Pivotable Clamp Mechanism for Fast Seismic Node Cable Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seismic survey technologies face challenges in securely coupling seismic nodes and receivers to ropes or cables, leading to time-consuming and inefficient deployment and retrieval processes, with potential equipment loss due to improper coupling.
Innovation Solution
A cable retrieval system with a clamping mechanism that selectively attaches and detaches seismic nodes to a cable, utilizing a pivotable clamp with a hinge and latch system to ensure secure attachment and detachment, facilitated by a control system that manages the locking mechanism based on node presence detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional manual attachment methods are used to couple seismic nodes to cables, then the coupling process is simple in structure, but the deployment and retrieval processes become time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is designed to automatically engage and secure nodes to the cable without requiring manual intervention. The system self-activates upon detecting a node's presence, automatically clamps it in place, and can self-release during retrieval, eliminating the need for operators to manually attach or detach each node while maintaining secure coupling throughout the process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional manual mechanical attachment operations with an automated electromechanical system. A control system coordinates an actuator to operate the clamp mechanism, substituting human-operated mechanical processes with an automated control sequence that manages the attachment and detachment operations efficiently and consistently.
2Reliability
If secure coupling mechanisms are implemented to prevent equipment loss, then the attachment reliability improves, but the deployment and retrieval processes become more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp mechanism is pre-positioned and ready to engage at the attachment point on the cable. The system performs preliminary alignment and preparation so that when a node is presented, the clamping action can occur immediately without requiring complex positioning or adjustment during the actual attachment moment, thus securing the node quickly and reliably.
Solution Approach 2:
A sensor detects the presence of a node and provides feedback to the control system, which then automatically activates the clamping mechanism. This feedback loop ensures that the secure coupling action is triggered precisely when needed, maintaining reliability while minimizing the time the mechanism remains in a transitional or inactive state.
3Ease of operation
If automated control systems are added to manage the locking mechanism, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is designed to perform multiple functions: detecting node presence via sensors, activating the actuator to clamp the node, monitoring the locked state, and controlling the release during retrieval. By consolidating these diverse operations into a single multi-functional control system, the interface remains simple for operators while the system handles complex coordination internally.
Data Source
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AI summary
An attachment system for releasably attaching a sensor node to a cable when in a coupled state includes a clamp base and a clamp grip. The clamp base is fixed to a surface of the sensor node. The clamp base further includes a latch that is biased in a latched position when the attachment system is in both the coupled state and an uncoupled state. The clamp grip is pivotably attached the clamp base and biased in an open position when the attachment system is in the uncoupled state. The clamp grip is secured to the clamp base by the latch when the attachment system is in the coupled state.