Streamer Positioning Simulation via Current Prediction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current geophysical data acquisition methods in marine environments face challenges in accurately predicting streamer deformations due to marine currents, leading to safety concerns and increased costs from incomplete coverage and potential collisions with obstacles.
Innovation Solution
A method for simulating the positioning of towed acoustic linear antennas that includes predicting temporal and spatial variations of marine currents along the streamers, using hydrodynamic models to determine the future form of the streamers, thereby improving current prediction reliability and streamer shape accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the width of the sensor network is increased to reduce the number of ship passes, then productivity is improved, but the complexity of streamer positioning and safety risks increase due to greater sensitivity to current-induced deformations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing current prediction before the actual streamer positioning. The system predicts future current states at multiple points along the streamer path, allowing the ship to adjust its trajectory in advance to compensate for expected deformations, thereby maintaining safety without reducing productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by using a dynamic prediction model that continuously updates current predictions based on real-time measurements and future positions. The system adapts the streamer positioning strategy according to predicted current variations, enabling the network to maintain optimal configuration despite changing marine conditions
2Productivity
If the streamer network is extended to cover larger zones, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to increased sensitivity to current variations and geometric deformations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the streamer into multiple discrete points (at least two distinct points) along its length. The system predicts current effects at each segment separately, allowing for more precise localization of deformation effects and improving overall positioning accuracy even for extended streamers
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by predicting current variations specific to each point along the streamer rather than using a uniform approximation. The system determines future positions and current states at distinct locations, allowing each segment to be modeled with appropriate local conditions and improving measurement precision
3Measurement precision
If current prediction is performed at multiple points along the streamer, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for multiple prediction steps and spatial projection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using a single integrated prediction model that performs multiple functions: predicting current at different points, determining future positions, and calculating streamer form. This multi-functional approach achieves high measurement precision without proportionally increasing device complexity
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
This method enhances the safety and efficiency of geophysical data acquisition by providing a more accurate prediction of streamer trajectories, reducing the need for additional ship passes and minimizing the risk of collisions, while optimizing coverage in marine environments.
Implementation Method 1
at least one step for determining the form of said acoustic linear antenna(e) by the resolution of a hydrodynamic model
Data Source
AI summary
A method for simulating the positioning of at least one acoustic linear antenna towed in a study zone is provided. The method includes at least one simulation step of at least one future position of at least one point of the acoustic linear antenna(e), at least one step for predicting the temporal and spatial variations of at least one marine current likely to interact with the acoustic linear antenna(e) and at least one step for determining the form of the acoustic linear antenna(e) by the resolution of a hydrodynamic model. The prediction step(s) include an upstream phase for determining a current at at least two determined points of the zone; a simulation phase of at least one future position of the determined points; a temporal projection phase of the current determined during the upstream phase at each future position; and a spatial projection phase of the currents at at least two distinct points of the acoustic linear antenna(e) occupying future position(s) of the simulation step.