Non-Uniform Seismic Sampling Grid for Compressive Deblending

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing seismic survey methods face challenges in achieving efficient data acquisition and reconstruction due to limitations in sampling rates and interference between sources, leading to noise contamination and reduced data resolution.

Innovation Solution

Implementing non-uniform optimal sampling principles using compressive sensing to design a non-uniform sampling grid that minimizes mutual coherence, allowing for blended source acquisition with continuous data recording and improved deblending techniques.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If uniform sampling is used according to Nyquist-Shannon sampling theorem, then all information from continuous-time signal is captured, but far fewer measurements are required with compressive sensing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata acquisition efficiencyVSAvoidsignal information completeness
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the sampling approach from uniform to non-uniform by changing the temporal spacing parameter. Shot intervals are varied according to a non-uniform pattern (e.g., using prime number sequences or random variations) rather than fixed uniform intervals, enabling compressive sensing to reconstruct signals from fewer measurements while maintaining signal integrity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The sampling rate and shot intervals are made dynamic rather than static. The system adjusts shot timing dynamically based on the non-uniform sampling design, allowing the acquisition system to adaptively capture essential signal information at variable rates,从而实现 efficient compressive sensing reconstruction

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Productivity

If multiple sources are blended to increase productivity, then data acquisition speed increases, but noise contamination and interference between sources increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata acquisition speedVSAvoidsource interference and noise
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces asymmetry in the temporal spacing of blended sources. By using non-uniform shot intervals with prime number relationships or random variations between different source groups, the system creates asymmetric timing patterns that minimize harmonic interference and noise contamination while allowing multiple sources to operate simultaneously

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The patent converts the potentially harmful interference between blended sources into a beneficial signal separation mechanism. By deliberately designing non-uniform shot intervals, the interference patterns become predictable and separable through deblending algorithms, transforming what would be noise into reconstructable signal components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

3Measurement precision

If random sampling is used as suggested by compressive sensing theory, then successful signal recovery is achieved, but concerns and uncertainties arise in seismic survey applications

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal recovery accuracyVSAvoidsurvey reliability and predictability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by using different sampling strategies for different parts of the survey. Rather than purely random sampling, the system uses structured non-uniform patterns (such as prime number sequences or controlled random variations) that provide local predictability and reliability while maintaining the overall compressive sensing benefits of reduced sampling requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentEP4328629B1Non-uniform optimal survey design principles
Publication Date: 2026.02.25 SHEARWATER GEOSERVICES SOFTWARE INC
  • EP4328629B1 patent drawingFigure 1A~1B
  • EP4328629B1 patent drawingFigure 2A~2B
  • EP4328629B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Method for acquiring seismic data is described. The method includes determining a non-uniform optimal sampling design that includes a compressive sensing sampling grid. Placing a plurality of source lines or receiver lines at a non-uniform optimal line interval. Placing a plurality of receivers or nodes at a non-uniform optimal receiver interval. Towing a plurality of streamers attached to a vessel, wherein the plurality of streamers is spaced apart at non-uniform optimal intervals based on the compressive sensing sampling grid. Firing a plurality of shots from one or more seismic sources at non-uniform optimal shot intervals. Acquiring seismic data via the plurality of receivers or nodes.