Abstract: A system for testing a subterranean formation penetrated by a well includes a downhole tool configured to be coupled to a work string that includes a tool body having a longitudinal bore for circulating a fluid and at least one aperture configured to receive at least one module. The system further includes a plurality of modules that are each configured to engage the at least one aperture and at least one cavity configured for receiving a probe, and a plurality of probes that each include at least one orifice configured for testing the formation, wherein a first of the plurality of probes has a first configuration and a second of the plurality of probes has a second configuration.

Abstract: A system for testing a subterranean formation penetrated by a well includes a downhole tool configured to be coupled to a work string that includes a tool body having a longitudinal bore for circulating a fluid and at least one aperture configured to receive at least one module. The system further includes a plurality of modules that are each configured to engage the at least one aperture and at least one cavity configured for receiving a probe, and a plurality of probes that each include at least one orifice configured for testing the formation, wherein a first of the plurality of probes has a first configuration and a second of the plurality of probes has a second configuration.

Abstract: A system for testing a subterranean formation penetrated by a well includes a downhole tool configured to be coupled to a work string that includes a tool body having a longitudinal bore for circulating a fluid and at least one aperture configured to receive at least one module. The system further includes a plurality of modules that are each configured to engage the at least one aperture and at least one cavity configured for receiving a probe, and a plurality of probes that each include at least one orifice configured for testing the formation, wherein a first of the plurality of probes has a first configuration and a second of the plurality of probes has a second configuration.

Abstract: A system for testing a subterranean formation penetrated by a well includes a downhole tool configured to be coupled to a work string that includes a tool body having a longitudinal bore for circulating a fluid and at least one aperture configured to receive at least one module. The system further includes a plurality of modules that are each configured to engage the at least one aperture and at least one cavity configured for receiving a probe, and a plurality of probes that each include at least one orifice configured for testing the formation, wherein a first of the plurality of probes has a first configuration and a second of the plurality of probes has a second configuration.

Abstract: A core sample retaining sleeve is provided for preventing loss of a cut core sample from the distal end of a coring bit, particularly during retraction of the coring bit to within the coring tool. Preferably, the core sample retaining sleeve is disposed concentrically within the coring bit to fit around the received core sample. The core sample retaining sleeve has one or more retaining fingers formed on the distal end of the coring bit. The retaining fingers are selectively closeable, preferably by urging the one or more retaining fingers against one or more guide members. A guide member is preferably provided as a stationary ridge on the inner, distal surface of the coring bit. The core sample is contained and protected within the closed retaining sleeve.

Abstract: The present invention provides a core sample retaining sleeve for preventing loss of a cut core sample from the distal end of a coring bit, particularly during retraction of the coring bit to within the coring tool. Preferably, the core sample retaining sleeve is disposed concentrically within the coring bit to fit around the received core sample. The core sample retaining sleeve has one or more retaining fingers formed on the distal end of the coring bit. The retaining fingers are selectively closeable, preferably by urging the one or more retaining fingers against one or more guide members. A guide member is preferably provided as a stationary ridge on the inner, distal surface of the coring bit. The core sample is contained and protected within the closed retaining sleeve.

Abstract: The present invention provides a brush bit for cutting a core sample from an unconsolidated formation with reduced fragmentation or damage to the core sample by using a plurality of stiff bristles to cut rock from around the core sample. The present invention also provides an improved method of obtaining a core sample from an unconsolidated formation.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved coring motor for use in obtaining a core sample from the side wall of a drilled bore hole. The present invention provides controllable rotation, extension and retraction of the coring bit relative to the side wall without complicated positioning linkages and with conservation of space for use in slim tools for use downhole.