Seismic Sensor Configuration Tool Using Location Sensors

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Solution Overview

Problem

Seismic data acquisition systems face challenges in efficient in-field configuration of seismic data acquisition units, which affects the accuracy and efficiency of seismic surveys for oil and gas reserve location and development.

Innovation Solution

A configuration apparatus and method that includes a processor, memory module, and communication device to transmit configuration data, location parameters, and executable instructions to seismic devices, utilizing location sensors like GPS and compasses for precise positioning and alignment, enabling wireless or wired data transmission.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional configuration methods are used for seismic data acquisition units, then device complexity is reduced, but configuration accuracy and efficiency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration accuracyVSAvoidconfiguration system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a configuration tool as an intermediary device between the operator and the seismic data acquisition unit. This tool includes a processor that automatically retrieves configuration data from a database and transmits it to the seismic unit, eliminating manual configuration steps and improving accuracy without significantly increasing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-storing configuration data, location parameters, and executable instructions in a database before field deployment. The configuration tool retrieves these pre-prepared data sets and automatically configures the seismic units, eliminating the need for manual setup in the field and improving both accuracy and efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Productivity

If manual configuration of seismic devices is performed in the field, then device complexity is minimized, but productivity and speed of deployment deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedeployment speedVSAvoidconfiguration apparatus complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The configuration tool enables self-service operation by automatically retrieving configuration data, processing it through its processor, and transmitting the necessary parameters to the seismic data acquisition unit without requiring manual intervention. This automation significantly accelerates deployment speed while the integrated design keeps the added complexity manageable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical configuration processes with an automated electronic system. The configuration tool uses a processor to electronically retrieve, process, and transmit configuration data, replacing the previous manual method of physically setting parameters on each device, thereby dramatically improving deployment speed.

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

3Measurement precision

If location sensors are integrated with seismic devices, then measurement precision of location parameters is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocation parameter accuracyVSAvoidseismic device complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the location sensor functionality with the existing seismic data acquisition unit. The configuration tool transmits location parameters obtained from sensors (such as GPS or inertial sensors) directly to the seismic unit, integrating these measurement capabilities into a single coordinated system that improves location accuracy without requiring entirely separate devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS8095697B2Orientation measurement tool for seismic data acquisition
Publication Date: 2012.01.10 INOVA LTD(GB)
  • US8095697B2 patent drawing
  • US8095697B2 patent drawing
  • US8095697B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An apparatus for in-field configuration of a seismic device such as a seismic sensor may include a memory module having data for configuring the seismic device, a location sensor determining a location parameter for the seismic sensor, an alignment member aligning the location sensor with the seismic sensor, and a communication device transmitting the determined location parameter to a selected external device.