MUMBAI, India, June 30 -- Intellectual Property India has published a patent application (202641074784 A) filed by Vellore Institute Of Technology on June 17, 2026, for “an Active Depth-Regulated Hollow Auger Soil Sampling Apparatus Configured To Selectively Collect Soil At Predetermined Depths Without Intermixing Stratigraphic Layers”.
Inventors include Abhiram Ayyalasomayajula; Devasri Fuloria; and Gaurav Gupta.
The application for the patent was published on June 26, 2026, under issue no. 26/2026.
Abstract: The present invention relates to a depth-selective soil sampling apparatus and method capable of collecting soil samples at predetermined depths while minimizing intermixing between stratigraphic layers. The apparatus comprises a hollow tubular auger shaft having an external helical cutting flight and at least one inlet port leading to an internal soil retention chamber. A depth actuation assembly advances the auger shaft to a commanded sampling depth. A sequential dual-shutter inlet control mechanism positioned within the auger shaft includes a first rotary blade and a second rotary blade that sequentially open and close the inlet port. An internal motor coupled through a transmission assembly actuates the shutter mechanism independently of auger rotation. A control unit determines when the commanded depth is reached and triggers the shutter mechanism to allow soil intake and subsequently seal the collected sample within the retention chamber. The invention enables controlled, depth-specific soil sampling during drilling with reduced contamination from surrounding layers and supports reliable sample preservation for subsequent analysis. Fig 1 to 4.
Disclaimer: Curated by HT Syndication.
