Variable Density Seismic Source Geometry for Marine Survey Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seismic data acquisition methods, particularly in marine surveys, face inefficiencies due to linear shooting patterns, which lead to spatial discontinuity in sampling density and require multiple vessels to achieve adequate data separation, complicating time-lapse imaging and increasing costs.
Innovation Solution
A method involving seismic receivers placed proximate to the survey area with seismic energy sources moving in a path that circumscribes a center, where the distance between the path and the center changes monotonically, allowing for varying shot point spacing and reducing the need for multiple vessels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If linear shooting patterns are used with constant source spacing, then data acquisition is simple and systematic, but spatial discontinuity in sampling density occurs and artifacts are created in the final image
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by varying the source spacing along the survey line according to the distance from the receiver array center. Sources closer to the center are spaced more densely, while sources farther away are spaced more sparsely. This creates a non-uniform sampling pattern that matches the imaging requirements, eliminating spatial discontinuities and artifacts while maintaining survey simplicity through a systematic variable-density arrangement.
2Productivity
If multiple source vessels are used to acquire multiple simultaneous lines, then survey coverage area increases, but device complexity and coordination requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing a variable-density source spacing pattern along a single vessel's survey line. Instead of using multiple vessels with constant spacing, a single vessel varies its shot point interval dynamically based on position relative to the receiver array center. This achieves efficient single-vessel operation that maintains high productivity while eliminating the complexity of coordinating multiple vessels.
3Productivity
If constant shot point interval is used along survey lines, then data acquisition is efficient and systematic, but sampling density becomes uniform across all distances which is inefficient for imaging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by varying the shot point interval parameter along the survey line based on the distance from the receiver array center. The shot point interval increases with distance from the center, creating a variable-density sampling pattern. This reduces the total number of shot points required compared to uniform sampling, while maintaining efficient systematic data acquisition through a structured variable-spacing pattern.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for seismic surveying comprises deploying a plurality of seismic receivers proximate an area of subsurface to be surveyed. At least one seismic energy source moves in a path that circumscribes a center, wherein positions of the plurality of seismic receivers remain fixed. At least one of a distance between the path and the center changes monotonically as seismic energy source traverses the path, or the center moves in a selected direction as the seismic energy source traverses the path. The source is actuated at selected times as the at least one seismic energy source traverses the path, such that a spacing between positions of the source along the source path and transverse to the source path varies between successive actuations of the source. Seismic energy is detected at the plurality of seismic receivers resulting from actuating the at least one seismic energy source.