Marine Survey Source Firing Control for Seabed Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Reflection-based seismic surveys are inefficient in detecting small shallow objects on the seabed due to limited coverage and resolution, leading to increased survey times and costs, and difficulties in accurately mapping obstacles, which can cause delays in wind turbine and marine construction projects.
Innovation Solution
A seabed object detection system utilizing a source array and a data processing system with multiple sources and processors to determine precise firing times and positions, initiating source shots based on target and estimated positions, and adjusting for differences to improve imaging accuracy and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If reflection-based seismic surveys are used to detect seabed objects, then the survey can cover a certain area, but the detection precision for small shallow objects is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The source array is divided into multiple independently controllable sources (first source, second source, etc.) that can be fired at different times and positions. This segmentation allows precise targeting of small shallow objects while maintaining survey coverage, resolving the contradiction between detection precision and survey efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes multiple parameters including source firing times, source positions, and receiver configurations to optimize detection of small shallow objects. By dynamically adjusting these parameters, the system achieves high detection precision without sacrificing survey productivity
2Productivity
If traditional seismic survey methods are used, then the survey process is simpler, but the survey time is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary positioning and timing calculations for multiple sources before actual data acquisition. This preliminary action enables faster execution during the survey, reducing overall survey time while maintaining high productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The source array enables continuous data acquisition with multiple sources firing in sequence without requiring the vessel to stop or reposition between shots. This continuity eliminates idle time and maintains high survey speed throughout the operation
3Measurement precision
If multiple sources are fired simultaneously, then the data coverage is improved, but the position accuracy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of simultaneous firing, the system uses periodic sequential firing of multiple sources with precisely controlled time intervals. This periodic action maintains data coverage while enabling accurate determination of source positions and firing times, reducing position accuracy errors
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the actual positions and firing times of sources are measured and used to adjust subsequent shots. This feedback loop compensates for positioning errors and maintains high position accuracy despite the complexity of multi-source operations
Data Source
AI summary
A seabed object detection system is provided. The system can include a source array. The source array can include a first source and a second source. The system can include a data processing system including one or more processors. The data processing system can determine a position of the first source and can identify a first firing time of the second source. The data processing system can initiate a first source shot of the first source at a known position and the second source at a known time. The data processing system can determine a target position and estimated position for the first source. The data processing system can determine a second position of the first source based on a difference between the target position and the estimated position. The data processing system can initiate a second source shot of the first source at a known position.