Abstract: A seismic vibrator has a baseplate composed at least partially of a composite material. The baseplate has a body composed of the composite material and has top and bottom plates composed of a metallic material. The top plate supports isolators for isolating the vibrator's mass and frame from the baseplate. Internally, the composite body has a central structure to which couple stilts for supporting the mass and a piston for the vibrator's actuator. A lattice structure surrounds the central structure. This lattice structure has radial ribs extending from the central structure and has radial ribs interconnecting the radial ribs.

Abstract: A sound source includes a tubular resonator configured to be filled with a gas. The exterior of the resonator includes rigid and elastomeric portions. The interior of the resonator includes a first volume and a second volume. The volumes are separated by a rigid tubular wall containing at least one orifice. The at least one orifice enables a flow of gas between the volumes. The resonator also includes at least one rigid tubular member configured to move along the rigid tubular wall. The position of the at least one rigid tubular member regulates at least one dimension of the path between the volumes. The sound source also includes a volume velocity actuator disposed within the resonator. The sound source also includes a processing circuit configured to provide a control signal to cause the volume velocity actuator to perturb the gas within the resonator at a defined frequency.

Abstract: A sweep generator is employed to generate a sweep to be used by a seismic vibrator device for generating a desired target output spectrum, wherein the frequency sweep is designed so as to comply with one or more constraints imposed by the seismic vibrator device and/or imposed by the environment in which the device is to be used. In one embodiment, a sweep generator determines a sweep for achieving a desired target output spectrum by a given seismic vibrator device in compliance with at least a pump flow constraint imposed by the seismic vibrator device. In another embodiment, a sweep generator determines a sweep for achieving a desired target output spectrum by a given seismic vibrator device in compliance with all of multiple operational constraints of the seismic vibrator device, such as both mass displacement and pump flow constraints. Environmental constraints may also be accounted for in certain embodiments.

Abstract: The present invention provides a wireless transponder comprising: a receiver unit that receives an electromagnetic input signal; an input converter unit that converts into an acoustic wave the electromagnetic input signal received by the receiver unit; a delay unit provided in a direction in which an acoustic wave generated by the input converter unit propagates; an output converter unit that converts into an electromagnetic output signal the acoustic wave which has propagated inside the delay unit; and a transmitter unit that transmits wirelessly the electromagnetic output signal generated by the output converter unit.

Abstract: A seismic vibrator receives a pilot signal having a predetermined waveform. The pilot signal causes vibrational actuation of at least one moveable element of the seismic vibrator. A continuous seismic signal having content in a first frequency bandwidth of multiple frequencies is generated by the seismic vibrator.

Abstract: A seismic energy source includes a base plate and a block fixedly coupled in a frame. The base plate is configured for contact with a part of the Earth's subsurface to be seismically energized. The frame has a first electromagnet associated therewith. A second electromagnet is disposed in a travelling reaction mass, which is movably disposed in the frame between the first electromagnet assembly and the top block. The reaction mass includes at least a third electromagnet associated therewith. The source has circuits for selectively energizing the first, second and at least a third electromagnets, and which are configured to energize the first and second electromagnets to repel each other such that the traveling reaction mass is lifted from the first electromagnet, and configured to energize the at least a third electromagnet after a selected delay time to cause attraction between the traveling reaction mass and the top block.

Abstract: A portable seismic source for generating a seismic wave in the ground. The portable seismic source includes a casing containing an impulsive energy device; a base plate configured to be placed on the ground; and a stabilizing foot mechanism configured to be provided between the casing and the base plate. The stabilizing foot mechanism includes a stabilizer which is fixed relative to the casing and configured to be placed on the base plate and a stanchion that is configured to move relative to the stabilizer and to enter through the stabilizer and apply a force on the base plate when energy is applied from the impulsive energy device.

Abstract: Provided is an ultrasonic detection device including: a capacitive electromechanical transducer including a cell that includes a first electrode and a second electrode disposed so as to oppose with a space; a voltage source for developing a potential difference between the first electrode and the second electrode; and an electric circuit for converting a current, which is caused by a change in electrostatic capacitance between the first electrode and the second electrode due to vibration of the second electrode, into a voltage, in which the capacitive electromechanical transducer provides an output current with a high-pass characteristic having a first cutoff frequency with respect to a frequency, the electric circuit provides an output with a low-pass characteristic having a second cutoff frequency with respect to the frequency, and the second cutoff frequency is smaller than the first cutoff frequency.

Abstract: Aspects described herein relate to an electromagnetic seismic vibrator (EMSV) architecture that provide wide frequency range operation, ground force application with high fidelity, and low environmental impact. The EMSV architecture can include a base member that can support a force coil and mitigate electrical heating due, at least in part, to spurious currents. The EMSV architecture can include means for restricting movement of a reaction member included in the EMSV architecture relative to the base member. Such means can permit mitigation of damage of the EMSV architecture in scenarios in which control of the EMSV architecture may fail.

Abstract: A method and system for monitoring any incursion of particulate matter from a gas hydrate formation into a well casing used for the production of the gas hydrate and determining the degree of incursion of particulate material within the distal end of the well casing.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for the detection of an obstacle (43) in relation to a controlled-movement panel (3), including: deformable tubular means or a flexible tube (31) for the propagation of low-frequency dynamic pressure waves; means for transmitting (40a) and receiving (40b) the low-frequency dynamic pressure waves; and means for processing (9) said dynamic pressure waves, which, upon detection of an obstacle, are designed to allow the panel (3) to be moved in relation to the obstacle (43), the panel being stopped, lowered or re-opened.

Abstract: An imaging guidewire can include optical fibers communicating light along the guidewire. At or near its distal end, one or more blazed or other fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs) directs light to a photoacoustic transducer material that provides ultrasonic imaging energy. Returned ultrasound is sensed by an FBG sensor. A responsive signal is optically communicated to the proximal end of the guidewire, and processed to develop a 2D or 3D image. The guidewire outer diameter is small enough such that an intravascular catheter can be passed over the guidewire. Techniques for improving ultrasound reception include using a high compliance material, resonating the ultrasound sensing transducer, using an attenuation-reducing coating and/or thickness, and/or using optical wavelength discrimination. Techniques for improving the ultrasound generating transducer include using a blazed FBG, designing the photoacoustic material thickness to enhance optical absorption.

Abstract: An electromechanical transducer includes a plurality of elements each including a first electrode and a second electrode with a gap therebetween, a voltage applying unit configured to apply an AC voltage to the first electrode, and a sensitivity variation computing unit configured to compute a sensitivity variation for each of the elements using a signal output from the second electrode of the element due to the application of the AC voltage.

Abstract: An acoustic transmitter includes: an acoustic diaphragm configured to transmit acoustic waves into a medium; a piezoelectric actuator assembly configured to deform in an axial direction in response to an applied electrical signal; and a highly incompressible elastic material disposed between the piezoelectric actuator and the acoustic diaphragm and configured to transmit pressure waves to the acoustic diaphragm in response to motion of the piezoelectric actuator.

Abstract: A seismic source signal generator having feed-forward control uses pressure, current, and/or valve position sensors to detect system component parameters. Initial and operating parameters are processed during source operation to remove, partially or wholly, harmonic distortions from the seismic source signal.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a system and method for measuring the structural characteristics of an object. The object is subjected to an energy application processes and provides an objective, quantitative measurement of structural characteristics of an object. The system may include a device, for example, a percussion instrument, capable of being reproducibly placed against the object undergoing such measurement for reproducible positioning. The structural characteristics as defined herein may include vibration damping capacities, acoustic damping capacities, structural integrity or structural stability.

Abstract: Earth analysis methods, subsurface feature detection methods, earth analysis devices, and articles of manufacture are described. According to one embodiment, an earth analysis method includes engaging a device with the earth, analyzing the earth in a single substantially lineal direction using the device during the engaging, and providing information regarding a subsurface feature of the earth using the analysis.

Abstract: An imaging guidewire can include one or more optical fibers communicating light along the guidewire. At or near its distal end, one or more blazed or other fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs) directs light to a photoacoustic transducer material that provides ultrasonic imaging energy. Returned ultrasound is sensed by an FBG sensor. A responsive signal is optically communicated to the proximal end of the guidewire, and processed to develop a 2D or 3D image. In one example, the guidewire outer diameter is small enough such that an intravascular catheter can be passed over the guidewire. Techniques for improving ultrasound reception include using a high compliance material, resonating the ultrasound sensing transducer, using an attenuation-reducing coating and/or thickness, and/or using optical wavelength discrimination. Techniques for improving the ultrasound generating transducer include using a blazed FBG, designing the photoacoustic material thickness to enhance optical absorption.

Abstract: In one embodiment of the invention a method includes (a) operating a combustion engine at a first activity level corresponding to a first noise level; (b) charging an accumulator with a first pressure input; (c) lowering engine activity level of the engine to a second activity level corresponding to a second noise level that is lower than the first noise level; and (d) seismic sweeping with the vibrator based on the first pressure input and lowering engine noise from the first noise level to the second noise level.

Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein relate to one or more embodiments and methods to make downhole measurements. Embodiments disclosed herein relate to one or more embodiments and methods to measure the movement generated by a coring tool. The methods and embodiments include disposing a coring tool in a wellbore, coupling a first wave detector to the coring tool, anchoring the coring tool to a formation surrounding the wellbore, operating the coring tool, measuring movement generated by the coring tool with the first wave detector, and outputting a signal based upon the measured movement measured with the first wave detector.

Abstract: Earth analysis methods, subsurface feature detection methods, earth analysis devices, and articles of manufacture are described. According to one embodiment, an earth analysis method includes engaging a device with the earth, analyzing the earth in a single substantially lineal direction using the device during the engaging, and providing information regarding a subsurface feature of the earth using the analysis.

Abstract: Devices for sensing gradients are constructed from material whose properties change in response to gradients. One embodiment of the device is a transducer (200) for sensing gradients that includes the material (210) and two or more electrodes (240, 270) coupled to the material. In one embodiment, gradients in a surrounding medium (110) modify the energy gap of the material in the transducer (130) producing a diffusion current density (150). The material is configured to connect to a current or voltage measurement device (520, 530, 540) where a measurement is used to determine the gradient in the medium (160). The devices can be used to measure pressure, temperature, and/or other properties. The transducer can be built on the same substrate as complementary circuitry. A transducer made of Indium. Antimonide is used in marine seismology to measure pressure gradients.

Abstract: A seismic source signal generator includes a mass, a primary accumulator and a secondary accumulator, the secondary accumulator having an internal volume smaller than an internal volume of the primary accumulator. A method for generating a signal using a seismic vibrator includes operating the seismic vibrator using hydraulic fluid, damping hydraulic pressure deviations in the hydraulic fluid using a first accumulator in hydraulic communication with the hydraulic fluid, and damping pressure deviations in the hydraulic fluid using a second accumulator in hydraulic communication with the hydraulic fluid, the second accumulator having an internal volume smaller than an internal volume of the first accumulator.

Abstract: Provided is a transducer in which electrodes in a movable region are less likely to affect the mechanical characteristics of the movable region and in which nonuniform electrical potential distribution of the surface of the electrodes in the movable region is suppressed. The transducer includes first electrodes and second electrodes opposing the first electrodes with gaps interposed between therebetween. The resistance per unit area of the first electrodes differs in a movable region relative to the second electrodes and an unmovable region relative to the second electrodes. The first electrodes in the movable region and the first electrodes in the unmovable region have different thicknesses.

Abstract: Actuator apparatus comprising at least one moving elements, each comprising comb drive apparatus including at least first and second comb elements at least one of which is free to be in motion in a medium, and a controller controlling the motion responsive to an input signal representing a desired sound.

Abstract: Various technologies for a seismic acquisition system, which may include an acquisition central system configured to determine a desired start time for a sweep cycle in one or more vibrators and a recorder source system controller in communication with the acquisition central system. The recorder source system controller may be configured to receive the desired start time from the acquisition central system. The seismic acquisition system may further include one or more vibrator units in communication with the recorder source system controller. Each vibrator unit may be configured to start a sweep cycle in a vibrator at the desired start time.

Abstract: A vibration wave output instrument and its use method are provided. The vibration wave output instrument has a base, a vibration device, a pressure device, and a position mechanism. The position mechanism brings both the vibration device and the pressure device to a target region. The pressure device pushes the vibration device to touch against the target region. The vibration device outputs vibration waves beneath the target region.

Abstract: A vibration source (10) includes an armature bar (12) having a major length dimension, and a driver (20A) positioned about the armature bar. The driver (20A) is movably coupled to the armature bar (12), and includes an electromagnet (40). During operation the electromagnet (40) is activated such that the driver (20A) moves with respect to the armature bar (12) and a vibratory signal is generated in the armature bar. A described method for generating a vibratory signal in an object includes positioning the vibration source (10) in an opening of the object, coupling the armature bar (12) to a surface of the object within the opening, and activating the electromagnet (40) of the driver (20A) such that the driver moves with respect to the armature bar (12) and a vibratory signal is generated in the armature bar and the object.

Abstract: A seismic energy source includes at least a first and a second acoustic radiator operatively coupled to a non-linear medium proximate an upper limit of formations in the Earth's subsurface. The first and second acoustic radiators are configured to convert electrical energy directly into acoustic energy. The source includes means for operating the first and the second acoustic radiator at respective first and second frequencies. The first and second frequencies are selected such that substantially no acoustic energy propagates through the non-linear medium. The first and the second frequencies are selected such that a difference therebetween is swept through a range of frequencies of seismic energy capable of propagating through the Earth's subsurface to at least one acoustic impedance boundary within the Earth's subsurface.

Abstract: An obstacle detection device has an ultrasonic sensor fixed to a first side of a mount member. The ultrasonic sensor sends/receives ultrasonic wave toward/from a second side of the mount member, which is opposite to the first side thereof. At least one of a mounting surface of the ultrasonic sensor and a mounting surface of the mount member has a protrusion, which protrudes therefrom so that an end surface of the protrusion contacts the other of the mounting surfaces. The mounting surfaces of the mount member and the ultrasonic sensor face each other. The end surface of the protrusion and the mounting surface of the ultrasonic sensor are different from each other in at least one of shape and area thereof.

Abstract: The acoustic transducer includes one or more membranes which cover cavities on a substrate by means of a uniformly thick polymer layer produced by vapor deposition. In the region of the cavities vapor deposition is performed on the surface of a liquid, which subsequently may be removed from the cavities via channels.

Abstract: An arrangement for conducting a seismic survey and methods for operating a vibrator array in a seismic survey. A signal source coupled to an array of vibrators drives the vibrators with a set of signals to generate seismic signals into a survey area. Each of the signals of the set has an autocorrelation function and a cross correlation function with the other signals of the set that decays faster with time than reflections of the seismic signals from the survey area. One such set of signals includes a linear FM sweep phase-modulated by a maximal-length sequence code shifted a different number of chips for each signal.

Abstract: In an ultrasonic transducer array, a plurality of vibrators arranged in an array is bonded to a base plate by bond material. The bond material bonds the bottom of the each vibrator to the base plate in a manner to surround lower part of the side face of the vibrator. A filling material is filled in between the vibrators. The filling material has a multi-layer structure of different rigidity. In a double layer structure of the filling material, it is preferable that thickness ratio of layer of filling material at the base plate side (lower side) to the other layer of the filling material is 1:1 to 1:3. Preferably, a beam is provided for connecting the side faces of the adjacent vibrators.

Abstract: Apparatus for Generating Shock Waves directed at an area of a human or animal body to be treated using piezoelectric fibers, for generating shock waves. The piezofibers integrated in a composite material are controlled for this, and together with a control unit they form the shock-wave generating part.

Abstract: An ultrasonic transmission member including one end part and the other end part and transmitting an ultrasonic wave input into the one end part to the other end part is formed by preparing a main mold having a casting cavity corresponding to a whole outer shape of the ultrasonic transmission member, melting an alloy which is a material of a metallic glass, and pouring the melted alloy into the casting cavity of the main mold to solidify the melted alloy in a liquid phase state thereof.

Abstract: A method for the simultaneous operation of multiple seismic vibrators using unique modified pseudorandom sweeps and recovery of the transmission path response from each vibrator is disclosed. The vibrator sweeps are derived from pseudorandom binary sequences modified to be weakly correlated over a time window of interest, spectrally shaped and amplitude level compressed. Cross-correlation with each pilot signal is used to perform an initial separation of the composite received signal data set. Recordings of the motion of each vibrator are also cross-correlated with each pilot, windowed, and transformed to form a source cross-spectral density matrix in the frequency domain useful for source signature removal and for additional crosstalk-suppression between the separated records. After source signature removal in the frequency domain an inverse transform is applied to produce an estimate of each source-to-receiver earth response in the time domain.

Abstract: One example of a seismic vibrator system includes a baseplate having a bottom surface and a coupling mechanism, the coupling mechanism being operable to a deployed position; a hold-down mass connected to the baseplate; a lifting mechanism in operational connection with the hold-down mass and the baseplate to apply a selected hold-down weight to the baseplate; and a driving mechanism functionally connected to the baseplate to transmit seismic energy through the baseplate into a ground surface to which the baseplate is coupled, wherein the coupling mechanism is urged outward from the bottom surface and into physical contact with the ground surface when operated to the deployed position.

Abstract: The structure for severe earthquakes prevention includes : at least one vibro-shock machine with a drive-adjuster, at least one anvil shock-transmitter, dry well unit, controls, seismographs, all placed in local epicenter area at upper tectonic plate. The method is based on: periodic operation of shock-vibrations with adjusted frequencies corresponding to own natural frequencies of hypocenter's plates, direct transmitting of generated shock-vibrations to the hypocenter's plates, and exciting them at their resonance frequencies, triggering small, controlled, artificial mini-quakes of low and safe magnitudes for preemptive dissipation of stressed plates' accumulated elastic energy, thus preventing a severe earthquake in future.

Abstract: Systems and methods are implemented for evaluating underground structures and objects, particularly relatively shallow underground structures and objects, using a seismic or acoustic source signal and a resulting seismic or acoustic wave. A discrete or unitary apparatus incorporates both a seismic source transducer and a receiver transducer within a common housing or frame. A unitary seismic probe includes a ground engaging member and a seismic source mechanically coupled to the ground engaging member. The probe further includes a sensor assembly mechanically coupled to the ground engaging member and configured to sense ground vibrations resulting from an impact to the ground engaging member by the seismic source.

Abstract: Described herein are embodiments of an electromagnetic system that can be used to replace the traditional hydraulic oil systems that actuate mass movement. The embodiments described herein provide wide frequency range operation, ground force application with high fidelity, and low environmental impact. Embodiments described herein can be used for seismic exploration and vibroseis applications, among other uses.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for the detection of an obstacle (43) in relation to a controlled-movement panel (3), including: deformable tubular means or a flexible tube (31) for the propagation of low-frequency dynamic pressure waves; means for transmitting (40a) and receiving (40b) the low-frequency dynamic pressure waves; and means for processing (9) said dynamic pressure waves, which, upon detection of an obstacle, are designed to allow the panel (3) to be moved in relation to the obstacle (43), the panel being stopped, lowered or re-opened.

Abstract: Provided is a small-size thin piezoelectric actuator which can be mounted on a mobile electronic device and operate with a low power consumption also provided is an electronic device which uses the piezoelectric actuator to provide a function to give a contact feeling of a three dimensional movement to a users hand palm. The piezoelectric actuator (1) includes: a piezoelectric ceramic oscillator having a piezoelectric ceramic thin plate (5) bonded to at least one surface of a shim member (6); at least one holder (7) for holding the shim member (6); and a sheet-shaped elastic body (2). Vibration generated by the piezoelectric ceramic oscillator is transmitted via the holder (7) and the sheet-shaped elastic body (2) to a case (3) of the electronic device.

Abstract: The invention relates to an ultrasonic vibration transducer (1) for ultrasonic drilling in building material such as concrete, stone, brick or plaster. The invention proposes constructing the ultrasonic vibration transducer (1) as a tube-like hollow body which becomes narrower in the direction of its front end (2) and providing it with an exchangeable core (14). As a result of the hollow shape, a high degree of vibration amplification is achieved; by virtue of the exchangeable core (14), the ultrasonic vibration transducer (1) can be adapted to suit different tools (13).

Abstract: A method and apparatus for generating a seismic source signal are provided for generating energy in the form of a plurality of time sequence vibratory signals, the vibratory signals being partitioned as a function of time and/or frequency, wherein each of the plurality of signals comprises a distinguishing signature.

Abstract: An imaging system comprises a device to excite mechanical waves in elastic tissue, a device for measuring the resulting tissue motion at a plurality of locations interior to the tissue at a number of time instances, a computing device to calculate the mechanical properties of tissue from the measurements, and a display to show the properties according to their location. A parameter identification method for calculating the mechanical properties is based on fitting a lumped dynamic parametric model of the tissue dynamics to their measurements. Alternatively, the mechanical properties are calculated from transfer functions computed from measurements at adjacent locations in the tissue. The excitation can be produced by mechanical vibrators, medical needles or structures supporting the patient. The measurements may be performed by a conventional ultrasound imaging system and the resulting properties displayed as semi-transparent overlays on the ultrasound images.

Abstract: The present invention provides a sensory signal output apparatus, which is constructed such that several frequencies of output can be realized. The sensory signal output apparatus includes a coil (15), to which an alternating signal is transmitted, a magnetic circuit (11) including a magnet (11a), a top plate (11b) and a yoke (11c) to form an opening such that magnetic flux linkage perpendicular to the coil is induced, and a casing (1) receiving the magnetic circuit therein. The sensory signal output apparatus further includes a first vibration unit (10a) having the magnetic circuit, which responds to a magnetic field depending on a direction of the input signal, thus vibrating, and a first vibrating screen (13) adhered or welded to a ring-shaped protrusion of the yoke, thus generating a sensory signal.

Abstract: A piezoelectric transducer for sending and receiving an ultrasonic wave and an FPC for applying current to the piezoelectric transducer is provided, the FPC is arranged oppositely to a side face of the piezoelectric transducer, and a soldering material for electrically connecting the piezoelectric transducer to the FPC is arranged in a corner portion formed by the piezoelectric transducer and the FPC.

Abstract: An imaging guidewire can include one or more optical fibers communicating light along the guidewire. At or near its distal end, one or more blazed or other fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs) directs light to a photoacoustic transducer material that provides ultrasonic imaging energy. Returned ultrasound is sensed by an FBG sensor. A responsive signal is optically communicated to the proximal end of the guidewire, and processed to develop a 2D or 3D image. In one example, the guidewire outer diameter is small enough such that an intravascular catheter can be passed over the guidewire. Techniques for improving ultrasound reception include using a high compliance material, resonating the ultrasound sensing transducer, using an attenuation-reducing coating and/or thickness, and/or using optical wavelength discrimination. Techniques for improving the ultrasound generating transducer include using a blazed FBG, designing the photoacoustic material thickness to enhance optical absorption.

Abstract: Remotely operated rotary actuated shear wave generating apparatus and methods that generate horizontally polarized vertically propagating shear waves for use in down-hole shear wave velocity measurements. Seismic signals are generated by an offset mass rotating in a plane perpendicular to the surface of the ground, which impacts an impact member coupled to the ground. The energy of impact is transmitted to the ground parallel to the surface of the ground. The apparatus uses a spring-loaded rotating mass that has a rotary motion. Because acceleration of the mass is not horizontal, reaction forces caused by acceleration of the mass create less horizontal shear stress in the ground prior to the desired time (impact). Reaction forces of the accelerated rotating mass does not generate undesirable waves that obscure the desirable waves caused by impact with the impact member. The source generates transient shear waves repeatedly at constant intervals.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for generating a seismic source signal are provided for generating energy in the form of a plurality of time sequence vibratory signals, the vibratory signals being partitioned as a function of time and/or frequency, wherein each of the plurality of signals comprises a distinguishing signature. The partitioned vibratory signals are emitted into a terrain of interest as seismic source signals for conducting a seismic survey.