Automated Seismic Node Attachment Mechanism for Deployment Cables
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing marine seismic systems face inefficiencies and safety concerns in attaching and detaching autonomous seismic nodes to deployment cables, with manual methods being time-consuming and prone to tangling, and pre-mounted node casings complicating node spacing adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a moveable node carrier with a cable detection device and a direct attachment mechanism that automatically locks onto the deployment cable for node attachment and detachment, allowing for rapid, accurate placement and flexible node spacing without significant operator involvement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual methods are used to attach and detach seismic nodes to deployment cables, then operators can perform the attachment and detachment operations, but the process becomes time-consuming and prone to tangling
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs an automated node attachment and detachment system that performs operations autonomously without continuous operator intervention. The node carrier automatically positions nodes, the deployment system releases them at predetermined locations, and the system handles the entire attachment/detachment cycle self-service style, eliminating manual tying and handling operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations (hand-tying nodes to cables) with an automated mechanical system. The node carrier uses mechanical positioning and release mechanisms controlled by a system, substituting human manual labor with automated mechanical actuators that precisely position and release nodes at predetermined locations along the deployment cable.
2Reliability
If pre-mounted node casings are used on the deployment line, then nodes are secured during deployment, but the deployment line becomes difficult to manage and store
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the node carrier from the deployment cable. Instead of having permanent casings mounted on the cable, nodes are carried on a separate carrier that travels with the cable. This segmentation allows the cable to remain simple and manageable while the carrier provides the necessary node holding and release functionality, eliminating the complexity of managing pre-mounted casings on the cable itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The node carrier is designed to dynamically attach and detach nodes at predetermined locations along the deployment cable during deployment and retrieval operations. The carrier moves along the cable and can release nodes on-demand, providing a dynamic solution rather than static pre-mounted casings. This dynamic approach allows flexible node placement while keeping the deployment line manageable.
3Ease of operation
If nodes are manually attached to the deployment cable, then attachment can be performed, but significant operator involvement is required creating safety concerns
Solution Approach 1:
The automated node attachment and detachment system performs operations autonomously without requiring operators to be in hazardous positions near moving cables and equipment. The system self-services the attachment and detachment functions, eliminating operator exposure to mechanical hazards, pinch points, and moving parts that create safety risks during manual operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual operator actions with automated mechanical systems. Operators control the system from safe positions while automated actuators, motors, and mechanical systems perform the actual node attachment and detachment operations, eliminating direct operator contact with potentially hazardous moving parts and heavy equipment.
4Reliability
If traditional attachment methods are used, then nodes can be secured to the cable, but node spacing adjustments require extensive reconfiguration
Solution Approach 1:
The node carrier system provides dynamic control over node placement spacing. The system can be programmed to release nodes at predetermined intervals or custom-spaced locations along the deployment cable. This dynamic programmability allows flexible adjustment of node spacing without physical reconfiguration, as the control system can be reprogrammed to change spacing patterns while maintaining secure attachment at each location.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows changing the parameter of node spacing through software or control system adjustments rather than physical reconfiguration. By modifying the control parameters that dictate where nodes are released along the deployment cable, the system can adapt node spacing to different survey requirements while maintaining the same secure attachment mechanism, providing versatility without compromising attachment reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments, including apparatuses, systems and methods, for automatically attaching and detaching seismic devices to a deployment cable, including a plurality of autonomous seismic nodes. A node installation system may include a moveable node carrier coupled to a cable detection device and a node attachment device that is configured to move a direct attachment mechanism on a node into a locking or closed position about the deployment cable. In an embodiment for retrieval and/or detachment operations, the system may also be configured to automatically detect the position of a node and remove the node from the deployment line by actuating the direct attachment mechanism into an open or unlocked position. Other devices besides a node may be attached and detached from the deployment line if they are coupled to one or more direct attachment mechanisms.