Anchored Seismic Source System for Time-Lapse Repeatability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing time-lapse seismic surveys face challenges in achieving reliable and cost-effective repeatability, particularly due to changes in surface coupling and the limitations of heavy and expensive equipment, which affect the accuracy of detecting subsurface changes over time.
Innovation Solution
The integration of an anchored source system with optimized seismic source tuning, advanced sweep scheduling, dedicated processing workflows, and a comprehensive baseline monitoring process to enhance the repeatability and accuracy of time-lapse seismic surveys.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a heavy weight on a flat plate is used for surface seismic sources, then coupling with the ground is achieved, but repeatability over time deteriorates due to surface coupling changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-installing an anchoring system (concrete pillar, helical pile, or helical anchor) before the seismic source, and pre-positioning a heavy weight on the flat plate atop the anchor. This preliminary configuration ensures consistent coupling strength and repeatability across multiple time-lapse surveys, as the anchoring system remains stationary and provides stable ground connection over time.
2Strength
If heavy and expensive seismic equipment is used, then coupling strength is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the coupling system into two functional parts: (1) an anchoring system (concrete pillar, helical pile, or helical anchor) that provides stable ground connection, and (2) a vibrator source with heavy weight on a flat plate that generates seismic waves. This segmentation allows the expensive vibrator to be mounted on a reusable, cost-effective anchoring structure, reducing overall system cost while maintaining coupling strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchoring system acts as an intermediary between the expensive vibrator source and the ground. Instead of directly using the vibrator to couple with the ground (which would require even heavier, more expensive equipment), the anchoring system mediates the connection, providing stable ground contact while allowing the vibrator to remain accessible for maintenance and relocation.
3Strength
If the source is buried or cemented underground, then coupling efficiency is improved, but relocation and repair capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-installing an anchoring system (concrete pillar, helical pile, or helical anchor) before the seismic source, and pre-positioning a heavy weight on the flat plate atop the anchor. This preliminary configuration ensures consistent coupling strength and repeatability across multiple time-lapse surveys, as the anchoring system remains stationary and provides stable ground connection over time.
4Strength
If downhole installation is used, then energy transmission efficiency is improved, but source size is limited by wellbore diameter
Solution Approach 1:
The anchoring system acts as an intermediary between the expensive vibrator source and the ground. Instead of directly using the vibrator to couple with the ground (which would require even heavier, more expensive equipment), the anchoring system mediates the connection, providing stable ground contact while allowing the vibrator to remain accessible for maintenance and relocation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach improves the accuracy and repeatability of time-lapse seismic surveys, enabling reliable detection of subsurface changes, reducing operational costs, and ensuring high-quality data acquisition.
Implementation Method 1
A seismic source, such as vibroseis truck, hydraulic or electric vibrator, and weight drop system is a device that generates controlled seismic energy, producing seismic waves that travel through a medium
Implementation Method 2
Seismic receivers, such as geophones, hydrophones, and accelerometers detect and record seismic waves that are reflected or refracted from underground layers
Implementation Method 3
Seismic receivers, such as geophones, hydrophones, and accelerometers detect and record seismic waves that are reflected or refracted from underground layers
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for time-lapse seismic data acquisition and processing using permanent or semi-permanent seismic sources, combined with a specialized processing workflow. The method is designed to reliably detect time-lapse changes in the structure and physical properties of subsurface formations over time by providing highly repeatable seismic surveys. This method includes optimizing the seismic source system based on the specific environment to determine the ideal sweep setups; establishing an efficient sweep schedule to maximize data quality while minimizing operational costs; creating a baseline seismic model by capturing seismic data over a predetermined time frame prior to production activities; and continuously acquiring and comparing time-lapse seismic data with the baseline to detect variations in seismic attributes that reflect structural or physical property changes in subsurface formations.