To Detect Return Wave Signals Patents (Class 324/337)
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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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Patent number: 7664603Abstract: A method of analyzing an electromagnetic wavefield includes the steps of measuring the electric and magnetic fields at at least one receiver, formulating a respective spatial domain filter in respect of each of mutually orthogonal components of each of the electric and magnetic fields, and applying the filters to the measured acquired data to decompose the wavefield into upgoing and downgoing components.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2005Date of Patent: February 16, 2010Assignee: Statoil ASAInventors: Tage Røsten, Lasse Amundsen
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Patent number: 7659722Abstract: Systems and methods for performing bed boundary detection and azimuthal resistivity logging with a single tool are disclosed. Some method embodiments include logging a borehole with an azimuthally-sensitive resistivity logging tool; deriving both a resistivity log and a boundary detection signal from measurements provided by said tool; and displaying at least one of the boundary detection signal and the resistivity log. The resistivity log measurements may be compensated logs, i.e., logs derived from measurements by one or more symmetric transmitter-receiver arrangements. Though symmetric arrangements can also serve as the basis for the boundary detection signal, a greater depth of investigation can be obtained with an asymmetric arrangement. Hence the boundary detection signal may be uncompensated.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2007Date of Patent: February 9, 2010Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventor: Michael S. Bittar
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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: 20100019770Abstract: An electromagnetic geological metrology system comprises: (a) a transmitter arrangement for generating outbound radiation towards a geological formation; (b) a receiver arrangement for receiving reflected electromagnetic radiation reflected from the geological formation and generating corresponding one or more received signals; and (c) a data processing arrangement for processing the one or more received signals, The system is distinguished in that: (d) the transmitter arrangement includes an antenna arrangement coupled via a switching arrangement to an energy storage arrangement; and (e) the switching arrangement is operable to discharge energy stored in the energy storage arrangement for generating the outbound radiation.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 23, 2008Publication date: January 28, 2010Inventor: Tom Roger HANSEN
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Publication number: 20100013485Abstract: A system to perform a marine subterranean survey includes at least one vertical electromagnetic (EM) source and at least one EM receiver to measure a response of a subterranean structure that is responsive to EM signals produced by the vertical EM source. At least one tow cable is used to tow the EM source and EM receiver through a body of water.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 16, 2008Publication date: January 21, 2010Inventors: David L. Alumbaugh, Andrea Zerilli, H. Frank Morrison, Martin Howlid, James P. Brady, Leendert Combee, Edward Nichols, Nestor Cuevas
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Publication number: 20100013486Abstract: A method for measuring the electromagnetic response of formations below the bottom of a body of water includes positioning at least one electromagnetic transmitter and at least one electromagnetic receiver in the body of water each at a selected depth below the water surface. A transient electric current is passed through the at least one transmitter. An electromagnetic signal is detected at the at least one electromagnetic receiver. The depths are selected so that substantially all electromagnetic response to the current passed through the transmitter from the air above the body of water in the detected electromagnetic signal occurs before the beginning of a response originating in the formations below the water bottom.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 15, 2008Publication date: January 21, 2010Inventors: Antoni Marjan Ziolkowski, David Allan Wright
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Publication number: 20090302850Abstract: The instrument utilizes at least one electromagnetic signal transmitter and at least one electromagnetic signal receiver with the receiver detecting a receiver signal responsive to the transmitter signal and indicative of subterranean details adjacent to the instrument. The instrument is attachable to a tow vehicle for transport and includes a GPS antenna and tags data gathered by the instrument with GPS position information. The instrument is formed- in modular sections which can be removably attached for collapsing into a smaller space and to allow for flexible configuration of the instrument in various different ways. A wheeled carriage is provided to carry the instrument over the ground. Antennas for the transmitter and receiver, as well as circuitry and cooling systems are all provided to supply the instrument with high resolution and a clear signal indicative of the position and characteristics of subterranean details of interest.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 24, 2008Publication date: December 10, 2009Inventors: John A. Lopez, Ingo Cyliax, Michael Caisse, Darrell R. Word, Rod Sorenson
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Patent number: 7629790Abstract: A system for the electronic detection of military threats includes an electromagnetic (EM) gradiometer for detecting secondary EM waves scattered from objects illuminated by a primary EM wave existent in a local area. A right magnetic dipole antenna and a left magnetic dipole antenna are included in the EM gradiometer for receiving the secondary EM waves and able to reject the primary EM wave. A synchronizer derives a reference signal to the EM gradiometer from the primary EM wave. A synchronous detection processor makes measurements of the phase and amplitude of the secondary EM waves. A graphical user interface (GUI) is used to display information about the location of objects assessed to be threats in the local area that were computed from the measurements of the phase and amplitude. A vehicle may be used to transport the EM gradiometer over the local area during periods the objects are being radio illuminated.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2007Date of Patent: December 8, 2009Assignee: Stolar, IncInventors: Larry G. Stolarczyk, Igor Bausov, Richard B. Main
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Publication number: 20090267608Abstract: A method for determining electrical properties of a submarine petroleum fluid-bearing formation (1) under overburden geological layers (2) of thickness (s) under a seafloor (3) of a sea (4), said method comprising the following steps: arranging one or more transmitter antennas (9) in said sea (4), and arranging one or more electromagnetic receivers (8) in said sea (4), said sea having a shallow sea depth (d) of 50-350 meters; using said transmitter antenna (9) transmitting electromagnetic signals (10) of one or more pulses (11) having frequency of very low frequency between 0.01 Hz and 0.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 9, 2006Publication date: October 29, 2009Inventors: Svein Erling Johnstad, Brian Anthony Farrelly
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Publication number: 20090243617Abstract: A method for electromagnetic geophysical surveying of rock formations (1) under a sea-floor (3) comprising the following steps: * —towing first and second alternating field (E1, E2) emitting sources (s1, S2) in first and second depths below the sea surface, said first field (E1) having a first phase (?1); —said second alternating field (E2) given a second phase (?2) different from said first phase (?1), said sources (S1, S2) constituting a phased array emitter antenna with directivity for transmitting a major proportion of the combined electromagnetic energy downwards; —said first and second fields (E1, E2) for propagating partly down through the sea-floor (3) and being reflected and/or refracted through said rock formations (1) and partly propagating back through the seafloor (3); —said first and said second fields (E1, E2) for merging to a total field and being measured by electromagnetic receivers (r1, r2, . . . , rn) recording corresponding field registrations (Er1(t), Er2(t), Er3(t), . . . , Ern(t)).Type: ApplicationFiled: May 16, 2007Publication date: October 1, 2009Inventors: Brian Anthony Farrelly, Svein Erling Johnstad
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Patent number: 7586309Abstract: A device for guiding energy in a subsurface electromagnetic measuring system is provided, the device including a transmitting member for transmitting an electromagnetic signal into a subsurface medium, an energy-guiding member disposed in magnetic communication with the electromagnetic signal, and a receiving member for receiving a return signal induced from the subsurface medium. A method of guiding energy in a subsurface measuring system is also provided, the method including transmitting an electromagnetic signal into a subsurface medium, modifying the electromagnetic signal using a magnetic field, and then receiving a modified return signal induced from the medium using a receiving member.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2005Date of Patent: September 8, 2009Assignee: Baker Hughes, Inc.Inventors: Stanislav Forgang, Randy Gold
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Patent number: 7579839Abstract: A real time electronic metal detector including a magnetic transmitter (1) and a receiver (3), wherein the receiver includes approximate sine-wave weighted synchronous demodulation and a switched voltage signal is applied to the magnetic transmitter and the said receiver approximate sine-wave weighted synchronous demodulation is selected to receive synchronously with the switched voltage signal, such that the switched voltage signal and the receiver approximate sine-wave weighted synchronous demodulation may be altered by means of operator selection.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2005Date of Patent: August 25, 2009Assignee: Minelab Electronics Pty LimitedInventor: Bruce Halcro Candy
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Patent number: 7567869Abstract: Measurements made with an induction logging tool are processed to provide a resistivity model of fluid invasion of the formation. Up to five zones can be determined over a radial distance of about 0.6 m. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2007Date of Patent: July 28, 2009Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Marina N. Nikitenko, Leonty A. Tabarovsky, Mikhail I. Epov
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Patent number: 7567084Abstract: A system for investigating subterranean strata. An electromagnetic field and a seismic event are applied from the same location and the responses are detected using respective receivers both located at a second location spaced from the first. The responses are combined to identify the presence and/or nature of subterranean reservoir. The refracted wave components are used.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2004Date of Patent: July 28, 2009Assignee: Electromagnetic Geoservices ASInventors: Terje Eidesmo, Svein Ellingsrud, Anders Farestveit, Sylvia Sandra Pettersen, legal representative, Stale Johansen, Hans Magne Pedersen
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Patent number: 7557579Abstract: This invention is directed to a downhole method and apparatus for simultaneously determining the horizontal resistivity, vertical resistivity, and relative dip angle for anisotropic earth formations. The present invention accomplishes this objective by using an antenna configuration in which a transmitter antenna and a receiver antenna are oriented in non-parallel planes such that the vertical resistivity and the relative dip angle are decoupled. Preferably, either the transmitter or the receiver is mounted in a conventional orientation in a first plane that is normal to the tool axis, and the other antenna is mounted in a second plane that is not parallel to the first plane. Although this invention is primarily intended for MWD or LWD applications, this invention is also applicable to wireline and possibly other applications.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2008Date of Patent: July 7, 2009Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventor: Michael S. Bittar
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Patent number: 7557580Abstract: This invention is directed to a downhole method and apparatus for simultaneously determining the horizontal resistivity, vertical resistivity, and relative dip angle for anisotropic earth formations. The present invention accomplishes this objective by using an antenna configuration in which a transmitter antenna and a receiver antenna are oriented in non-parallel planes such that the vertical resistivity and the relative dip angle are decoupled. Preferably, either the transmitter or the receiver is mounted in a conventional orientation in a first plane that is normal to the tool axis, and the other antenna is mounted in a second plane that is not parallel to the first plane. This invention also relates to a method and apparatus for steering a downhole tool during a drilling operation in order to maintain the borehole within a desired earth formation.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2008Date of Patent: July 7, 2009Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventor: Michael S. Bittar
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Patent number: 7542851Abstract: A method of analyzing results from an underwater controlled source electromagnetic (CSEM) survey of an area that is thought or known to contain a subterranean hydrocarbon reservoir is described. The method is based on a wavefield extrapolation of narrow-band electromagnetic field data obtained from pairs of source and receiver locations. The data comprise a plurality of discrete frequencies between 0.01 Hz and 60 Hz. The wavefield extrapolation is performed for each of these discrete frequencies to provide distributions of electromagnetic scattering coefficient as a function of position and depth beneath the survey area. These distributions may then be combined to provide a displayable image of electromagnetic scattering coefficient. The method is able to quickly provide a displayable image that is readily interpretable.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2007Date of Patent: June 2, 2009Assignee: OHM LimitedInventor: Michael Tompkins
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Apparatus using continuous-wave radiation for detecting and locating targets hidden behind a surface
Patent number: 7535407Abstract: Continuous-wave radiation is used to detect a target hidden behind a surface. In an embodiment, a transmitter directs a beam of continuous-wave microwave radiation from a transmitting location, and reflected radiation from the target is received at first and second receiving locations closer to the surface than the transmitting location. The transmitting and receiving locations have spatial relationships such that the phase of reflected radiation received at one receiving location is in quadrature with the phase of reflected radiation received at the other receiving location. In an embodiment, direct transmitted radiation is received at the receiving locations in quadrature.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2008Date of Patent: May 19, 2009Assignee: Prairielands Energy Marketing, Inc.Inventors: Paul A. Cloutier, Delbert R. Oehme -
Publication number: 20090108845Abstract: A system and method for detecting and processing electromagnetic signals from seismic activity, wherein the system and method includes an antenna configured to receive electromagnetic signals. The antenna includes a coiled electrical conduit having a length equal to about the diameter of the Earth. The antenna also includes a plurality of center taps disposed about critical resonant frequencies of a compound or element. The system and method also includes a signal processing module in communication with the antenna and configured to receive and process electromagnetic signals. The system and method further includes a impulse generation device configured to generate seismic activity. Furthermore, the system and method includes a control module in communication with the signal processing module and the impulse generation module and configured to provide instruction signals to each.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 23, 2008Publication date: April 30, 2009Inventor: Michael Kaminski
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Patent number: 7504829Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for controlled source electromagnetic surveying. In particular, a time-varying electromagnetic signal is transmitted at a first location, and an electromagnetic signal responsive to the transmitted signal is received at a second location, wherein the received signal includes a transient response component and a steady-state component. The received signal is continuously recorded during a predetermined time interval, and data corresponding to the transient response component and the steady-state component are extracted from the received signal. The transient response data and the steady-state response data are jointly inverted to identify a subsurface feature, such as resistivity.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2006Date of Patent: March 17, 2009Assignee: WesternGeco L.L.C.Inventor: Michael D. Watts
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Publication number: 20090058422Abstract: An electromagnetic survey sensing device includes at least two electrodes disposed at spaced apart locations. An electrical to optical converter is electrically coupled to the at least two electrodes. The converter is configured to change a property of light from a source in response to voltage imparted across the at least two electrodes. The device includes an optical fiber optically coupled to an output of the electrical to optical converter, the optical fiber in optical communication with a detector.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 4, 2007Publication date: March 5, 2009Inventors: Stig Rune Tenghamn, Steven J. Maas
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Patent number: 7482969Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention provides several electromagnetic radiation reflectors within a volume that contains solid portions subject to movement relative to one another. At least a portion of the reflectors are positioned beneath one or more of the solid portions and move in response to movement of at least some of the solid portions. The volume is irradiated with electromagnetic radiation having one or more frequencies in a range from one kHz through one THz, and a reflection is detected of at least a portion of the electromagnetic radiation from each of the reflectors in response to this irradiation. Movement among the solid objects is evaluated from the reflection of each of the reflectors, which includes determining a spatial orientation of each one of the reflectors as a function of at least one of polarization selectivity and frequency selectivity.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2006Date of Patent: January 27, 2009Assignee: Board of Trustees of the University of IllinoisInventors: Gregory Hilding Huff, Jennifer T. Bernhard, Susan Hagness, Debra Laefer
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Publication number: 20080290873Abstract: Sensor assemblies including transmitter and receiver antennas to respectively transmit or receive electromagnetic energy. The sensor assemblies are disposed in downhole tools adapted for subsurface disposal. The receiver is disposed at a distance less than six inches (15 cm) from the transmitter on the sensor body. The sensor transmitter or receiver includes an antenna with its axis tilted with respect to the axis of the downhole tool. A sensor includes a tri-axial system of antennas. Another sensor includes a cross-dipole antenna system.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 22, 2007Publication date: November 27, 2008Inventors: Dean M. Homan, Dzevat Omeragic, Tianhua Zhang, Nicolas Sebline
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Publication number: 20080290874Abstract: A method for determining reservoir formation properties that consists of exciting the reservoir formation with an electromagnetic exciting field, measuring an electromagnetic signal produced by the electromagnetic exciting field in the reservoir formation, extracting from the measured electromagnetic signal a spectral complex resistivity as a function of frequency, fitting the spectral complex resistivity with an induced polarization model and deducing the reservoir formation properties from the fitting with the induced polarization model.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 22, 2008Publication date: November 27, 2008Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventors: Nikita Seleznev, Tarek Habashy, Austin Boyd
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Patent number: 7456632Abstract: A method for monitoring a high-resistivity reservoir rock formation (2) below one or more less resistive formations (3). The method includes transmitting an electromagnetic signal (S) propagating from near a seafloor or land surface (1) by means of an electromagnetic transmitter (5) powered by a voltage signal generator (G). The electromagnetic signal (S) propagates from the seafloor (1) and is guided along a conductive string (7) to the high-resistive formation (2), and propagates as a guided-wave electromagnetic signal (S2) at a relatively higher speed (V2) inside the high-resistivity formation (2) than a propagation speed (V3) in the less resistive formations (3).Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2004Date of Patent: November 25, 2008Assignee: Norsk Hydro ASAInventors: Svein Erling Johnstad, Fan-Nian Kong, Harald Westerdahl
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Patent number: 7453265Abstract: A device for monitoring the position of an oil/water contact (OWC, 22) between an oil-continuous fluid (2o) overlying a water-continuous fluid (2w) inside a casing pipe (7). The device includes a transmitter (5) for a generating an electromagnetic signal (ST) and the transmitter (5) is provided with electrical energy (GT) from a voltage signal generator (G). The transmitter (5) is arranged inside the casing pipe (7) in the oil-continuous fluid (2o) and above the oil-water contact (22). The electromagnetic wave signal (ST) partly propagates downwards from the transmitter (5), is partly reflected from the oil-water contact (22), and is partly reflected by the end of the casing, giving rise to an upward propagating, reflected electro-magnetic signal (SR).Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2004Date of Patent: November 18, 2008Assignee: Norsk Hÿdro ASAInventors: Svein Erling Johnstad, Fan-Nian Kong, Harald Westerdahl
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Patent number: 7450053Abstract: A logging radar system and method for measuring propped fractures and down-hole formation conditions in a subterranean formation including: a radar source; an optical source; an optical modulator for modulating an optical signal from the optical source according to a signal from the radar source; a photodiode for converting the modulated optical signal output from the optical modulator to the source radar signal; a transmitter and receiver unit; and a mixer. The transmitter and receiver unit receives the source radar signal from the photodiode, transmits the source radar signal into the formation and receives a reflected radar signal. The mixer mixes the reflected radar signal with the source radar signal to provide an output. This technology can be used to describe all fractures connected to the wellbore and differentiate between the dimensions of the two vertical wings of a propped fracture.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2006Date of Patent: November 11, 2008Assignee: Hexion Specialty Chemicals, Inc.Inventors: Eric E. Funk, Ethan A. Funk, Michael L. Sheriff, Scott M. McCarthy, Robert R. McDaniel
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Patent number: 7446535Abstract: An electromagnetic sensor cable includes at least one strength member configured to be coupled to a vessel for towing in a body of water and extending along the length of the cable. A jacket covers the strength member and extends along the length of the cable. At least one electrode mounting sleeve is disposed along the jacket and is coupled at its longitudinal ends to one end of a segment of the jacket. The longitudinal ends of the sleeve are configured to mate with a corresponding end of the jacket segment. The sleeve includes a passage therethrough for the at least one strength member. The sleeve includes a mounting surface for a fiber electrode material thereon disposed between the longitudinal ends of the sleeve. At least one electrical contact surface is disposed on the mounting surface. Electrically conductive fiber electrode material is disposed on the mounting surface and is in electrical contact with the electrical contact surface.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2007Date of Patent: November 4, 2008Assignee: PGS Geopysical ASInventors: Stig Rune Lennart Tenghamn, Ulf Peter Lindqvist
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Patent number: 7430474Abstract: To perform surveying of a subterranean structure, electromagnetic (EM) wavefields traveling in opposite directions are determined. A relationship is defined among the EM wavefields, where the EM wavefields include a first set of EM wavefields in a first state in which a sea surface is present, and a second set of EM wavefields in a second, different state in which the sea surface is not present. At least one EM wavefield in the relationship is determined to perform removal of sea surface-related effects.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2006Date of Patent: September 30, 2008Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Peter M. van den Berg, Aria Abubakar, Tarek Habashy
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Publication number: 20080218170Abstract: An aerial electronic system for detection of surface and underground threats comprises an electromagnetic (EM) gradiometer flown aloft over the possible ground and underground threats to a convoy. The EM gradiometer is disposed in a Styrofoam torpedo shaped pod that is towed in flight behind an airplane. An illumination transmitter and loop antenna mounted to the airplane radiate a primary EM wave that travels down to the ground surface and penetrates beneath. Frequencies of 80 KHz to 1 MHz are selected according to whether the targets are laying on the surface or deeply buried. Detonation wire pairs, buried cables and pipes, and other conductors will re-radiate a secondary wave that can be sensed by the EM gradiometer. A reference sample of the transmitter signal is carried down a fiberoptic from the airplane to the towed pod. This signal is used in the synchronous detection to measure the secondary EM wave phase.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2007Publication date: September 11, 2008Inventors: Larry G. Stolarczyk, Igor Bausov, Richard B. Main
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Patent number: 7423432Abstract: A method processing an electromagnetic wavefield response in a seabed logging operation. The wavefield is resolved into upgoing- and downgoing components. The downgoing component represents reflections from the sea surface while the upgoing component represents reflections and refractions from subterranean strata. The upgoing component is then subjected to analysis.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2007Date of Patent: September 9, 2008Assignee: Electromagnetic GeoServices ASInventor: Lasse Amundsen
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Patent number: 7411399Abstract: Multiple sources are provided for a transmitter cable for use in electromagnetic surveying. The transmitter cable includes a dipole antenna comprising a pair of spaced apart electrodes mounted on their respective cables. Two antennas may be powered from each source. Alternatively, the outputs of each source are connected to a common antenna pair. A single large power supply may be mounted on a vessel to supply power through the tow cable. Alternatively, a number of power supplies may be provided aboard the vessel, with each power supply having dedicated conductors through the tow cable to power the plurality of current sources.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2005Date of Patent: August 12, 2008Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Ransom Reddig, Philip Heelan
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Publication number: 20080122444Abstract: A source arrangement for generating electrogmagnetic (EM) wavefields, comprising an EM signal generator, at least three electrodes (141-144) connected to the generator, and a control system. The electrodes are spaced apart but not all in line. The control system is arranged to apply non-coincident time-varying signals or transmissions from the generator between different pairs of the electrodes. The non-coincidence can be by applying the signals sequentially or by applying the signals out of phase.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2005Publication date: May 29, 2008Inventors: Tor Schaug-Pettersen, Syein Ellingsrud, Terje Eidesmo, Jan-Aage Langeland
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Publication number: 20080094066Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for controlled source electromagnetic surveying. In particular, a time-varying electromagnetic signal is transmitted at a first location, and an electromagnetic signal responsive to the transmitted signal is received at a second location, wherein the received signal includes a transient response component and a steady-state component. The received signal is continuously recorded during a predetermined time interval, and data corresponding to the transient response component and the steady-state component are extracted from the received signal. The transient response data and the steady-state response data are jointly inverted to identify a subsurface feature, such as resistivity.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 23, 2006Publication date: April 24, 2008Inventor: Michael D. Watts
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Method of using continuous-wave radiation for detecting and locating targets hidden behind a surface
Patent number: 7362260Abstract: Continuous-wave radiation is used to detect a target hidden behind a surface. In an embodiment, a transmitter directs a beam of continuous-wave microwave radiation from a transmitting location, and reflected radiation from the target is received at first and second receiving locations closer to the surface than the transmitting location. The transmitting and receiving locations have spatial relationships such that the phase of reflected radiation received at one receiving location is in quadrature with the phase of reflected radiation received at the other receiving location. In an embodiment, direct transmitted radiation is received at the receiving locations in quadrature.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2003Date of Patent: April 22, 2008Assignee: Innovatum, Inc.Inventors: Paul A. Cloutier, Delbert R. Oehme -
Patent number: 7336079Abstract: An aerial electronic system for detection of surface and underground threats comprises an electromagnetic (EM) gradiometer flown aloft over the possible ground and underground threats to a convoy. The EM gradiometer is disposed in a Styrofoam torpedo shaped pod that is towed in flight behind an airplane. An illumination transmitter and loop antenna mounted to the airplane radiate a primary EM wave that travels down to the ground surface and penetrates beneath. Frequencies of 80 KHz to 1 MHz are selected according to whether the targets are laying on the surface or deeply buried. Detonation wire pairs, buried cables and pipes, and other conductors will re-radiate a secondary wave that can be sensed by the EM gradiometer. A reference sample of the transmitter signal is carried down a fiberoptic from the airplane to the towed pod. This signal is used in the synchronous detection to measure the secondary EM wave phase.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2006Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Inventors: Larry G. Stolarczyk, Tito Sanchez, John Myers, Chance Valentine, Gerald L. Stolarczyk, Robert Troublefield, Igor Bausov, Laxmi Narayana Botla, Beaux Beard, Richard B. Main
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Patent number: 7319330Abstract: A method of processing an electromagnetic wavefield response in a seabed logging operation. The wavefield is resolved into upgoing and downgoing components. The downgoing component represents reflections from the sea surface while the upgoing component represents reflections and refractions from subterranean strata. The upgoing component is then subjected to analysis.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2003Date of Patent: January 15, 2008Assignee: Electromagnetic Geoservices ASInventor: Lasse Amundsen
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Patent number: 7307424Abstract: An electromagnetic survey method for surveying an area that potentially contains a subterranean hydrocarbon reservoir. The method comprises detecting a detector signal in response to a source electromagnetic signal, resolving the detector signal along at least two orthogonal directions, and comparing phase measurements of the detector signal resolved along these directions to look for a phase separation anomaly indicative of the presence of a buried hydrocarbon layer. The invention also relates to planning a survey using this method, and to analysis of survey data taken using this survey method. The first and second data sets may be obtained concurrently with a single horizontal electric dipole source antenna. The method is also largely independent of a source-detector pair's relative orientation and so provides for good spatial coverage and easy-to-perform surveying.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2003Date of Patent: December 11, 2007Assignee: OHM LimitedInventors: Lucy M. MacGregor, Martin C. Sinha, Richard Weaver
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Patent number: 7265552Abstract: This invention is directed to a downhole method and apparatus for simultaneously determining the horizontal resistivity, vertical resistivity, and relative dip angle for anisotropic earth formations. The present invention accomplishes this objective by using an antenna configuration in which a transmitter antenna and a receiver antenna are oriented in non-parallel planes such that the vertical resistivity and the relative dip angle are decoupled. Preferably, either the transmitter or the receiver is mounted in a conventional orientation in a first plane that is normal to the tool axis, and the other antenna is mounted in a second plane that is not parallel to the first plane. This invention also relates to a method and apparatus for steering a downhole tool during a drilling operation in order to maintain the borehole within a desired earth formation.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2006Date of Patent: September 4, 2007Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventor: Michael S. Bittar
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Patent number: 7262602Abstract: An active system and method for determining the physical characteristics and geological composition of subterranean formations is described. Plane polarized electromagnetic waves at specific frequencies are transmitted by a mobile transmitting antenna held stationary in the far-field about a prospecting point. The plane polarized electromagnetic waves penetrate the Earth and return to the surface to be picked up at a separate mobile receiving antenna held stationary about a prospecting point. The differences in intensity and polarization between transmitted and received waves are measured and carry geological information. Further, a coordinated series of transmissions, receptions, and measurements are made, in which the angle of incidence and the revolution angle about a centerline emanating perpendicularly from the prospecting point are carefully and systematically varied and repeated for a specific set of frequencies.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2005Date of Patent: August 28, 2007Inventor: David Gary Meyer
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Patent number: 7259564Abstract: The invention concerns a method for determining the position, in a formation (1) containing at least one electrolytic liquid, of an interface (6) in relation to a bore hole (2). One stimulates at a first instant the interface (6) with an excitation signal, one detects at a second instant (t2) a response signal converted by electro-osmosis or electrokinetic coupling effect and, if appropriate, the exication signal after reflection at a third instant (t3). With the three instants and the propagation velocity of the signals, one calculates the distance between the interface (6) and the bore hole (2).Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2003Date of Patent: August 21, 2007Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Patrice Ligneul, Marwan Charara
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Patent number: 7205769Abstract: An electromagnetic prober comprising a transmission antenna, a reception antenna, a reception signal processing section for generating an analytic signal on the basis of a detection signal of the reception antenna, and an analytic processing section for performing a predefined analytic process on the basis of the analytic signal, wherein the analytic processing section divides the analytic signal into a plurality of time-based ranges and performs a predefined computation on average cycle periods in the respective time-based ranges of the analytic signal to calculate average dielectric constants in depth ranges of the medium corresponding to the respective time-based ranges.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2005Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Assignee: Cos Co., Ltd.Inventor: Masahiro Fujiwara
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Patent number: 7202669Abstract: A system for detecting or determining the nature of a subterranean reservoir. An electromagnetic field is applied using a dipole antenna transmitter and this is detected using a dipole antenna receiver. The measurements are taken with the antenna both in-line and parallel and the difference between the two sets of measurements is exploited. A characteristic difference indicates a high resistive layer, which corresponds to a hydrocarbon reservoir.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2005Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: ElectroMagnetic GeoServices ASInventors: Svein Ellingsrud, Terje Eidesmo, Hans Magne Pedersen, Tor Schaug-Pettersen
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Patent number: 7190168Abstract: An electromagnetic prober comprising a transmission antenna, a reception antenna, a reception signal processing section for generating an analytic signal on the basis of a detection signal of the reception antenna, and an analytic processing section for performing a predefined analytic process on the basis of the analytic signal, wherein the analytic processing section divides the analytic signal into a plurality of time-based ranges and performs a predefined computation on average cycle periods in the respective time-based ranges of the analytic signal to calculate average dielectric constants in depth ranges of the medium corresponding to the respective time-based ranges.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2005Date of Patent: March 13, 2007Assignee: Cos, Co. Ltd.Inventor: Masahiro Fujiwara
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Patent number: 7145341Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and apparatus for detecting and recovering hydrocarbons located in a subterranean reservoir In some embodiments, an electromagnetic field is applied by a transmitter positioned on a seabed and detected by antenna also positioned on the seabed.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2004Date of Patent: December 5, 2006Assignee: Electromagnetic Geoservices ASInventors: Svein Ellingsrud, Terje Eidesmo, Fan-Nian Kong, Harald Westerdahl
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Patent number: 7138803Abstract: This invention is directed to a downhole method and apparatus for simultaneously determining the horizontal resistivity, vertical resistivity, and relative dip angle for anisotropic earth formations. The present invention accomplishes this objective by using an antenna configuration in which a transmitter antenna and a receiver antenna are oriented in non-parallel planes such that the vertical resistivity and the relative dip angle are decoupled. Preferably, either the transmitter or the receiver is mounted in a conventional orientation in a first plane that is normal to the tool axis, and the other antenna is mounted in a second plane that is not parallel to the first plane. This invention also relates to a method and apparatus for steering a downhole tool during a drilling operation in order to maintain the borehole within a desired earth formation.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2005Date of Patent: November 21, 2006Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventor: Michael S. Bittar
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Patent number: 7123017Abstract: An electromagnetic prober comprising a transmission antenna, a reception antenna, a reception signal processing section for generating an analytic signal on the basis of a detection signal of the reception antenna, and an analytic processing section for performing a predefined analytic process on the basis of the analytic signal, wherein the analytic processing section divides the analytic signal into a plurality of time-based ranges and performs a predefined computation on average cycle periods in the respective time-based ranges of the analytic signal to calculate average dielectric constants in depth ranges of the medium corresponding to the respective time-based ranges.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2005Date of Patent: October 17, 2006Assignee: Cos. Co., Ltd.Inventor: Masahiro Fujiwara
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Patent number: 7109717Abstract: The system and method for real-time monitoring of a hydrocarbon reservoir (4) during extraction include an electro-magnetic source assembly (16) for transmitting a first plurality of electromagnetic fields. A plurality of seafloor antennae (30a–30d) is distributed over an area of the seafloor (8) corresponding to the reservoir (4), where each antenna (30a–30d) comprises recieves electrode array (30a–30d) adapted for receiving a second plurality of electromagnetic fields and generating signals corresponding to the detected fields. A data logging processor receives the signals over time and stores data corresponding to the signals. Different combinations of the receiver electrode are used in combination with transmitter antennae for measuring vertical, radial and/or azimuthal fields. Transmission and detection of the fields can be performed continuously or at timed intervals during hydrocarbon extraction to estimate the rate and efficiency of extraction.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2003Date of Patent: September 19, 2006Assignee: The Regents of the University of CaliforniaInventor: Steven C. Constable
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Patent number: 7106065Abstract: A method of geologic exploration for subsurface deposits includes the steps of: emitting energy below a surface of the earth; sensing a plurality of reactive electro-magnetic waves resulting from the emitted energy; outputting signals from a plurality of sensors to a vehicle corresponding to the sensed reactive electro-magnetic waves; determining position data for the plurality of sensors; generating position marked data corresponding to the outputted signals and the position data; uploading the position marked data from the vehicle to a satellite; and relaying the position marked data from the satellite to a remote analyzing station.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2005Date of Patent: September 12, 2006Assignee: Seismic Science, Inc.Inventor: Edwin X. Graf