the measurement of a corresponding scientific parameter, but also the general placement of a material or compound in the vicinity of a measurement component to enable the detection of a physical property by the component.

Verification of a borehole measurement device

[0144] Fig. 3 illustrates a flow diagram of a method 300 for logging a borehole 101 using the logging platform 100 described herein. At step 301, a device configuration process is performed to initialize the MD 104 in preparation for conducting measurements of the borehole 101. In the described embodiments, device configuration involves: i) component set-up; and ii) setting a measurement mode of the MD 104 for performing measurements.

[0145] During component set-up, the measurement functionality of the MD 104 is configured via the selective modification of one or more physical elements of the MD 104, such as for example to replace, add or remove particular measurement components 132, such as geological sensors 132a, 132b in accordance with any geological surveying operations that may be desired to be performed.

[0146] Component setup may be performed on the basis of data obtained from one or more computing devices, such as the controller 120 and/or devices of the BMS 160. A user may operate the interactive user interface elements of the controller 120 to obtain and present bench data indicating one or more properties of the formation 107, and may select the components of the MD 104 based on the geological surveying activities to be performed in view of the properties of the formation 107. For example, it may be desired to measure borehole 101 with a geological survey that detects coal deposits in formation 107, in which case the MD 104 may be configured with at least Gamma and Spectral Gamma sensor components to enable the detection of the quality of the coal deposits. In another example, the borehole measurements may be directed to determining the water levels within the borehole, this may further be combined with a measurement of the borehole diameter in which case the MD 104 may be configured with a caliper set as part of the measurement tools 132c.

[0147] Other components that may be added to, removed from, or otherwise adjusted during set-up include one or more components that determine the position of the MD 104 within the borehole, such as for example depth estimation and/or correction components.

[0148] The measurement mode of the MD 104 is set by the controller 120 of the platform 100, and may comprise determining one or more parameters controlling the measurement capability of the MD 104 during deployment into the borehole 101. For example, the measurement mode of the MD 104 may be defined by a set of one or more speeds through which the MD 104 is to be moved through the borehole 101, and parameters of the measurement and/or other components of the MD 104.

[0149] At step 302 geological data is generated by the MD 104 during a survey of the borehole 101 and is subsequently received by the controller 120. At step 303, the operation of the MD 104 is verified by the controller 120 according to a process that involves: i) receiving or obtaining test data indicating measurement values of at least one geological parameter, where the test data is generated by one or more measurement components 132 of the MD 104 in response to test stimuli 190 provided by one or more testing components 141 .. . 14N of the VD 102 (i.e., at step 304); ii) processing the test data to generate verification data (i.e., at step 306); and iii) using the verification data to evaluate the functionality of the one or more measurement components 132 (i.e., at step 308). [0150] In other embodiments, the controller 120 performs verification of the MD 104 prior to receiving the geological data (i.e., such that step 303 occurs before step 302). This is advantageous in enabling the controller 120 to prevent the logging of borehole 101 with data obtained from MD 104 in the case that the data is likely to be inaccurate or undesirable (i.e., as determined based on the verification testing).

[0151] In other embodiments, the controller 120 logs the borehole 101 using geological data obtained from the MD 104, or data derived from the same, even in the case that the obtained geological data is inaccurate or undesirable as determined by the verification testing. For example, the controller 120 may use the result of the verification testing to perform processing on the geological data, or to flag that processing is to occur at a later time and/or by a different device, to generate postprocessed geological data. The post-processing of the geological data may reduce or eliminate errors in the geological data values, thereby advantageously enabling the logging of the borehole 101 with improved accuracy (by using the post-processed geological data). That is, the controller 120 may be configured to log the borehole 101 using geological data obtained from MD 104, either with or without further processing, as determined by the verification testing. In some examples, the controller 120 is configured to perform verification of the MD 104 (via step 303) independently to the logging of the borehole 101, and irrespective of receiving or processing any geological data related to the borehole 101.

[0152] Fig. 4 illustrates a method 400 for the generation of the test data using VD 102 to perform the in-field verification of the MD 104. As an optional step 401, the VD 102 is configured to perform verification testing. Configuration includes the selection of the one or more testing components 141 .. . 14N by an operator or other user. The one or more testing components 141 . . . 14N may be selected in accordance with the measurement components 132 of the MD 104.

[0153] In some embodiments discussed below, the measurement components of the MD 104 may comprise one or more sensor devices, including but not limited to: a magnetic susceptibility sensor; a conductivity or focused conductivity sensor; a Gamma sensor; a proximity sensor; or one or more other sensors that are configured to collect geological data (i.e., measurement values of geological parameters) as the MD 104 is deployed into the borehole 101. Corresponding testing components 141 . . . 14N may be selected to include: an elemental component used to test the gamma sensor (e.g., comprised of thorium); a conductivity component used to test the conductivity/focused conductivity sensor (e.g., comprising a wire with a fixed number of coils); and a magnetite component used to test the magnetic susceptibility sensor.

[0154] In some embodiments, the MD 104 is configured to include a caliper set as part of the measurement tools 132c. The corresponding testing components of VD 102 may include a material configured to act as a physical barrier emulating the borehole wall to thereby engage with the caliper fingers in response to the activation of the same.

[0155] At step 402, the one or more testing components 141 .. . 14N are positioned relative to the MD 104 in respective positions to apply the test stimuli 190 to corresponding measurement components 132 of the MD 104. The relative positioning of the testing components is determined by the configuration of the VD 102 and its physical arrangement in association with the MD 104.

Verification device configurations and positioning

[0156] Figs. 5a-5d illustrate example configurations of the VD 102. MD 104 is formed with measurement components 132 (not shown) enclosed within a cylindrical or tubular housing 139. The MD 104 has a longitudinal dimension Di aligned with the cylindrical axis and a non-longitudinal dimension D2 perpendicularly oriented to the same.

[0157] Fig. 5a shows an example of the VD 102 in which the one or more test components are coupled directly to an outer surface of the MD housing 139. Three testing components 141, 142, 143 are configured as discrete volumes of material (referred to as “captured volume” components) attached to the MD housing 139 at respective positions. The captured volume components are each configured and arranged relatively to each other on the MD 104 to enable a sufficient stimuli to be provided to the measurement components 132 of the MD 104. For example, the captured volume components may be arranged in a circle, semi-circle, or other shape, and positioned arbitrarily to provide the test stimuli to the corresponding measurement component(s).

[0158] The attachment of the testing components 141, 142, 143 to the housing 139 may be fixed or removable. For example, bands or other members may be used to non- permanently couple the respective captured volume components to positions on the surface of the housing 139. The position of each respective testing component 141, 142, 143 on the surface of the housing 139 may be pre-determined such as to locate each testing component proximate to the corresponding measurement sensor or tool of the MD 104 (i.e., to facilitate testing interaction involving the application of stimuli by the testing component to the corresponding measurement sensor or tool).

[0159] In other embodiments, such as those depicted in Figs. 5b-5d, the testing components of the VD 102 are coupled to or integrated with a support member 180, where the support member is separate from the MD 104. In the example shown in Fig. 5b, the support member 180 is an elongate arm having a surface to which the three testing components 141, 142, 143 are attached. The arm 180 is arranged parallel to the longitudinal dimension Di of the MD 104, and is connected to the housing 139, via intermediate bracing members 180’ and fasteners 181, on the base and top (not shown) of the MD 104. In some embodiments, the arm 180 is configured to move relative to the housing 139, such as for example to rotate around the outer cylindrical surface of the housing 139 (e.g., where the fastener 181 is a hinge or pivoting device).

[0160] Figs. 5c and 5d illustrate embodiments in which the support member 180 of the VD 102 is formed as an external body having an internal volume configured to receive the MD 104. In the depicted examples, the support member 180 has a cylindrical shape corresponding to the shape of the MD housing 139, with at least one open end 182 through which the MD 104 may be inserted into the internal volume of the member 180. [0161] In some embodiments, the support member 180 is comprised of one or more rigid materials, such as metals, and/or a plastic(s) (e.g., polypropylene, polystyrene, nylon, polycarbonate and methacrylate or similar compounds). The material composition of the support member 180 may be selected based at least in part on the measurement components 132 of the MD 104 that are to be tested by the VD 102 (and therefore the testing components 141 ... 14N of the device 102). For example, to test gamma and/or magnetic susceptibility systems 132a, 132b of the MD 104 use of a support member 180 comprised of non-metal materials may be advantageous for eliminating or minimizing interference with the testing stimuli. In some embodiments, the support member 180 functions as a removable protective shell or cover of the MD 104. In such embodiments, the logging platform 100 may be operated to use the support member 180 to sheath the MD 104 between deployments to measure one or more boreholes 101, 101a, 101b on the mine site.

[0162] With respect to Fig. 5c, the four testing components 141-144 of the VD 102 are positioned collectively in a fixed relative arrangement on an outer surface of the support member 180 (i.e., referred to as the cover). In other examples, one or more of the testing components 141-144 may be attached to the inner surface of the support member, thereby having an advantage of each respective testing component being in closer proximity to the corresponding measurement component. A similar relative arrangement may be used in examples involving attachment of the testing components 141-144 directly to the outer surface of the housing 139. The fixed relative arrangement may involve spacing one or more of the testing components 141-144 apart in either or both of the dimensions Di and D2. In some embodiments, a first subset of the testing components 141-144 are coupled to or integrated with the support member 180 (e.g., positioned on a surface of the support member 180), while a second subset of the testing components 141-144 are coupled to the housing 139 of the MD 104.

[0163] The example of Fig. 5c includes test components 143, 144 that are co-located at a longitudinal position on Di but are spaced over the non-longitudinal dimension D2 of the MD 104 housing, or support member (referred to as a “parallel” arrangement of the components). Various configurations of the VD 102 may involve multiple test components configured to apply test stimuli to a single measurement component 132 of the MD 104. In some embodiments, multiple captured volume components are placed equidistantly around the perimeter of the surface of the MD housing 139 or the support member 180 configured to receive the MD 104.

[0164] In some embodiments, all testing components of the VD 102 are arranged in parallel at a position in the longitudinal dimension Di (i.e., to form a VD 102 in the shape of a single ring or segment). For example, the testing components 141 .. . 14N may include a set of gamma rods spaced at an equal distance around the circumference of the support member 180 and with magnetite elemental volumes adjacent to and in between each rod. This is advantageous in that the longitudinal dimensionality of the support member 180 is minimized resulting in a VD 102 with a compact physical size.

[0165] In some configurations of the VD 102, a single testing component is configured to apply test stimuli to a plurality of measurement components of the MD 104. The plurality of measurement components of the MD 104 may be different sensors and/or instruments. For example, the VD 102 may be configured with one or more testing components that combine the testing functionality of other individual testing components (referred to as “combined components”). A combined component for testing magnetic susceptibility and conductivity of the MD 104 may be achieved, for example, by embedding a conductive ring of wire within a magnetite volume. The VD 102 is configured to operate each combined component to apply appropriate test stimuli to corresponding measurement components, either simultaneously or in a timedependent sequence.

[0166] Alternatively, or in addition, in some embodiments the one or more test components are separated along the longitudinal dimension of the MD 104 housing, or support member (referred to as a “sequential” arrangement of the components). In a sequential arrangement a first set of testing components is positioned spaced apart from a second set of testing components in the longitudinal dimension such that the respective sets of testing components are located at a predetermined minimum distance from one another. [0167] This is advantageous in preventing interaction and/or interference between testing components, including for example, those testing components that are configured to apply stimuli to different measurement components of the MD 104. For example, a thorium testing component configured to stimulate a gamma sensor may be spaced apart from a magnetite component configured to stimulate the magnetic susceptibility and/or conductivity sensors. The relative spacing between testing components may be determined based on the characteristics of the testing components, and/or the geological parameters measured by the corresponding measurement components. For example, thorium is paramagnetic and can form internal induced magnetic fields in the direction of the applied magnetic field. Conductivity can be influenced by way of eddy currents that result. It may be desired to minimize or eliminate this effect, and therefore reduce measurement noise of the VD 102, by spacing the thorium and magnetite components.

[0168] In some configurations, the respective testing components for particular geological sensors may be situated at opposing ends of the member 180. For example, a thorium element testing component may be spaced a minimum distance (e.g., 0.5m) away from a magnetic susceptibility and/or conductivity testing component to ensure that interaction between the testing components is eliminated or minimized. In some configurations, the spacing between testing components is determined based, at least in part, on a physical separation of the corresponding measurement components along a dimension of the MD 104. In some embodiments, there is an optimum ratio relationship between the size of the housing of the MD 104 and the dimensions of the testing components 141... 14N.

[0169] The formation of the testing components as discrete segments or “lumps” of a captured volume is advantageous in instances where the use of a heavy or dense material is required. For example, the design of a testing component for a magnetic susceptibility sensor may involve using magnetite sands. The amount of material (magnetite) must be sufficient to induce a test stimuli with a peak in the detection signal that is measurable by the sensor. By arranging the material as a localized volume that is positioned proximate to the geological sensor the required strength in the test stimuli can be achieved while minimizing the amount of material, and therefore the weight of the testing component, relative to a testing component that is formed as an enclosed shape (as discussed below).

[0170] In some embodiments, at least some of the testing components are formed as rings, ellipses, or similar shapes configured to surround or enclose the MD housing 139 when the testing components are positioned to apply the test stimuli (i.e., either by direct attachment to the MD 104 or by attachment to a support member of the VD 102 configured to receive the MD 104).

[0171] Fig. 5d shows an exemplary configuration of the VD 102 in which testing components 141, 142, 143 and 144 are rings (“testing rings”) that extend substantially around the circumference of the support member 180. Testing rings 141, 142, 143 are attached to the outer surface of member 180, while ring 144 is integrally formed with the member 180. The MD 104 passes through each testing ring 141, 142, 143 in response to the support member 180 receiving the MD 104 during the positioning activity. The use of an enclosed shape, such as a ring, to form the testing components is advantageous in that the testing components 141, 142, 143 may apply test stimuli to each measurement component over a full 360 degree angular range, such that the accuracy of the verification is enhanced (i.e., by reducing or eliminating effects that may otherwise result from an misalignment of the sensor or tool or instrument with the testing component in the non-longitudinal dimension of the MD 104).

[0172] Figs. 6a and 6b illustrate configurations of the VD 102 and MD 104 during the generation of the test data in response to the relative movement of the MD 104 with respect to the member 180. Specifically, in response to the support member 180 receiving the MD, the one or more test components of the VD 102 are positioned to apply the test stimuli to the one or more measurement components of the MD 104.

[0173] As shown in Fig. 6a, the MD 104 including a measurement sensor 132a and measurement instrument 132c is moved into the internal volume of the member 180, via opening 182. In response to the movement, as shown in Fig. 6b the MD 104 is received by the VD 102 such that testing rings 141, 144 are positioned to apply stimuli 190 to the sensor 132a and the instrument 132c respectively.

[0174] This is advantageous when the member 180 is formed as a cylindrical protective cover of the MD 1044, in that the verification process simulates the process of deploying the MD 104 through a borehole and obtaining measurements of the same, thereby enabling testing of the MD 104 in conditions that reflect its real-world operation.

Applying test stimuli

[0175] Referring back to Fig. 4, at step 404 the testing components of the VD 102 apply test stimuli to the measurement components 132 of the MD 104. The nature and mode of application of the test stimuli may vary depending on the testing components 141 .. . 14N and the corresponding measurement components 132. In response to the application of the test stimuli, the MD 104 operates the measurement components 132 to obtain a set of measurement values of corresponding geological parameters (i.e., at step 406). Table 1 below illustrates the components, applied stimuli, and measured geological parameter for the example MD 104 described herein.

Measurement Testing Test stimuli Geological component component parameter measurement

Gamma or spectral Gamma-ray Gamma-ray Number and/or gamma sensor emitting element electromagnetic energy (MeV) of

(132a) (e.g., thorium) radiation emitted gamma ray from the element emissions

Magnetic Magnetic element Magnetic field Magnetic flux

Susceptibility (e.g., magnetite) generated by a density (T) sensor (132b) ferromagnetic material Conductivity or Conductive wire Electric field Electrical focused coil with known generated by an conductivity conductivity sensor resistance applied current (pS/cm)

(132b)

Caliper instrument Barrier element The presence of the Diameter of the set (132c) barrier in vicinity borehole (mm) of MD housing

Table 1: Testing configuration for a borehole measurement device.

[0176] The verification process involves positioning the one or more testing components 141 .. . 14N relative to the MD 104 to apply the test stimuli 190 to corresponding measurement components 132 of the MD 104. In some embodiments, positioning the one or more testing components 141 .. . 14N relative to the MD 104 involves holding the testing components 141 .. . 14N stationary in respective positions in which the test stimuli 190 is applied to the corresponding measurement components 132 for at least a pre-determined time period. The pre-determined time period may be set according to one or more parameters of the measurement component 132 and/or testing component 141 .. . 14N.

[0177] For example, as shown in Fig. 6b to test a gamma sensor 132a, positioning the testing components may involve the MD 104 being held stationary, relative to the support member 180 of the VD 102, to align the gamma sensor 132a with a thorium element 141 coupled to the support member 180 for at least a duration of time corresponding to an integer multiple of the measurement period of the gamma sensor 132a (i.e., such that gamma-ray radiation is sampled during the alignment). Operating the gamma sensor 132a over the predetermined time period results in a set of measurement values which capture the effect of the electromagnetic radiation based stimuli provided by the test element 141.

[0178] In other embodiments, the positioning of the one or more testing components 141... 14N to stimulate corresponding measurement components of MD 104 involves a movement of at least one testing component, without the testing component being stationary, relative to the corresponding measurement component 132 (e.g., where the test stimuli 190 is delivered during a continuous movement of a testing component 141 .. . 14N within the vicinity of a corresponding measurement component 132).

[0179] The operation of the MD 104 to obtain the measurements may involve the activation of the specific measurement components 132 receiving test stimuli from the VD 102. Fig. 7a illustrates an example of MD 104 having instrument and sensor measurement components, including a magnetic susceptibility sensor 132b and a caliper set instrument 132c, which are operated to generate measurement values in response to a test stimuli.

[0180] The caliper set 132c includes a plurality of caliper fingers 132CI-132C4 configured to extend radially from the center axis line of the longitudinal dimension Di of the MD 104, when the caliper set 132c is activated by the MD 104. Fig. 7b illustrates the operation of the caliper set instrument of the MD 104 of Fig. 7a in response to the test stimuli. As shown in Fig. 7b, under normal operation of the caliper set 132c, all caliper fingers 132CI-132C4 will deploy to the maximum length of extension until the finger is stopped by an abutment (e.g., the side of the borehole wall). However, often in use, the caliper fingers 132CI-132C4 can become stuck (e.g., with mud, clay), or may break off or become otherwise dysfunctional.

[0181] Each caliper finger 132CI-132C4 is stimulated, on operation, by the corresponding barrier material 144 of the support member 180. In some embodiments, the barrier material 144 is formed integrally with, and is comprised of the same material as, the support member 180 (i.e., such that the barrier is created by a continuous section of the support member 180). The barrier material 144 is configured to provide an abutment for each finger 132ci-132c4in the direction of extension. The amount of extension of each finger 132CI-132C4 may be detected by the MD 104 thereby providing a measurement of the distance between the outer housing 139 of the MD 104 and the barrier component 144. This enables the generation of distance measurements representing a diameter of the borehole (either in a live measurement, or as simulated by the test process when the member 180 is a cylindrical protective cover with a fixed internal diameter) to ensure that the caliper set 132c is correctly functioning.

[0182] The diameter measured by the caliper set 132c may vary with a variation in the thickness or form of the corresponding barrier material 144 (i.e., to test the ability of the caliper set to detect differences in diameter). The ability of the caliper set 132c to detect and/or measure one or more other features may also be tested. For example, forming the barrier material 144 integrally with a support member 180 that is a cylindrical protective cover with a fixed internal diameter enables the testing of the caliper set 132c based on knowledge of the internal diameter of the support member 180.

[0183] In some examples, an amount of extension of each caliper finger 132CI-132C4 , as represented by caliper extension data, is detected in response to testing of the caliper set 132c against the barrier 144. Using knowledge of the distance between a barrier 144 and the housing 139 from which the caliper set 132c deploys, the MD 104 is able to detect any one or more fingers 132CI-132C4 of the caliper set 132c that are functioning improperly or not at all. The proper functioning of the one or more fingers 132CI-132C4 of the caliper set 132c improves the ability of the MD 104 to measure geophysical characteristics of borehole 101 during logging. For example, measurement values generated by the caliper set 132c provide information about the location of any void regions in the formation of the borehole 101, and the direction(s) in which the void regions extend.

[0184] In some embodiments, testing components 141 .. . 14N may include one or more barrier components 144 to permit the generation of caliper extension data that tests the ability of the caliper set 132c to detect and measure arbitrary void regions. For example, a plurality of barriers may be configured with different internal diameters, and/or positioned in a relative arrangement on or within the support member 180, to simulate a borehole 101 that has a cavity with a variable size vs depth profile (e.g., where the borehole is wider near to the collar position A and narrower near to the end position A’).

[0185] With reference to Fig. 4, at step 408 the MD 104 generates test data based at least in part on the set of measurements obtained in response to the test stimuli (i.e., in prior step 406). In some embodiments, the MD controller 130 processes the measurements by applying one or more transformation or scaling functions to each value to generate the test data. In other configurations, the values of the measurements are incorporated directly into the test data.

Free space measurements

[0186] In some embodiments, the MD 104 generates the test data by processing the set of measurements obtained in response to the test stimuli in conjunction with other measurements obtained in the absence of the test stimuli. This verifies the capability of the MD 104 to determine geological parameters that are calculated using a plurality of individual measurements performed across different conditions (e.g., as a differential between measurements taken in ‘test’ conditions with an applied stimulus from testing component(s), and in ‘baseline’ conditions without any stimulus).

[0187] In one example configuration, the magnetic susceptibility sensor 132b includes two separate and spaced oscillator coils, each configured to receive or transmit. The transmitting coil is driven at a frequency less than the resonance frequency of the coil enabling the magnetic flux density to be measured by the receive coil, for example in response to stimulus from a magnetite element testing component. The magnetic susceptibility sensor 132b is operated to obtain one or more measurement values in free space (i.e., when the coils are located at least at a fixed predetermined distance from the testing component and any other material that may stimulate the sensor). The susceptibility value of the test data is calculated from the difference of the frequency measurements obtained with the test stimuli applied and with at least one free space measurement. Free space measurements provide a baseline or reference level for the MD controller 130 to determine the influence of drift and other effects on the measurements (e.g., thermal drift) and to perform compensation for these effects.

[0188] In some embodiments, the free space measurements, and/or other baseline measurements, used by the MD controller 130 to generate the test data (or live data) are pre-determined from baseline evaluations conducted prior to the in-field testing (or borehole survey). For example, free space measurements of the magnetic susceptibility sensor 132b may be obtained in a factory evaluation or calibration environment before the MD 104 is deployed to the site. The predetermined free space and/or baseline measurement values are loaded into a non-volatile memory of the MD controller 130 during factory calibration of the device 104 for use in the generation of the test data in response to obtaining the test stimuli measurements in-field.

[0189] Alternatively, free space measurements may be obtained during the in-field testing process, such as at a time before and/or after the positioning of the testing components 141-14N relative to the measurement components 132 (i.e., step 402). For example, in configurations of the VD 102 using a support member 180, the operation of the measurement components 132 may occur simultaneously and continuously as the components 132 are moved into, and out of, the vicinity of the corresponding testing components 141-14N. This enables measurement values to be obtained in the presence of the applied test stimuli, and also in the absence of the stimuli, as the MD 104 experiences a movement that simulates live borehole measurement activity (i.e., in which the MD 104 passes into, and out of, the vicinity of particular sub-formations 107a, 107b during deployment, as shown in Fig. la). In some examples, the controller 120 may be configured to process test data generated by a sensor by retrieving the appropriate free space measurement data given a position of the MD 104 relative to other known objects (e.g. the deployment vehicle 106).

Evaluating the measurement device

[0190] Referring back to Fig. 3, at step 304 the controller 120 receives test data generated by the in-field testing method 400 conducted on the MD 104 with VD 102. At steps 306 and 308, the controller 120 processes the test data to generate verification data and uses the verification data 217 to evaluate the functionality of the measurement components 132. The verification data 217 generated by the controller 120 is specific to each measurement component 132 and may vary according to an evaluation mode.

[0191] In a range bounding evaluation mode, the controller 120 is configured to compare the values of the test data for a given measurement component 132 to minimum and maximum values of a predetermined target range or interval. For example, each target interval

may define a range of values of a test data sample x^s that are considered to be functionally acceptable for a measurement sensor/instrument s measuring a geological parameter. Controller 120 is configured to store the minimum

and maximum

values of one or more test ranges in the data store 208. Multiple test ranges may be maintained in the data store 208 for each measurement component 132. The controller 120 may be configured to select an appropriate test range based on one or more factors, such as for example the type and level/intensity of the test stimulus.

[0192] Generation of the verification data 217 involves comparing the test data value x^s of a measurement component s to a corresponding target interval as selected by the controller 120. In one approach, the verification data 217 comprises a set of values, in the form of an array, list, or other structure, providing an indication of whether the measurements produced in response to test stimuli fall within a target interval. For example, the verification data 217 may include a set of binary values each indicating whether a corresponding value X^s of the measurement component s is within the target interval or not.

[0193] In some embodiments, the controller 120 is configured to generate the verification data 217 by performing an analysis of the value of one or more test data samples {x^s}. For example, the controller 120 may conduct a statistical analysis involving a comparison of the test data sample value(s) to the values defined by one or more target intervals, and/or other predefined values (such as averaged or expected values, or parameters of statistical models), to generate data indicating a likelihood of noise or any other anomalies affecting the test data.

[0194] The controller 120 processes the verification data 217 values to assess the functionality of the measurement component s. For example, the controller 120 may be configured to determine that the component s is functioning acceptably if the number of ‘unacceptable’ test values (e.g., outputs falling outside of the target interval) of the sensor/instrument s is less than a predetermined number as calculated over a time period (e.g., 3 or less unacceptable values per minute). In some embodiments, the controller 120 is configured to generate verification data 217 by collating or aggregating the values of one or more measurement components overtime. For example, a sliding window may be applied to determine average values x^s of a measurement component s overtime, where the verification data 217 includes binary values indicating whether each window averaged value is within a corresponding target interval (i.e., whether X^s G [T2,,„, ?* „]).

[0195] In some embodiments, the controller 120 is configured to evaluate the functionality of a measurement component s (e.g., a sensor or instrument) of the MD 104 by comparing one or more test values X^s of the component s to one or more classification categories. An exemplary process for evaluating the functionality of a measurement component includes the steps of: comparing one or more test data values x^s of the component s to corresponding predetermined target values, the predetermined target values each belonging to one of a plurality of predetermined evaluation categories; and assigning the component s to one of the predetermined evaluation categories based on the comparison.

[0196] In one configuration, the target values are minimum and maximum output values, such that each category c is defined by a corresponding interval c = lamin’ ^max] ■ For example, a three-tier classification system may be used to evaluate component functionality by a sequence of comparisons of test data value to category intervals, where the categories represent the level of accuracy of the component measurements as ‘good’, ‘average’, or ‘poor’ (i.e., as categories c₁, c₂, c₃ respectively). If a test measurement X^s is within

= [T^_inl, T^_axl], then the measurement is classified as ‘good’ (i.e., as being of relatively high accuracy). Otherwise, if a test measurement x^s is within c₂ = [T^_n2, T^_ax2], then the measurement is classified as being of ‘average’ accuracy. Otherwise, if a test measurement x^s is within c₃ = [Tmin3> Tmaxs] then the measurement is classified as being of ‘poor’ accuracy.

[0197] Assignment of the component s to an accuracy category (e.g., ‘good’, ‘average’ or ‘poor’) may be performed by aggregating, averaging or otherwise analyzing the individual classifications of each test data sample x^s over a predetermined time period. In some embodiments, the controller 120 is configured to utilize the accuracy category of a measurement component .s' to apply correction or compensatory modifications to geological data associated with the component (e.g., such that the controller 120 automatically corrects or adjusts data generated by any ‘poor’ functioning components 132 of the MD 104).

[0198] Many other configurations exist in which the controller 120 evaluates the functionality of one or more measurement components of the MD 104 based on a direct comparison of the test measurements to predetermined values. For example, the controller 120 may use thresholds to check against the test measurements, or representative values, instead of determining whether the test measurements are bound within target or category intervals.

[0199] Fig. 8 illustrates a method 800 for generating verification data 217 according to an evaluation mode that determines an error value specific to each measurement component of the MD 104 (i.e., based on an expectation of the functionality of the components). The error value of a sensor or instrument is determined by comparing values of test data to corresponding expected values of a target data set for a geological property measured by the sensor or instrument. At step 801, the controller 120 receives the target values during a configuration or initialization step performed prior to the infield testing, and stores the target values in data store 208. For example, the target values may be fixed values that are uploaded to the controller 120 during factory calibration. [0200] In some embodiments, the target values are obtained dynamically by processing corresponding target data provided by the VD 102. For example, the VD 102 may be configured to transmit target data to the controller 120 prior to or following the configuration of the testing components 141 . . . 14N used to generate the corresponding test data. The target data may be generated by the TC control system 140 of the VD 102 according to the properties of the testing components 141 .. . 14N and the test stimuli 190.

[0201] At step 802, the controller 120 determines a measurement error value (MEV) for at least one of the measurement components 132. The MEV is an indication of statistical error in the time-varying test data values of a measurement component s (i.e., a sample set of values {x⁵} = x^, x_t ^s ₂ . , .x^_N for test values obtained at times tl, t2... tN) relative to a corresponding target or expected value x^s of the component s.

[0202] The MEV is an objective measure of the accuracy of a measurement component of the MD 104 based on a quantification of the relative deviation in the measurements of the test data {x⁵} produced by a component s from the expected values. In the described embodiments, the MEV is defined by calculating the root mean squared error (RMSE) of the test data values as:

is the z-th sample of test data obtained from applying the test stimuli to the measurement component s (occurring at time ti), and the corresponding value X^s that the component s is expected to produce in response to the test stimuli. In some embodiments, the corresponding target value X^s is constant for i = 0 to IV. In some embodiments, target value x^s is determined from the target data of the VD 102 and has a value dependent on the intensity of the test stimuli and the geological parameter being measured. [0203] In some embodiments, the MEV may be calculated using one or more other statistical measures such as, for example, absolute error (sum of absolute deviations, median of absolute deviations, mean of absolute deviations, etc.), range of observed values (interquartile range, percentile ranges, etc.), standard deviation, and/or any other calculation as appropriate to the requirements of specific applications.

[0204] At step 804, the controller 120 compares MEVs of the at least one measurement component to one or more predetermined values, such as intervals or thresholds. For example, the controller 120 may compare MEVs of each component s to a threshold T _orm which represents the acceptable or nominal tolerance of the component s to errors in the test data. If MEV[s] > T _orm then the controller 120 may determine that the component s is abnormally functioning (i.e., at step 806). Otherwise, if MEV[s] < T _orm the controller 120 may determine that the component s is normally functioning.

[0205] In some embodiments, the controller 120 is configured to provide a quantitative indication of the functionality of one or more measurement components (i.e., as an alternative or in addition to the binary indication of whether a component is normally or abnormally functioning, as determined from the threshold test of step 804). For example, the controller 120 may be configured to output the raw MEV, or a scaled or transformed variant, of each measurement component 132 of MD 104. This provides a user of the platform 100 with additional information to assist with the evaluation of the MD 104 and the diagnosis of existing or potential future faults with particular measurement components 132 (i.e., by recording a history of the MEV or scaled/transformed values).

[0206] At step 808, the controller 120 is optionally configured to determine an operational capability metric of the MD 104. The operational capability metric represents an overall assessment of accuracy or error in the capability of the MD 104 to measure the borehole 101, and may be in the form of a discrete classification or a real number (e.g., as calculated by accumulating the component specific accuracy or error metrics). In one embodiment, the operational capability of the MD 104 is determined by processing the indications of functionality of the individual measurement components 132. For example, the controller 120 may calculate a device error value (DEV), as part of the verification data 217, as a weighted sum of one or more MEVs determined for the measurement components 132 of the MD 104. Individual MEVs may be weighted, for example, based on the relative importance the respective measurement components to the measurement capability of the MD 104 (which may vary depending on the actual or intended surveying application).

[0207] The controller 120 is configured to process the DEV to evaluate the functionality of the MD 104. In one configuration, the DEV is compared to one or more thresholds to classify the operation of the MD 104 as one of a plurality of discrete categories (e.g., ‘good’, ‘average’ or ‘poor’), via the use of thresholds or intervals similarly to the range bounding evaluation mode used to classify the test data. In other embodiments, the controller 120 is configured to use the DEV directly, or a scaled or transformed variant thereof, to provide a quantitative indication of the functionality of the MD 104 (i.e., with values close to zero indicating a more accurate device compared to larger values). In some embodiments, the controller 120 is configured to utilize the operational category of the MD 104 to apply correction or compensatory modifications to geological data generated by the MD 104 (e.g., such that the controller 120 automatically corrects or adjusts data generated by a ‘poor’ functioning MD 104).

Accuracy scoring

[0208] In some embodiments, the controller 120 is configured to evaluate the MD 104 by processing the verification data to generate an accuracy score associated with the MD 104. An accuracy score provides an objective assessment of the operational capability of the MD 104 that is standardized to a particular interval, such as between zero and 100. This enables the respective scores to provide a relative indication of how well the MD 104 is functioning over successive applications of in-field testing.

[0209] In some embodiments, the accuracy score values are generated by transforming an indication of the error in measurement outputs of the MD 104 according to a transformation function. For example, controller 120 may be configured to calculate an accuracy score (AS) by processing the test data to: (1) determine a statistical error value (EV) associated with the device, such as a measurement error value (MEV) for at least one measurement component or a device error value (DEV); and (2) input the EV into a sigmoid function to transform the value to a real number within the interval of 0-100, according to A <? ₌ _ 100

1 + _e ^m(EV)^+b where m and b are real number coefficients determined from a trial dataset and chosen to scale the AS value to the 0-100 interval.

[0210] Fig. 9 shows an exemplary graph 900 of the AS value for a device-level error value (i.e., the DEV). DEVs close to 100 provide an indication that the MD 104 has a low accumulated error associated with its measurements, and is therefore highly reliable (i.e., since the AS value is close to the maximum). As the EV increases the AS value approaches zero indicating that the MD 104, and any geological data measurements collected from the MD 104, are unreliable. The controller 120 may be configured to store the accuracy score(s) in association with the verification data 217 of the MD 104. In some embodiments, the controller 120 is configured to transmit the accuracy score(s), verification data 217, and/or other data associated with the verification of the MD 104, to a remote computing system, such as the BMS 160. The BMS 160 may be configured to process the accuracy score(s), verification data 217, and/or other data to generate one or more data parameters related to the MD 104 and/or borehole 101 (e.g., to construct an equipment usage or health model, and/or a bench profile).

[0211] In some embodiments, the controller 120 is configured to process the accuracy score(s), and/or other data, associated with the verification of the MD 104 to determine a degree of reliability of geological data measurements collected from the MD 104. For example, the degree of reliability may be a binary indication (e.g., ‘reliable’ or ‘unreliable’), or a categorization of the reliability as ‘high’, ‘medium’ or ‘low’, or similar. The controller 120 may be configured to automatically take action in response to determining that the degree of reliability is at or below a predefined level. For example, in response to an ‘unreliable’ or ‘low’ determination, the controller 120 may generate and send an alert message to the BMS 160 notifying the system that the MD 104 should be checked, and/or that logging with the MD 104 should cease or be avoided.

[0212] Multiple different methods can be used to calculate an accuracy score, as an alternative or in addition to the use of a transformation function, such as classification and/or machine learning methods. For example, a machine learning model may be trained to output a probability of the accuracy or reliability of the MD 104 given test data generated by in-field testing. Models are trained using training measurements (e.g., expected or target measurement values) labelled with an indication of the corresponding test stimuli. Each machine learning model may be any of a number of different machine learning models including (but not limited to) a neural network, a support-vector machine, a regression model, and/or any other supervised machine learning model capable of outputting a probability indicating a degree of the error in the measurement outputs of the MD 104.

[0213] In some embodiments, multiple scores can be combined or averaged to create an ensemble score which can be used in place of a single accuracy score associated with the MD 104. For example, the controller 120 may be configured to process error values associated with individual measurement components, such as MEVs calculated as above, to determine a set of AS values enabling assessments of the relative accuracy of the individual measurement components between testing processes.

Quality assurance/control, analysis, and automated logging

[0214] Referring back to Fig. 3, in some embodiments the controller 120 is configured to perform one or more quality assurance (QA) or quality control (QC) operations on the MD 104. The QA/QC operations may include, at step 310, validating the geological data generated by the MD 104 based on the verification data 217, or associated data, produced by in-field testing of the measurement components 132. This provides an ability to predict or infer a level of reliability of the geological data collected by the MD 104, or by a specific measurement component 132.

[0215] In some embodiments, the validation involves generating a measure to assess the confidence of the geological data based on the expected presence of abnormalities or errors in the measured values. For example, with reference to Fig. 2 data QC module 216 may calculate a confidence interval of a set of geological data from one or more error values, metrics, or scores calculated during testing (e.g., MEVs, DEVs, AS). The confidence interval is calculated for geological data values at a predetermined probability, or confidence level, such as the 95^th percentile. Data QC module 216 performs analysis of the confidence interval relative to the data samples (e.g. by determining the normalized interval length), thereby enabling an assessment of the reliability and utility of the geological data produced by the MD 104.

[0216] In some embodiments, the data QC module 216 is configured to correct or adjust geological data generated by the MD 104 in response to an in-field evaluation of the MD 104. For example, the data QC module 216 may process an indication of abnormal functionality or a degree of error (e.g., a MEV) of a particular measurement component 132 of the MD 104 to adjust geological data generated by the measurement component 132 in a prior survey of the borehole 101. In this mode of operation, the data QC module 216 corrects the values of the geological data as a post-processing operation. The geological data is received from the MD 104 following a survey of the borehole 101, and each geological data value is modified, if appropriate, based on the data determined by a verification process recently conducted on the MD 104. For example, a geological data value g^s produced by a measurement component s may be corrected to produce corrected geological value g^s by removing a predetermined amount of error associated with the measurement component s (e.g., g^s = g^s — MEV[s]). [0217] In another mode, the controller 120 enables the adjustment of the geological data values in real-time as the geological data is collected by the MD 104. For example, the controller 120 may provide the MD controller 130 with one or more adjustment parameters, such as the MEV of one or more measurement components. The MD controller 130 performs an adjustment of the measurement values in real-time during the surveying of the borehole 101 to generate geological data that is compensated or corrected against errors, as determined by the in-field verification.

[0218] In some embodiments, the MD controller 130 applies the adjustment parameters to geological data following the generation of the data by each sensor or instrument system 132a, 132b, 132c (i.e., as a ‘controller level’ correction). In some embodiments, each component system 132a, 132b, 132c, or individual sensor or instrument, has a set of control electronics that are configured to apply corrections as the data values are generated (i.e., as a ‘sensor level’ correction). In such embodiments, the MD controller 130 is configured to transmit one or more of the adjustment parameters to each sensor/instrument, or corresponding system 132a, 132b, 132c, to enable the sensor level corrections to be performed. Controller level corrections may be performed in conjunction with sensor level corrections in order to reduce the total error in the measurement data produced by the MD 104 (as compared to performing either sensor or controller corrections in isolation).

[0219] In some embodiments, the adjustment of the geological data values is performed by a remote computing system, such as the BMS 160. In such embodiments, the controller 120 transmits the one or more adjustment parameters, such as the MEV of one or more measurement components, to the BMS 160 to enable the correction of geological data for the MD 104. The controller 120 may be configured to receive corrected and/or adjusted geological data from the MD 104, and/or the BMS 160, in accordance with any of the embodiments described above.

[0220] Referring back to Figs. 2 and 3, at step 312 in some embodiments the controller 120 is configured to perform one or more equipment analysis and/or calibration operations in relation to the MD 104. The MD analysis module 215 is configured to process the verification data 217, and/or associated data, analyze the MD 104, such as to determine whether a repair or a recalibration of the MD 104 is warranted. For example, in response to determining differences between expected measurements and actual measurements generated by the MD 104, the MD analysis module 215 may initiate a repair or a recalibration of the MD 104. Initiating a repair or recalibration may involve the controller 120 transmitting a notification to the BMS 160, or other system, to prompt the inspection, repair, and/or adjustment of the MD 104 by an operator.

[0221] In some configurations, the controller 120 determines an estimate of the functionality of the measurement components, and/or the overall operational capability, of the MD 104 at a future time based on historical verification data. This advantageously enables the controller 120 to predict a need to conduct future repair or recalibration of the MD 104, or to plan or schedule in advance for the unavailability of the MD 104 for in-field logging activities (e.g., to arrange for a replacement device to be delivered on site ahead of time).

[0222] For example, the controller 120 may be configured to track the functionality of the caliper set component which degrades overtime due to wear on the arms. The controller 120 processes a degree of verification error over time to determine a relationship between total distance travelled while deployed within a borehole (since the last service or replacement of the arms) and the amount of wear sustained by the caliper arms (e.g., based on the caliper extension data determined during verification). The controller 120 may then provide a projection for the amount of travel distance remaining, and therefore the number of deployments, before the caliper set requires replacement or servicing.

[0223] Verification of the MD 104, and subsequent validation of geological data and/or repair or recalibration of the MD 104, may be performed in the context of an autonomous logging process. Fig. 10 illustrates a method 1000 for autonomous logging of a borehole 101 executed by at least one processor of a computing device, such as controller 120. At step 1002, controller 120 receives geological data indicating measurement values of at least one geological property of the borehole 101, wherein the geological data is generated by the MD 104 in response to a deployment of the MD 104 into the borehole 101.

[0224] At step 1004, the controller 120 verifies the operation of the MD 104 by performing in-field verification testing of the MD 104 according to the methods described herein (e.g., the steps 304-308 of method 300). In response to verifying the operation of the MD 104, at step 1006 the controller 120 determines whether to log the borehole 101 using the geological data or data derived from the same.

[0225] In some embodiments, the platform 100, comprises one or more autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles configured to make decisions about how to conduct a logging of the borehole 101, or any other borehole on the mine site 109, based on the confidence or reliability of measured geological data, and/or the functional capability of the MD 104 (as determined from the in-field testing processes described herein). For example, the evaluation module 214 may determine, based on the verification data 217 and the evaluation methods discussed above, that a particular set of the geological data is not of an acceptable accuracy. The controller 120 may discard the geological data and/or issue instructions to obtain further data to log the borehole (i.e., to re-deploy the MD 104 into the borehole 101 to obtain additional geological data, or otherwise obtain other data to log the borehole 101).

[0226] In some embodiments, the controller 120 is configured to communicate with a remote computing system, such as the BMS 160, to transmit or receive data related to autonomous or semi-autonomous logging of the borehole 101. For example, the controller 120 may be configured to notify the BMS 160 of a determination, by the evaluation module 214, that the geological data is not of an acceptable accuracy. The controller 120 may discard the geological data and/or issue instructions to obtain further data to log the borehole in response to a confirmation or direction received from the BMS 160 in reply to the notification. [0227] Optionally, at step 1008 the controller 120 is configured to selectively perform one or more QA/QC operations on the geological data, or other data, generated by the MD 104 during an autonomous logging process. For example, the Data QC module 216 may issue instructions to cause the correction of some or all of the geological data obtained by the MD 104. The instructions issued by the Data QC module 216 may initiate one or more post-processing operations to perform the correction. The postprocessing operation may take into account values of the verification data 217 to determine one or more corrections and/or compensations that are applied to the geological data. In some embodiments, the execution of the post-processing operations, either by the controller 120 or one or more other processing devices, generates postprocessed geological data. In some examples, the post-processed geological data is generated independently to any previously conducted processing or data validation operations that were performed based on additional data (e.g., data obtained from the BMS 160 of associated boreholes 101a, 101b). In some embodiments, the controller 120 may issue instructions to modify data previously logged for the borehole 101, or any other borehole, by the same MD 104.

[0228] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that numerous variations and/or modifications may be made to the above-described embodiments, without departing from the broad general scope of the present disclosure. The present embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A method for verifying the operation of a borehole measurement device (MD) executed by at least one processor of a computing device, the method comprising: receiving test data indicating measurement values of at least one geological parameter, wherein the test data is generated by one or more measurement components of the MD in response to test stimuli provided by one or more testing components of a verification device used to perform in-field testing of the MD, wherein the one or more testing components are coupled to or integrated with a support member that is separable from the MD; processing the test data to generate verification data of the MD; and using the verification data to evaluate the functionality of the one or more measurement components.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein generating the verification data of the MD is performed in real-time, or substantially real-time, with the generation of the test data by the MD.

3. The method of any of claims 1 to 2, wherein generating the verification data comprises comparing the measurement values of the test data with corresponding target values to determine a measurement error value (MEV) for at least one of the measurement components.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein the target values are obtained by processing corresponding target data of the verification device.

5. The method of any of claims 3 to 4, wherein generating the verification data comprises: (i) determining the measurement error value (MEV) for at least one measurement component;

(ii) comparing each of the MEVs of the at least one measurement component to a corresponding threshold value; and

(iii) generating, based on the comparison, an indication of whether the at least one measurement component is functioning abnormally.

6. The method of any of claims 3 to 5, further comprising calculating a weighted sum of one or more MEVs determined for the measurement components of the MD.

7. The method of any of claims 3 to 6, further comprising processing the verification data to generate an accuracy score associated with the MD.

8. The method of any of claims 3 to 7, further comprising validating geological data generated by the one or more measurement components of the MD based on the verification data.

9. The method of claim 8, further comprising, in response to validating the geological data, correcting the geological data based on the verification data.

10. The method of any of claims 1 to 9, wherein the support member is configured to position the testing components collectively in a fixed relative arrangement.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein a plurality of the testing components are positioned on a surface of the support member.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein each of the plurality of the testing components are spaced apart in either or both of a longitudinal and a non-longitudinal dimension of the support member.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the plurality of the testing components includes a first set of one or more testing components, and a second set of one or more testing components positioned spaced apart from the first set of one or more testing components by a predetermined minimum distance.

14. The method of any of claims 1 to 13, wherein the support member has an internal volume configured to receive the MD.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the support member is cylindrical, and the testing components are each shaped to extend substantially around the circumference of the support member.

16. The method of any of claims 14 to 15, wherein the support member is a protective cover of the MD.

17. The method of any of claims 1 to 16, wherein the generation of the test data comprises: positioning the one or more testing components relative to the MD to apply the test stimuli to corresponding measurement components of the MD; operating the one or more measurement components to obtain a set of outputs in response to the stimuli provided by the one or more corresponding testing components; and generating the test data based at least in part on the set of measurement component outputs.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein positioning the one or more testing components relative to the MD involves holding the one or more testing components stationary in respective positions in which the test stimuli is applied to the corresponding measurement components for at least a pre-determined time period.

19. The method of any of claims 17 to 18, wherein the generation of the test data comprises: performing a relative movement to cause the one or more testing components to be positioned into, and out of, the vicinity of the corresponding measurement components; and obtaining outputs from the corresponding measurement components both in response to the stimuli applied by the one or more corresponding testing components and without the stimuli.

20. The method of any of claims 1 to 19, wherein the generation of the test data further comprises: activating one or more of the testing components with electrical power such that the activated testing components provide stimuli with controllable target values of the geological parameter.

21. A verification device (VD) for verifying the operation of a borehole measurement device (MD) during in-field testing of the MD, the VD comprising one or more testing components configured to apply test stimuli to one or more measurement components of the MD, wherein the one or more testing components are coupled to or integrated with a support member that is separable from the MD, wherein the application of the test stimuli causes the one or more measurement components to generate test data indicating measurement values of at least one geological parameter, and wherein the test data is adapted to be received by a computing device, the computing device being configured to: process the received test data to generate verification data of the MD; and use the verification data to evaluate the functionality of the one or more components of the MD.

22. The device of claim 21, wherein the one or more testing components include one or more emitting components configured to stimulate one or more sensors of the measurement components by applying an electric or magnetic field to, or emitting electromagnetic radiation at, the sensors.

23. The device of claim 22, wherein the one or more sensors are configured to measure one or more geological parameters including but not limited to: Gamma radiation emitted by a material; a density of a material; reflectivity of electromagnetic radiation; reflectivity of acoustic or ultrasonic waves; magnetic susceptibility of a material; electrical resistivity or conductivity or impedance of a material; magnetic field strength; a degree of dip and/or azimuth of the borehole; a temperature; sonic velocity; contact hardness of a material; a physical diameter or profile or volume of the borehole; and a level of fluid in the borehole.

24. The device of claim 23, wherein the emitting components each generate an electric field, a magnetic field, or electromagnetic radiation detectable by the one or more sensors in response to the operation of the sensors to measure a corresponding geological parameter.

25. The device of any of claims 21 to 24, wherein the one or more testing components include a barrier component configured to provide a stimulus for a caliper set of the measurement components.

26. The device of any of claims 21 to 25, wherein the support member is configured to position the testing components collectively in a fixed relative arrangement.

27. The device of claim 26, wherein a plurality of the testing components are configured to be selectively positioned on a surface of the support member.

28. The device of claim 27, wherein the plurality of the testing components are spaced apart in either or both of a longitudinal and a non-longitudinal dimension of the support member.

29. The device of any of claims 27 to 28, wherein the plurality of the testing components includes a first set of one or more testing components, and a second set of one or more testing components positioned spaced apart from the first set of one or more testing components by a predetermined minimum distance.

30. The device of any of claims 21 to 29, wherein the support member has an internal volume configured to receive the MD.

31. The device of claim 30, wherein the support member is cylindrical, and the testing components are shaped to extend substantially around the circumference of the support member.

32. The device of any of claims 30 to 31, wherein the support member is a protective cover of the MD configured to sheath the MD between deployments of the MD into a borehole.

33. The device of any of claims 21 to 32, wherein one or more of the testing components are active testing components configured to receive electrical power, wherein each active testing component provides test stimuli with a controllable target value of the geological property measured by a corresponding measurement component.

34. A method for logging a borehole executed by at least one processor of a computing device, the method comprising: receiving geological data indicating values of at least one geological property of the borehole, wherein the geological data is generated by a measurement device (MD) in response to a deployment of the MD into the borehole; verifying the operation of the MD by performing in-field verification testing of the MD according to the method of any of claims 1 to 20; and in response to verifying the operation of the MD, determining whether to log the borehole using the geological data or data derived from the same.

35. The method of claim 34, further comprising, in response to verifying the operation of the MD, issuing instructions to obtain further data to log the borehole.

36. The method of any of claims 34 to 35, further comprising, in response to verifying the operation of the MD, performing one or more data quality control operations on the geological data generated by the MD.

37. The method of any of claims 34 to 36, further comprising in response to verifying the operation of the MD performing one or more equipment analysis and/or calibration operations in relation to the MD.

38. The method of claim 37, further comprising: processing verification data generated by verifying the operation of the MD to determine a degree of reliability of the geological data; and performing the one or more equipment analysis and/or calibration operations based on the degree of reliability of the geological data.

39. The method of claim 38, further comprising: transmitting at least the verification data to a remote computing system, wherein the remote computing system is configured to process the verification data to generate one or more data parameters related to the MD or the borehole.