Abstract: Disclosed is an accelerometer for measuring seismic data. The accelerometer includes a proof mass that is resiliently coupled to a support structure by folded beams, S-shaped balanced beams, straight beams, and/or folded beams with resonance damping. The support structure further includes travel stops for limiting transverse motion of the proof mass.

Abstract: A graphical user interface (GUI) and control system for controlling and testing an acoustic source. The control system includes real-time data processing of individual source near-field measured signatures and synthesis of array far-field signatures. The control system determines individual source out-of-specification conditions and computes far-field signatures based on an array configuration and, when applicable, excluding failed sources. Source, array, and troubleshooting information are presented to a user in real-time over a GUI monitor to allow informed decision-making regarding continued and/or modified survey operations and operational parameters.

Abstract: Provided is a permanent seafloor seismic recording system utilizing Micro Electro-Mechanical Systems seismic sensors. The system includes and expandable backbone, multiple hubs and sensor lines. The sensor lines include multiple sensor modules that include 3-C accelerometers and a hydrophone for providing a 4-C sensor module output signal.

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: The present invention is to provide to a planar multiple band omni radiation pattern antenna having first and second patch lines printed on a planar dielectric substrate material, wherein a plurality of radiation members are formed bifurcately, symmetrically along both sides of a longitudinal axis of either patch line. Each of the radiation members comprises at least two post-shaped conductors each having a length slightly less than one-quarter wavelength of a central frequency of each operating frequency so as to form a choke and the radiation members of multi-frequency, and enable the operating frequencies not to be harmonically related.

Abstract: The present invention is to provide to a planar multiple band omni radiation pattern antenna having first and second patch lines printed on a planar dielectric substrate material, wherein a plurality of radiation members are formed bifurcately, symmetrically along both sides of a longitudinal axis of either patch line. Each of the radiation members comprises at least two post-shaped conductors each having a length slightly less than one-quarter wavelength of a central frequency of each operating frequency so as to form a choke and the radiation members of multi-frequency, and enable the operating frequencies not to be harmonically related.

Abstract: A plurality of seismic sensors calibration method (100) includes: an assembling so that sensors are coupled with each sensor positioned with its axis of sensitivity in a different spatial direction calibration system step (105), a rotating sensors step (110), a measuring sensors output signals step (115), a sensor output signal processing step (120) and a storing calibration coefficient(s) step (125).

Abstract: The present invention, in certain embodiments, is a method, system and apparatus for information gathering, for example seismic data acquisition operations or utility services monitoring for homes, businesses and municipalities, using a wireless network with a virtual enabling data communication and storage over multiple environments, hardware systems and time frames. This WAN platform is capable of handling all communications for a seismic field crew or other information gathering organization. The invention provides near real-time dissemination of data across a mobile network to a destination system.

Abstract: A seismic data acquisition apparatus having a recorder co-located with a sensor unit in a seismic spread and a communication device for direct communication with a central recorder. A memory located in the recorder and/or in the central controller holds location parameters associated with the sensor unit, and the parameters can be updated. Methods of seismic data acquisition including sensing seismic energy and recording the sensed energy at the sensor location. Delivering the recorded information to a central recorder by manually retrieving removable memory from each recorder, by wireless transmission of the information, or by removing the information from each recorder by inductive or cable connectors and a transfer device.

Abstract: A hydrophone assembly is provided that has a frequency response that matches that of an accelerometer. In a preferred implementation, the frequency response resembles that of a differentiator in combination with a pair of simple lags.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a cable fixture for a coaxial connector, and the fixture comprises a metal housing having a hollow cylindrical section, and said cylindrical section at one end has an external cover and an arc-shape lower cover at the other end; the area of said external cover is larger than that of said lower cover such that when an insulator is placed in the cylindrical section, and a cable with terminals are placed on the lower cover, the external cover is bendable to cover cylindrical section, while the upper section covering the cable. Then, the external cover is bent downward to fix onto the cylindrical section, enabling the upper cover and the lower cover to tightly wrap onto the cable.

Abstract: An in-water distributed control system for use in marine seismic survey. The system includes a shipboard interface and power supply coupled to an in-water subsystem via a high bandwidth communication link. The in-water subsystem includes a remote control module for generating firing commands based on synchronizing and position parameters transmitted by the interface. The remote control module transmits power, data, and commands to a plurality of gun control modules. Each gun control module operates an air gun. An individually addressable remote cut-off valve controls air to each air gun. Depth and pressure at the gun control module is sensed by at least one DT/PT module. An optional expansion unit provides additional DT/PT capability.

Abstract: A graphical user interface (GUI) and control system for marine seismic data acquisition is described along with a method of real-time quality control of the seismic survey. The control system includes real-time data processing of individual source near-field measured signals and concurrent synthesis of array far-field signatures. The control system determines individual source out-of-specification conditions and computes far-field signatures based on an array configuration excluding the failed source. Source, array, and troubleshooting information are presented to a user in real-time over a GUI monitor to allow informed decision-making regarding continued and/or modified survey operations and operational parameters.

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: The invention comprises a system for processing seismic data to estimate time shift resulting from velocity anisotropy in the earth's subsurface. A gather of seismic data traces is formed and selected seismic data traces included in said gather within selected time windows are cross-correlated to estimate the time shift in the seismic data traces included in said gather resulting from velocity anisotropy in the earth's subsurface.

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: The present invention provides an interactive system for controlling seismic data acquisition. A central controller controls seismic sources, detectors and receivers. A user/operator is provided one or more views of the operational components over a graphical user interface and is provided software to change parameters associated with the components. A second controller might be located in a seismic source vehicle. There exists two-way data and audio communication between the two controllers for providing dual control of the system. A field operator, relays information to and receives information from the central operator and controller. Together, the operators make decisions for selecting and operating system components.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus of acquiring and processing seismic data. One or more controllers are each coupled to seismic sensors and to each other to form a line of data acquisition units. A main controller is coupled to a crossover line unit and to a power supply. Power and data control is distributed among the main controller, the crossover line unit, and each of the plurality of data acquisition units.

Abstract: A graphical user interface (GUI) and control system for controlling and testing an acoustic source. The control system includes real-time data processing of individual source near-field measured signatures and synthesis of array far-field signatures. The control system determines individual source out-of-specification conditions and computes far-field signatures based on an array configuration and, when applicable, excluding failed sources. Source, array, and troubleshooting information are presented to a user in real-time over a GUI monitor to allow informed decision-making regarding continued and/or modified survey operations and operational parameters.

Abstract: The present invention provides an adaptive filtering method for substantially eliminating ground roll noise encountered during seismic data acquisition. An apparatus for acquiring seismic data is provided that includes an adaptive filtering circuit coupled to a multi-axis sensor device.