Acquisition scheme for vibroseis marine sources

Abstract

Control mechanisms, computer software and methods for driving vibrational source arrays underwater. An incoherent acquisition scheme drives individual source elements simultaneously and incoherently while a coherent acquisition scheme drives high-frequency individual source elements simultaneously and incoherently and low-frequency individual source elements simultaneously and coherently. Thus, denser coverage and an increased energy input is achieved for the source arrays.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 687,059 filed on Nov. 28, 2012, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 415,225 filed on Mar. 8, 2012 and claims the benefit of priority of French Application No. 1159433 filed on Oct. 19, 2011, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND[0002]1. Technical Field[0003]Embodiments of the subject matter disclosed herein generally relate to methods and systems and, more particularly, to mechanisms and techniques for generating an acquisition scheme for vibroseis marine sources.[0004]2. Discussion of the Background[0005]Reflection seismology is a method of geophysical exploration to determine the properties of a portion of a subsurface layer in the earth, which information is especially helpful in the oil and gas industry. Marine reflection seismology is based on the use of a controlled source that sends energy...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent text describes an incoherent acquisition method for driving vibrational source arrays underwater using a control mechanism. This method involves towing two source arrays underwater and activating them simultaneously using high-frequency and low-frequency driving signals. The technical effect of this invention is improved seismic data quality and accuracy due to the use of coherent and incoherent acquisition techniques, which enhance the seismic signal-to-noise ratio and reduce the effects of multiple waves and interference.

Problems solved by technology

However, the frequency content of the impulsive sources is not fully controllable and different sources are selected depending on the needs of a particular survey.

In addition, the use of impulsive sources can pose certain safety and environmental concerns.

However, there is no large scale use of such sources as they have limited power and are not reliable due to the number of moving parts required to generate the seismic waves.

However, the known vibratory sources do not have a high vertical resolution as the typical frequency range of a marine seismic source represents approximately four octaves.

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