Geological Mapping Using Variable Magnetic Moments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for mapping geological structures on one side of a surface face challenges such as limited resolution, insufficiency in data collection, and high noise levels, particularly from industrial sources, which hinder accurate surveys, especially when using large magnetic moments that prolong measurement periods and reduce signal quality.
Innovation Solution
The method involves generating magnetic moments of varying strengths and durations on one side of the surface, with sequences performed at different times or positions, using transmitter coils and B/E-measuring units to record changes in the magnetic field, and processing these records to enhance resolution and reduce noise, particularly industrial noise, by employing opposite signed moments and synchronized timing to cancel out grid noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If large magnetic moments are used to improve signal strength for geological mapping, then the measurement period is prolonged and signal quality deteriorates due to increased noise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by using alternating magnetic moments with opposite signs at specific time intervals. The transmitter generates magnetic moments that switch between positive and negative polarity in a controlled sequence, allowing the system to distinguish between signal and noise through temporal patterning. This periodic switching enables noise cancellation while maintaining measurement precision without requiring prolonged measurement periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmful effect of industrial noise (particularly grid noise) into a beneficial outcome by using synchronized timing and opposite signed moments. The noise that would normally degrade signal quality is transformed into a cancelable pattern through deliberate timing of magnetic moment generation, allowing the system to subtract noise from the measured signal and improve overall measurement precision.
2Measurement precision
If measurement period is prolonged to collect sufficient data, then spatial and vertical resolution improve, but noise levels increase and data quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms industrial noise into a beneficial element by using synchronized timing and opposite signed magnetic moments. The noise pattern is deliberately replicated and then cancelled through signal processing, converting the harmful noise into a mechanism for improving signal-to-noise ratio and enhancing spatial and vertical resolution.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where the recorded magnetic field changes are processed to identify and subtract noise components. The opposite signed moments create a feedback loop where the noise generated during measurement is systematically identified and removed, improving data quality without extending measurement duration.
3Measurement precision
If sequences with different absolute values of moment strengths are performed to enhance mapping accuracy, then resolution improves, but the complexity of the measurement system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by systematically varying the absolute values of magnetic moment strengths across different sequences. The transmitter generates magnetic moments with controlled different magnitudes in a planned sequence, allowing the system to probe different depth ranges and geological features. This parameter variation enhances mapping accuracy while the changes are implemented through controlled timing and signal generation rather than complex hardware modifications.
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 allows for higher spatial and vertical resolution in geological mapping, reducing data insufficiencies and noise interference, enabling more detailed and accurate surveys of subsurface structures while minimizing resource usage and signal distortion.
Implementation Method 1
an on-period where a magnetic field is built up in the said formation by generating a magnetic moment, which magnetic moment has a moment strength, using at least one transmitter coil
Implementation Method 2
at least one B/E-measuring unit for measuring a magnetic field and/or the change in a magnetic field
Data Source
AI summary
A method for mapping geological structures of a formation on a side of a surface, includes: generating a magnetic moment using at least one magnetic moment generator to build up a magnetic field in the formation in an on-period, wherein the magnetic moment has a moment strength, and wherein the magnetic moment is positioned on another side of the surface; changing the magnetic moment to change the magnetic field; and making at least one record in a recording device at a recording time trecord in an off-period, wherein the record includes at least a representation of the change in the magnetic field and/or a representation of the magnetic field obtained by a B/E-measuring unit; wherein the on-period is separated from the off-period by the act of changing the magnetic moment.