Seismic Sensor Array Deployment Cartridge System
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for deploying undersea seismic sensor arrays are inefficient due to the need for accurate cable laying, time-consuming 'wet' jointing processes, and tension-related interference, which increase deployment time and cost, especially in deep water operations.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus where sensor units are pre-connected and delivered in a single operation to the seabed, with a deployment package that includes a cartridge system allowing sequential ejection and placement of sensor units, reducing the need for on-site connections and minimizing cable tension.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional cable laying and wet jointing methods are used, then sensor arrays can be deployed on the seabed, but deployment time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Sensor units are pre-assembled with connecting cables and connectors before deployment. The cartridges are prepared on land with all connections made in advance, eliminating the need for time-consuming wet jointing operations on the seabed. This preliminary preparation significantly reduces the time required for actual deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor array is divided into modular sensor units that can be independently deployed from cartridges. Each sensor unit is a self-contained module with pre-made connections, allowing for rapid sequential deployment without requiring complex on-site assembly operations.
2Ease of manufacture
If wet jointing process is used to connect cables, then sensor array can be assembled on seabed, but joint reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
All cable connections and joints are established in advance during cartridge manufacturing on land, where controlled conditions ensure high joint reliability. The pre-assembled units eliminate exposure to water and environmental factors that compromise joint quality during seabed assembly.
3Device complexity
If cable tension is not relieved, then deployment is simpler, but sensor output interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The array is segmented into discrete sensor units deployed from separate cartridges, allowing each unit to be positioned independently. This segmentation enables tension relief between individual units without requiring complex de-tensioning equipment on the deployment vessel.
Solution Approach 2:
Flexible connecting cables act as intermediaries between sensor units, absorbing and relieving tension through their inherent flexibility. The cable design allows for tension relief without requiring additional de-tensioning devices, eliminating sensor interference while maintaining deployment simplicity.
4Strength
If heavy cable construction is used for deep water operations, then cable tensile strength increases, but deployment cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable system is segmented into shorter connecting cables between individual sensor units rather than one continuous heavy cable from surface to seabed. This segmentation allows each short cable to be optimized for its specific function, reducing the overall material requirements and deployment cost while maintaining sufficient strength for deep water operations.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
There is described an apparatus and method for deploying a sensor array comprising a plurality of sensors (5) joined together by connection cables (6) in one or more "chains", and connected to an input/output device (8). An input/output connection unit (7, 15) is provided on a carrier (10), and the sensors are held on or in deployment devices (14a - 14e) mounted to the carrier with their connection cables (6) connected to the input /output connection unit (7, 15). The input /output device (8) may also be mounted to the carrier, and connected to the connection unit (7, 15). The carrier (10), sensors, and input/output device (8) may be delivered as a single package to the area where the sensor array is to be deployed. The sensors are then moved from the carrier to their final positions. The deployment devices (14a - 14e) may be detached from the carrier and moved sequentially to the sensor positions, and a sensor may be removed from the deployment device at each sensor position.