Non-Planar Base Plate Seismic Source for Non-Vertical Boreholes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seismic sources are not configured to operate effectively in non-vertical boreholes, as they are either too large to fit or lack the necessary mechanisms to generate seismic waves in such positions.
Innovation Solution
A reaction mass seismic source with a non-planar base plate and flextensional elements housed in a recess, which can be actuated to vibrate the base plate and generate seismic waves, even in non-vertical boreholes, by extending a coupling element to push the base plate against the borehole wall.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional seismic sources are used in non-vertical boreholes, then the source may be too large to fit or lack mechanisms to generate seismic waves in such positions, but the patent provides a compact source design with coupling elements that can be extended to push the base plate against the borehole wall
Solution Approach 1:
The seismic source incorporates extendable coupling elements that can be dynamically adjusted to push the base plate against the borehole wall, enabling the compact source to generate effective seismic waves in non-vertical positions. This dynamic adjustment allows the source to adapt its coupling mechanism to different borehole orientations while maintaining a small overall size.
Solution Approach 2:
The source design transitions from traditional horizontal or vertical operation to three-dimensional adaptability by using extendable coupling elements that can engage with the borehole wall in various orientations. This allows the compact source to operate effectively in non-vertical boreholes by utilizing the radial dimension for coupling.
2Reliability
If the base plate is made non-planar to fit curved borehole walls, then coupling is improved, but the base plate geometry becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The base plate features localized contact surfaces or pads at specific positions rather than requiring the entire plate to be non-planar. This allows the base plate to maintain a relatively simple overall geometry while providing enhanced coupling at critical contact points with the curved borehole wall.
Solution Approach 2:
The extendable coupling elements act as intermediaries between the base plate and the borehole wall, compensating for geometric mismatches. These elements can adjust their length and angle to bridge gaps and maintain effective coupling without requiring the base plate itself to be highly complex in shape.
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 the generation of sufficient seismic energy for surveying underground formations in non-vertical boreholes, allowing for more comprehensive geological exploration without the limitations of traditional seismic sources.
Implementation Method 1
a flextensional element housed in a recess of the reaction mass and configured to vibrate the non-planar base plate when actuated, to generate seismic waves underground
Implementation Method 2
extending a coupling element to push the base plate against the borehole wall
Data Source
AI summary
A reaction mass seismic survey source that is located in an underground casing. The seismic source includes a non-planar base plate; a reaction mass located on the non-planar base plate; and a flextensional element housed in a recess of the reaction mass and configured to vibrate the non-planar base plate when actuated, to generate seismic waves underground.