Abstract: A method and apparatus for placing acoustic devices in wellbores. The method comprises: providing a tubing with at least one anchoring device in the wellbore, where the anchoring device is extendable to the wellbore to exert a force on the wellbore; attaching at least one acoustic device to at least one anchoring device; placing the tubing in the least one acoustic device attached to the at least one anchoring device in the wellbore; and setting the anchoring device to extend to the wellbore to exert a force on the wellbore, thereby coupling the acoustic device to the wellbore. The wellbore system comprises a tubing that has an annular space between the tubing and the wellbore. At least one anchoring device is disposed on an outer surface of the tubing and extends to and exerts a force on the wellbore. An acoustic device is attached to the anchoring device.

Abstract: Methods and equipment are described for placement of an array of seismic sensor sets along a horizontal section of wellbore for monitoring microseismic activity during and after hydro-fracturing. A perforated wellbore liner is positioned in the horizontal wellbore production section with sonic transmission enhancement devices such as longitudinal blade centralizers for acoustically coupling seismic sensing devices to the production formation. Internally of the perforated liner, a coiled tube is placed having an array of signal cable connected seismic sensor sets. The seismic sensor sets are linked to the coiled tube wall by sonic transmission enhancement devices and the tube wall linked by acoustic transmission enhancement devices to the perforated liner.

Abstract: A system and method for utilizing a surface located oscillator to generate seismic signals at a downhole location. The system includes a vibratory source for generating axial vibrational energy in a tubular string anchored in the borehole at a suitable location. The vibratory source may be operated at a predetermined frequency or may generate a swept frequency signal. The axial vibrations are transmitted through the tubular string and impart a seismic signal through the anchor to the formation.. In different configurations, the system imparts broadband seismic signals into the formation. Sensors are mounted on the vibratory source and downhole anchor for monitoring the system operation. Seismic receivers are deployed on the surface, in offset wells, or in the source well. Signals from the receivers are transmitted to a control unit. The control unit utilizes the sensor and receiver signals to control the operation of the vibratory source.

Abstract: A method for identifying optimal seismic energy source configurations for a selected seismic survey area. Physical properties of the surface or near-surface soil or rock are assessed and are tested to determine the response of such soil to energy source characteristics and geometries. A test model for a source is generated and is projected to create a far-field seismic response model. A seismic event is initiated within the survey area to measure seismic data, and such measured data is compared against the far-field seismic response model. Differences can be assessed to permit modifications to the model, and the model can be tested for different types and configurations of seismic source energy sources.

Abstract: A technique for providing auxiliary conduits in multi-trip completions is disclosed. The technique has particular applicability to liner mounted screens which are to be gravel packed. In the preferred embodiment, a protective shroud is run with the gravel pack screens with the auxiliary conduits disposed in between. The auxiliary conduits terminate in a quick connection at a liner top packer. The gravel packing equipment can optionally be secured in a flow relationship to the auxiliary conduits so as to control the gravel packing operation. Subsequent to the removal of the specialized equipment, the production tubing can be run with an auxiliary conduit or conduits for connection down hole to the auxiliary conduits coming from the liner top packer for a sealing connection. Thereafter, during production various data on the well can be obtained in real time despite the multiple trips necessary to accomplish completion.

Abstract: This invention provides near real-time systems and methods for acquiring seismic data in reservoirs at very high resolution such that advancing fluid fronts can be mapped substantially in real time. In one system, one or more autonomous devices are deployed in the well to detect seismic data. Each device includes at least one seismic receiver. An acoustic energy source, preferably at the surface, induces acoustic waves into the subsurface formations. The autonomous devices move in the well and detect seismic waves at selected discrete locations in the well. The seismic data is stored in on-board memory. After the data acquisition, the devices dock at a receiver stations in the well. The receiver stations download the stored data from the memory and transmit such data to a surface control unit via a two-way data link between the receiver and the surface control unit. The surface computer system also sends command signals to the downhole receiver to control the operation of the individual devices.

Abstract: A system for selectively tuning the buoyancy of a marine seismic streamer or underwater cable. Trimming weights are positioned along the streamer cable and can be integrated within a solid buoyancy member or can be located within an outer streamer sheath. The weights overcome the flotation forces provided by an internal buoyancy section to control the elevation of the streamer section. The outer streamer sheath can be opened to permit the removal or addition of trimming weights to the streamer section, and can be resealed to prevent water from intruding into the streamer interior. A single trimming weight can be positioned along the buoyancy member, or a plurality of trimming weights can be used. The trimming weights permit a tight buoyancy range to be accomplished without increasing water drag forces or noise as the streamer is towed.

Abstract: An apparatus for generating acoustic source energy in a liquid medium. A slotted cylinder has an interior volume filled with a fluid. An actuator selectively pressurizes the fluid to expand the slotted cylinder. Movement of the slotted cylinder due to expansion and contraction generates a pressure pulse in the liquid medium to create acoustic source energy. The device provides an acoustic source for marine seismic operations and for use downhole in a borehole.

Abstract: A system for synchronizing a seismic system having multiple subsystems. A control system transmits a message to selected subsystems and an internal subsystem counter is zeroed to a selected epoch. Depending on the message or on an internal instruction code, each subsystem initiates an event or sequence of events synchronized to the selected epoch. The system is based on the relative occurrence of cyclic events and does not depend on the transmission of an absolute time signal. The system is self rectifying, reduces systemic errors, and reduces the data transmission required for system control and operation. The system permits autonomous, asynchronous operation by a subsystem without continuous control by a central controller as a function of time, and can interactively respond to events without intervention from the central controller.

Abstract: A portable system for drilling geophysical shot holes in mixed geologic conditions. The system includes a drill for creating a shot hole in unconsolidated soil and for maintaining gauge in mixed geologic conditions. An explosive projectile for contacting hard rock is directed by a shot barrel, and a compressed air device removes residue from the shot hole. A controller can selectively discharge explosive projectiles when the drill bit encounters hard rock, and can cease the discharge of explosive projectiles when the drill bit encounters unconsolidated soil below hard rock. The system is particularly useful in preparing a slender shot hole in remote conditions restricting the mobility of drilling equipment, and in mixed geologic conditions comprising unconsolidated soils and hard rock aggregates or base rock.

Abstract: An automated quality control system for processing geophysical seismic data and positioning data from a marine navigation system. The invention includes a prospect data logger in communication with system components for accessing the seismic data, for coordinating seismic data processing, and for identifying and storing attribute data relevant to the seismic data and the positioning data. The prospect data logger is capable of storing data in a programmed format, and can be engaged with a display for illustrating data accessible to the prospect data logger. The prospect data logger is capable of automatically performing quality control functions such as checking seismic data and positioning data, of verifying the format of merged seismic and positioning data, of generating a command for indicating an event or for controlling another system component. The prospect data logger can verify storage tape quality immediately after data is inputted, and a record of events can be generated.

Abstract: A distributed seismic data acquisition system includes a vast plurality of Autonomous Data Acquisition Modules (ADAM) to each of which are interconnected a subplurality of data-collection channels. Each data collection channel is comprised of an array of seismic sensors for continuously measuring seismic signals. The ADAMs include a GPS satellite receiver for providing geographic coordinates and system clock. Measured seismic signals are quantized and continuously downloaded to the respective interconnected ADAMs from the data-collection channels. The system includes both field testing capability as well means for transmitting the results of self tests. Provision is made for servicing the ADAMs at the end of a multi-day recording session and for harvesting and cataloging the recorded data. The seismic signals gathered by use of the distributed data-gathering system may be processed to provide a subsurface earth model.

Abstract: A seismic data acquisition system utilizing a plurality of remote units, each remote unit being coupled to a plurality of receivers placed spaced apart on the earth's surface is provided. The remote units acquire seismic data from their associated receivers in response to a seismic shock wave induced at a selected point on the earth and transmit the acquired seismic data to a recorder over a separate channel associated with each receiver. A signature device located at a known receiver location transmits a data sequence containing an embedded time-invariant code that is unique to the signature device to the recorded during the recording cycle. The signature device data sequence and its location are pre-recorded in the recorder. The recorder utilizing the stored data sequence and the data sequence transmitted by the signature device during the recording cycle to map the seismic data channels corresponding to the locations of their associated receivers.