With Separate Pickup Patents (Class 324/334)
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Patent number: 8063642Abstract: A method for electromagnetic exploration includes imparting a first electromagnetic signal into subsurface formations from a first location and imparting a second electromagnetic signal into the formations from a second location substantially contemporaneously with imparting the first electromagnetic signal. The first and second electromagnetic signals are substantially uncorrelated with each other. A combined electromagnetic response of the formations to the first and second imparted electromagnetic signals is detected at a third location. A response of the formations to each of the first and the second imparted signals is determined from the detected response.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2008Date of Patent: November 22, 2011Assignee: MTEM LtdInventor: Antoni Marjan Ziolkowski
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Publication number: 20110279120Abstract: A disclosed electromagnetic survey system includes one or more streamer(s) having multiple electromagnetic sensors and motion sensing units. Each motion sensing unit has one or more accelerometer(s) to measure motion perpendicular to an axis of the streamer, and a rotation sensor to measure rotation about the axis. The measurements of the accelerometer are adjusted based on measurements from the rotation sensor. The survey system also includes one or more processor(s) that determine, for each electromagnetic sensor, a motion signal based on the adjusted measurements. A described electromagnetic survey method includes processing acceleration and rotational motion measurements to obtain an orientation of motion sensing units as a function of time. The measured acceleration is manipulated based on the orientation to obtain one or more velocity signal(s) for each motion sensing unit. Interpolation is performed on the velocity signals to determine at least one velocity signal for each electromagnetic sensor.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 12, 2010Publication date: November 17, 2011Inventors: Gustav Göran Mattias Südow, Ulf Peter Lindqvist, Andras Robert Juhasz, Carl Joel Gustav Skogman
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Publication number: 20110273179Abstract: A method for marine electromagnetic surveying includes transmitting a first electromagnetic field oriented in a first direction into a body of water. A second electromagnetic field oriented in a second direction is transmitted into the body of water, wherein the second direction is substantially transverse to the first direction. A parameter related to electromagnetic field amplitude is detected at a plurality of longitudinally and laterally spaced apart positions behind a vessel. The components of the detected electromagnetic field parameter are resolved into components along the first and second directions by using the geometrical symmetries and asymmetries of the transmitting source. Systems for implementing such methods are also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 5, 2010Publication date: November 10, 2011Inventor: Gustav Göran Mattias Südow
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Patent number: 8035392Abstract: Structure for deep MWD resistivity measurements suitable for both geo-steering and measurements ahead of the drill bit is disclosed. The structure is capable of extracting information about resistivity of formation in the presence of conductive drill. In one embodiment, ahead-of-bit sensing is achieved via transient electromagnetic measurements when current is switched off in the transmitter loop and the transient signal is measured in the receiver loops placed at some distances from the receiver. To reduce a parasitic effect of the currents in the drill three-coil bucking system with magnetic nonconductive shield in combination with a highly conductive copper shield are applied. Specifically, a short (less than 1 m) copper cover and short (less than 0.2 m) ferrite cover are placed in the vicinity of transmitting and receiving coils. A bucking operation followed by an inversion is performed on received signals to obtain data reflecting parameters of the surrounding subsurface formations.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2008Date of Patent: October 11, 2011Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Gregory B. Itskovich, Arcady Reiderman
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Patent number: 8030934Abstract: A method is proposed for a marine electromagnetic survey based on the TM mode, for the purpose of prospecting for and detecting subsurface hydrocarbon reservoirs. The method includes an electromagnetic field source (1113) that, in a submerged, essentially vertical transmitter antenna, generates and injects electric current pulses (81,82) with a sharply defined termination. An electromagnetic field generated by these pulses (81,82) is measured by at least one receiver (1109) provided with an essentially vertical receiver antenna (1111) submerged in water, during the interval when the current in the transmitter antenna (1108) of the electromagnetic field source (1113) is switched off. The distance between the electromagnetic field source (1113) and the at least one receiver (1109) is smaller than the depth of the target object. An apparatus is also described, for implementation of the method.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2006Date of Patent: October 4, 2011Assignee: Advanced Hydrocarbon Mapping ASInventors: Pavel Barsukov, Eduard B. Fainberg, Bension Sh. Singer
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Publication number: 20110210742Abstract: A vertical receiver antenna device includes first and second receiving electrode units interconnected by a receiver antenna cable and connected to means for the electromagnetic surveying of electrically resistive targets potentially containing hydrocarbons. The receiver antenna is arranged in a tubular, non-magnetic antenna housing arranged vertically in subsea uncompacted material, and one of the first and second receiving electrode units being connected in a electrically conductive manner to the underlying structure, and the other one of the first and second receiving electrode units being arranged in a portion of the antenna housing distantly from the first one of said first and second receiving electrode units. A method of installing a vertical receiver antenna in subsea uncompacted material is also described.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 18, 2009Publication date: September 1, 2011Inventor: Jostein Kåre Kjerstad
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Patent number: 7991553Abstract: Characterizing a reservoir with electromagnetic imaging surveys includes normalizing measured voltage data by transmitter moment, sorting the normalized voltage data into common receiver profiles, densely resampling transmitter locations using common positions for the receiver profiles, coarsely resampling the data at discreet transmitter locations, defining a starting model for inversion, weighting the data by a factor, converting the normalized voltage data to ratios, calculating a conductivity image using a ratio inversion method, and verifying that an inversion has converged and the image is geologically reasonable. The image can then be displayed. The invention can be used for cross-well, surface-to-borehole, borehole-to-surface, and single-well (borehole-to-borehole) measurements measurements by which the effects of steel casing are reduced.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2008Date of Patent: August 2, 2011Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: David Alumbaugh, Ping Zhang, Edward Nichols, Frank Morrison, Aria Abubakar, Tarek Habashy
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Publication number: 20110148421Abstract: According to one example embodiment is a time domain electromagnetic (TDEM) geophysical survey system for producing a B-field measurement, comprising: a transmitter coil; a bucking coil positioned in a substantially concentric and coplanar orientation relative to the transmitter coil; a receiver coil positioned in a substantially concentric and coplanar orientation relative to the bucking coil; an electrical current source connected to the transmitter coil and bucking coil for applying a periodic current thereto; and a data collection system configured to receive a magnetic field time-derivative signal dB/dt from the receiver coil and integrate the magnetic field time-derivative signal dB/dt to generate, a magnetic B-field measurement, the transmitter coil, bucking coil and receiver coil being positioned relative to each other such that, at the location of the receiver coil, a magnetic field generated by the bucking coil has a cancelling effect on a primary magnetic field generated by the transmitter coil.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 28, 2009Publication date: June 23, 2011Applicant: Geotech Airborne LimitedInventors: Petr Valentinovich Kuzmin, Edward Beverly Morrison
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Patent number: 7960973Abstract: A device rotates at least one static magnetic field about an axis, producing a rotating magnetic dipole field, and is movable in relation to the surface of the ground. The field is periodically sensed using a receiver to produce a receiver output responsive to the field. A positional relationship between the receiver and the device is monitored using the output. In one aspect, changing the positional relationship, by moving the device nearer to a boring tool which supports the receiver, causes an increase in accuracy of depth determination. In another aspect, determination of an actual overhead position of the boring tool, and its application, are described. Use of a plurality of measurements over at least one-half revolution of each magnet is disclosed. Establishing a surface radial direction toward a boring tool and resolution of multi-valued parameters is described. Calibration techniques, as well as a three transmitter configuration are also described.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2010Date of Patent: June 14, 2011Assignee: Merlin Technology, Inc.Inventors: Rudolf Zeller, Guenter W. Brune, Albert W. Chau, John E. Mercer
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Publication number: 20110121835Abstract: Location determination is performed using a transmitter including an elongated generally planar loop antenna defining an elongation axis. The elongation axis is positioned along at least a portion of a path. A magnetic field is then generated which approximates a dipole field. Certain characteristics of the magnetic field are then determined at a receiving position radially displaced from the antenna elongation axis. Using the determined certain characteristics, at least one orientation parameter is established which characterizes a positional relationship between the receiving position and the antenna on the path. The magnetic field may be transmitted as a monotone single phase signal. The orientation parameter may be a radial offset and/or an angular orientation between the receiving position and the antenna on the path. The antenna of the transmitter may be inserted into a first borehole to transmit the magnetic field to a receiver inserted into a second borehole.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 26, 2011Publication date: May 26, 2011Inventors: Guenter W. Brune, John E. Mercer, Albert W. Chau, Rudolf Zeller
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Patent number: 7949470Abstract: To process subterranean survey data, measurement data is collected by a receiver positioned in deep water, where the collected measurement data is responsive to signals emitted by at least one signal source located at or near an air-water interface of the body of water. The measurement data is processed to reduce a predetermined signal component.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2007Date of Patent: May 24, 2011Assignee: WesternGeco L.L.C.Inventors: David Alumbaugh, Jiuping Chen, Kevin Eyl, Stephen Allan Horne, Edward Nichols
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Patent number: 7924013Abstract: A resistivity array having a modular design includes a transmitter module with at least one antenna, wherein the transmitter module has connectors on both ends adapted to connect with other downhole tools; and a receiver module with at least one antenna, wherein the transmitter module has connectors on both ends adapted to connect with other downhole tools; and wherein the transmitter module and the receiver module are spaced apart on a drill string and separated by at least one downhole tool. Each transmitter and receiver module may comprise at least one antenna coil with a magnetic moment orientation not limited to the tool longitudinal direction. A spacing between the transmitter and receiver module may be selected based on expected reservoir thickness.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2010Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Jean Seydoux, Emmanuel Legendre, Reza Taherian
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Patent number: 7924014Abstract: A method of electromagnetic surveying of an area of seafloor that is thought or known to contain a subterranean hydrocarbon reservoir is described. The method includes broadcasting an EM signal from a horizontal electric dipole (HED) transmitter and obtaining vertical electric dipole (VED) response data at a remote receiver in response thereto. Survey data are analyzed by comparing the VED response data with background data which are not sensitive to the postulated hydrocarbon reservoir. Accordingly, differences between the VED response data and the background data allow for the identification of buried hydrocarbon reservoirs. The background data may be provided by magneto-telluric surveying, controlled source electromagnetic surveying or from direct geophysical measurement.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2008Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: OHM LimitedInventors: Lucy M. MacGregor, Martin C. Sinha
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Publication number: 20110050231Abstract: Method of determining electrical anisotropy in a subsurface formation, wherein electromagnetic field data from a multi-offset electromagnetic survey obtained by using an electromagnetic source and a plurality of electromagnetic receivers at varying offset distances from the source is provided. The electromagnetic field data comprises a first set of multi-offset response signals received at each receiver with the electromagnetic source emitting at a first frequency, and at least one additional set of multi-offset response signals received at each receiver with the electromagnetic source emitting at a different frequency. The presence of electrical anisotropy in the subsurface formation is determined using the first and at least one additional sets of multi-offset response signals.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 1, 2008Publication date: March 3, 2011Inventor: Michael John Tompkins
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Publication number: 20110050232Abstract: A method that involves developing an electromagnetic property model of a near surface area and using this electromagnetic property model and electromagnetic data acquired using one or more electromagnetic transmitters located above the near surface area and one or more electromagnetic receivers located within a wellbore to determine one or more electromagnetic properties of a subsurface area. Also an electromagnetic data acquisition system that includes one or more electromagnetic transmitters capable of being operated on the earth's surface, one or more first electromagnetic receivers capable of being operated within a wellbore and capable of receiving signals from the one or more electromagnetic transmitters, and one or more second electromagnetic receivers capable of being located on the earth's surface near the one or more electromagnetic transmitters and capable of receiving signals from the one or more electromagnetic transmitters. Related embodiments are also described.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 5, 2010Publication date: March 3, 2011Applicant: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Michael Wilt, Garrett Kramer
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Patent number: 7898494Abstract: Location determination is performed using a transmitter including an elongated generally planar loop antenna defining an elongation axis. The elongation axis is positioned along at least a portion of a path. A magnetic field is then generated which approximates a dipole field. Certain characteristics of the magnetic field are then determined at a receiving position radially displaced from the antenna elongation axis. Using the determined certain characteristics, at least one orientation parameter is established which characterizes a positional relationship between the receiving position and the antenna on the path. The magnetic field may be transmitted as a monotone single phase signal. The orientation parameter may be a radial offset and/or an angular orientation between the receiving position and the antenna on the path. The antenna of the transmitter may be inserted into a first borehole to transmit the magnetic field to a receiver inserted into a second borehole.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2008Date of Patent: March 1, 2011Assignee: Merlin Technology, Inc.Inventors: Guenter W. Brune, John E. Mercer, Albert W. Chau, Rudolf Zeller
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Publication number: 20110006774Abstract: A system for monitoring movement in a subsurface environment, which may be used to determine flow dynamics within a fluid mass such as an ore body, or track subsurface persons or moving assets. A plurality of underground positioning system (UPS) elements in the subsurface environment transmit characteristic signals to a plurality of antennas, which transmit the signals to a data processing apparatus. The system thus determines changes in the positions of the UPS elements to derive an indication of the motion of the fluid mass or the locations and movement of subsurface persons or assets.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 23, 2008Publication date: January 13, 2011Applicant: Penguin Automated Systems ,Inc.Inventor: Greg Baiden
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Publication number: 20100286915Abstract: Electrical property contrast difference maps of the subsurface formations may be produced using surface and/or near surface array of transmitters and receivers tuned to emit and receive electromagnetic (EM) signals. The electrical property may be resistivity or conductivity. The maps may be time based. A time based trend change may be used to predict the location and movement of fluids within the hydrocarbon bearing or any other subsurface zones where resistivity and/or conductivity values of the fluids within these zones change over time.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 5, 2009Publication date: November 11, 2010Applicant: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Roger W. Fincher, Michael B. Rabinovich, Gregory B. Itskovich
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Patent number: 7825664Abstract: A wireline tool string used in a wellbore to determine formation properties is disclosed which comprises one or more transmitter tools disposed within the tool string, each transmitter tool having three linearly independent coils; a receiver tool disposed within the tool string, wherein the receiver tool has three linearly independent coils; and a tool string component disposed between the one or mole transmitter tools and the receiver tool; wherein the one or more transmitter tools are selectably spatially separated from the receiver tool along the tool string to provide a desired depth of investigation and measurements made using the one or more transmitter tools and receiver tool are used to determine formation properties.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2006Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Dean Homan, Edward Nichols, Michael Wilt, Jean Seydoux
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Publication number: 20100271029Abstract: This invention is directed toward an electromagnetic surveying method based on detection of induced polarization effect and evaluation of its characteristics for mapping marine hydrocarbon targets.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 15, 2008Publication date: October 28, 2010Inventors: Eduard B. Fainberg, Pavel Barsukov, Jostein Kare Kjerstad
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Patent number: 7822562Abstract: Method for removing air wave noise from shallow water controlled source electromagnetic survey data, using only the measured data and conductivity values for sea water (140) and air. The method is a calculation performed numerically on CSEM data and resulting in an estimate of those data that would have been acquired had the water layer extended infinitely upward from the seafloor. No properties of the sub-sea sediments are used. Synthetic electromagnetic field data are generated for (a) an all water model (141) and (b) an air-water model (146-147) of the survey region. These simulated results are then used to calculate (148-150) electromagnetic field values corresponding to a water-sediment model with water replacing the air half space, which represent measured data adjusted to remove air wave noise.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2007Date of Patent: October 26, 2010Assignee: ExxonMobil Upstream Research Co.Inventor: Willen E. Dennis
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Patent number: 7812608Abstract: An electromagnetic logging tool is disclosed that includes a support; and at least one four-coil array disposed on the support, wherein the at least one four-coil array comprises: a transmitter, a bucking coil, a receiver, and a trim coil. A method for balancing an induction array is disclosed that includes applying an alternating current to a transmitter of the induction array that comprises the transmitter, a bucking coil and a receiver; measuring a mutual coupling between the transmitter and the receiver; and adding an extra bucking coil, if the mutual coupling exceeds a selected criterion.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2009Date of Patent: October 12, 2010Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Andrei I. Davydychev, John F. Hunka, Thomas D. Barber, Scott S. Chesser, Bulent Finci, Jingjing Karen Sun, William B. Vandermeer, Richard D. Ward
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Patent number: 7786733Abstract: A resistivity array having a modular design includes a transmitter module with at least one antenna, wherein the transmitter module has connectors on both ends adapted to connect with other downhole tools; and a receiver module with at least one antenna, wherein the transmitter module has connectors on both ends adapted to connect with other downhole tools; and wherein the transmitter module and the receiver module are spaced apart on a drill string and separated by at least one downhole tool. Each transmitter and receiver module may comprise at least one antenna coil with a magnetic moment orientation not limited to the tool longitudinal direction. A spacing between the transmitter and receiver module may be selected based on expected reservoir thickness.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2005Date of Patent: August 31, 2010Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Jean Seydoux, Emmanuel Legendre, Reza Taherian
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Publication number: 20100201367Abstract: A method for electromagnetic surveying subsurface formations includes inducing an electromagnetic field in the subsurface formations by passing electric current through a transmitter. Response of the subsurface formations to the induced electromagnetic field is detected at a first plurality of spaced apart positions disposed longitudinally within a bipole length of the transmitter. A direct induction response is removed from the detected response.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 11, 2009Publication date: August 12, 2010Inventor: Antoni Marjan Ziolkowski
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Patent number: 7772849Abstract: A device rotates at least one static magnetic field about an axis, producing a rotating magnetic dipole field, and is movable in relation to the surface of the ground. The field is periodically sensed using a receiver to produce a receiver output responsive to the field. A positional relationship between the receiver and the device is monitored using the output. In one aspect, changing the positional relationship, by moving the device nearer to a boring tool which supports the receiver, causes an increase in accuracy of depth determination. In another aspect, determination of an actual overhead position of the boring tool, and its application, are described. Use of a plurality of measurements over at least one-half revolution of each magnet is disclosed. Establishing a surface radial direction toward a boring tool and resolution of multi-valued parameters is described. Calibration techniques, as well as a three transmitter configuration are also described.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2009Date of Patent: August 10, 2010Assignee: Merlin Technology, IncInventors: Rudolf Zeller, Guenter W. Brune, Albert W. Chau, John E. Mercer
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Patent number: 7759941Abstract: A ground conductivity meter that includes a transmitter coil and a receiver coil that are horizontally spaced apart from each other, and a conductivity meter controller connected to the transmitter and receiver coils and including an electronic storage element and at least one processor, the conductivity meter controller being operative to: determine a first conductivity reading in dependence on signals from the receiver coil when the transmitter coil and receiver coil are positioned a predetermined distance above a ground surface in one of a vertical dipole orientation or a horizontal dipole orientation; determine a second conductivity reading in dependence on signals from the receiver coil when the transmitter coil and receiver coil are positioned the predetermined distance above the ground surface in the other of the vertical dipole orientation or horizontal dipole orientation; calculate a correction factor in dependence on the first and second conductivity readings and store the correction factor in the sType: GrantFiled: February 7, 2008Date of Patent: July 20, 2010Assignee: Geonics LimitedInventor: Miroslav Bosnar
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Patent number: 7759940Abstract: In a multicomponent logging tool, a coil is electrically isolated by open circuiting another, substantially orthogonal coil.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2007Date of Patent: July 20, 2010Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Stanislav W. Forgang, Randy Gold, Luis M. Pelegri
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Publication number: 20100179762Abstract: An apparatus having transmitter and receiver antennas is provided for measuring conductivity of an earth formation surrounding a borehole. The apparatus utilizes an initial model to invert induction measurements of the earth formation to provide a conductivity model that includes a plurality of coaxial cylinders.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 12, 2009Publication date: July 15, 2010Applicant: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Leonty A. Tabarovsky, Michael S. Zhdanov, Mikhail I. Epov
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Patent number: 7755361Abstract: A modular downhole apparatus to determine a formation property, the apparatus being incorporated into a drill string comprising one or more downhole tools and drill pipe, the drill pipe being of the same or various lengths, the modular downhole apparatus comprising a first module having one or more antennas, wherein the first module has connectors on both ends adapted to connect with the drill string; and a second module having one or more antennas, wherein the second module has connectors on both ends adapted to connect with the drill string; wherein the first module and the second module are spaced apart on the drill string; and wherein one or more of the one or more antennas of one or both of the modules has a dipole moment that is tilted or transverse.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2007Date of Patent: July 13, 2010Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Jean Seydoux, Emmanuel Legendre, Reza Taherian
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Publication number: 20100171501Abstract: To perform marine electromagnetic (EM) surveying of a subterranean structure, a marine cable system is provided including a tow cable, a plurality of electromagnetic (EM) sources coupled to the tow cable, and a plurality of EM receivers coupled to the tow cable. The system is configured for deployment in a body of water to perform marine EM surveying of a subterranean structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 7, 2009Publication date: July 8, 2010Inventors: David L. Alumbaugh, Guozhong Gao, Tarek M. Habashy, Frank H. Morrison, Michael Oristaglio, Kambiz Safinya, Andrea Zerilli
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Publication number: 20100148783Abstract: A marine electromagnetic sensor cable includes a plurality of sensor modules disposed at spaced apart locations along a cable. Each module includes at least one pair of electrodes associated therewith. The electrodes are arranged to measure electric field in a direction along the direction of the cable. A plurality of spaced apart magnetic field sensors is associated with each module and arranged to enable determining an electric field amplitude in a direction transverse to the direction of the cable from magnetic field gradient.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 23, 2010Publication date: June 17, 2010Applicant: KJT ENTERPRISES, INC.Inventors: Kurt M. STRACK, Stefan L. HELWIG
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Publication number: 20100134110Abstract: A method for removing the effects of an airwave from marine electromagnetic data comprising providing an electromagnetic source and at least one receiver in the water; measuring the electromagnetic response at a first source-receiver separation; determining a scaled version of the airwave response at a source-receiver separation where the earth response is negligible and using the scaled airwave response to determine the earth response measured at the first separation. Using this method, an improved estimate of the earth's response can be achieved.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 11, 2008Publication date: June 3, 2010Inventor: Antoni Ziolkowski
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Publication number: 20100109671Abstract: A method for acquiring transient electromagnetic survey signals includes applying a transient electric current to an electromagnetic transmitter disposed above a portion of the Earth's subsurface to be surveyed. Electromagnetic signals are detected at spaced apart locations above the portion of the subsurface in response to an electromagnetic field induced in the Earth's subsurface by the applying transient current. Electromagnetic signals are detected at least one position proximate a position of the electromagnetic transmitter such that the subsurface transient response is substantially always identifiable therefrom.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 3, 2008Publication date: May 6, 2010Inventor: Bruce Alan Hobbs
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Publication number: 20100102821Abstract: A survey technique for use in a marine environment to survey a subterranean structure includes providing an arrangement of plural signal sources in a body of water to produce corresponding signals. The signals of the signal sources in the arrangement are set to cause reduction of at least one predetermined signal component in data received by a receiver in response to the signals.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 31, 2009Publication date: April 29, 2010Inventors: DAVID L. ALUMBAUGH, Jiuping Chen, Kevin Eyl, Stephen A. Horne, Edward Nichols
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Publication number: 20100102820Abstract: A method for determining orientation of an electromagnetic survey sensor includes deploying the sensor at a selected position on the bottom of a body of water. An electromagnetic field is generated at a selected position in the body of water. A portion of the electromagnetic field is detected along at least two orthogonal directions at the sensor. A portion of the detected electromagnetic field is selected as having traveled only in a vertical plane which includes both source position and sensor position. The polarization direction of the selected portion of the electromagnetic field is determined from the selected portion. The determined polarization direction is used to determine the sensor orientation.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 23, 2008Publication date: April 29, 2010Applicant: KJT ENTERPRISES, INC.Inventors: Yardenia Martinez, Norman C. Allegar, Leon A. Thomsen, Charles Stoyer
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Publication number: 20100090701Abstract: A method for estimating the effects of an airwave in marine electromagnetic data measured using a source and at least one receiver. The method involves measuring the electromagnetic response at two different under water source-receiver separations and using measurements at the larger separation to estimate the airwave response at that separation. The airwave effect in the response measured at the shorter separation can then be determined using the estimated airwave response at the larger separation.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 28, 2007Publication date: April 15, 2010Inventor: Anton Ziolkowski
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Patent number: 7692429Abstract: A detector for underwater electromagnetic surveying is described. The detector comprises first, second, third and fourth electrodes which are arranged to define first, second and third electric dipole antennae extending between pairs of the electrodes. Each dipole antennae extends between a pair of the electrodes and the fourth electrode is common to all three dipole antennae. Thus the first electrode is separated from the fourth electrode along a first direction to provide the first dipole antenna, the second electrode is separated from the fourth electrode along a second direction to provide the second dipole antenna, and the third electrode is separated from the fourth electrode along a third direction to provide the third dipole antenna. The electrodes are arranged so that the first, second and third directions are inclined at an angle of between 20 and 70 degrees to a surface on which the detector rests when in normal use.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2008Date of Patent: April 6, 2010Assignee: OHM LimitedInventors: Lucy MacGregor, David Charles Newall Pratt, Jonathan Harvey Nicholls, Martin C. Sinha
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Publication number: 20100082254Abstract: Systems and methods of enhancing crude oil recovery include radiating electromagnetic energy in the form of focused electromagnetic pulses into a permeable formation containing the crude oil and/or fluid via an array of antennae transmitting immediately in the far field. The electromagnetic pulses are focused at the depth of the fluid reservoir. Pulses will be reflected by the fluid according to the fluid material (e.g. oil vs. water) and/or the strata (e.g. rock, sand, etc.). An array of receiver antennae may be used to initially establish a reference of the reflected electromagnetic pattern, and then operated in conjunction with the transmit array to monitor the relative horizontal movement of oil and/or water within the subterranean reservoir.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 21, 2009Publication date: April 1, 2010Applicant: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventors: Vincent BENISCHEK, Michael CURRIE, Rajneeta BASANTKUMAR, Gennady LYASKO
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Publication number: 20100073001Abstract: An array of electromagnetic receiver antennae is arranged and operated in conjunction with the operation of an array of far field electromagnetic transmitter antennae for mapping subsurface features of an existing well site reservoir. Mapping is performed according to the relative intensities, frequencies, phase shifts, and/or other reflected signal parameters of the reflections received by the receiver antennae (relative to the transmit signals) associated with a given location or target area within a reservoir so as to aid in determining the geological features about an oil deposit for an existing oil well.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2009Publication date: March 25, 2010Applicant: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventors: VINCENT BENISCHEK, Michael CURRIE, Rajneeta BASANTKUMAR, Gennady LYASKO
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Patent number: 7681831Abstract: A suspension net is provided for distributing tension forces from a tow rope to an electromagnetic bird used for geophysical surveying. The suspension net allows large transmitter loop sizes, and the net structure generally avoids rope confusions that can occur during lift-up.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2006Date of Patent: March 23, 2010Assignee: Geotech Airborne LimitedInventor: Petr Valentinovich Kuzmin
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Patent number: 7679366Abstract: An electromagnetic logging tool includes a support configured for disposal in a well; at least one antenna mounted on the support; and a plurality of coils mounted on the support proximate the at least one antenna, wherein the plurality of the coils are configured for selective connection with the at least one antenna. A methods for balancing an induction array on an electromagnetic logging tool includes measuring a mutual coupling between a transmitter and a receiver on the electromagnetic logging tool; and selectively connecting a subset of a plurality of coils on the electromagnetic logging tool to the transmitter or the receiver based on the measured mutual coupling.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2008Date of Patent: March 16, 2010Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Scott S. Chesser, Richard D. Ward, Bulent Finci, Andrei I. Davydychev, William B. Vandermeer, John F. Hunka
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Patent number: 7679367Abstract: A method of electromagnetic surveying of an area of seafloor that is thought or known to contain a subterranean hydrocarbon reservoir is described. The method includes broadcasting an EM signal from a horizontal electric dipole (HED) transmitter and obtaining vertical electric dipole (VED) response data at a remote receiver in response thereto. Survey data are analyzed by comparing the VED response data with background data which are not sensitive to the postulated hydrocarbon reservoir. Accordingly, differences between the VED response data and the background data allow for the identification of buried hydrocarbon reservoirs. The background data may be provided by magneto-telluric surveying, controlled source electromagnetic surveying or from direct geophysical measurement.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2008Date of Patent: March 16, 2010Assignee: OHM LimitedInventors: Lucy M. MacGregor, Martin C. Sinha
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Publication number: 20100060286Abstract: Apparatus and method for a steerable horizontal electric dipole source system for underwater deployment as a moving source in electromagnetic surveying of subsurface regions for hydrocarbons. Position locating sensors (195) are placed near each electrode (26, 27), and means (197, 198) are provided for correcting the electrodes to be at the same elevation with azimuth aligned with the source tow line (11) and the electrode mid-point positioned over the source tow line, based on instantaneous location information from the sensors. The streamer (28) connecting the electrodes may also be monitored for shape by sensors, with corrections made by lateral and vertical control means disclosed herein. The invention can be applied to any marine streamer used in geophysical surveys, including a towed streamer (191) of electromagnetic or seismic receivers (192).Type: ApplicationFiled: May 18, 2007Publication date: March 11, 2010Applicant: EXXON-MOBIL UPSTREAM RESEARCH COMPANYInventors: Philip J. Summerfield, Brian J. Fielding, Larry S. Gale
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Patent number: 7675289Abstract: A system for detection of linear underground anomalies passing under surface roads comprises an electromagnetic (EM) gradiometer mounted on a vehicle trailer. A transmitter is mounted to the front bumper of a car or vehicle towing the trailer and provides carrier synchronization information to the EM-gradiometer. An opportunistic radio station can be used as an illuminator. The transmitter or ground wave from an opportunistic radio station directs radio waves down into the ground where objects like linear underground anomalies and their equipment will produce reflections and scattered waves. These reflections will have phase angles and magnitudes that can be interpreted for characterizing information about the linear underground anomalies. Each EM-gradiometer measurement is tagged with GPS location information and then stored in a database. Subsequent passes over the same roadways and tracks are compared (change detection) to the earlier stored data.Type: GrantFiled: July 4, 2009Date of Patent: March 9, 2010Assignee: Stolar, Inc.Inventors: Larry G. Stolarczyk, Tito Sanchez, Gerald Stolarczyk, Beaux Beard, Eduardo Bonnin, Ernest Salazar, John Myers, Chance Valentine, Robert Troublefield, John Howard
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Patent number: 7675290Abstract: A method of electromagnetic surveying of an area of seafloor that is thought or known to contain a subterranean hydrocarbon reservoir is described. The method includes broadcasting an EM signal from a horizontal electric dipole (HED) transmitter and obtaining vertical electric dipole (VED) response data at a remote receiver in response thereto. Survey data are analyzed by comparing the VED response data with background data which are not sensitive to the postulated hydrocarbon reservoir. Accordingly, differences between the VED response data and the background data allow for the identification of buried hydrocarbon reservoirs. The background data may be provided by magneto-telluric surveying, controlled source electromagnetic surveying or from direct geophysical measurement.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2008Date of Patent: March 9, 2010Assignee: OHM LimitedInventors: Lucy M. MacGregor, Martin C. Sinha
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Publication number: 20100052688Abstract: A method of determining the nature of subterranean strata. The transmitter antenna is towed by vessel at a distance h above the sea floor. The antenna omits a wave field whose strength is proportional to the current delivered to the antenna and this is monitored. The input voltage to the antenna is also measured and changes in antenna impedance are calculated. Changes in antenna impedance are used together with seismic information to determine the nature of the subsea strata.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 9, 2007Publication date: March 4, 2010Applicant: ELECTROMAGNETIC GEOSERVICES ASInventor: Tor Schaug-Pettersen
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Publication number: 20100045295Abstract: A method of producing a survey report on the presence and nature of a subterranean strata: includes simultaneously towing an EM field transmitter and a seismic source behind a vessel, towing at least one streamer behind the vessel, said streamer or streamers having EM field receivers for measuring an electric field and seismic receivers for measuring a seismic response, applying an EM field to the strata using the EM field transmitter and detecting an EM field response using the EM field receivers, applying a seismic event to the strata using the seismic source and detecting the seismic response using the seismic receivers, analysing the EM field response, analysing the seismic responses and reconciling the EM field response and the seismic response to produce the survey report.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 13, 2007Publication date: February 25, 2010Applicant: ELECTROMAGNETIC GEOSERVICES ASAInventors: Rune Mittet, Hans-Roger Jensen, Frank A. Maao, Svein Ellingsrud
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Patent number: 7659721Abstract: A method of electromagnetic surveying of an area of seafloor that is thought or known to contain a subterranean hydrocarbon reservoir is described. The method includes broadcasting an EM signal from a horizontal electric dipole (HED) transmitter and obtaining vertical electric dipole (VED) response data at a remote receiver in response thereto. Survey data are analysed by comparing the VED response data with background data which are not sensitive to the postulated hydrocarbon reservoir. Accordingly, differences between the VED response data and the background data allow for the identification of buried hydrocarbon reservoirs. The background data may be provided by magneto-telluric surveying, controlled source electromagnetic surveying or from direct geophysical measurement.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2004Date of Patent: February 9, 2010Assignee: OHM LimitedInventors: Lucy M. MacGregor, Martin C. Sinha
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Publication number: 20100017133Abstract: A method for reducing effect of motion on electromagnetic signals detected while moving an electromagnetic receiver through a body of water includes measuring a parameter related to an amount of current passed through an electromagnetic transmitter to induce an electromagnetic field in subsurface formations. A magnetic field proximate the electromagnetic receiver is measured. A transmitter portion of the measured magnetic field is estimated from the measured parameter. A motion portion of the measured magnetic field is estimated from the measured magnetic field and the estimated transmitter portion. A voltage induced in the receiver is estimated from the estimated motion portion. Signals detected by the receiver are corrected using the estimated voltage.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 17, 2008Publication date: January 21, 2010Inventors: Antoni Marjan Ziolkowski, Richard Graeme Carson
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Patent number: 7640110Abstract: A method of determining the nature of a submarine or subterranean reservoir having an electromagnetic characteristic is described. The method comprises analyzing data associated with the application of a time varying electromagnetic field from above the reservoir using a data analysis methodology that does not utilize an estimate of the reservoir's geometry in determining one or more characteristics of the reservoir.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2007Date of Patent: December 29, 2009Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Aria Abubakar, Tarek M. Habashy, Vladimir Druskin, David Lee Alumbaugh