Ultrasonic Probe Network for Real-Time 3D Seismic Imaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing ultrasonic imaging methods for three-dimensional seismic models are limited and unable to achieve real-time imaging, particularly in complex geological structures, due to high requirements for probe directivity and consistency, and slow measurement speeds with low signal-to-noise ratios.

Innovation Solution

A real-time imaging system comprising an ultrasonic sensor network with a network of emitting and receiving probes, a hardware subsystem including a main control unit, acquisition unit, and industrial computer, and a software subsystem that uses pre-stack migration imaging algorithms to process wave train data and generate three-dimensional imaging maps without moving the probes, enabling panoramic imaging of complex geological structures.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If two-dimensional array probes with phased array technology are used, then imaging directionality and consistency are improved, but scanning angle is limited and imaging region is restricted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimaging directionality and consistencyVSAvoidimaging region
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the imaging system into multiple independent ultrasonic probes arranged in a specific geometric configuration. Each probe independently transmits and receives ultrasonic signals, allowing the system to cover a wider imaging region while maintaining measurement precision through individual probe optimization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a nested probe structure where multiple ultrasonic probes are integrated within a compact positioning device. This nested arrangement allows the probes to maintain precise relative positions (improving consistency) while the entire assembly can be positioned to cover different regions (expanding imaging area).

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Device complexity

If mechanical scanning imaging with a single ultrasound probe is used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement speed is slow and signal-to-noise ratio is low

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprobe configuration simplicityVSAvoidmeasurement speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple ultrasonic probes into a single integrated system with synchronized control. By combining the transmitting and receiving functions of multiple probes and coordinating their operations through a unified control mechanism, the system achieves high measurement speed (improving productivity) while maintaining manageable complexity through integrated design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements continuous ultrasonic signal transmission and reception across multiple probes simultaneously, eliminating the sequential scanning required by single-probe systems. This continuous parallel operation significantly increases measurement speed while the synchronized control system keeps device complexity at acceptable levels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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 allows for rapid, high-quality three-dimensional imaging of complex geological models in real-time, significantly reducing measurement time and suppressing noise, thereby improving experimental efficiency and accuracy.

Implementation Method 1

the emitting probe to emit an acoustic beam

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectUltrasonic wave propagation: Ultrasound

Implementation Method 2

acoustic signals from all receiving probes

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAcoustic reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS20240310546A1Three-dimensional ultrasonic seismic model real-time imaging system and method
Publication Date: 2024.09.19 CHINA UNIV OF PETROLEUM (EAST CHINA)
  • US20240310546A1 patent drawing
  • US20240310546A1 patent drawing
  • US20240310546A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A real-time imaging system for a three-dimensional ultrasonic seismic model, which is used for three-dimensional real-time imaging of a seismic model in an indoor water tank experiment, comprising: an ultrasonic sensor network, comprising at least one emitting probe and at least one receiving probe spaced apart from each other to form a network, which is arranged above a seismic model; and a hardware subsystem, comprising a main control unit, an acquisition unit, an emitting unit, an industrial computer and a display, wherein the acquisition unit, the emitting unit and the industrial computer are electrically connected to the main control unit, the emitting probe is electrically connected to the emitting unit, the receiving probe is electrically connected to the acquisition unit, the display is electrically connected to the industrial computer, and a software subsystem is configured in the industrial computer.