With Separate Pickup Patents (Class 324/334)
  • Patent number: 8063642
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: MTEM Ltd
    Inventor: Antoni Marjan Ziolkowski
  • Publication number: 20110279120
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2010
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Inventors: Gustav Göran Mattias Südow, Ulf Peter Lindqvist, Andras Robert Juhasz, Carl Joel Gustav Skogman
  • Publication number: 20110273179
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2010
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventor: Gustav Göran Mattias Südow
  • Patent number: 8035392
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Gregory B. Itskovich, Arcady Reiderman
  • Patent number: 8030934
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Advanced Hydrocarbon Mapping AS
    Inventors: Pavel Barsukov, Eduard B. Fainberg, Bension Sh. Singer
  • Publication number: 20110210742
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2009
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Inventor: Jostein Kåre Kjerstad
  • Patent number: 7991553
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: David Alumbaugh, Ping Zhang, Edward Nichols, Frank Morrison, Aria Abubakar, Tarek Habashy
  • Publication number: 20110148421
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2009
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicant: Geotech Airborne Limited
    Inventors: Petr Valentinovich Kuzmin, Edward Beverly Morrison
  • Patent number: 7960973
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: Merlin Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Rudolf Zeller, Guenter W. Brune, Albert W. Chau, John E. Mercer
  • Publication number: 20110121835
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2011
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Inventors: Guenter W. Brune, John E. Mercer, Albert W. Chau, Rudolf Zeller
  • Patent number: 7949470
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: WesternGeco L.L.C.
    Inventors: David Alumbaugh, Jiuping Chen, Kevin Eyl, Stephen Allan Horne, Edward Nichols
  • Patent number: 7924013
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Jean Seydoux, Emmanuel Legendre, Reza Taherian
  • Patent number: 7924014
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: OHM Limited
    Inventors: Lucy M. MacGregor, Martin C. Sinha
  • Publication number: 20110050231
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2008
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Inventor: Michael John Tompkins
  • Publication number: 20110050232
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2010
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Applicant: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Wilt, Garrett Kramer
  • Patent number: 7898494
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Merlin Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Guenter W. Brune, John E. Mercer, Albert W. Chau, Rudolf Zeller
  • Publication number: 20110006774
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Publication date: January 13, 2011
    Applicant: Penguin Automated Systems ,Inc.
    Inventor: Greg Baiden
  • Publication number: 20100286915
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2009
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Roger W. Fincher, Michael B. Rabinovich, Gregory B. Itskovich
  • Patent number: 7825664
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Dean Homan, Edward Nichols, Michael Wilt, Jean Seydoux
  • Publication number: 20100271029
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2008
    Publication date: October 28, 2010
    Inventors: Eduard B. Fainberg, Pavel Barsukov, Jostein Kare Kjerstad
  • Patent number: 7822562
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: ExxonMobil Upstream Research Co.
    Inventor: Willen E. Dennis
  • Patent number: 7812608
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Andrei I. Davydychev, John F. Hunka, Thomas D. Barber, Scott S. Chesser, Bulent Finci, Jingjing Karen Sun, William B. Vandermeer, Richard D. Ward
  • Patent number: 7786733
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Jean Seydoux, Emmanuel Legendre, Reza Taherian
  • Publication number: 20100201367
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2009
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Inventor: Antoni Marjan Ziolkowski
  • Patent number: 7772849
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Merlin Technology, Inc
    Inventors: Rudolf Zeller, Guenter W. Brune, Albert W. Chau, John E. Mercer
  • Patent number: 7759941
    Abstract: 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 s
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: Geonics Limited
    Inventor: Miroslav Bosnar
  • Patent number: 7759940
    Abstract: In a multicomponent logging tool, a coil is electrically isolated by open circuiting another, substantially orthogonal coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Stanislav W. Forgang, Randy Gold, Luis M. Pelegri
  • Publication number: 20100179762
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2009
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Leonty A. Tabarovsky, Michael S. Zhdanov, Mikhail I. Epov
  • Patent number: 7755361
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Jean Seydoux, Emmanuel Legendre, Reza Taherian
  • Publication number: 20100171501
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2009
    Publication date: July 8, 2010
    Inventors: David L. Alumbaugh, Guozhong Gao, Tarek M. Habashy, Frank H. Morrison, Michael Oristaglio, Kambiz Safinya, Andrea Zerilli
  • Publication number: 20100148783
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2010
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Applicant: KJT ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Kurt M. STRACK, Stefan L. HELWIG
  • Publication number: 20100134110
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2008
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Inventor: Antoni Ziolkowski
  • Publication number: 20100109671
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2008
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Inventor: Bruce Alan Hobbs
  • Publication number: 20100102821
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2009
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Inventors: DAVID L. ALUMBAUGH, Jiuping Chen, Kevin Eyl, Stephen A. Horne, Edward Nichols
  • Publication number: 20100102820
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2008
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Applicant: KJT ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Yardenia Martinez, Norman C. Allegar, Leon A. Thomsen, Charles Stoyer
  • Publication number: 20100090701
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2007
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Inventor: Anton Ziolkowski
  • Patent number: 7692429
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: OHM Limited
    Inventors: Lucy MacGregor, David Charles Newall Pratt, Jonathan Harvey Nicholls, Martin C. Sinha
  • Publication number: 20100082254
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Publication date: April 1, 2010
    Applicant: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Vincent BENISCHEK, Michael CURRIE, Rajneeta BASANTKUMAR, Gennady LYASKO
  • Publication number: 20100073001
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2009
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Applicant: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: VINCENT BENISCHEK, Michael CURRIE, Rajneeta BASANTKUMAR, Gennady LYASKO
  • Patent number: 7681831
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: Geotech Airborne Limited
    Inventor: Petr Valentinovich Kuzmin
  • Patent number: 7679366
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Scott S. Chesser, Richard D. Ward, Bulent Finci, Andrei I. Davydychev, William B. Vandermeer, John F. Hunka
  • Patent number: 7679367
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: OHM Limited
    Inventors: Lucy M. MacGregor, Martin C. Sinha
  • Publication number: 20100060286
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2007
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Applicant: EXXON-MOBIL UPSTREAM RESEARCH COMPANY
    Inventors: Philip J. Summerfield, Brian J. Fielding, Larry S. Gale
  • Patent number: 7675289
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Stolar, Inc.
    Inventors: Larry G. Stolarczyk, Tito Sanchez, Gerald Stolarczyk, Beaux Beard, Eduardo Bonnin, Ernest Salazar, John Myers, Chance Valentine, Robert Troublefield, John Howard
  • Patent number: 7675290
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: OHM Limited
    Inventors: Lucy M. MacGregor, Martin C. Sinha
  • Publication number: 20100052688
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2007
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: ELECTROMAGNETIC GEOSERVICES AS
    Inventor: Tor Schaug-Pettersen
  • Publication number: 20100045295
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2007
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Applicant: ELECTROMAGNETIC GEOSERVICES ASA
    Inventors: Rune Mittet, Hans-Roger Jensen, Frank A. Maao, Svein Ellingsrud
  • Patent number: 7659721
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: OHM Limited
    Inventors: Lucy M. MacGregor, Martin C. Sinha
  • Publication number: 20100017133
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2008
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventors: Antoni Marjan Ziolkowski, Richard Graeme Carson
  • Patent number: 7640110
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Aria Abubakar, Tarek M. Habashy, Vladimir Druskin, David Lee Alumbaugh