Inline Marine Source Array Signal Temporal Length
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Solution Overview
Problem
In marine surveying, the effective temporal length of signals emitted by source arrays is limited due to the motion of the marine survey vessel, resulting in a suboptimal signal-to-noise ratio, which hinders the resolution and accuracy of seismic data acquisition.
Innovation Solution
Deploying multiple source elements in an inline string configuration, where each source element emits signals near-continuously, and actuating them with randomized time intervals to create a prolonged effective temporal length of the signal, thereby improving the signal-to-noise ratio by extending the inline length of the source array.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If source arrays are towed by marine survey vessel, then survey coverage is achieved, but signal temporal length is limited due to vessel motion
Solution Approach 1:
The source array is divided into multiple individual source elements (e.g., air guns, marine vibrators) that are spaced along a tow cable. Each source element acts as an independent emitter, allowing the system to extend the effective temporal length of signals by having multiple sources emit at different times as the vessel moves, thereby improving signal-to-noise ratio without compromising survey coverage
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple source elements are combined into a single towed source array system that functions as an integrated signal generation system. The individual sources are actuated in sequence or simultaneously to create a composite wavefield that extends the effective temporal length at each location, merging the capabilities of multiple sources to achieve improved signal quality
2Duration of action of moving object
If source elements are actuated continuously, then signal temporal length is extended, but source control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Source elements are actuated in a periodic or sequential manner rather than all simultaneously. The source control system activates sources at different time intervals along the array, creating a periodic action pattern that extends the effective temporal length of signals at each location while maintaining manageable control complexity through systematic activation sequences
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 significantly extends the temporal length of signals emitted at each location, enhancing the signal-to-noise ratio and improving the resolution of seismic data, allowing for more accurate characterization of subsurface structures and hydrocarbon reservoirs.
Implementation Method 1
Each signal is essentially a wave called a wavefield that travels down through the water and into the subterranean formation
Implementation Method 2
At each interface between different types of rock, a portion of the wavefield may be refracted, and another portion may be reflected
Implementation Method 3
At each interface between different types of rock, a portion of the wavefield may be refracted
Implementation Method 4
The source control may cause the one or more sources, which can be impulsive sources such as air guns, non-impulsive sources such as marine vibrator sources, electromagnetic sources, etc., to produce signals at selected times
Data Source
AI summary
An inline source can be used for a marine survey. For example, a marine survey vessel can tow source units in line. The source units can be actuated near-continuously to cause a respective signal emitted by each of the source units to be uncorrelated with signals emitted by other of the source units.