US Patent:
20120210805, Aug 23, 2012
Inventors:
Randall F. Lind - Knoxville TN, US
Peter D. Lloyd - Knoxville TN, US
Lonnie J. Love - Knoxville TN, US
Mark W. Noakes - Knoxville TN, US
Francois G. Pin - Knoxville TN, US
Bradley S. Richardson - Knoxville TN, US
John C. Rowe - Knoxville TN, US
International Classification:
G01N 1/08
G01N 1/04
Abstract:
An apparatus for obtaining samples from a structure includes a support member, at least one stabilizing member, and at least one moveable member. The stabilizing member has a first portion coupled to the support member and a second portion configured to engage with the structure to restrict relative movement between the support member and the structure. The stabilizing member is radially expandable from a first configuration where the second portion does not engage with a surface of the structure to a second configuration where the second portion engages with the surface of the structure.