Seismic Inversion and Deconvolution: Part B: Dual-Sensor Technology

by Enders A. Robinson

The objective of seismic exploration is to delineate the subsurface structure of the earth. A large variety of computer-processing methods are available to transform the observed seismic data into a form that is more useful to the seismic interpreter. An important subdivision of these methods comes under the heading "Seismic Inversion and Deconvolution". Most seismic data are recorded either by geophone that measures particle velocity, or else by hydrophone that measures pressure. A dual sensor incorporates both a geophone and a hydrophone so simultaneous measurements of both particle velocity and pressure are obtained. Unprecedented improvements in inversion and deconvolution are made possible through the use of "Dual-Sensor Technology".
The purpose of Seismic Inversion and Deconvolution, Part Dual-Sensor Technology is to provide the fundaments of dual-sensor technology. Previous work together with new results are brought together into a self contained whole. By using dual sensors in the acquisition of seismic data, new avenues are opened up that revolutionize all aspects of seismic inversion and deconvolution. Dual-sensor technology can lead to images of the subsurface of the earth that were previously thought unattainable. The implications for the oil industry are far reaching. Great new reserves of petroleum are waiting to be discovered through the use of dual sensor technology. Today, the main application of this work is with ocean bottom cable (OBC) methods. However, it is anticipated that dual sensor technology will soon be applied not only to all aspects of seismic oil exploration, but also to other disciplines involved with remote sensing.

348 pages, Hardcover

First published June 1, 1984

About the author

Dr. Enders Anthony Robinson was director of the MIT Geophysical Analysis Group and he developed the first digital signal filtering methods to process seismic records used in oil exploration. He then worked in the oil industry both as a geophysicist and as an economist, having received degrees in both field from MIT. In 1988, he was elected a member of the National Academy of Engineering for pioneering contributions to digital seismic processing.