Abstract: A method and apparatus for surveying a three dimensional sub-surface geological structure having seismic scatterers includes establishing an acquisition system (19) having at least two substantially vertical arrays of sensors (20) disposed within the geological structure. Each array (20) includes multiple directional sensing receivers 30 adapted to receive seismic energy (28, 97) produced from the seismic scatterers (24) in response to at least one seismic disturbance (27). The multiple directional sensing receivers (30) are adapted to provide a measurement of the received seismic energy. A recorder records the measurements of the received seismic energy for producing a complete vector field response of the seismic scatterers to the at least one seismic disturbance. Lastly, a processor processes the complete vector field to generate a three-dimensional image.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for providing three dimensional seismic images using directional sensing rotation within a geological structure's complete vector field produced by seismic energy emanating from seismic scatterers in the sub-surface of the geological structure, which significantly reduces the need for distribution of seismic energy sources and receivers over the entire surface of the geological structure. The apparatus includes an omni-azimuthal source of seismic energy 22 positioned adjacent a surface of a geological structure 18 for emitting a signal 27 of sufficient energy and bandwidth to produce seismic energy 28 and 97 from the seismic scatterers in the geological structure 18. A plurality of arrays of sensors 20 are also provided. Each array 20 has directional sensing receivers 30 aligned in the geological structure 18 for receiving and measuring the seismic energy 28 and 97 to create a complete vector field.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for surveying a three dimensional sub-surface geological structure having seismic scatterers includes establishing an acquisition system (19) having at least two substantially vertical arrays of sensors (20) disposed within the geological structure. Each array (20) includes multiple directional sensing receivers 30 adapted to receive seismic energy (28, 97) produced from the seismic scatterers (24) in response to at least one seismic disturbance (27). The multiple directional sensing receivers (30) are adapted to provide a measurement of the received seismic energy. A recorder records the measurements of the received seismic energy for producing a complete vector field response of the seismic scatterers to the at least one seismic disturbance. Lastly, a processor processes the complete vector field to generate a three-dimensional image.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for providing three dimensional seismic images using directional sensing rotation within a geological structure's complete vector field produced by seismic energy emanating from seismic scatterers in the sub-surface of the geological structure, which significantly reduces the need for distribution of seismic energy sources and receivers over the entire surface of the geological structure. The apparatus includes an omni-azimuthal source of seismic energy 22 positioned adjacent a surface of a geological structure 18 for emitting a signal 27 of sufficient energy and bandwidth to produce seismic energy 28 and 97 from the seismic scatterers in the geological structure 18. A plurality of arrays of sensors 20 are also provided. Each array 20 has directional sensing receivers 30 aligned in the geological structure 18 for receiving and measuring the seismic energy 28 and 97 to create a complete vector field.

Abstract: Seismic data is cross correlated with a correlation reference which is an amplitude modified version of a nonlinear sweep. The amplitude modification provides both deboost and tapering.

Abstract: A seismic geophysical prospecting method and apparatus is described involving the sequential shooting of lump explosive charges spaced apart in a borehole so as to produce seismic wave reinforcement in a given direction. Fast acting electronic switch means control the detonation of each charge responsive to the advance of the seismic waves front substantially independent of formation pressure wave velocity.