A technique that improves seismic interpretation through the use of frequency modulation-demodulation (FM) methods is to be applied in northern California early next year.
The FM method is designed to receive, record, and process new and detailed information at sensing array sites and allow exploration for deeper and more subtle traps, said Stan Sansone, a principal at New Exploration Technologies Co. LLC, Houston. Sansone was issued patents in 1996, 1994, and 1993 for the technique.
The new technique uses the principles of frequency modulation, and specifically the demodulation of returning seismic information, where noise components can be isolated. More detailed information about phase and frequency of desired earth information will be recorded and processed.
The land based technology patented in 1993 uses sensor platforms (point arrays) that improve efficiency in standard areas and allow data acquisition in difficult surface environments, especially transition, mountainous, and arctic areas. The arrays, as well as deepwater hydrophone arrays, consist of multiple natural or resonant frequency sensors broadly patented in 1994.
The current patent, issued in August 1996, allows for the merging and combining of these signals from amplitude modulated or frequency modulated source signals. The combined signals will be used in seismic interpretation and provide new information about phase and frequency.
The device and methods will revitalize geophysical technology, maximize exploration and exploitation success, and open new exploration frontiers that have been bypassed as "poor data" or "no data" areas, Sansone said.
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