Marine Seismic Receiver Channels for Extended Dynamic Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional marine seismic receivers are prone to saturation when recording short, zero, or negative offset seismic reflections due to the close proximity of the source, leading to loss of direct wave information and desired reflection energy.
Innovation Solution
Implementing seismic data acquisition channels with varying saturation limits and dynamic ranges by deploying channels with higher saturation limits and noise floors at closer proximity to the source, and conventional channels further away, along with techniques to combine subchannels with different sensor sensitivities to create a hybrid waveform.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If conventional seismic receivers are used at close proximity to the source, then short offset seismic reflections can be recorded, but the receivers saturate due to high amplitude direct wave energy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the seismic data acquisition system into multiple independent data acquisition channels, each with different saturation limits and dynamic ranges. This segmentation allows each channel to be optimized for specific offset ranges, with high saturation limit channels positioned near the source and conventional channels positioned farther away, thereby resolving the saturation problem while maintaining short offset capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different characteristics to different parts of the receiver system. Specifically, receivers at different locations along the streamer are equipped with data acquisition channels having different saturation limits and dynamic ranges matched to the local amplitude conditions at each position, allowing optimal performance across the entire offset range.
2Reliability
If multiple data acquisition channels with different saturation limits are deployed, then both direct and reflection energy can be recorded accurately, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the data acquisition system universal by designing channels that can handle multiple functions - recording both direct wave energy and reflection energy across different offset ranges. The system can adaptively select and use appropriate channels based on the recording requirements, making it versatile for various seismic survey configurations without requiring entirely separate systems.
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 recording of both direct and reflection seismic energy across varying offset distances, reducing saturation and enhancing data quality for seismic imaging.
Implementation Method 1
one or more marine seismic sources are activated at intervals to produce acoustic energy that propagates through a body of water into a subsurface earth volume
Implementation Method 2
The reflected energy is detected by sensors—also referred to as receivers—that are disposed at intervals along the lengths of towed streamers
Data Source
AI summary
A marine seismic data acquisition system may include first and second containers deployable in a body of water. The first container includes a first seismic data acquisition channel capable of transducing seismic energy in the body of water having a first maximum amplitude, and the second container includes a second seismic data acquisition channel capable of transducing seismic energy in the body of water having a second maximum amplitude. The first seismic data acquisition channel is associated with at least a first seismic sensor, and the second seismic data acquisition channel is associated with at least a second seismic sensor. The second sensor corresponds to a same sensor type as the first seismic sensor, and the first maximum amplitude is higher than the second maximum amplitude.