Distributed Transceivers for Geological Impedance Measurement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing subsurface electrical property measurement techniques face limitations in resolution and signal-to-noise ratios, particularly in large-scale geological surveys, due to the need for high power and limited flexibility in data collection and transmission.
Innovation Solution
A distributed system of low-power transceivers that can simultaneously transmit electrical current into the subsurface from multiple locations, using a modular design with multiple transmitters and receivers, capable of processing data in various waveform modes and communicating through wired or wireless interfaces, allowing for flexible array patterns and improved data collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If high power is used to improve signal-to-noise ratio and resolution in large-scale geological surveys, then measurement precision is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single high-power transmission function into multiple low-power transceivers that operate simultaneously. Each transceiver contributes a portion of the total signal, achieving the required signal-to-noise ratio through spatial distribution rather than concentrated high power. This segmentation allows the system to cover large survey areas while maintaining measurement precision without the energy consumption of a single high-power source.
2Measurement precision
If multiple simultaneous current sources are used to improve resolution and signal-to-noise ratio, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each transceiver in the distributed system is designed as a multi-functional unit that can both transmit electrical current and receive electrical signals. This universality eliminates the need for separate transmitter and receiver systems, simplifying the overall architecture despite using multiple simultaneous sources. The transceivers can be configured in various array patterns and operate in different waveform modes, providing flexibility without proportionally increasing complexity.
3Use of energy by moving object
If a distributed system of low-power transceivers is used to reduce power consumption, then energy efficiency is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the signals from multiple low-power transceivers to achieve the signal-to-noise ratio equivalent of high-power systems. By simultaneously activating multiple transceivers and integrating their contributions at the reception and processing stages, the system maintains measurement precision while using only low-power components. The collective effect of multiple sources compensates for the individual low power output of each transceiver.
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
The system achieves superior signal-to-noise ratios and improved resolution in geological data measurement, enabling large-scale surveys with enhanced sensitivity and accuracy, comparable to high-power systems while reducing power consumption and increasing flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
The transmitters are adapted to simultaneously inject an electrical current into a subsurface area
Implementation Method 2
measuring the electrical impedance properties of geological formations
Data Source
AI summary
A system for measuring geological data is disclosed. The system includes several transceivers distributed over a geographical area. Each of the transceivers has at least one transmitter and at least one receiver. The transceivers are in communication with each other. The receivers are adapted to measure at least one electrical signal. The transmitters are adapted to inject an electrical current into a subsurface area. The transmitters operate simultaneously to inject the electrical current into the subsurface area simultaneously from a number of locations.