Towed Seismic Source Array Frequency Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current seismic air gun source arrays face challenges in controlling and optimizing the acoustic spectra, leading to limitations in generating desired frequency outputs during seismic surveys, particularly due to restrictions on compressor capacity and gun cable length/diameter.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a towed source array comprising a high frequency sub-array and a low frequency sub-array, where the sub-arrays are designed to operate at different depths and firing intervals, allowing for optimized spectral output by maximizing energy distribution across various frequencies and mitigating aliasing effects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single air gun source array is used, then the system is simple to operate, but the control over acoustic spectra and frequency output is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The source array is divided into multiple independent sub-arrays, each capable of generating different frequency ranges. This segmentation allows independent control of spectral characteristics for each sub-array, enabling versatile acoustic spectrum control while maintaining operational simplicity through modular design
2Productivity
If air guns are fired at periodic intervals to allow filling time, then compressor capacity constraints are satisfied, but the productivity of seismic surveys is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple sub-arrays can be fired in different sequences and intervals, allowing optimization of firing schedules. Some sub-arrays can be fired more frequently while others follow longer intervals, maximizing overall productivity without exceeding compressor capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic firing patterns with varying intervals for different sub-arrays. By alternating between sub-arrays with different firing rates, the system maintains continuous operation while respecting filling time constraints, thereby reducing overall loss of time
3Adaptability or versatility
If broadband energy is generated by air gun arrays, then the frequency range is wide, but control over specific frequency outputs is poor
Solution Approach 1:
Each sub-array is designed with specific spectral characteristics targeting different frequency ranges. This segmentation enables precise control over which frequencies are emphasized or suppressed, transforming broadband energy into controlled spectral outputs
Solution Approach 2:
Different sub-arrays have different local spectral qualities optimized for specific frequency ranges. By selecting and combining appropriate sub-arrays, the system achieves precise spectral output control while maintaining overall broadband capability
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 approach enhances the signal-to-noise ratio and improves the quality of seismic data by allowing for precise control of frequency outputs, reducing noise contamination and increasing the effectiveness of seismic operations.
Implementation Method 1
air gun source arrays are often used to generate acoustic output
Data Source
AI summary
A seismic source array includes a first source and a second source. The first source has a first spectral output and the second source has a second spectral output different than the first spectral output. The first source has a first total volume different than a second total volume of the second source.