Abstract: Systems and methods for positioning seismic streamers are disclosed that enable two or more streamers to be positioned in over/under configuration. One system comprises first and second pluralities of remotely controllable birds mounted on or inline in first and second streamers, the birds functioning to control position of the streamers relative to each other, to another pair of streamers, or to some reference. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract, which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 37 CFR 1.72(b).

Abstract: Methods and systems for efficiently acquiring towed streamer marine seismic data are described. One method and system comprises positioning a plurality of source-only tow vessels and one or more source-streamer tow vessels to acquire a wide- and/or full-azimuth seismic survey without need for the spread to repeat a path once traversed. Another method and system allows surveying a sub-sea geologic feature using a marine seismic spread, the spread smartly negotiating at least one turn during the surveying, and shooting and recording during the turn. This abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract, allowing a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.

Abstract: The present disclosure generally relates to systems and methods for acquiring seismic data. In one exemplary embodiment, a method for acquiring seismic data is described in which recorder instruments are deployed to the seafloor and utilized for recording pressure wave and shear wave data. An acoustic array, displaced from the seafloor, is also provided for sending acoustic signals to the instruments on the seafloor. The orientation of the instruments on the seafloor is determined via acoustic communication between the acoustic array and the instruments. Related systems and methods for acquiring seismic data are also described.

Abstract: Methods and systems for determining position of seismic sources and receivers are disclosed. Signals received by a first antenna are processed to determine its 3D coordinate position. Signals received by the first antenna and a second antenna are combined and processed to estimate a spatial vector between the first and second antennas. The spatial vector is added to the 3D coordinate position of the first antenna to provide a 3D coordinate position of the second antenna. Using the 3D coordinate position of the second antenna, a 3D coordinate position of a seismic source unit or receiver may be calculated, as well as a vertical correction for reflected seismic signals received by the receiver. This abstract allows a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the disclosure. It will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 37 CFR 1.72(b).

Abstract: The present invention relates to a sensing system, in particular to sensing system for sensing undersea seismic events. A vibration sensor is provided for sensing seismic vibrations on the sea bed is provided. The vibration sensor is electrically coupled to a transmitter unit, the transmitter unit being arranged to transmit, in use, an acoustic wave from which the presence of a seismic vibration can be inferred. The acoustic wave modulates light travelling along a nearby optical cable, the modulation being recovered at a distant monitoring station. A flotation arrangement is provide for retaining the transmitter unit in a raised position relative to the sea bed to facilitate the coupling of the acoustic wave to the optical cable.

Abstract: A seismic survey system includes a winch having a winch cable coupleable to a source array towable between two deflected lead-ins, a positioning system for determining a current position of the source array and a controller for adjusting the winch to modify the current position of the source array to a desired crossline position. The winches may be attached to the deflected lead-ins or mounted on a tow vessel. The winches exert lateral forces on the source array, derived from the deflected lead-ins, to control the inline position of the source array. A method includes positioning a seismic source array in tow behind a vessel comprises determining a current position of the source array and adjusting a lateral force applied to the source array to move the source array to a desired crossline position. Optionally, by adjusting the gun cable winch, the inline position may be controlled.

Abstract: Methods and systems for efficiently acquiring towed streamer marine seismic data are described. One method and system comprises positioning a plurality of source-only tow vessels and one or more source-streamer tow vessels to acquire a wide- and/or full-azimuth seismic survey without need for the spread to repeat a path once traversed. Another method and system allows surveying a sub-sea geologic feature using a marine seismic spread, the spread smartly negotiating at least one turn during the surveying, and shooting and recording during the turn. This abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract, allowing a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 37 CFR 1.72(b).

Abstract: According to a preferred aspect of the instant invention, there is provided a system and method for acquiring seismic data in a marine environment, wherein at least two source vessels are used in conjunction with a recording vessel which tows a plurality of hydrophone cables. Preferably, the source vessels will be positioned along side of the towed streamer configuration and most preferably one source vessel will be located near the recording vessel and the other at the end of the streamer configuration, preferably along the same side of the streamer configuration as the lead source vessel.

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.

Abstract: A marine seismic energy source includes a seismic tow cable configured to be towed by a vessel from one end and at least one seismic source coupled proximate another end of the tow cable. The at least one seismic source is associated with a depth controller. The depth controller is configured to move the seismic source to a selectable depth in a body of water.

Abstract: Methods and systems for moving seismic streamer steering devices to target positions are disclosed. One method comprises calculating forces required to steer one or more seismic streamer steering devices in a seismic spread to target positions, the calculated forces based wholly or in part on information in modulated underwater acoustic transmissions, and steering the streamer steering devices to the target positions using the calculated forces. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract, which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 37 CFR 1.72(b).

Abstract: A method and control device for controlling the position of a marine seismic streamer spread and the ability for controlling individual marine seismic streamers both in shape and position relative to other marine seismic streamers and thereby counter effects from crosscurrent or other dynamic forces in a towed spread behind a seismic survey vessel. The system includes sensor means for determining information to control the streamer and a control device 10, including a housing 11 mechanically and at least partly electrically connected in series between two adjacent sections of the streamer 13, at least three control members 20 projecting from the housing 11, and control means adjusting the respective angular positions of the control members 20 so as to control the lateral and vertical position of the streamer 13.

Abstract: A method of processing marine magnetic data is disclosed which comprises towing first and second magnetometers M1 and M2 behind a ship (10). Raw magnetic gradient data is obtained from the sensors and the trend of the gradient of the ship bias detected by the sensors determined. The method includes subtracting the trend from the raw magnetic gradient data to obtain corrected gradient data, and processing the corrected gradient data to provide a data output.

Abstract: Arrangement for use for seismic surveys of geological formations in a seabed, where a plurality of such arrangements, which are provided with sensor units 26, are placed on the seabed for collecting pressure waves and shear waves reflected from the geological formations. There exist arrangements for transferring seismic data to a surface receiver placed on a vessel, an offshore installation, or an onshore installation. Each sensor unit 26 is held by a carrier 10 and is connected to a cylindrically skirt-shaped structure 19 adapted to be led down into the seabed, and each sensor unit 26 comprises at least one geophone. The carrier 10 comprises a holder 12 for the cylindrically skirt-shaped structure 19, which structure 19 shall penetrate down into the seabed, as this holder 12 is adapted to be moved between a lower position and an upper position, to be able to be mechanically released from the skirt-shaped structure 19.

Abstract: A method of controlling a streamer positioning device (18) configured to be attached to a marine seismic streamer (12) and towed by seismic survey vessel (10) and having a wing and a wing motor for changing the orientation of the wing. The method includes the steps of: obtaining an estimated velocity of the streamer positioning device, calculating a desired change in the orientation of the wing using the estimated velocity of the streamer positioning device, and actuating the wing motor to produce the desired change in the orientation of the wing. The invention also involves an apparatus for controlling a streamer positioning device including means for obtaining an estimated velocity of the streamer positioning device, means for calculating a desired change in the orientation of the wing using the estimated velocity of the streamer positioning device, and means for actuating the wing motor to produce the desired change in the orientation of the wing.

Abstract: A method for operating a marine seismic survey system includes deploying from a seismic vessel at least two lead-in cables each functionally coupled at one end thereof proximate a respective paravane. The lead-in cables have at least one spreader cable functionally coupled between the paravanes. Strain is measured at least one position along each lead in cable; and a length of each cable is adjusted such that the measured strains are substantially equal.

Abstract: The present invention provides an underwater cable arrangement includes an underwater cable having one or more external devices mounted on the cable. In one form of the invention, the external devices are powered primarily or entirely by inductive coupling between a coil disposed in the cable and a coil disposed in the external device. The invention also provides a variety of external devices capable of use with an underwater cable. The invention further provides a coil support arrangement for supporting a coil within an underwater cable in a manner protecting a core of the coil from damage.

Abstract: Methods and systems for determining position of one or more portions of a seismic streamer, which portions may be seismic receivers, are disclosed. One method includes measuring one or more characteristics of one or more steering devices positioned at known distances along a marine seismic streamer; using the measured characteristic to calculate a force on at least a portion of the streamer exerted by one or more steering devices from the characteristics; and using the calculated force to estimate position of at least a portion of the streamer. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract, which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.

Abstract: A method of predicting earthquakes includes the step of positioning a first transducer array adjacent to a seismically active region and below the water table, i.e., within the zone of saturation. The first transducer array includes a first plurality of seismometers, at least one first clock, and at least one first digitizer. The at least one first clock is in communication with at least one of the first plurality of seismometers, and the at least one first digitizer also is in communication with at least one of the first plurality of seismometers. The method also includes the steps of detecting a plurality of wave movements resulting from dilation of the crust of the Earth prior to an earthquake, and converting at least one of the wave movements into a first voltage. The method further includes the step of discriminating between wave movements resulting from dilation of the crust of the Earth and movements resulting from at least one other event.

Abstract: In one aspect the invention comprises a system and a method for marine geophysical exploration, which includes a first cable connected to a vessel and a plurality of streamer cables connected to the first cable. The first cable includes all towing strength members and all electrical power and data transmission conductors for the connected streamer cables.

Abstract: A marine seismic streamer steering device comprises at least two hinged sections pivotally coupled to each other and connected between two adjacent sections of the seismic streamer, and a bend control unit that controls bending of the hinged sections relative to the longitudinal axis of the seismic streamer. The steering device further comprises a roll sensor which determines rotational orientation of the body and transmits the orientation to the bend control unit, a lateral position sensor which determines lateral position of the body and transmits the lateral position to the bend control unit, and a depth sensor which determines depth of the body and transmits the depth to the bend control unit. The bend control unit then controls the bending of the hinged sections based on the transmitted rotational orientation, lateral position, and depth of the body.

Abstract: The invention provides a method of determining the orientation of a seismic receiver (4, 6) from seismic data acquired at the receiver (4, 6). The determined orientation can be taken into account in subsequent analysis of the seismic data. This avoids inaccuracies that can occur if the receiver orientation is estimated. In a preferred embodiment the horizontal spatial derivatives of the pressure measured at the receiver are used in the determination of the orientation of the receiver. These may be calculated on either the source side or the receiver side. These are combined with horizontal components of the particle displacement, velocity or acceleration (or a higher time-derivative of the particle displacement). Alternatively, horizontal spatial derivatives of the particle displacement measured at the receiver may be used in place of the horizontal spatial derivatives of the pressure.

Abstract: The invention is a system designed for acquisition of seismic data by means of acquisition stations set on water bottom of a water body. The system comprises acquisition stations (DSAU) combining a streamlined boom suited to penetrate the bottom and thus couple seismic receivers with the underlying formation, a sealed body for electronic data acquisition and communication modules. These acquisition stations (DSAU) are placed in the water and drop to the bottom under the effect of gravity.

Abstract: A control device (1) for controlling the position of a marine streamer comprising; an annular aerofoil (2), a mount (3) for mounting the annular aerofoil onto and around the streamer; and control means (4a, 4b) for controlling the tilt and/or rotation of the annular aerofoil (2) whereby to adjust the lateral position and/or depth of the streamer.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for performing a seismic survey below the surface of a body of water and on the seabed. In one embodiment, a plurality of seismic data receivers are removably loaded in a carrier located above the surface of the water and the carrier is lowered into the water and placed at a depth relatively close to the seabed. Each of the receivers has a memory for recording the vibrations of the seabed and has a switch for activating the memory. A ROV is used to unload the receivers from the carrier and to deposit each receiver on the seabed and along a survey line. In one embodiment, the receivers comprise a frame, a pressure vessel for housing the memory and remotely activated controls, and a geophone that is separately planted into the seabed at a relatively short distance from the frame.

Abstract: A method and device for seismic exploration of a subsea geologic formation by pickups set on the sea bottom and intermittently connectable to active data acquisition stations (11) brought nearby. Permanent passive reception stations (1) comprising a heavy pedestal provided with housings for seismic pickups (geophones (6), hydrophone (7) which receive acoustic or seismic signals from the underlying formation are arranged at the bottom of the water body. When collection sessions for the signals received by the pickups are scheduled, mobile active acquisition stations (11) connected to permanent passive reception stations (1) are positioned at the bottom of the water body. The signals picked up are then recorded, for the time required to carry out at least one session of acquisition and recording of the acoustic or seismic signals received by the passive stations in response to the emission of seismic waves by one or more seismic sources.

Abstract: An inner race for a streamer cable connector. The inner race includes first and second curved sections with a screwless fastener for clamping the two sections together about the streamer cable. The two curved sections may be hinged at first ends so that the inner race can be opened like a clam shell for placement about the cable. Cooperating teeth on the second ends of the inner race provide a screwless fastener for the two halves, with the teeth cooperatively arranged to ratchet by each other as the curved sections are closed around the cable.

Abstract: A device that allows control of the navigation of a towed underwater device, such as a linear acoustic antenna. The device is equipped with a pair of horizontal wings and a pair of vertical wings. These wings are kept horizontal and vertical by pendular movement of the device about the antenna on which the device is fixed. The action of the horizontal wings, which influence only immersion, and of the vertical wings, which influence only the lateral offset, are thus decoupled. The power consumption of the device is reduced, thus allowing the device to be powered by internal batteries and allowing the device to be mounted on existing antennas.

Abstract: A method of predicting earthquakes includes the step of positioning a first transducer array adjacent to a seismically active region and at least about 3 meters below the surface of the crust of the Earth. The first transducer array includes a first plurality of seismometers, at least one first clock, and at least one first digitizer. The at least one first clock is in communication with at least one of the first plurality of seismometers, and the at least one first digitizer also is in communication with at least one of the first plurality of seismometers. The method also includes the steps of detecting a plurality of wave movements resulting from dilation of the crust of the Earth prior to an earthquake, and converting at least one of the wave movements into a first voltage. The method further includes the step of discriminating between wave movements resulting from dilation of the crust of the Earth and movements resulting from at least one other event.

Abstract: A control device (1) for controlling the position of a marine streamer comprising; an annular aerofoil (2), a mount (3) for mounting the annular aerofoil onto and around the streamer; and control means (4a, 4b) for controlling the tilt and/or rotation of the annular aerofoil (2) whereby to adjust the lateral position and/or depth of the streamer.

Abstract: A preferred seismic survey system includes a cable having a sensor unit. The sensor unit includes sensors for detecting acoustical energy (e.g., shear and/or pressure waves) and is disposed in a decoupling device that substantially acoustically uncouples the sensor unit from the cable. One preferred decoupling device includes relatively flexible tension members that isolate the sensor unit from acoustical-energy related movement of the cable. A fastening member, which is optionally formed of vibration absorbing material, affixes the sensor unit to the flexible member. Optionally, a spacer adjusts the resonant frequency of the tension member and a resilient tube encloses the decoupling device. One preferred seismic survey method includes connecting the sensor unit to a cable with a decoupling device that substantially acoustically uncouples the sensor unit from the cable; and positioning a sensor unit on a seabed such that the sensor unit is acoustically coupled to the seabed.

Abstract: In one embodiment the invention comprises a method for seismic data acquisition in which at least one conduit is installed on a sea floor and at least one seismic sensor is removably installed within said at least one conduit.

Abstract: The present invention provides an underwater cable arrangement includes an underwater cable having one or more external devices mounted on the cable. In one form of the invention, the external devices are powered primarily or entirely by inductive coupling between a coil disposed in the cable and a coil disposed in the external device. The invention also provides a variety of external devices capable of use with an underwater cable. The invention further provides a coil support arrangement for supporting a coil within an underwater cable in a manner protecting a core of the coil from damage.

Abstract: A system for collecting seismic data from geologic formations underlying water. A plurality of hydrodynamic housings are deployable in the water and are permitted to descend at a fast rate through the water until the housings contact the geologic formations. A controller engaged with each housing reconfigures the housing to enhance contact between the housing and the geologic formations and to reduce impact of ocean currents acting against the housing. A marine seismic sensor is engaged with each housing to detect seismic data and to sensor orientation. Each housing can be disconnected from the associated marine seismic sensor to facilitate retrieval of the seismic sensors to the water surface.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for performing a seismic survey below the surface of a body of water and on the seabed. In one embodiment, a plurality of seismic data receivers are removably loaded in a carrier located above the surface of the water and the carrier is lowered into the water and placed at a depth relatively close to the seabed. Each of the receivers has a memory for recording the vibrations of the seabed and has a switch for activating the memory. A ROV is used to unload the receivers from the carrier and to deposit each receiver on the seabed and along a survey line. In one embodiment, the receivers comprise a frame, a pressure vessel for housing the memory and remotely activated controls, and a geophone that is separately planted into the seabed at a relatively short distance from the frame.

Abstract: A method for making a time-lapse seismic survey in a marine environment, the method designed to eliminate multiple surface reflections and changes in sea state and conditions. Seismic sources and receivers are positioned at predetermined conditions for a first set of data in which at least two sets of seismic signals are recorded at each receiver, proximate in time, such that there are insignificant changes in the subsurface formation. At a later point in time the seismic source(s) and receiver(s) are positioned at the same place when the first seismic data set was generated. A seismic source emits a sound wave and the seismic receiver receives what will be called a “monitor signal” and the two-way water travel time is again determined. A model is then developed for the first and second seismic data sets in that includes the subsurface signal, changes in the subsurface signal and the effect of multiple reflections.

Abstract: A method and device for seismic exploration of an underwater subsurface zone using seismic receivers coupled with the bottom of the water mass. Acquisition units (1) comprising a spire (2) where seismic receivers (4) are arranged, a measuring compartment (5) for acquisition and storage of the data received by the receivers, as well as removable and selective floating devices (7) are used. The acquisition units (1) are launched and, under the effect of gravity, they attach to the bottom and couple the receivers with the underlying formations. The respective positions thereof are first detected, seismic acquisition operations are carried out using an underwater source so as to collect seismic data on the formation, then the floating devices (7) are actuated so as to bring all or part of acquisition units (1) back up to the surface or a data collection device (vehicle or passive collection unit) is lowered to the neighbourhood of the various units.

Abstract: A retriever is provided for a marine seismic cable or other tool. The retriever first comprises a housing. Disposed within the housing is a canister for containing gas under pressure. An inflatable bag is fluidly connected to the gas canister within the housing. Gas is prohibited from exiting the gas canister and inflating the bag until hydrostatic pressure acting upon the retriever exceeds a designated amount. If the cable sinks to a certain depth within a water body, the corresponding hydrostatic pressure acting upon the cable will exceed the preset pressure level. An actuating mechanism is then actuated, causing gas to exit the gas canister and to inflate the inflatable bag. In one arrangement, a pop-open cover is provided on the housing. As the bag inflates, it acts to release the pop-open cover from the housing and to further inflate outside of the housing of the retriever. The inflated bag will cause the cable to be buoyantly lifted to the surface of the water body.

Abstract: A system and method for coordinating the operation of multiple manned, remotely operated or autonomous marine vessels engaged in marine seismic data acquisition to direct cooperating vessels from one point to the next while minimizing deviations in the desired spatial configuration of assets, risk to vessels and seismic assets, and personnel and to obtain optimal midpoint coverage by evaluating inputs from subsystems providing positioning information for cooperating vessels, prospect coverage, vessel capabilities, environmental information, and navigation hazards.

Abstract: System designed for acquisition of seismic data by means of acquisition stations set on the bottom of a water mass.

Abstract: A quick-acting retainer assembly to mount auxiliary equipment to a seismic cable is provided. The retainer assembly includes a crescent-shaped outer retainer ring adapted to slip easily over a cable and then slide into position over a mating inner race. The outer ring is provided with a spring-loaded cam knob which conveniently conforms to the outer surface of the outer ring and, when the cam knob is turned, it disengages the outer ring from the from the inner race. To attach the outer ring to the inner race, a pin attached to the cam knob rides up on a bevel or slanted plane of the inner race without any further manual action until the pin engages the inner race.

Abstract: A marine seismic surveying method and apparatus are shown. The apparatus includes at least one lead-in which has two or more of the streamers connected to be towed thereby, and which comprises a load-bearing outer sheath to bear the towing forces, an electrical or electro-optical core via which control signals and electrical power are supplied to, and data signals are received from, the steamers being towed by the lead-in, and a connector device series connected in the lead-in, the connector device comprising a body member mechanically coupled between the respective portions of the load-bearing outer sheath of the lead-in on either side thereof, to transmit towing forces therebetween, and a towing attachment for mechanical connection to one of the two or more streamers.

Abstract: A method for reducing strum in tow cables. Such tow cables typically extend from a marine vessel and have their lengths controlled by a winch on the deck of the ship and have a tow component at their distal end. The length of the cable is adjusted so that the number of longitudinal waves is an integral number of the number of transverse waves is an odd integral number.

Abstract: The present invention, in certain embodiments, discloses a method for acquiring marine seismic data using a seismic acquisition system where shot points are determined and shot records recorded. A time at which the source vessel will be substantially at a shot point position is predicted and the seismic source is activated at the shot point. The shot is recorded and the next location for recording a shot is determined. If the source vessel has passed the determined next shot point position, the seismic source is activated and a shot is recorded. If the source vessel has not reached the next shot point, a time delay is implemented until the shot point is reached. The method allows for efficient acquisition of seismic data under varying field conditions by resembling a distance based shot point determination method unless a time based acquisition method becomes more appropriate due to field conditions or other operational considerations.

Abstract: A quick-acting retainer assembly to mount auxiliary equipment to a seismic cable is provided. The retainer assembly includes a crescent-shaped outer retainer ring adapted to slip easily over a cable and then slide into position over a mating inner race. The outer ring is provided with a spring-loaded cam knob which conveniently conforms to the outer surface of the outer ring and, when the cam knob is turned, it disengages the outer ring from the from the inner race. To attach the outer ring to the inner race, a pin attached to the cam knob rides up on a bevel or slanted plane of the inner race without any further manual action until the pin engages the inner race.

Abstract: A floatation device for marine seismic energy sources. The floatation device includes one or more tubular members and a plurality of couplings for sealing and coupling the tubular members to one another. The couplings include an air valve for filling the tubular members with air. One or more marine seismic energy sources are preferably coupled to and supported by the floatation device.

Abstract: A marine seismic housing having cleats for anchoring geophone sensors to the seafloor, and a method for placing the geophone sensor on the seafloor. The housing is attached to the bottom cable and is lowered into contact with the seafloor. The cleats puncture the seafloor upper surface to improve the coupling between the sensor and the seafloor. The cleats can have different shapes and lengths, and can be integrated within the housing or can be detachable. The housing exterior surface can comprise multiple flat surfaces for enhancing the housing coupling to the seafloor and for increasing the housing stability relative to the seafloor.

Abstract: A method for moving seismic streamers or acoustic energy sources through water in marine geophysical operations. The equipment can be deployed or retrieved from one or more vessels, and two or more tow vehicles maneuver seismic streamers through the water independently of a seismic vessel. Manned or unmanned tow vehicles can tow the streamers ahead of, behind, or to the side of a seismic vessel, or can form an array independent of the seismic vessel. Tow vehicles can be located at both ends to change the tow direction. The invention is particularly useful in customizing an array configuration, in reorienting the array at the end of each survey line, and permits deployment of receivers and sources in different combinations. By decoupling the tow vehicles and streamers from the source vessel, turning time at the survey region borders and the possibility of streamer entanglement is significantly reduced.

Abstract: A system and method of processing seismic signals wherein seismic data resulting from a reflected seismic wave is received at a multi-component receiver. A mask trace is generated as a function of the seismic data received at the multi-component receiver, and a single type of seismic signals from the seismic data received at the multi-component receiver is identified and extracted utilizing the mask trace. Generating the mask trace further includes multiplying the seismic data received at two of the components of the multi-component receiver to produce a first result. A positive/negative sign of the first result is identified to produce a first binary result. The first binary result is divided by a scaling factor to produce the mask trace.

Abstract: An apparatus and system for integrating acoustic pods within marine seismic streamers. The integrated acoustic pod eliminates the attachment and detachment of acoustic pods from the streamer exterior surface when the seismic streamers are deployed into and retrieved from the water. Control electronics are integrated within the streamer interior and receive electric power from a streamer electrical conductors and receive control signals from a streamer control wire. The control electronic components can be integrated within the streamer interior or within modules connecting each streamer section. Acoustic transducer elements can extend through the connector module or can be attached to the connector module exterior. The acoustic transducer elements can be oriented to steer transmission of acoustic energy into the water, such as in a horizontal azimuth, and to permit correction of the steering direction.