Abstract: A method and apparatus for estimating one or more formation properties using in-situ measurements conducted at or near a coring location include a coring tool adapted to cut a core sample in a formation, a member having a distal end that engages a borehole wall substantially adjacent the core sample, and a drive device that engages the member to the borehole wall with a force sufficient to estimate formation strength.

Abstract: A coring device includes a primary and a secondary bit that drill a first and second depth into a formation, respectively. The first and second bits are positioned on telescopically arranged mandrels that are rotated by a suitable rotary drive. The coring tool also includes a drive device that extends the first bit and the second bit a first depth into the formation and extends only the second bit a second depth into the formation. In arrangements, the actuating device can include a first hydraulic actuator applying pressure to extend the second bit into the formation and a second hydraulic actuator applying pressure to retract the second bit from the formation. The advancement and retraction of the first and second bits can be controlled by a control unit that uses sensor signals, timers, preprogrammed instruction and any other suitable arrangement.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for estimating one or more formation properties using in-situ measurements conducted at or near a coring location include a coring tool adapted to cut a core sample in a formation, a member having a distal end that engages a borehole wall substantially adjacent the core sample, and a drive device that engages the member to the borehole wall with a force sufficient to estimate formation strength.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for estimating a property include evaluating a formation at a formation evaluation location using a formation evaluation tool, and estimating the property at least in part by engaging a borehole wall substantially adjacent the formation evaluation location with a formation strength test device.

Abstract: A coring device includes a primary and a secondary bit that drill a first and second depth into a formation, respectively. The first and second bits are positioned on telescopically arranged mandrels that are rotated by a suitable rotary drive. The coring tool also includes a drive device that extends the first bit and the second bit a first depth into the formation and extends only the second bit a second depth into the formation. In arrangements, the actuating device can include a first hydraulic actuator applying pressure to extend the second bit into the formation and a second hydraulic actuator applying pressure to retract the second bit from the formation. The advancement and retraction of the first and second bits can be controlled by a control unit that uses sensor signals, timers, preprogrammed instruction and any other suitable arrangement.