Multiple Hydrophone Cable Systems Patents (Class 367/20)
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Patent number: 7426439Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for seismic data acquisition. One embodiment of the method includes accessing data acquired by at least two particle motion sensors. The data includes a seismic signal and a noise signal and the at least two particle motion sensors being separated by a length determined based on a noise coherence length. The method may also include processing the accessed data to remove a portion of the noise signal.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2006Date of Patent: September 16, 2008Assignee: WesternGeco L.L.C.Inventors: Ahmet Kemal Ozdemir, Oeyvind Teigen, Lars Borgen, Vidar A. Husom
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Patent number: 7411863Abstract: Systems and methods for acquiring marine seismic data are described. One system comprises a marine seismic spread adapted to survey a sub-sea geologic deposit, the spread comprising one or more seismic instruments attached to or within an instrument support bounded by a controllable boundary; and one or more control vessels coupled to the controllable boundary. One method comprises deploying a marine seismic spread as described, and surveying a sub-sea geologic feature using the marine seismic spread while controlling the controllable boundary. This abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract, allowing 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. 37 CFR 1.72(b).Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2006Date of Patent: August 12, 2008Assignee: WesternGeco L.L.C.Inventor: Rune Toennessen
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Publication number: 20080181055Abstract: A marine seismic exploration method and system comprised of continuous recording, self-contained ocean bottom pods characterized by low profile casings. An external bumper is provided to promote ocean bottom coupling and prevent fishing net entrapment. Pods are tethered together with flexible, non-rigid, non-conducting cable used to control pod deployment. Pods are deployed and retrieved from a boat deck configured to have a storage system and a handling system to attach pods to cable on-the-fly. The storage system is a juke box configuration of slots wherein individual pods are randomly stored in the slots to permit data extraction, charging, testing and synchronizing without opening the pods. A pod may include an inertial navigation system to determine ocean floor location and a rubidium clock for timing. The system includes mathematical gimballing. The cable may include shear couplings designed to automatically shear apart if a certain level of cable tension is reached.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2007Publication date: July 31, 2008Inventors: Clifford H. Ray, Glenn D. Fisseler, James N. Thompson, Hal B. Haygood
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Publication number: 20080165618Abstract: The method presented accounts for three-dimensional effects when deghosting marine seismic data. The method relies on having second-order spatial derivatives in the cross-line direction available. The second-order cross-line derivative can be estimated directly or through indirect measurements of other wavefield quantities and by using wave-equation techniques to compute the desired term. The method preferably employs either a multicomponent streamer towed in the vicinity of the sea surface, a twin-streamer configuration near the sea-surface, or a configuration of three streamers that are separated either vertically or horizontally to estimate the second-order vertical derivative of pressure.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2005Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: Johan Olof Anders Robertsson
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Patent number: 7382689Abstract: A hydrophone includes a body formed of a flexible, plastic material. The body includes a plurality of channels and each channel may have one or more wells. The wells are adapted to receive an active element which includes mounting hardware. The mounting hardware includes a soft, rubber grommet or other means which suspends the active element, thereby permitting the flexing of the body without introducing that motion to the active element.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2005Date of Patent: June 3, 2008Assignee: Sercel, Inc.Inventors: Michael L. Maples, James Spackman, Curtis Woods Belknap, Paul Daniel Wentzler, Robert Eric Foertsch
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Publication number: 20080123467Abstract: Seismic sensor systems and sensor station topologies, as well as corresponding cable and sensor station components, manufacturing and deployment techniques are provided. For some embodiments, networks of optical ocean bottom seismic (OBS) stations are provided, in which sensor stations are efficiently deployed in a modular fashion as series of array cable modules deployed along a multi-fiber cable.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2007Publication date: May 29, 2008Inventors: Erlend Ronnekleiv, Ole Henrik Waagaard, Hilde Nakstad, Arne Berg
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Publication number: 20080121427Abstract: A bend stiffener includes a first elongate member having a longitudinal conduit and a second elongate member also having a longitudinal conduit connected to an end of the first member thereby effectively extending the length of the bend stiffener. The first member has a resilience to bend when the bend stiffener is subject to a certain load, i.e. at a large tension and small angle, while the second member is designed to have less resilience than the first member, whereby the second member starts bending earlier than the first member when the bend stiffener is subjected to a smaller load, i.e. at a low tension and/or a large angle. The first and second members may provide one or more channels from the second member to the hydrophone. The channel surfaces may have a nonmetallic material. The second member has a resilience to transfer incident pressure waves into the channel therein.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 3, 2007Publication date: May 29, 2008Inventor: Arne Berg
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Patent number: 7379385Abstract: Implementations of various techniques for processing seismic data acquired by three or more over/under streamers. In one implementation, the seismic data may be processed by grouping the seismic data into one or more sets of seismic data based on all possible pairs of the three or more over/under streamers, wherein each set of seismic data comprises seismic data that had been acquired by a pair of the three or more over/under streamers, applying a shift and subtract algorithm to the one or more sets of seismic data, and applying a dephase and sum algorithm to the one or more sets of seismic data.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2006Date of Patent: May 27, 2008Assignee: WesternGeco L.L.C.Inventor: Ralf Ferber
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Publication number: 20080117717Abstract: A robust seismic cable and sensor module system wherein the sensor modules include a housing and sensing unit. The housing substantially transfers the load and torque of the cable from one end of the housing to the other bypassing the sensing unit and the sensing unit and housing are acoustically decoupled from each other for the seismic frequencies desired.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 16, 2006Publication date: May 22, 2008Inventors: Lars Borgen, Geir Holm, Ivar Andreas Valstad, Kambiz Iranpour
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Publication number: 20080112261Abstract: Seismic sensor systems and sensor station topologies, as well as corresponding cable and sensor station components, manufacturing and deployment techniques are provided. For some embodiments, networks of optical ocean bottom seismic (OBS) stations are provided, in which sensor stations are efficiently deployed in a modular fashion as series of array cable modules deployed along a multi-fiber cable.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2007Publication date: May 15, 2008Inventors: ERLEND RONNEKLEIV, OLE HENRIK WAAGAARD, HILDE NAKSTAD, ARNE BERG
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Publication number: 20080112264Abstract: Seismic sensor systems and sensor station topologies, as well as corresponding cable and sensor station components, manufacturing and deployment techniques are provided. For some embodiments, networks of optical ocean bottom seismic (OBS) stations are provided, in which sensor stations are efficiently deployed in a modular fashion as series of array cable modules deployed along a multi-fiber cable.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2007Publication date: May 15, 2008Inventors: ERLEND RONNEKLEIV, Ole Henrik Waagaard, Hilde Nakstad, Ame Berg
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Publication number: 20080112260Abstract: Seismic sensor systems and sensor station topologies, as well as corresponding cable and sensor station components, manufacturing and deployment techniques are provided. For some embodiments, networks of optical ocean bottom seismic (OBS) stations are provided, in which sensor stations are efficiently deployed in a modular fashion as series of array cable modules deployed along a multi-fiber cable.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2007Publication date: May 15, 2008Inventors: ERLEND RONNEKLEIV, Ole Henrik Waagaard, Hilde Nakstad, Arne Berg
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Patent number: 7333391Abstract: A hermaphroditic connector for a multiple conduit cable assembly comprises a cylindrical protective collar surrounding an inner cylindrical core. The collar is axially secured to the inner core but partially rotatable about the core. The distal end of the collar is formed to rotatively mesh with another collar of the same shape to mechanically secure a joint of two collars. Cable conduits enter the assembly through one axial end for electrical junction to terminals imbedded within the inner core. The terminals are functionally aligned with one of four parallel chord sections on the distal end-face of the inner core. The cross-sectional area of the inner core end-face is divided into two half-area sections; two parallel chord sections in each half-area section. The distal end-faces of the several chord sections are profiled to three, axially spaced, cross-sectional planes to axially mesh respective connector pins and sockets.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2005Date of Patent: February 19, 2008Assignee: ARAM Systems, LtdInventors: Donald G. Chamberlain, Randall Vincent Cameron
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Publication number: 20080025146Abstract: Methods and systems for estimating one or more orientation parameters of a seismic apparatus are described. One method comprises initiating an acoustic signal from an acoustic transmitter in a marine seismic spread comprising a streamer, the streamer having at least two nodes separated by a fixed distance; measuring a first and a second difference in acoustic arrival times at the nodes for the acoustic signal; and using change in the second difference from the first difference to estimate orientation of the streamer. 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. 37 CFR 1.72(b).Type: ApplicationFiled: July 26, 2006Publication date: January 31, 2008Inventor: Kenneth E. Welker
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Patent number: 7319636Abstract: A method for computing a pressure signal gradient. The method includes recording a plurality of pressure signals at least one of a first receiver and a second receiver. The first receiver and the second receiver are disposed within a cluster. The method further includes recording a plurality of pressure signals at the second receiver; computing a calibration filter for removing the difference in distortions between the pressure signals recorded at the first receiver and the pressure signals recorded at the second receiver; and computing the pressure signal gradient between the pressure signals recorded at the first receiver and the pressure signals recorded at the second receiver using the calibration filter.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2005Date of Patent: January 15, 2008Assignee: WesternGeco, L.L.C.Inventors: Johan O. A. Robertsson, Nicolas Goujon
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Publication number: 20080008034Abstract: A seismic streamer includes a jacket covering an exterior of the streamer. At least one strength member extends along the length of the jacket. The strength member is disposed inside the jacket. At least one seismic sensor is disposed in an interior of the jacket. A plurality of spacers is disposed at spaced apart positions along the strength member. An acoustically transparent material fills void space in the interior of the jacket. At least one structural parameter is selected to minimize pressure variations in the material resulting from axial elongation of the streamer under tension.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 5, 2006Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventors: Stig Rune Lennart Tenghamn, Claes Nicolai Borresen, Stian Hegna
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Publication number: 20070297286Abstract: A seismic streamer includes a jacket covering an exterior of the streamer. At least one strength member extends along the length of the streamer and is disposed inside the jacket. At least one seismic sensor is disposed in a sensor spacer affixed to the at least one strength member. An encapsulant is disposed between the sensor and the sensor spacer. The encapsulant is a substantially solid material that is soluble upon contact with a void filling material. A void filling material is disposed in the interior of the jacket and fills substantially all void space therein. The void filling material is introduced to the interior of the jacket in liquid form and undergoing state change to substantially solid thereafter.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2006Publication date: December 27, 2007Inventors: Andre Stenzel, Bruce William Harrick, Troy L. McKey, James Andrew Langley
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Patent number: 7270214Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and a method for reducing wing-tip vortex energy during seismic exploration. The apparatus includes a vortex concentrator of deployed proximate a tip of a hydrofoil and a vortex reducing device deployed proximate the vortex concentrator.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2004Date of Patent: September 18, 2007Assignee: WesternGeco L.L.C.Inventors: Rune Tønnessen, Stephane Cordier, Eskild Storteig
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Patent number: 7239577Abstract: In one embodiment the invention comprises a particle velocity sensor that includes a housing with a geophone mounted in the housing. A fluid that substantially surrounds the geophone is included within the housing. The particle velocity sensor has an acoustic impedance within the range of about 750,000 Newton seconds per cubic meter (Ns/m3) to about 3,000,000 Newton seconds per cubic meter (Ns/m3). In another embodiment the invention comprises method of geophysical exploration in which a seismic signal is generated in a body of water and detected with a plurality of co-located particle velocity sensors and pressure gradient sensors positioned within a seismic cable. The output signal of either or both of the particle velocity sensors or the pressure gradient sensors is modified to substantially equalize the output signals from the particle velocity sensors and the pressure gradient sensors. The output signals from particle velocity sensors and pressure gradient sensors are then combined.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2002Date of Patent: July 3, 2007Assignee: PGS Americas, Inc.Inventors: Stig Rune Lennart Tenghamn, Audun Sødal, Andre Stenzel
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Patent number: 7230878Abstract: Methods and apparatus for acquiring seismic data using a seabed seismic data cable positioned on a seabed are described, one method including deploying a seabed seismic cable, the cable comprising two or more active sections separated by at least one jumper section; and acquiring seabed seismic data using the seabed seismic cable. Certain methods include analyzing spacing needed between active sensor units in the active sections prior to deploying the seabed seismic cable, and selecting a length of the jumper section based on the analysis. 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: January 19, 2006Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: WesternGeco, L.L.C.Inventors: Martin Howlid, Leendert Combee, Aslaug Strømmen Melbø, Nicolas Goujon
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Patent number: 7221623Abstract: The use of a pressure compensation system and composite polymer materials results in a new type of outboard sensor assembly, of the type used to monitor the status and location of towed array systems from boats. The inventive system is lower in cost, easier to manufacture in quantity, lighter weight, less likely to leak, and with a lower failure rate than conventional systems. The pressure compensation system makes use of a two (or more) phase slurry system to provide temperature compensation.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2005Date of Patent: May 22, 2007Assignee: Texas Research International, Inc.Inventors: Joseph S Thornton, Christopher Pearson Thornton, Shawn Lawrence Arnett
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Patent number: 7221620Abstract: An apparatus for three-dimensional single-channel seismic measurements, wherein at least one seismic source and hydrophone devices are towed behind a vessel, and a pair of submerged deflectors are used and which, as the vessel moves, seek to move in a direction transverse to the vessel's direction of travel. Fastened between the deflectors is a wire which limits the spacing between the deflectors. Along the wire there are also mounted thereon hydrophone devices which in relation to the spacing of the devices have a short lengthwise extent. The devices are connected together by a hydrophone signal cable. An additional signal cable connects the cable to the signal processing equipment on the vessel. The seismic source may be connected to signal equipment on the vessel and located in an area between the vessel and the wire, or at least one of the deflectors may be equipped with a seismic source.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2003Date of Patent: May 22, 2007Inventors: Sverre Planke, Christian Berndt
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Patent number: 7206254Abstract: The present invention provides an underwater cable arrangement includes an underwater cable having one or more external devices mounted on the cable. In one form of the invention, the external devices are powered primarily or entirely by inductive coupling between a coil disposed in the cable and a coil disposed in the external device. The invention also provides a variety of external devices capable of use with an underwater cable. The invention further provides a coil support arrangement for supporting a coil within an underwater cable in a manner protecting a core of the coil from damage.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2002Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Assignee: Input/Output, Inc.Inventors: Andre W. Oliver, Robert E. Rouquette, Brien G. Rau
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Patent number: 7193931Abstract: A system and method for measuring the value of a parameter, e.g. sound energy, at a plurality of spaced locations using electrically powered microcells positioned at each of the locations and for transmitting RF signals commensurate with control and measurement data between a control node and the microcells, all without physical connection of a wiring harness, or the like, for either powering or signaling. The microcells and control node are mounted to an elongated, tubular member through which a single, insulated conductor and a coaxial cable in coupled mode extend, in proximity to the spaced microcells. The insulated conductor is connected to a source of AC power and passes through the open centers of current transformers which inductively couple the AC power to each microcell. A phase locked loop at each microcell controls the frequency of the AC power provided to the sensing element, thereby controlling the sampling rate.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2004Date of Patent: March 20, 2007Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventor: Jeffrey S. Pyle
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Patent number: 7184366Abstract: A seismic streamer stretch section includes at least one spring member. The section includes means for coupling the at least one spring member at each end to at least one of a seismic streamer and a seismic lead in cable, and a cable coupled at its ends to the means for coupling. The cable is capable of carrying electrical and/or optical signals. The cable is formed such that it undergoes substantially no axial strain when the spring member is elongated.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2005Date of Patent: February 27, 2007Assignee: PGS Geophysical ASInventors: Bruce William Harrick, Michael Gunter Gronemeyer
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Patent number: 7184365Abstract: In one aspect the invention comprises a system and a method for marine geophysical exploration, which includes a first cable connected to a vessel and a plurality of streamer cables connected to the first cable. The first cable includes all towing strength members and all electrical power and data transmission conductors for the connected streamer cables.Type: GrantFiled: December 26, 2002Date of Patent: February 27, 2007Assignee: PGS Americas, Inc.Inventors: Nicholas Claude George, Rolf Gunnar Molund
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Patent number: 7184364Abstract: A method for wrapping continuous strands of steel wire about a seismic cable including interconnected sensor sections and conductor sections where a cross sectional diameter of the sensor section is at least four times that of the conductor section. Two layers of armoring are provided with a first layer wrapped in a first angular direction opposite that of the second layer. A stranding assembly is provided which has two selective positions, one for providing a die hole for stranding the conductor section, another for providing a passage hole for allowing the sensor section to pass after wrapping with armor wire.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2002Date of Patent: February 27, 2007Assignee: Geospace Engineering Resources International, LPInventors: Frederick C. Sawin, Roy W. James, Karl J. Schuler, Gary J. Zernia
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Patent number: 7167413Abstract: Apparatus and methods for reducing ghosts from hydrophone signals in a streamer towed underwater close to the sea surface. A multi-axis micro-electro-mechanical-system (MEMS) accelerometer with attitude sensing is used to reduce the frequency spectral notch in the response of the combined hydrophone-accelerometer system and to reduce the sensitivity to ghost-producing downward traveling acoustic waves that are sea-surface reflections of the primary upward traveling acoustic waves. Multi-axis spring load cells provide high compliance and mechanical isolation between stress members and the accelerometer system. The load cells also provide signals representing the vibration of the stress members. The signals can be used with an adaptive filter estimating the mechanical transfer function between the vibration and the motion of the accelerometer system to remove the vibration-induced noise from the accelerometer signals.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2006Date of Patent: January 23, 2007Assignee: Input/OutputInventor: Robert E. Rouquette
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Patent number: 7139217Abstract: A seismic sensor cable is disclosed. The cable includes an outer jacket disposed on an exterior of the cable. The outer jacket excludes fluid from entering an interior of the cable. A reinforcing layer disposed within the outer jacket, which includes at least one electrical conductor disposed therein. An inner jacket is disposed within the reinforcing layer, and at least one electrical conductor disposed within an interior of the inner jacket. Some embodiments include at least one seismic sensor electrically coupled to the at least one electrical conductor disposed in the reinforcing layer In some embodiments a housing is disposed over the electrical coupling of the sensor to the conductor. The housing is molded from a polyurethane composition adapted to form a substantially interface-free bond with the cable jacket when the polyurethane cures.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2004Date of Patent: November 21, 2006Assignee: PGS Americas, Inc.Inventor: Gary Lee Scott
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Patent number: 7132952Abstract: The combination of a portable article and a security system. The security system has a flexible element/tether with a length. The flexible element/tether is connected between the portable article and a support to confine movement of the portable article within a range dictated by the length of the flexible element/tether. The flexible element/tether has a flexible core and a protective layer over the core. The protective layer is made at least partially from a material that is resistant to being cut to thereby avoid severance of the flexible core.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2005Date of Patent: November 7, 2006Assignee: Se-Kure Controls, Inc.Inventors: Roger Leyden, Terrance Surma, Kris Michael Southerland
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Patent number: 7130242Abstract: A system and method are provided for detecting an acoustic signal in the presence of flow noise produced by the turbulent flow field that develops about a hosewall of a towed array. Pressure is sensed with pressure sensors at two diametrically-opposed locations at the surface of the hosewall over a period of time. The sensed pressure signals are used to generate an ensemble-averaged cross-spectra which effectively cancels out the flow noise while retaining the acoustic signal associated with a possible target of interest.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2005Date of Patent: October 31, 2006Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: William L. Keith, Kimberly M. Cipolla, Michael R. Williams
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Patent number: 7120087Abstract: An electronic-carrying module (640), for example for use with a seismic data acquisition cable (400), is disclosed. The preferred electronic-carrying module (640) includes, first, an electronics carrier (106) having access means (107) for providing an easy-to-reach access to wrap-around circuitry fitted inside a curved space (104a) within the electronics carrier (106). Second, a pair of rigid end-fittings (102) spaced apart axially by the electronics carrier (106) for connecting to a section of the seismic data acquisition cable (400). And third, an axial hole (100) formed in the electronics carrier (106) and the rigid end-fittings (102) defining the curved space (104a) between the axial hole (100), the access means (107) and the rigid end-fittings (102).Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2003Date of Patent: October 10, 2006Assignee: Sercel Australia Pty LtdInventors: Paul Lee, Robert Dowle
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Patent number: 7113448Abstract: A seismic sensor cable is disclosed. The cable includes an outer jacket disposed on an exterior of the cable. The outer jacket excludes fluid from entering an interior of the cable. A reinforcing layer disposed within the outer jacket, which includes at least one electrical conductor disposed therein. An inner jacket is disposed within the reinforcing layer, and at least one electrical conductor disposed within an interior of the inner jacket. Some embodiments include at least one seismic sensor electrically coupled to the at least one electrical conductor disposed in the reinforcing layer In some embodiments a housing is disposed over the electrical coupling of the sensor to the conductor. The housing is molded from a polyurethane composition adapted to form a substantially interface-free bond with the cable jacket when the polyurethane cures.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2005Date of Patent: September 26, 2006Assignee: PGS Americas, Inc.Inventor: Gary Lee Scott
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Patent number: 7061829Abstract: A seismic sensor cable is disclosed. The cable includes an outer jacket disposed on an exterior of the cable. The outer jacket excludes fluid from entering an interior of the cable. A reinforcing layer disposed within the outer jacket, which includes at least one electrical conductor disposed therein. An inner jacket is disposed within the reinforcing layer, and at least one electrical conductor disposed within an interior of the inner jacket. Some embodiments include at least one seismic sensor electrically coupled to the at least one electrical conductor disposed in the reinforcing layer In some embodiments a housing is disposed over the electrical coupling of the sensor to the conductor. The housing is molded from a polyurethane composition adapted to form a substantially interface-free bond with the cable jacket when the polyurethane cures.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2005Date of Patent: June 13, 2006Assignee: PGS Americas, Inc.Inventor: Gary Lee Scott
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Patent number: 7031223Abstract: A method is disclosed for processing seismic data. The method includes determining a position of a seismic energy source and seismic receivers at a time of actuation of the source. A velocity of the seismic receivers with respect to the source position is determined at the time of actuation. An offset of the receivers is corrected using the velocity. A moveout correction is determined for the signals detected by the sensors based on the corrected offset and a velocity of earth media through which seismic energy passed from the source to the sensors.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2004Date of Patent: April 18, 2006Assignee: PGS Americas, Inc.Inventor: Jack Dewayne Kinkead
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Patent number: 7025534Abstract: A method of performing a seismic survey of a hydrocarbon reservoir in the earth formations beneath a body of water includes deploying a seismic cable from a drum carried by a remotely operated vehicle on the seabed. The cable is deployed into a lined trench, which is formed either concurrently with cable deployment or during a previous survey, to ensure good repeatability of successive surveys of the reservoir, in order to enable changes in characteristics of the reservoir, eg due to depletion, to be monitored.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2004Date of Patent: April 11, 2006Assignee: WesternGeco, L.L.C.Inventors: James Martin, Philip Christie, Johan Fredrik Naes, Nicolas Goujon, Rune Voldsbekk
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Patent number: 6982926Abstract: A cable for towing marine devices is disclosed. The cable includes a strength member and at least one conduit associated with the strength member. The conduit has apertures therein at selected locations along the conduit. The apertures are adapted to conduct gas from a source into water in which the cable is disposed. Also disclosed is a method for improving the flow of a cable through water. The method includes releasing a gaseous bubble stream proximate an outer surface of said cable while the water is moving relative to the cable.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2002Date of Patent: January 3, 2006Assignee: PGS Americas, Inc.Inventors: Stig Rune Lennart Tenghamn, Andre Stenzel
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Patent number: 6982925Abstract: A method and system for interrogating a seismic sensor in a seismic cable having modular sensing stations spaced along the seismic cable and a connection module head end of the sensor sections, that includes dropping, at the connection modules, a wavelength of light from an input bus telemetry fiber that includes multiple wavelengths of light, distributing the dropped wavelength of light to the seismic sensor, returning the dropped wavelength from the seismic sensor to a return telemetry fiber, remultiplexing the dropped wavelength of light onto the return bus telemetry, and amplifying, in the seismic cable, the returned dropped wavelength.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2004Date of Patent: January 3, 2006Assignee: PGS Americas, Inc.Inventors: Steven J. Maas, D. Richard Metzbower, Ian McMillan
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Patent number: 6970396Abstract: A method for attaching seismic sensors in a seismic cable that includes a strength member inside a cable jacket with a fiber tube wound around the strength member and a sensor station base attached around the cable wherein the jacket is removed, at least one fiber tube is extracted and a seismic sensor is attached to the fiber tube.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2004Date of Patent: November 29, 2005Assignee: PGS Americas, Inc.Inventors: Steven J. Maas, D. Richard Metzbower, Ian McMillan
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Patent number: 6906981Abstract: A method for seismic surveying is disclosed which includes towing a first seismic energy source and at least one seismic sensor system. A second seismic energy source is towed at a selected distance from the first source. The first seismic energy source and the second seismic energy source are actuated in a plurality of firing sequences. Each of the firing sequences includes firing of the first source, waiting a selected time firing the second source and recording signals generated by the seismic sensor system. The selected time between firing the first source and the second source is varied between successive ones of the firing sequences. The firing times of the first and second source are indexed so as to enable separate identification of seismic events originating from the first source and seismic events originating from the second source in detected seismic signals.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2002Date of Patent: June 14, 2005Assignee: PGS Americas, Inc.Inventor: Svein Torleif Vaage
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Patent number: 6876599Abstract: A method of acquiring and processing seismic data including: acquiring digitized seismic data associated with a plurality of moving receiver points using a plurality of seismic sensors; attenuating noise in the moving receiver point based digitized seismic data using digitized seismic data associated with a plurality of nearby receiver points; transforming noise attenuated moving receiver point based digitized seismic data into stationary receiver point based digitized seismic data; and recording noise attenuated and transformed digitized seismic data associated with stationary receiver points having an average spatial separation interval at least twice the average moving receiver point spatial separation interval. This method is particularly effective at attenuating coherent low frequency noise and correcting for the receiver motion effect in marine seismic data.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2000Date of Patent: April 5, 2005Assignee: WesternGeco, L.L.C.Inventor: Leendert Combee
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Patent number: 6850461Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method are provided for interrogating of optical seismic sensors in a seismic cable. According to various example embodiments of the invention, distribution, return, and amplification of optical signals is performed near sensors for improvement of modularity of construction, signal-to-nose ratios, and simplicity of operations.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2002Date of Patent: February 1, 2005Assignee: PGS Americas, Inc.Inventors: Steven J. Maas, D. Richard Metzbower, Ian McMillan
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Publication number: 20040240319Abstract: The present invention provides a method for analyzing traces collected along a plurality of adjacent sail lines in a marine seismic survey area. The method comprises selecting a plurality of trace groups, at least one trace in each group sharing a common midpoint with at least one trace from another group, determining an initial zero-offset travel time for each trace in the trace groups, and generating a plurality of updated zero-offset travel times and a plurality of time corrections for the trace groups using a pre-selected function of the initial zero-offset travel times.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 30, 2003Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Charles V. Carvill, Jonathan G. Fried
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Publication number: 20040125698Abstract: In one aspect the invention comprises a system and a method for marine geophysical exploration, which includes a first cable connected to a vessel and a plurality of streamer cables connected to the first cable. The first cable includes all towing strength members and all electrical power and data transmission conductors for the connected streamer cables.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 26, 2002Publication date: July 1, 2004Inventors: Nicholas Claude George, Rolf Gunnar Molund
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Patent number: 6751559Abstract: A method is disclosed for attenuating noise from marine seismic signals caused by a noise in the water. The method includes determining an arrival time of a noise event at each of a plurality of seismic sensors, estimating a position of the noise source from the arrival times, and attenuating the noise event from the signals detected by the seismic sensors.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2002Date of Patent: June 15, 2004Assignee: PGS Exploration (UK) LimitedInventors: Gregory Peter Gwyn Fookes, Roald Gunnar van Borselen, Jaafar Ali, John Brittan, Jeroen Hubertus Maria Hoogeveen
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Publication number: 20040081018Abstract: A method for wrapping continuous strands of steel wire about a seismic cable including interconnected sensor sections and conductor sections where a cross sectional diameter of the sensor section is at least four times that of the conductor section. Two layers of armoring are provided with a first layer wrapped in a first angular direction opposite that of the second layer. A stranding assembly is provided which has two selective positions, one for providing a die hole for stranding the conductor section, another for providing a passage hole for allowing the sensor section to pass after wrapping with armor wire.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 29, 2002Publication date: April 29, 2004Applicant: GEOSPACE ENGINEERING RESOURCES INTL., LPInventors: Frederick C. Sawin, Roy W. James, Karl J. Schuler, Gary J. Zernia
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Patent number: 6708640Abstract: A distributed fiber strength member tow cable termination assembly (DTCTA) having a strength member termination area which is spaced from a signal conductor termination area, and which includes a seal area having a plurality of sealing members is disclosed. The strength member termination area preferably includes a strength member termination wedge having a curved outer face which allows for higher termination efficiency. The strength member termination area and signal conductor termination area are distributed, or separated, a predetermined distance by an interface section, for example a length of hose. The separation of the strength member termination area from the signal conductor termination area allows for several improvements in the DTCTA not possible in the prior art due to the previous need to terminate the signal conductors co-located with the strength termination member.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2002Date of Patent: March 23, 2004Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventor: Michael R. Williams
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Publication number: 20040032794Abstract: An in-water distributed control system for use in marine seismic survey. The system includes a shipboard interface and power supply coupled to an in-water subsystem via a high bandwidth communication link. The in-water subsystem includes a remote control module for generating firing commands based on synchronizing and position parameters transmitted by the interface. The remote control module transmits power, data, and commands to a plurality of gun control modules. Each gun control module operates an air gun. An individually addressable remote cut-off valve controls air to each air gun. Depth and pressure at the gun control module is sensed by at least one DT/PT module. An optional expansion unit provides additional DT/PT capability.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2003Publication date: February 19, 2004Applicant: Input/Output, Inc.Inventors: David A. Clayton, Shyam Kutty, Allen Nance
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Patent number: 6691038Abstract: A method and apparatus comprising an active control system for a towed seismic streamer array that enables any relative positional control of any number of towed seismic streamers. The streamer positions are controlled horizontally and vertically using active control units positioned within the seismic array. The three component (x, y, z) position of each streamer element, relative to the vessel and relative to each other is controlled, tracked and stored during a seismic data acquisition run. The present invention enables a seismic array to be maneuvered as the towing vessel maintains course, enables maintenance of specific array position and geometry in the presence of variable environmental factors and facilitates four-dimensional seismic data acquisition by sensing and storing the position of the array and each array element with respect to time.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2001Date of Patent: February 10, 2004Assignee: WesternGeco L.L.C.Inventor: Mark Zajac
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Patent number: 6684160Abstract: A method and system for performing a marine seismic survey is described, including towing at least one seismic streamer comprising a plurality of hydrophones distributed at average intervals of not more than 625 cm therealong in the water over the area to be surveyed; directing acoustic signals down through the water and into the earth beneath; receiving with the hydrophones seismic signals reflected from strata in the earth beneath the water; digitizing the output of each hydrophone separately; and filtering the output to reduce the noise present in the output and to generate a signal with a reduced noise content wherein the filtering process uses as further input the digitized output of at least one nearby hydrophone. The filtering is applied to single sensor recording prior to group-forming and thus able to detect and reduce coherent noise with a coherency length of 20 meters or less. It reduces noise such as streamer or bulge noise.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2000Date of Patent: January 27, 2004Assignee: WesternGecoInventors: Ali Ozbek, James Martin, Nils Lunde, Simon Hastings Bittleston