Streamer Shape Determination Using Inclination Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Seismic streamers in marine surveys do not maintain a constant depth and shape due to factors like uneven ballasting and ocean swell, leading to inaccurate seismic data processing as conventional methods assume a flat streamer, resulting in variable sensor depths and compromised data quality.
Innovation Solution
A system and technique that utilize measurements from multi-component seismic sensors to determine the shape and depth profile of a towed seismic streamer, integrating inline particle motion measurements to correct for variations and deghost seismic data, thereby improving data accuracy and quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional seismic data processing methods are used assuming a flat streamer, then processing simplicity is maintained, but measurement precision deteriorates due to variable sensor depths
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary determination of streamer shape and sensor depths before seismic data processing. By calculating the actual three-dimensional positions of sensors based on streamer geometry and inclination measurements, the system prepares corrected depth information in advance, allowing subsequent processing to use accurate sensor positions without adding complexity to the main processing workflow
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary calculation step that determines streamer shape and sensor depths as a separate preprocessing component. This intermediary layer translates physical streamer configuration into corrected depth parameters, bridging the gap between actual streamer geometry and the depth information needed for accurate seismic processing without requiring direct modification of the seismic processing algorithms
2Loss of time
If streamer depth and shape variations are not corrected, then processing time is reduced, but data quality deteriorates due to inaccurate sensor positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces mechanical/physical streamer stabilization methods with a computational approach. Instead of physically maintaining constant streamer depth through complex ballasting and active control systems, the invention uses mathematical modeling and calculation to determine actual sensor positions and correct for depth variations in software, significantly reducing processing time while maintaining data quality
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the approach from attempting to maintain constant physical parameters (streamer depth) to measuring and correcting variable parameters (actual sensor depths). By measuring streamer inclination and calculating actual sensor positions based on these measurements, the system adapts to real-time streamer configuration changes without requiring physical intervention, thereby preserving data quality while minimizing processing overhead
3Measurement precision
If accurate streamer shape determination is implemented, then data processing accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional measurements and calculations
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves multi-functionality by using inclination measurements from sensors for multiple purposes. The same inclination data used to determine streamer shape also provides information for correcting sensor depths, calculating streamer geometry, and validating measurement consistency. This universal use of measurement data maximizes information value while minimizing the number of separate measurement systems required
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service by using the streamer's own sensor measurements to determine its shape and correct its positioning. The inclination sensors mounted on the streamer provide the data needed to calculate the streamer's three-dimensional geometry and sensor depths without requiring external measurement equipment. The system essentially measures and corrects itself, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high measurement precision
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 system effectively determines the shape and depth of seismic streamers, allowing for accurate correction of seismic measurements and enhancing the quality of hydrocarbon deposit identification by compensating for sensor depth variations and time shifts, leading to improved subterranean geological formation imaging.
Implementation Method 1
Some seismic sensors are sensitive to pressure changes (hydrophones), others to particle motion (e.g., geophones)
Data Source
AI summary
A technique includes obtaining first measurements acquired by sensors of a towed seismic streamer, which are indicative of an inclination of the streamer. Based at least in part on the measurements, a shape of the streamer while in tow is determined.