Streamer Connecting Module Reducing Weight and Noise
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing streamer connecting modules in marine seismic data acquisition are bulky and heavy due to the need to withstand large tensions, leading to noise and increased size and weight, which complicates the seismic survey process.
Innovation Solution
A streamer connecting module design that eliminates fastening nuts by using a housing with internal conduits and pins to secure balls, allowing for reduced thickness and weight, while maintaining structural integrity through ball bearings and seals to prevent water ingress and rotation, and incorporating electronics for seismic data processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the housing and connecting parts are made with large thickness to withstand tensions, then the strength is improved, but the size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting module is divided into separate functional components: a housing, connecting parts, and fastening elements (nuts and bolts). This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the housing can be made thinner while maintaining overall structural strength through the distributed fastening system.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting parts are designed with pre-positioned holes and attachment points that allow for preliminary assembly and alignment. The fastening elements are positioned to distribute tension forces before the final tightening, allowing the housing walls to be thinner while still withstanding the full tension load.
2Strength
If the housing and connecting parts are made with large thickness to withstand tensions, then the strength is improved, but the noise increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the structure into a thinner housing and separate fastening elements, the design reduces the overall mass that generates hydrodynamic noise while maintaining tension resistance through the distributed fastening system.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening elements (nuts and bolts) act as intermediaries that transfer and distribute tension forces across multiple attachment points. This allows the housing walls to be thinner since the fastening elements bear the primary load, reducing the noise-generating mass of the housing itself.
3Reliability
If fastening nuts are used to secure connecting parts, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting parts are designed to integrate with the housing through a unified assembly process. The holes in the connecting parts align with corresponding holes in the housing, allowing multiple fastening points to be secured simultaneously, reducing the number of separate assembly operations required.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting parts serve multiple functions: they provide structural attachment points, define alignment geometry through their hole positions, and distribute mechanical loads. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, simplifying the overall device while maintaining reliability.
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
The solution reduces the size and weight of the streamer connecting modules, minimizing noise and hydrodynamic turbulence, and enabling more efficient seismic data acquisition with reduced costs and no need for retrofitting existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
a first plurality of balls located at an interface between the first streamer connecting part and the housing; and a second plurality of balls located between the second streamer connecting part and the second end of the housing
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
Method and streamer connecting module for connecting streamer sections to each other. The streamer connecting module (317) includes a housing (319) extending along a longitudinal axis (L) so that first and second ends (319A, 319B) are opposite to each other; a first streamer connecting part (330) fixedly attached at the first end (319A) of the housing (319); a second streamer connecting part (340) fixedly attached at the second end (319B) of the housing (319); first plural balls (333A) located between the first streamer connecting part (330) and the first end (319A) of the housing (319); and a first conduit formed at an interface between the first streamer connecting part and the first end of the housing for accommodating the first plural balls.