Multicomponent Seismic Streamer Sensor Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Marine seismic surveying faces challenges in efficiently collecting high-quality data due to limitations in the design of seismic streamers and signal sources, which affect the cost and accuracy of hydrocarbon deposit location.
Innovation Solution
The use of multicomponent streamers with advanced sensor networks and configurations, such as center-mounted sensors and gel-filled structures, to enhance data collection and signal processing, along with hierarchical data transmission systems, improves data quality and reduces noise propagation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional single-component streamers are used, then device complexity is low, but measurement precision and data quality are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensor types (hydrophones, geophones, accelerometers) and multiple signal sources (air guns, vibrators) into a single integrated streamer system. This merging of previously separate components into one multifunctional device enables simultaneous collection of P-wave, S-wave, and surface wave data, thereby improving measurement precision while accepting increased device complexity as a necessary trade-off
Solution Approach 2:
The streamer is designed with universal functionality to perform multiple seismic surveying tasks simultaneously. It can detect different wave types (P-waves, S-waves, surface waves) using various sensor configurations and can work with different signal source types. This multi-functionality allows a single streamer to replace multiple specialized devices, improving overall data quality and measurement precision
2Measurement precision
If advanced multicomponent streamers with multiple sensors are used, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex sensor network is divided into modular sensor groups, each specialized for detecting specific wave types (P-wave hydrophones, S-wave geophones, surface wave accelerometers). This segmentation allows each sensor type to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system manageability. The modular structure simplifies the complexity by creating distinct functional units that can be independently configured and maintained
Solution Approach 2:
Different sensor types are strategically positioned at specific locations within the streamer based on their optimal performance characteristics. Hydrophones are positioned for pressure wave detection, geophones for particle motion, and accelerometers for surface waves. This local optimization of sensor placement and configuration ensures each component operates at peak efficiency, improving overall measurement precision while maintaining systematic organization
3Measurement precision
If comprehensive multicomponent data collection is implemented, then measurement precision and data comprehensiveness improve, but operational cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple data collection functions into a single operational platform. By integrating P-wave, S-wave, and surface wave detection capabilities along with multiple signal source options into one streamer system, the patent enables comprehensive data collection for hydrocarbon location without requiring multiple separate survey operations. This consolidation improves measurement precision while managing operational complexity through unified system control
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 enhances the signal-to-noise ratio and allows for more comprehensive data collection, leading to improved accuracy in locating hydrocarbon deposits while reducing operational costs and complexity.
Implementation Method 1
gel-filled structures
Implementation Method 2
reduces noise propagation
Implementation Method 3
Sensors within towed marine seismic streamers convert the reflected acoustic energy
Data Source
AI summary
A seismic streamer includes an outer sheath that forms an interior region of the seismic streamer of which a portion is filled with a gel or liquid. The streamer also includes at least one stress member placed off-center in the interior region, and multiple sensors mounted proximate to a center of the interior region, where the sensors include a pressure sensor and a motion sensor. The streamer further includes multiple tilt sensors mounted along the interior region. A method of manufacturing a seismic streamer includes placing at least one stress member off-center along a first direction, mounting multiple spacers along the stress member, and affixing sensors to respective spacers, where the sensors include a pressure sensor and a motion sensor. The method further includes mounting tilt sensors along the first direction and affixing an outer sheath to the streamer that forms an interior region of the seismic streamer.