Abstract: Multicomponent data are acquired using a downhole acoustic tool having transmitters and receiver stations distributed azimuthally in a plane perpendicular to the axis of the tool. The receiver stations are located at several receiving stations along the axis of the tool. At each acquisition depth, waveforms are processed through a multi-dimensional fast Fourier transform, extrapolation and inverse multi-dimensional fast Fourier transform. At each receiver station, waveforms are combined to produce the standard monopole waveforms and the inline and crossline dipole waveforms along fixed azimuths. These oriented waveforms produce a finer azimuthal sampling of the surrounding formation, and can then be used for imaging geological features within the surrounding formation.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for reducing and/or substantially eliminating sensitivity mismatch of acoustic receivers used with acoustic sources to determine acoustic properties of geologic formations as a logging tool traverses the formations. Methods are directed to detecting waveform arrival times at receivers, determining places in a well where arrival times of waves are substantially the same at a plurality of receivers, and estimating effective receiver sensitivities and equalization factors using Stoneley wave amplitudes and windowed deconvolution of Stoneley waves. Methods are further directed to correcting wave amplitudes using estimated effective receiver sensitivities and equalization factors for receivers.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a method and apparatus utilized in hydrocarbon exploration. More specifically, the present invention relates to the utilization of acoustic sources and receivers to determine acoustic properties of geologic formations as a logging tool traverses them, be it a wireline logging tool and/or a logging while drilling (LWD) tool. More particularly, the present invention is directed to methods of, and apparatus for, adaptive equalization of receivers to reduce and/or substantially eliminate sensitivity mismatch.

Abstract: In some embodiments, apparatus and systems, as well as methods, may operate to enable moving a drill string through a borehole while acquiring data generated by a plurality of receiver sub-arrays included in a drill string. The sub-arrays may be separated by one or more sources of sonic energy, as well as by a non-aliased receiver spacing distance, a distance associated with a selected aperture of investigation, or a distance associated with a formation slowness. The sonic energy may be received by the sub-arrays at a plurality of stations. Data may be collected at a telemetry receiver.

Abstract: Multipole acoustic logging-while-drilling (LWD) tools and associated methods are disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the disclosed acoustic LWD tool comprises a transmitter array and at least one receiver array. The transmitter array generates acoustic waves with an excitation pattern having a cutoff frequency greater than about 3 kHz. The receiver array is spaced apart from the transmitter array and is configured to detect said acoustic waves. Some of the disclosed method embodiments comprise: generating multipole acoustic waves in a fluid-filled borehole using an excitation pattern with a cutoff frequency greater than about 3 kHz; selectively detecting acoustic waves that propagate with said excitation pattern; and determining an acoustic shear wave slowness for a formation penetrated by the borehole.

Abstract: A system and method for determining blockage in a wellbore containing fluid and/or in a formation adjacent the wellbore, according to which energy is generated in the fluid and variables associated with the energy are measured.

Abstract: A seismic acquisition system comprising a remote-controlled buoy for conducting seismic acquisition operations. The buoy comprises an operating system for operating a seismic wave production device on the buoy, a placement system, a communications system, and dynamic position locating system. The seismic acquisition system also comprises a remote control system for controlling the buoy systems. The seismic acquisition system also comprises receivers for receiving the seismic wave and generating a data signal indicative of the received seismic wave. The seismic acquisition system operates by controlling the placement system with the remote control system to position the buoy and then controlling the operating system with the remote control system to produce a seismic wave from the seismic wave production device. The receivers then receive the seismic wave and generate a data signal indicative of the seismic wave.