Adaptive Multiplexing Signatures for Wireless Seismic Arrays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Seismic surveys face challenges with increased sensor density due to interference and cross-talk issues in wireless communication systems, leading to reduced data transfer rates and increased costs, particularly in large-scale oil and gas exploration operations.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of multiplexing signatures in seismic data acquisition systems to reduce interference between wireless modules by adaptive allocation and pseudorandom sequences, allowing for efficient data transfer without the need for physical cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the number of sensors is increased and they are placed closer together, then the quality of the resulting image will improve, but the cost of the survey increases due to additional cables and logistics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical cable-based data transmission system with a wireless communication system. Each sensor module communicates seismic data wirelessly to adjacent modules, eliminating the need for physical cables connecting thousands of sensors. This substitution resolves the contradiction by maintaining high sensor density for improved image quality while removing the complex cable infrastructure that increases cost and logistics burden.
2Reliability
If wireless techniques are used to eliminate cables, then logistical costs and reliability problems are reduced, but interference and cross-talk between modules increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the wireless communication spectrum into multiple frequency channels and assigns different frequency signatures to different modules or transmission directions. This frequency division multiplexing approach allows multiple modules to transmit simultaneously without interfering with each other, resolving the contradiction by enabling reliable wireless communication while minimizing cross-talk and interference between adjacent modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements directional transmission where modules transmit seismic data preferentially in the direction toward the base station rather than omnidirectionally. This localized transmission approach concentrates energy in the needed direction and reduces interference to adjacent modules, resolving the contradiction between achieving reliable wireless communication and minimizing harmful interference.
3Productivity
If modules transmit data simultaneously without coordination, then data transfer speed increases, but interference and bandwidth reduction occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a structured transmission protocol where modules transmit data in organized sequences rather than completely randomly. Modules transmit to adjacent modules in a coordinated manner, with frequency signatures assigned based on transmission direction and module position. This periodic and structured approach allows high data transfer rates while maintaining communication reliability by preventing complete signal chaos.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods related to allocation of multiplexing signatures to wireless data acquisition modules in a seismic array with real time wireless read out. The allocation may include selecting an index value offset from an adjacent index value to form serial data transfer paths wherein reuse of multiplexing signatures are spaced as far apart as possible in serial data path. In an embodiment the allocation of multiplexing signatures may be adaptive wherein a module may scan for the presence of signals utilizing a plurality of multiplexing signatures and in turn employ a multiplexing sequence that avoids any detected noise that could lead to interference. The detected noise may be attributable to sources within the survey area or from ambient noise present in the area.