Patents by Inventor Jorge O. Parra

Jorge O. Parra has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 5080190
    Abstract: An apparatus and method of high resolution reverse vertical seismic profile (VSP) measurements is shown. By encapsulating the seismic detector and heaters in a meltable substance (such as wax), the seismic detector can be removably secured in a borehole in a manner capable of measuring high resolution signals in the 100 to 1000 hertz range and higher. The meltable substance is selected to match the overall density of the detector package with the underground formation, yet still have relatively low melting point and rigid enough to transmit vibrations to accelerometers in the seismic detector. To minimize voids in the meltable substance upon solidification, the meltable substance is selected for minimum shrinkage, yet still having the other desirable characteristics. Heaters are arranged in the meltable substance in such a manner to allow the lowermost portion of the meltable substance to cool and solidify first.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1992
    Assignee: Southwest Research Institute
    Inventors: Thomas E. Owen, Jorge O. Parra
  • Patent number: 4835474
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for collecting measurements on the surface of the earth in a form which can be processed to obtain enhanced resolution of subsurface resistivity anomalies in the earth's geologic structure. The system of the preferred embodiment utilizes many separately acquired voltage and current measurements on the earth's surface in a superposition analysis to "synthesize" the condition whereby the many separate measurements are acquired simultaneously to give useful advantages in improved depth of investigation commonly known as focused resistivity measurements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1986
    Date of Patent: May 30, 1989
    Assignee: Southwest Research Institute
    Inventors: Jorge O. Parra, Thomas E. Owen, Bob M. Duff