Multi-dimensional Seismic Sensor Array for Unmanned Marine Vessels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional seismic survey methods face challenges with large vessel dimensions and entanglement issues, particularly when deploying long streamers and navigating through marine environments, which can lead to inefficiencies and obstacles.
Innovation Solution
The use of a multi-dimensional seismic sensor array coupled to an unmanned marine vessel, which includes pressure and particle motion sensors, allows for effective seismic data acquisition by descending vertical streamers and utilizing autonomous or remotely operated vehicles to manage ghost signals and measure propagation speed more efficiently, with a decoupling mechanism and umbilical cord configuration for ease of handling and reduced drag.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If long streamers are deployed for seismic survey, then seismic data coverage is improved, but vessel size and entanglement risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The seismic sensor array is divided into multiple modular units that can be independently deployed and retrieved. Each module contains sensors and can be managed separately, allowing the system to cover large areas without requiring a single massive vessel or long continuous streamer that would increase entanglement risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from traditional horizontal streamer deployment to a three-dimensional configuration where sensor modules can be positioned at various depths and locations. This vertical dimensionality allows comprehensive seismic coverage without increasing horizontal vessel length or streamer length, thereby reducing entanglement risks.
2Productivity
If conventional seismic sensors are used, then data acquisition is possible, but ghost signal interference reduces measurement precision
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines multiple sensor types (hydrophones for pressure detection and geophones for particle motion measurement) into an integrated modular array. This merging of sensor functions allows for comprehensive signal capture and enables sophisticated signal processing to distinguish between true seismic signals and ghost signals, thereby improving measurement precision while maintaining high productivity.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple streamers are towed adjacent to one another, then survey coverage is improved, but entanglement and spread difficulties increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of towing multiple long streamers adjacent to one another, the system uses separate modular sensor units that can be independently deployed. Each module is self-contained with its own sensors and can be retrieved independently, eliminating the entanglement problems associated with managing multiple long streamers while maintaining comprehensive survey coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular array system allows dynamic reconfiguration during deployment and retrieval operations. Modules can be selectively positioned, adjusted, and retrieved based on operational needs, providing flexibility that simplifies deployment and retrieval operations compared to managing fixed configurations of multiple long streamers.
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 enables more precise and efficient seismic data collection, reducing ghost signal interference and improving data quality while minimizing vessel size and entanglement risks, allowing for effective exploration of subterranean geological formations.
Implementation Method 1
Some seismic sensors are sensitive to pressure changes (hydrophones), while others to particle motion (e.g., geophones). In response to the detected seismic events, the sensors generate electrical signals to produce seismic data.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A
Figure 2B~3
AI summary
A system having an unmanned marine vessel and a multi-dimensional seismic sensor array coupled to the unmanned marine vessel. The multi-dimensional seismic sensor array is configured to acquire seismic survey data and calculate pressure gradients in multiple directions. The frame includes members that are configured to rotatably pivot with respect to each other in moveable x-shaped crossing configurations.