Borehole Seismic Source Orientation via Multi-Component Sensor Fusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seismic systems are inadequate in orienting polar seismic sources in space and determining their orientation, which hampers the accurate mapping and monitoring of geological formations during hydrocarbon exploration.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a combination sensor deployed in a borehole to obtain orientation data, followed by a multi-component seismic source with sensors like inclinometers and magnetometers, which processes data to determine the absolute orientation of the seismic source, allowing for physical adjustment or data inversion to achieve true up-down, North-South, and East-West orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If magnetic field sensors are used for orientation in cased boreholes, then orientation data can be obtained, but the magnetic fields are unreliable leading to measurement errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple orientation determination methods (magnetic field sensors, gravity sensors, and inertial sensors) into a single integrated system. By merging these different sensing approaches, the system can cross-validate measurements and compensate for the unreliability of magnetic fields in cased boreholes, thereby improving both measurement precision and reliability simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces gravity sensors and inertial sensors as intermediary measurement tools that do not rely on magnetic fields. These intermediary sensors provide alternative orientation reference frames that can be used when magnetic field measurements are unreliable, effectively mediating the orientation determination process in challenging environments
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are deployed to determine absolute orientation, then orientation accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the sensor system with multi-functionality, where the same sensor package serves multiple purposes: determining borehole orientation, monitoring seismic source orientation, and providing reference frames for data inversion. This universal approach allows accurate absolute orientation determination without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the deployed sensors to automatically establish reference frames and perform self-calibration. The sensors themselves provide the data needed to determine their own orientation relative to the borehole, reducing the need for external calibration equipment and simplifying the overall deployment process
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
Enables accurate and reliable orientation of seismic sources, improving the quality and reliability of seismic data collection, especially in cased boreholes where magnetic fields are unreliable, by determining absolute directions and reducing errors in data inversion.
Implementation Method 1
obtain orientation data, such as data related to the local magnetic field and a log of the magnetic field direction in the borehole
Implementation Method 2
The at least one multi-component seismic source comprises sensors, such as an inclinometer and a magnetometer
Data Source
AI summary
A technique generates seismic data that may be analyzed. A combination sensor is operated and deployed in a borehole to obtain orientation data, such as data related to the local magnetic field and a log of the magnetic field direction in the borehole. Following the combination sensor, at least one multi-component seismic source is deployed downhole into the borehole. The at least one multi-component seismic source comprises sensors, such as an inclinometer and a magnetometer. Data from the combination sensor and from the at least one multi-component seismic source is processed to determine an absolute orientation of the at least one multi-component seismic source.