Seismic Data Clock Drift Estimation With Nonlinear Modeling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for correcting clock drift in seismic data sampling assume a linear drift, which is not accurate, leading to significant errors in dating seismic data samples.

Innovation Solution

A method and system for estimating clock drift using non-linear polynomial equations, specifically of order 2 or 3, to accurately correct for clock drift in seismic data collection, applicable to various types of clocks, including quartz and atomic clocks, by measuring and applying polynomial laws to the clock's instantaneous frequency or phase.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If linear correction methods are used for clock drift, then the correction process is simple, but the dating precision of seismic data samples deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecorrection process simplicityVSAvoiddating precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the mathematical model parameter from linear to polynomial (order 2 or higher) to better represent the actual non-linear clock drift behavior. This parameter change in the correction function improves dating precision while maintaining reasonable computational complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the simple linear correction mechanism with a polynomial-based correction system that uses measured phase errors at different times to calculate drift coefficients, thereby substituting a more accurate mathematical model for the inadequate linear approach

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If polynomial correction methods are used for clock drift, then the dating precision of seismic data samples is improved, but the correction process complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedating precisionVSAvoidcorrection process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies polynomial correction of order 2 or higher, which provides sufficient accuracy for the application while avoiding excessive complexity. This partial application of higher-order correction achieves the needed precision without implementing unnecessarily complex high-order models

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses feedback from measured phase errors at multiple time points to calculate drift coefficients, which are then applied to correct dating errors. This feedback mechanism enables accurate polynomial correction while maintaining a systematic and manageable correction process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP3814851B1Method and system for estimating the drift of a datation clock of seismic data samples
Publication Date: 2025.10.15 SERCEL SAS
  • EP3814851B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3814851B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3814851B1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

The method for estimating the drift over time of a physical operating parameter of a clock for dating seismic data samples associated with a seismic data collection node involves measuring (10) at least one quantity associated with the clock, at predetermined instants or during predetermined time periods, and applying (12), to this quantity, a predetermined non-linear law of variation of this quantity that depends on the values collected during the measurement step (10), so as to obtain an estimation of the drift over time of the physical operating parameter.