Self-Orienting Spherical Sensing Node for Rapid Seismic Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current seismic surveying systems face significant deployment and retrieval time constraints due to the need for precise orientation of seismic nodes, which is labor-intensive and time-consuming, especially when ensuring the sensing axis is vertical.
Innovation Solution
A spherical sensing node design with an inner frame that freely rotates within a spherical outer shell, utilizing a support mechanism to automatically align the sensing axis with gravity, allowing deployment without manual orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual orientation of seismic nodes is performed to ensure vertical sensing axis, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The seismic node automatically orients itself using an internal self-orienting mechanism comprising a spherical cavity, gravity reference, and adjustable sensor mount. The sensor assembly rotates under gravitational influence to align its sensing axis vertically without external intervention, enabling the node to service its own orientation requirement during deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor mounting mechanism transitions from a static fixed position to a dynamic adjustable position. The sensor assembly is mounted on a rotatable joint that allows it to dynamically adjust its orientation in response to gravitational force, automatically achieving vertical alignment regardless of the node's initial deployment orientation.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual alignment of seismic nodes is performed, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The node incorporates a self-orienting mechanism that automatically aligns the sensing axis vertically using gravitational reference. The mechanism includes a spherical cavity allowing rotational freedom, a gravity reference system, and an adjustable sensor mount that automatically positions the sensor vertically without requiring external alignment tools or complex manual procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting mechanism for the sensor is designed to be dynamically adjustable rather than statically fixed. It includes rotational joints and adjustment components that allow the sensor assembly to move and settle into vertical alignment under gravitational influence, achieving precise orientation through dynamic adjustment rather than static precision manufacturing.
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
Enables rapid and efficient deployment of seismic nodes with reduced tilt angles, enhancing data acquisition efficiency and reducing operational costs by eliminating the need for manual alignment.
Implementation Method 1
aligning an inner frame, which is configured to hold a seismic sensor and to fully fit inside the internal cavity, with a gravity by allowing the inner frame to freely rotate relative to the outer shell
Data Source
AI summary
A sensing node for sensing a parameter when dropped on the ground, includes an outer shell having a spherical internal cavity, an inner frame configured to hold a sensor and to fully fit inside the spherical internal cavity, and a support mechanism provided between the outer shell and the inner frame and configured to allow the inner frame to freely rotate relative to the outer shell and also configured to prevent the inner frame from directly touching the outer shell when dropped on the ground.