Telemetry Patents (Class 367/76)
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Patent number: 8335128Abstract: A seismic data acquisition apparatus having a recorder co-located with a sensor unit in a seismic spread and a communication device for direct communication with a central recorder. A memory located in the recorder and/or in the central controller holds location parameters associated with the sensor unit, and the parameters can be updated. Methods of seismic data acquisition including sensing seismic energy and recording the sensed energy at the sensor location. Delivering the recorded information to a central recorder by manually retrieving removable memory from each recorder, by wireless transmission of the information, or by removing the information from each recorder by inductive or cable connectors and a transfer device. 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.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2011Date of Patent: December 18, 2012Assignee: Inova, Ltd.Inventor: James W. Iseli
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Patent number: 8296067Abstract: According to a preferred aspect of the instant invention, there is provided a system and method for using satellite communications satellites to control and receive data from a land cableless seismic system. The satellite transmission could transmit control signals (e.g. turn on/off) and receive signals from the remote seismograph units (seismic data, quality control parameters, status, location, etc.) which would subsequently be retransmitted to a processing center or other surface facility.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2009Date of Patent: October 23, 2012Assignee: BP Corporation North America Inc.Inventors: Allan A. Ross, Michael Pfister
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Patent number: 8254207Abstract: In various embodiments, seismic receivers may detect seismic energy and transmit digital signals representative of the seismic energy to an S-line interface module (SLIM) and/or a smart antenna module (SAM) for collection. A SLIM may be used to connect two or more seismic receivers together. A SAM may include a memory medium for storing digital signals from seismic receivers (e.g., received directly from the seismic receivers or received through a connection to a SLIM) and a wireless transmitter to transmit data stored on the memory medium. The SAM may further include a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver for receiving and storing timestamps, clock data, and/or positional data relative to the seismic receivers. The timestamps, clock data, and/or positional data may be transmitted along with the digital signal data to an external source (e.g., a laptop) for analysis to detect characteristics of subterranean formations.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2008Date of Patent: August 28, 2012Inventors: Geza Nemeth, Robert Gray Moore, Zoltan Csizmadia
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Patent number: 8238199Abstract: Systems and methods for seismic data acquisition employing a dynamic multiplexing technique. The dynamic multiplexing technique may include advancing one or more modules in a seismic array through a multiplexing signature sequence in successive transmission periods. The multiplexing signature sequence may be random or pseudo-random. A shared multiplexing signature sequence may be used at all the modules in the seismic array. As such, modules belonging to a common collision domain may operate out of phase with respect to the shared multiplexing signature sequence.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2010Date of Patent: August 7, 2012Assignee: Wireless Seismic, Inc.Inventors: Keith Elder, Steven Kooper, Kevin Rose, Calvin Day, David Elam, Kip Ingram, Douglas B. Crice
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Patent number: 8237584Abstract: In one aspect of the present invention, a method for tool string communication comprises the steps of providing a downhole tool string with at least two downhole LWD/MWD instruments in electrical communication with a downhole telemetry system. The instruments are capable of generating at least one data packet assigned a priority. The tool string is deployed in a wellbore and then the priority of the data packet is changed.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2009Date of Patent: August 7, 2012Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: David R. Hall, Christopher Durrand, Brad Barger
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Publication number: 20120176863Abstract: 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 11, 2012Publication date: July 12, 2012Applicant: CGGVERITAS SERVICES SAInventors: Jason Alex JUROK, Thomas PREUSSER, Peter MAXWELL
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Patent number: 8181057Abstract: To synchronize units of a formation evaluation/drilling operation evaluation system, a time delay associated with a communications link between a master unit and a slave unit of the formation evaluation/drilling operation evaluation system is determined. The master unit has a master time clock that provides universal time. The time delay associated with the communications link is used to enable synchronization of time provided by a slave time clock in the slave unit to the universal time.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2009Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Edward Nichols, Yuji Hosoda, Thor Johnsen, Vamsi Vytla, Hong Zhang, Luis DePavia
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Publication number: 20120106296Abstract: A module for operation in a seismic data acquisition system is described. The seismic data acquisition system includes a cabled network with a plurality of acquisition lines having electronic units assembled in series along a telemetry cable. Each electronic unit is associated with at least one seismic sensor and processes signals transmitted by the sensor(s). The module is designed to be associated with at least one of the electronic units to provide power supply and synchronization to the electronic unit(s). The module includes: autonomous synchronization means; bidirectional and autonomous power supply means to power at least one electronic unit upstream and/or downstream from the module; and means for storing and processing the signals processed by the electronic units, the storage means being bidirectional to store the signals from at least one electronic unit upstream and/or downstream from the module.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 29, 2011Publication date: May 3, 2012Applicant: SERCELInventor: Daniel Boucard
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Publication number: 20120082002Abstract: A seismic data acquisition apparatus having a recorder co-located with a sensor unit in a seismic spread and a communication device for direct communication with a central recorder. A memory located in the recorder and/or in the central controller holds location parameters associated with the sensor unit, and the parameters can be updated. Methods of seismic data acquisition including sensing seismic energy and recording the sensed energy at the sensor location. Delivering the recorded information to a central recorder by manually retrieving removable memory from each recorder, by wireless transmission of the information, or by removing the information from each recorder by inductive or cable connectors and a transfer device. 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 23, 2011Publication date: April 5, 2012Applicant: INOVA, LTD.Inventor: James W. Iseli
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Patent number: 8094516Abstract: A method for the time-serial transmission of received signals of electroacoustic transducers (11), which are placed at different transducer locations (13) of a spatially spread receive arrangement (10), to a signal processing unit (12), in which at each transducer location (13) the received signals are digitized by an electronic module (20), and the digitized received signals are switched onto a data line (14, 15, 16) leading to the signal processing unit (12) in the timing pattern of a synchronization clock. To obtain a high data rate with undisturbed data transmission, the intrinsic switching-time errors of the electronic modules (20) are measured with respect to the switching times defined by the timing pattern, and compensated for at the transducer locations (13) by individual time delay of the signals to be switched.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2007Date of Patent: January 10, 2012Assignee: Atlas Elektronik GmbHInventors: Peter Hoffman, Kersten Mölck, Eberhard Schmidt
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Patent number: 8077542Abstract: A system includes a subterranean survey data acquisition network and a processor. The network has first nodes that are distributed along a length of the network between a first end of the network and a second end of the network. Each of the first nodes is capable of being either in a state in which the first node is transparent to the network or in a state in which the first node is visible to the network. The processor is adapted to communicate with the closest visible first node relative to the first end, and the processor is adapted to, based on the communication, determine whether the closest visible first node is the closest first node of all of the first nodes relative to the first end.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2009Date of Patent: December 13, 2011Assignee: Westerngeco L.L.C.Inventors: Espen Gulbransen, Vidar Anders Husom
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Patent number: 8050140Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 17, 2010Date of Patent: November 1, 2011Assignee: Fairfield Industries IncorporatedInventors: Clifford H. Ray, Glenn D. Fisseler, Hal B. Haygood, James N. Thompson
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Publication number: 20110222371Abstract: A technique includes deploying seismic sensors to perform a seismic survey and during the deployment of the seismic sensors, testing each of the seismic sensors to determine an associated sensor transfer function. The technique includes determining an associated operator to apply to seismic data acquired by each of the seismic sensors in the seismic survey based at least in part on a frequency dependent variation between the associated sensor transfer function and a nominal response for the seismic sensor. The technique includes processing the seismic data, including applying the associated operators to the seismic data.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2010Publication date: September 15, 2011Inventors: Qinglin Liu, Daniel Ronnow, Kambiz Iranpour
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Patent number: 8004933Abstract: A seismic data acquisition apparatus having a recorder co-located with a sensor unit in a seismic spread and a communication device for direct communication with a central recorder. A memory located in the recorder and/or in the central controller holds location parameters associated with the sensor unit, and the parameters can be updated. Methods of seismic data acquisition including sensing seismic energy and recording the sensed energy at the sensor location. Delivering the recorded information to a central recorder by manually retrieving removable memory from each recorder, by wireless transmission of the information, or by removing the information from each recorder by inductive or cable connectors and a transfer device. 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.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2007Date of Patent: August 23, 2011Assignee: INOVA, Ltd.Inventor: James Iseli
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Publication number: 20110182145Abstract: A subterranean survey system includes a sensor string having a communications link and a plurality of survey sensors connected to the communications link. The sensor string has a loop connection to provide communications redundancy, and the survey sensors are used to detect signals affected by a subterranean structure. A first router is connected to the sensor string, and a transport network is connected to the first router. The first router communicates data from the survey sensors over the transport network.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 27, 2010Publication date: July 28, 2011Inventors: Brian Lee Virgin, Jostein Fonneland, Stuart Papworth
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Patent number: 7986589Abstract: A seismic exploration method and unit comprised of continuous recording, self-contained wireless seismometer units or pods. The self-contained unit may include a tilt meter, a compass and a mechanically gimbaled clock platform. Upon retrieval, seismic data recorded by the unit can be extracted and the unit can be charged, tested, re-synchronized, and operation can be re-initiated without the need to open the unit's case. The unit may include an additional geophone to mechanically vibrate the unit to gauge the degree of coupling between the unit and the earth. The unit may correct seismic data for the effects of crystal aging arising from the clock. Deployment location of the unit may be determined tracking linear and angular acceleration from an initial position. The unit may utilize multiple geophones angularly oriented to one another in order to redundantly measure seismic activity in a particular plane.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2009Date of Patent: July 26, 2011Assignee: Fairfield Industries IncorporatedInventors: Clifford H. Ray, Glenn D. Fisseler, Hal B. Haygood
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Patent number: 7957222Abstract: A method for wireless communication in a seismic sensor network is disclosed. The method comprises providing a first acoustic device having at least one seismic sensor with communication and control data to communicate over an acoustic energy wave on a first communications channel. The first acoustic device generates the acoustic energy wave with a first wave intensity. The first acoustic device is configured to receive a reflection of the generated wave at a prescribed signal sensitivity level based on a network configuration. If the first wave intensity is below the prescribed signal sensitivity level, the first wave intensity of the acoustic energy wave is tuned to the prescribed signal sensitivity level to interpret the communication and control data provided by the first communications channel.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2007Date of Patent: June 7, 2011Assignee: Honeywell International, Inc.Inventors: Keith A. Souders, Jamal Haque, Andrew W. Guyette, Edward R. Prado, Richard Pereira Soares, Jr.
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Patent number: 7948827Abstract: A seismic survey system having remote acquisition modules (RAMs) for acquiring seismic signals and communicating with a central recording system (CRU) via a network of cables, other RAMs, and line tap units (LTUs), arranged in a matrix of receiver lines and base lines. Each RAM cyclically converts analog signal values to digital, forming data packets. Interrogation commands emanating from the CRU and relayed with strategic delays by intervening LTUs and RAMs are received by the RAM. Each command causes the RAM to transmit a data packet. Strategic delays are set such that the transmission capacity of the line is best utilized. Power and frequency of transmission are selectable by the CRU to optimize performance. Cables contain multiple communication pairs. The network path between the RAM and the CRU is established from the CRU and altered in event of malfunction. All types of network elements are interconnectable. Recorded samples are synchronous.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2007Date of Patent: May 24, 2011Assignee: Geo-X Systems Ltd.Inventor: Donald G. Chamberlain
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Publication number: 20110116344Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for acquiring seismic data using a wireless network and a number of individual data acquisition modules that are configured to collect seismic data and forward data to a central recording and control system. In one implementation, a number of remote modules (301) are arranged in lines. Base station modules (302) receive information from the lines and relay the information to a central control and recording system (303). Radio links operating on multiple frequencies (F1-F12) are used by the modules (301). For improved data transfer rate, radio links from a remote module (301) leap past the nearest remote module to the next module closer to the base station.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 15, 2010Publication date: May 19, 2011Applicant: WIRELESS SEISMICInventors: Douglas CRICE, Mihai BEFFA
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Patent number: 7898904Abstract: A method and apparatus implementing a network infrastructure in a seismic acquisition system are disclosed. The apparatus is a seismic acquisition system, comprising a plurality of seismic data sources (120) capable of generating data; at least one data collection system (140) utilizing an open network protocol; and at least one line network (300) connecting the data sources to the data collection system and utilizing an open network protocol. The line network (300) includes a plurality of data source nodes (130) at which a portion of the plurality of seismic data sources are respectively attached to the line network; and a router (135) for routing data generated by the seismic data sources (120) to the data collection system (140) through the data source nodes (130) in accordance with the open network protocol.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2003Date of Patent: March 1, 2011Assignee: WesternGeco LLCInventors: Truls Arnegaard, Ove Brynestad, Brian Lee Virgin, Daniel Golparian
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Patent number: 7876644Abstract: At least two light beams with polarization diversity are generated that each carry a representation of the same information. Separate optic fibers carry each of the at least two beams through a region subject to vibration to a remote location where the information is recovered by an optical receiver based on the separate light beams. Using separate fibers to carry polarization diverse information minimizes polarization noise at the optical receiver due to vibration of the fibers.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2009Date of Patent: January 25, 2011Assignee: Northrop Grumman Guidance and Electronics Company, Inc.Inventors: David B. Hall, Paul L. Greene
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Patent number: 7813221Abstract: Implementations of various technologies for a method for establishing communication pathway redundancy within a seismic recording array. In one implementation, the method may include identifying each data acquisition cell deployed in a seismic field and determining one or more communication pathways for each data acquisition cell. The communication pathways include a primary communication pathway and at least one backup communication pathway toward a data collection unit.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2006Date of Patent: October 12, 2010Assignee: WesternGeco L.L.C.Inventors: Simon Barakat, Harvey Ray Grimes
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Patent number: 7813222Abstract: A seismic data acquisition method is provided that includes receiving seismic signals at a sensor; sampling the received seismic signals into a plurality of samples, each sample having a selected number of bits (“bit length”); arranging the samples in packets, wherein some of the packets include one or more compressed samples; and transmitting the packet to a remote unit.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2008Date of Patent: October 12, 2010Assignee: Ion Geophysical CorporationInventors: Keith Elder, Steven Kooper, Andras Feszthammer, Donald E. Clayton, Henry T. Polk
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Patent number: 7805247Abstract: Systems and methods in which data compression techniques are utilized to fill a predetermined channel capacity are shown. According to one configuration, event data points within test data are selected for communication via the data communication channel and a data decimator is utilized to identify other data points within the test data to fill or substantially fill the predetermined channel capacity. The foregoing data decimator may employ one or more variables for selecting data for communication, wherein one or more of the variables are preferably adjusted in decimator iterations to select an optimum or otherwise desirable subset of data for communication. Data decimators may additionally or alternatively implement a suitable “growth” function to select the particular data for communication and/or the amount of data communicated.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2007Date of Patent: September 28, 2010Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Kai Hsu, Julian J. Pop
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Publication number: 20100214871Abstract: A method, system, and apparatus for communicating data with a seismic sensor are provided. The method comprises identifying data to be transmitted and one or more seismic events that correspond to the data to be transmitted. One or more seismic events are created that are distinguishable into binary code from one or more seismic sensors within the array. Seismic events can be distinguished by their pattern or frequency. A first frequency can be assigned as a first binary code and a second frequency can be assigned as a second binary code. Likewise, different patterns of acoustic energy can designate different binary codes. Combinations of patterns and frequencies can be used together to create distinct distinguishable seismic events.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 25, 2009Publication date: August 26, 2010Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.Inventors: Keith A. Souders, Jamal Haque
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Patent number: 7773457Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for acquiring seismic data using a wireless network and a number of individual data acquisition modules that are configured to collect seismic data and forward data to a central recording and control system. In one implementation, a number of remote modules (301) are arranged in lines. Base station modules (302) receive information from the lines and relay the information to a central control and recording system (303). Radio links operating on multiple frequencies (F1-F12) are used by the modules (301). For improved data transfer rate, radio links from a remote module (301) leap past the nearest remote module to the next module closer to the base station.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2006Date of Patent: August 10, 2010Assignee: Wireless SeismicInventors: Douglas Crice, Mihai Beffa
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Publication number: 20100195438Abstract: A seismic sensor module includes sensing elements arranged in a plurality of axes to detect seismic signals in a plurality of respective directions, and a processor to receive data from the sensing elements and to determine inclinations of the axes with respect to a particular orientation. The determined inclinations are used to combine the data received from the sensing elements to derive tilt-corrected seismic data for the particular orientation.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 5, 2009Publication date: August 5, 2010Inventor: Nicolas Goujon
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Publication number: 20100157728Abstract: A technique includes generating a data stream that contains data acquired by nodes of a subterranean survey data acquisition network and introducing data into the data stream, which describes an equipment failure that occurred in the network.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 23, 2008Publication date: June 24, 2010Inventor: Espen Gulbransen
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Publication number: 20100128564Abstract: Described herein is a land seismic data acquisition system comprising a central processing unit; a cabled network connected to the central processing unit comprising a plurality of acquisition lines each comprising: electronic units assembled in series along a telemetry cable and each associated with at least one seismic sensor, the units processing signals transmitted by the sensor(s); intermediate modules assembled in series along the telemetry cable and each associated with at least one of the electronic units, each intermediate module providing power supply and synchronisation of the electronic unit(s) wherewith it is associated; wherein each electronic unit is associated with at least two intermediate modules including at least one upstream and at least one downstream from the electronic unit along the telemetry cable, and comprises synchronisation means independent from the cabled network, bidirectional and autonomous power supply means, bidirectional storage means of the signals processed by the electrType: ApplicationFiled: November 25, 2009Publication date: May 27, 2010Inventor: Daniel Boucard
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Publication number: 20100118656Abstract: A method for use in a land-based seismic survey includes: transmitting a plurality of source control commands to a plurality of seismic sources over a VHF/IP network; and managing congestion on the VHF/IP network while transmitting the source control commands. In other aspects, a program storage medium encoded with instructions that, when executed by a processor, perform such a method and a computer programmed to perform such a method.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 8, 2008Publication date: May 13, 2010Inventors: Guillaume J. D. Tamboise, Christin Rendalen, Tristan Hollande
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Publication number: 20100074054Abstract: Systems and methods for asynchronously acquiring seismic data are described, one system comprising one or more seismic sources, a plurality of sensor modules each comprising a seismic sensor, an A/D converter for generating digitized seismic data, a digital signal processor (DSP), and a sensor module clock; a seismic data recording station; and a seismic data transmission sub-system comprising a high precision clock, the sub-system allowing transmission of at least some of the digitized seismic data to the recording station, wherein each sensor module is configured to periodically receive from the sub-system an amount of the drift of its clock relative to the high precision clock. This abstract is provided to comply with rules requiring an abstract to ascertain the subject matter of the 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: November 26, 2009Publication date: March 25, 2010Inventors: Simon Barakat, Kambiz Iranpour, Daniel H. Golparian
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Patent number: 7668047Abstract: A seismic exploration method and unit comprised of continuous recording, self-contained wireless seismometer units or pods. The self-contained unit may include a tilt meter, a compass and a mechanically gimbaled clock platform. Upon retrieval, seismic data recorded by the unit can be extracted and the unit can be charged, tested, re-synchronized, and operation can be re-initiated without the need to open the unit's case. The unit may include an additional geophone to mechanically vibrate the unit to gauge the degree of coupling between the unit and the earth. The unit may correct seismic data for the effects of crystal aging arising from the clock. Deployment location of the unit may be determined tracking linear and angular acceleration from an initial position. The unit may utilize multiple geophones angularly oriented to one another in order to redundantly measure seismic activity in a particular plane.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2008Date of Patent: February 23, 2010Assignee: Fairchild Industries, Inc.Inventors: Clifford H. Ray, Glenn D. Fisseler, Hal B. Haygood
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Patent number: 7668044Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided for simultaneously retrieving data from multiple data acquisition units and for recharging such data acquisition units. The data offload and charging unit comprises a frame that defines stations for holding the data acquisition units and a host computer. A combined power and communications port at each such station is adapted to interface with one of the data acquisition units such that power may flow from the data offload and charger unit to that data acquisition unit and data may flow from that data acquisition unit to the host computer substantially simultaneously. Communications links are provided between the host computer and each combined power and communications port.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2005Date of Patent: February 23, 2010Assignee: Ascend Geo, LLCInventors: Russell B. Brinkman, Scott K. Burkholder, Christopher Bruce Crosby, Paul D. Favret, Todd J. Fockler, Joseph L. Kapushion, Aaron Stafford Oakley, Robert Stewart, James Muir Drummond
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Publication number: 20100039896Abstract: A technique includes acquiring data, which is indicative of operations that are being conducted in connection with a subterranean survey. The technique includes communicating the data in real time over a long range communication network to allow at least one remote user to remotely observe the operations.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 17, 2008Publication date: February 18, 2010Inventor: BRIAN DAVID SMITH
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Patent number: 7663973Abstract: A seismic survey system having remote acquisition modules (RAMs) for acquiring seismic signals and communicating with a central recording system (CRU) via a network of cables, other RAMs, and line tap units (LTUs), arranged in a matrix of receiver lines and base lines. Each RAM cyclically converts analog signal values to digital, forming data packets. Interrogation commands emanating from the CRU and relayed with strategic delays by intervening LTUs and RAMs are received by the RAM. Each command causes the RAM to transmit a data packet. Strategic delays are set such that the transmission capacity of the line is best utilized. Power and frequency of transmission are selectable by the CRU to optimize performance. Cables contain multiple communication pairs. The network path between the RAM and the CRU is established from the CRU and altered in event of malfunction. All types of network elements are interconnectable. Recorded samples are synchronous.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2005Date of Patent: February 16, 2010Assignee: Geo-X Systems, Ltd.Inventor: Donald G. Chamberlain
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Patent number: 7660203Abstract: Systems and methods for asynchronously acquiring seismic data are described, one system comprising one or more seismic sources, a plurality of sensor modules each comprising a seismic sensor, an A/D converter for generating digitized seismic data, a digital signal processor (DSP), and a sensor module clock; a seismic data recording station; and a seismic data transmission sub-system comprising a high precision clock, the sub-system allowing transmission of at least some of the digitized seismic data to the recording station, wherein each sensor module is configured to periodically receive from the sub-system an amount of the drift of its clock relative to the high precision clock.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2007Date of Patent: February 9, 2010Assignee: WesternGeco L.L.C.Inventors: Simon Barakat, Kambiz Iranpour, Daniel H. Golparian
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Patent number: 7643375Abstract: A seismic data acquisition system includes a connector housing and a mating electrical circuitry module. A single interface couples electrical circuitry housed in the electrical circuitry module to one or more signal data carriers that are consolidated at a single location in the connector housing. Preferably, the connector housing and electrical circuitry module each have a substantially contaminant-free interior regardless of whether these two parts are mated. An alternate connector housing has two plug casings, each of which are provided with a plug. A complementary alternate electrical circuitry module includes two receptacles complementary to the plugs and an interior space for holding the electrical circuitry. A locking pin disposed within the plug casing selectively engages the electrical circuitry module.Type: GrantFiled: January 2, 2007Date of Patent: January 5, 2010Assignee: ION Geophysical CorporationInventors: Phil Behn, John Chester, Leo Dekkers, John Downey, Keith Elder, Jerry Iseli
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Patent number: 7590029Abstract: An acoustic telemetry system includes a piezoelectric stack at least partially disposed within a segment of pipe, and electrical circuitry for controlling the piezoelectric stack. In response to a signal from the electrical circuitry, the piezoelectric stack generates a plurality of acoustic signals for transmission through the pipe at different frequencies spanning multiple regions of a frequency response for the pipe.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2006Date of Patent: September 15, 2009Assignee: The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc.Inventor: Robert D. Tingley
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Patent number: 7583560Abstract: A network distributed seismic data acquisition system comprises seismic receivers connected to remote acquisition modules, receiver lines, line tap units, base lines, a central recording system and a seismic source event generation unit synchronized to a master clock. One or more high precision clocks is added to the network to correct for timing uncertainty associated with propagation of commands through the network. Seismic receivers and seismic sources are thereby synchronized with greater accuracy than otherwise possible. Timing errors that interfere with the processing of the seismic recordings are greatly reduced, thus enabling an improvement in subsurface geologic imaging.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2007Date of Patent: September 1, 2009Assignee: ION Geophysical CorporationInventors: Donald G. Chamberlain, Norman David Heidebrecht
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Patent number: 7565301Abstract: A method of storing on a remote storage device protocol information for a drug for administration via a peristaltic pump is disclosed. A communications path between the peristaltic pump and the remote storage device is provided. The protocol information for the drug is entered into the peristaltic pump. The protocol information is transferred from the peristaltic pump to the remote storage device. The protocol information for the drug is stored on the remote storage device. History information may be retrieved from the peristaltic pump. A user request is received requesting retrieval of history information from the peristaltic pump. A pump request is formatted to retrieve history information. The pump request to receive history information is transmitted to the peristaltic pump. The history information is received from the peristaltic pump. The history information is displayed and stored.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2002Date of Patent: July 21, 2009Assignee: Curlin Medical Inc.Inventors: Ahmad-Maher Moubayed, David White, Linda Thomas, Chuck Grey, Mehryar Michael Parsee
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Patent number: 7558157Abstract: A data acquisition system includes multiple terminal nodes. Each terminal node includes a sensor, an atomic clock and a controller. Each sensor is adapted to sense an external event and transform the external event into an electrical signal. Each atomic clock generates a time reference. Each controller is coupled to the atomic clock and the sensor, and is configured to merge the electrical signal with the time reference and provide a time-stamped data stream to a remote central processor. The remote central processor is configured to organize a respective time-stamped data stream from one terminal node with another respective time-stamped data stream from another terminal node.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2006Date of Patent: July 7, 2009Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Kenneth R. Gardner, Fred Yacoby, Paul P. Lee
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Publication number: 20090168602Abstract: A seismic survey is conducted by positioning an array of remote acquisition units (RAUs) (10). Each of the RAUs (10) records seismic data derived from one or more geophones in digital form in local memory. The data is collected by a harvester unit traversed across the survey territory as by an aircraft (24) using point-multipoint communications, and subsequently transferred from the harvester unit to a central control unit (26).Type: ApplicationFiled: December 19, 2008Publication date: July 2, 2009Applicant: Vibration Technology LimitedInventors: Steven William Wilcox, John Christopher Whelan, Jonathan Alexander
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Patent number: 7554885Abstract: At least two light beams with polarization diversity are generated that each carry a representation of the same information. Separate optic fibers carry each of the at least two beams through a region subject to vibration to a remote location where the information is recovered by an optical receiver based on the separate light beams. Using separate fibers to carry polarization diverse information minimizes polarization noise at the optical receiver due to vibration of the fibers.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2005Date of Patent: June 30, 2009Assignee: Northrop Grumman Guidance and Electronics Company, Inc.Inventors: David B. Hall, Paul L. Greene
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Patent number: 7535795Abstract: A method and system for conducting a seismic survey by lowering a string of intelligent clampable sensor pods with 3-C sensors into a borehole. The string of pods is serially interconnected by a cable having a conductor pair which provides both power and data connectivity. The uppermost sensor pod is connected to a downhole telemetry and control module. The cables and pods use connectors to allow assembly, customization, repair, and disassembly on site. Each pod has an upper and a lower connector, a processor, and memory which is coupled to both the upper and the lower connectors. Each pod is capable of simultaneous and independent serial communications at each connector with the memory. The telemetry and control module is designed to query the pods to determine the system configuration. The telemetry and control module then simultaneously triggers all pods to acquire data, the pods storing the collected data locally in the memory.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2008Date of Patent: May 19, 2009Assignee: Sensorwise, Inc.Inventors: Georgios L. Varsamis, Laurence T. Wisniewski, Abbas Arian
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Publication number: 20080291782Abstract: An apparatus comprising a stacked node configured to be positioned within a subterranean opening and comprising a plurality of separate receivers oriented end-to-end and each configured to independently detect subterranean activity, and a transmission medium configured to transmit data from the stacked node, wherein the data is representative of subterranean activity detected by the plurality of separate receivers.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 23, 2007Publication date: November 27, 2008Applicant: PINNACLE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: Norm Warpinski, Julie Shemeta, Shawn Maxwell, Craig Funk
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Publication number: 20080291783Abstract: A seismic system uses a plurality of remote acquisition units in each of which geophone signals in digital form are temporarily stored in a buffer for near-real-time transmission by a transmitter. The whole of the digital data is also stored in a bulk store within the acquisition unit, from which it can be retrieved and transmitted under control of signals received by a receiver. This allows a central control unit to cause lost or low quality data to be retransmitted in a flexible manner.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 7, 2008Publication date: November 27, 2008Applicant: Vibration Technology LimitedInventors: Steven William Wilcox, John Christopher Whelan, Jonathan Alexander
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Publication number: 20080285385Abstract: The invention is directed to a system for detecting seismic waves. The system has one or more sensor modules. Each sensor module has a detection unit, a positioning module, a digitizer, a radio transmitter, and a power supply. The system also includes a communications interface including a receiver, a data storage device, and a data relay module, and a data processor. The system may be used to detect seismic events by positioning sensor modules in an area, positioning a communications interface module in an area, establishing communication, polling the sensor modules for data, and relaying the data. The polling and relaying may be repeated at predetermined time intervals. Then, analysis may be performed on the data, and the seismic event may be identified as a precursor.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 15, 2008Publication date: November 20, 2008Inventor: J. Theodore Cherry
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Publication number: 20080253230Abstract: Exemplary systems and methods are directed to transmission of electromagnetic (EM) pulses in a downhole environment, which is located below a surface of a landform. A sequence of EM energy pulses is generated from a signal generator located at the surface of the landform. The energy pulses are reflected at a ring frequency by one or more downhole transducers. The reflected energy pulse is received at a receiver, which is located at the surface, during a predetermined time interval. The receiver detects the received energy pulses through a time domain or frequency domain technique. The detected ring frequency is correlated to a parameter or condition of the downhole environment.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 13, 2007Publication date: October 16, 2008Applicant: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Inventors: M. Clark Thompson, David W. Beck, Don M. Coates
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Publication number: 20080186806Abstract: A seismic data acquisition method is provided that includes receiving seismic signals at a sensor; sampling the received seismic signals into a plurality of samples, each sample having a selected number of bits (“bit length”); arranging the samples in packets, wherein some of the packets include one or more compressed samples; and transmitting the packet to a remote unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 31, 2008Publication date: August 7, 2008Applicant: ION GEOPHYSICAL CORPORATIONInventors: Keith Elder, Steven Kooper, Andras Feszthammer, Donald E. Clayton, Henry T. Polk
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Publication number: 20080181057Abstract: A network distributed seismic data acquisition system comprises seismic receivers, connected to remote data acquisition modules, receiver lines, base line modules base lines, a central recording system and a seismic source event generation unit. A Global positioning system antenna is positioned at many or all seismic receiver take-out points. Each antenna is supported by minimal antenna signal processing circuitry for transmitting antenna reception to a base GPS receiver having full GPS signal processing capability for determining the distinctive global position of each antenna.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 26, 2007Publication date: July 31, 2008Applicant: ARAM Systems, Ltd.Inventors: Donald G. Chamberlain, Zeljko Bacanek, Glenn Donald Hauer