Leakage Detection Circuit for Land Seismic Systems
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Land seismic systems face significant challenges with ground leakage between the geophone string and the earth, which affects the accuracy and reliability of seismic data acquisition, particularly due to earth leakage in analog systems.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for detecting and reducing ground leakage using digital to analog converter (DAC) circuitry to generate test signals, alternately grounding positive and negative paths to analog to digital converter (ADC) circuitry during specific time windows, and determining leakage resistance based on average amplitudes measured during these windows, without the need for switches in the signal path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If switches are used in the signal path for leakage detection, then leakage measurement can be performed, but distortion and impedance are introduced that degrade signal quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes switches from the signal path entirely, extracting the problematic switching function and replacing it with a continuous analog measurement approach using operational amplifiers and resistive dividers that maintain signal integrity while enabling leakage detection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electronic switching mechanism with an analog circuit approach using operational amplifiers and resistive networks, substituting the discrete switching action with a continuous measurement system that avoids introducing distortion and impedance
2Productivity
If analog systems are used for seismic data acquisition, then continuous signal processing is achieved, but ground leakage between geophone string and earth degrades measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an operational amplifier-based measurement circuit as an intermediary between the geophone string and the recording system, which actively compensates for ground leakage effects and enables accurate measurement of the seismic signal despite the presence of leakage paths to earth
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 effectively identifies and reduces ground leakage, enhancing the accuracy and reliability of seismic data acquisition by eliminating the need for switches that introduce distortion and impedance, thereby improving the overall performance of land seismic systems.
Implementation Method 1
generating at least one test signal using a digital to analog converter 'DAC' circuitry
Implementation Method 2
alternately grounding a positive path to an analog to digital converter 'ADC' circuitry during a first time window and a negative path to the analog to digital converter during a second time window while measuring an ADC signal
Implementation Method 3
determining a leakage resistance based upon, at least in part, the average amplitude of the first time window and the second time window
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Embodiments disclosed herein are directed towards systems and methods for electric current leakage detection in a land seismic system. Embodiments may include generating at least one test signal using a digital to analog converter "DAC" circuitry, wherein the DAC circuitry includes an output operatively connected to earth ground. Embodiments may further include alternately grounding a positive path to an analog to digital converter "ADC" circuitry during a first time window and a negative path to the analog to digital converter during a second time window while measuring an ADC signal. Embodiments may also include determining an average amplitude of the first time window and the second time window and determining a leakage resistance based upon, at least in part, the average amplitude of the first time window and the second time window.