Seismic Survey System Integrating Accessory Sources for Seabed Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Reflection-based seismic surveys face challenges in detecting and monitoring objects on the seabed, leading to inefficiencies such as increased survey time and higher operating costs, while failing to provide an accurate map of subterranean seabed features and objects on the seabed.

Innovation Solution

A seismic survey system comprising a receiver array with multiple streamers and main/source arrays, including accessory sources, that generate and receive acoustic signals to detect subsurface and seabed features, allowing for simultaneous monitoring of seabed objects and features.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If reflection-based seismic surveys are used to detect subsurface features, then subsurface mapping capability is improved, but detection of seabed objects is insufficient and survey time increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesubsurface feature detection accuracyVSAvoidsurvey time

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple seismic source types (air guns for reflection imaging and acoustic telescopes for direct detection) into a single integrated survey system. This merging allows simultaneous acquisition of both subsurface structural data and seabed object detection data, eliminating the need for separate survey operations and reducing total survey time while maintaining detection accuracy for both applications.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The seismic survey system is designed with multi-functional capabilities to perform both traditional reflection-based subsurface mapping and direct seabed object detection. By making the system universal, it can address multiple survey objectives in a single operation, thereby reducing survey time and operational costs without compromising detection precision for either function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of manufacture

If traditional seismic survey methods are used, then operating costs are reduced through simple equipment, but detection capability for seabed objects is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveequipment simplicityVSAvoidseabed object detection capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The seismic source array is segmented into distinct functional components: traditional air guns for subsurface imaging and specialized acoustic telescopes for seabed object detection. Each segment is optimized for its specific function, allowing the system to maintain reliability for seabed object detection while keeping individual components relatively simple and manageable.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Acoustic telescopes serve as intermediary devices that bridge the gap between traditional seismic sources and seabed objects. These specialized sensors are designed to detect acoustic waves directly from seabed objects, providing enhanced detection capability without requiring complete redesign of the entire survey system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If accessory sources are added to the main source array, then seabed object detection capability is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveseabed object detection capabilityVSAvoidsource array complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The source array configuration is made dynamic and adaptable. Accessory sources such as acoustic telescopes can be selectively deployed or activated based on survey requirements. This dynamic approach allows the system to enhance seabed object detection capability when needed while maintaining simpler operations for traditional subsurface imaging, thereby managing system complexity effectively.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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

The system effectively detects acoustic waves from seabed objects and features, reducing survey time and costs by providing accurate mapping of both subsurface and seabed elements, enhancing monitoring capabilities.

Implementation Method 1

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAcoustic wave propagation: Sound

Implementation Method 2

The system effectively detects acoustic waves from seabed objects and features

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAcoustic wave detection: Sound

Data Source

PatentUS11994641B2Seismic data acquisition systems and methods

Publication Date: 2024.05.28 MAGSEIS FF LLC

AI summary

A seismic survey system is provided. The system can include a receiver array including a first streamer and a second streamer. The system can include a first plurality of receivers coupled with the first streamer and a second plurality of receivers coupled with the second streamer. The system can include a main source array including a first main source and a second main source. The system can include an accessory source array including a first accessory source and a second accessory source. The first accessory source can couple with the first main source and the second accessory source can couple with the second main source. The system can include a first lateral cable to couple with a first diverter and with the first main source. The system can include a second lateral cable to couple with a second diverter and with the second main source.