Linear Electric Motor Grid for Near Surface Geophysical Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seismic data acquisition methods are limited by the inaccuracies in measuring near surface geophysical parameters such as viscosity and stiffness due to issues like distortion and hydraulic limitations associated with large baseplates, leading to variable and unsatisfactory results.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a grid of vertically oriented linear electric motors that deliver acoustic energy into the ground by extending rods with constant force to measure rate of penetration and deformation, allowing for precise computation of ground viscosity and stiffness through electrical feedback and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a large baseplate is used in conventional vibe systems, then seismic energy can be delivered into the ground, but measurement accuracy of near surface viscosity and stiffness deteriorates due to distortion and baseplate flexure
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the conventional single large baseplate system into multiple smaller independent vibratory sources. Each source applies force at a discrete location without requiring a large distributed baseplate, thereby eliminating baseplate flexure and distortion while maintaining effective ground coupling through the smaller footprint of individual sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the hydraulic mechanical system with electrical actuators that directly drive the vibratory sources. This substitution eliminates hydraulic limitations such as cavitations in hydraulic lines and provides more precise control over the vibratory input, improving measurement accuracy without the complexity of large hydraulic systems.
2Reliability
If conventional vibe systems with large baseplates are used, then seismic data can be acquired, but measurement results vary significantly from vibe to vibe due to hydraulic limitations and baseplate issues
Solution Approach 1:
By using multiple discrete vibratory sources instead of a single large baseplate system, the invention eliminates the harmful effects of baseplate flexure and distortion. Each small source operates independently without the mechanical complications of large baseplates, ensuring consistent and reliable measurements across different vibratory sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The replacement of hydraulic mechanical systems with electrical actuators eliminates cavitations and hydraulic limitations that cause variability between measurements. Electrical systems provide more consistent and controllable vibratory input, improving the reliability and repeatability of near surface property measurements.
3Measurement precision
If a grid of linear electric motors is used, then accurate measurements of near surface properties are achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces complex hydraulic mechanical systems with electrical linear motors. While the motor grid appears complex, electrical systems provide superior control precision and eliminate the mechanical complications of large hydraulic systems. The electrical actuators directly drive the vibratory sources with precise control over amplitude and frequency, enabling accurate measurements of near surface properties.
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 provides accurate measurements of near surface properties, enabling improved seismic data interpretation and modeling by overcoming the limitations of conventional systems, particularly in delivering high-frequency energy and accommodating surface variations.
Implementation Method 1
a grid of linear motors are provided to be oriented generally vertically such that each linear electric motor includes a rod that in operation extends down to contact the ground
Implementation Method 2
The rods are extended with a constant force against the ground for a period of time so as to measure the rate of penetration for each rod into the ground and measure the overall deformation of the ground made by each rod
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is an improved technique for measuring near surface attributes of the ground while conducting a seismic survey. The improved technique is enabled by an electric vibe using a number of linear electric motors that direct a rod or piston to contact the ground in a recurring fashion. By applying constant force on the rods of the linear electric motors against the ground, the penetration into the ground may be measured for both rate and overall deformation. This information provides an accurate indication of viscosity and stiffness. In addition shear velocity and compression velocity may be measured and in some conditions, even the type of prominent shear wave may be identified for the area.