WO2020121173A1

WO2020121173A1 - Sensing devices, systems and methods

Info

Publication number: WO2020121173A1
Application number: PCT/IB2019/060581
Authority: WO
Inventors: Asaf Grosz; Shai Amrusi; Igor Faivinov; Nir HASIDIM
Original assignee: Hemisens Technologies Ltd
Priority date: 2018-12-09
Filing date: 2019-12-09
Publication date: 2020-06-18

Abstract

Aspects of embodiments pertain to a sensing system, comprising: at least one sensor; at least one acquisition and communication apparatus; at least one main unit; a communication and power supply (CPS) line; wherein a given acquisition and communication apparatus is operable to generate, based on signals relating to one or more physical stimuli sensed by the at least one sensor, optical communication signals; and wherein the given acquisition and communication apparatus is operable to transmit the optical communication signals to a neighboring acquisition and communication apparatus and/or the main unit, which are operable to receive the transmitted optical communication signals.

Description

SENSING DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates in general to the field of sensing, and in particular but not exclusively, to seismic sensing.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Seismic sensing may be employed to implement reflection seismology applications (also: seismic imaging) and seismic tomography applications. Seismic imaging and tomography includes generating an image of the Earth's subsurface of a selected geographic region to determine Earth subsurface characteristics.

[0003] Subsurface characteristics can include, for example, density and/or geometry of the Earth's subsurface for estimating the probability of oil, gas and/or mineral deposits contained underneath the selected area. Seismic sensing may also be used, for example, in vibration monitoring applications, including, for example, machinery vibration monitoring, structural vibration monitoring, and/or the like.

[0004] Seismic imaging may require the transportation and deployment of equipment such as a vibratory sources and sensing devices in geographically secluded regions that are oftentimes not easily accessible. Seismic imaging equipment can sometimes cover only a section of the geographic region chosen for subsurface imaging, requiring repeated redeployment of the equipment. This process is comparatively arduous, expensive and time-consuming, and can take months to complete.

[0005] The description above is presented as a general overview in this field and should not be construed as an admission that any of the information it contains constitutes prior art against the present patent application.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0006] The figures illustrate generally, by way of example, but not by way of limitation, various embodiments discussed in the present document.

[0007] For simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements shown in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements for clarity of presentation. Furthermore, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. References to previously presented elements are implied without necessarily further citing the drawing or description in which they appear. The figures are listed below.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an example seismic sensing system;

[0009] FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of an example seismic sensing device;

[0010] FIG. 3A-B are schematic illustrations of example seismic sensing devices; [0011] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustration of example sensor circuitry and of an example powering, control and communication (PCC) circuitry of the seismic sensing devices;

[0012] FIG. 5 is an example signal preprocessing sequence diagram executable by preprocessing circuitry of the sensor circuitry;

[0013] FIG. 6 shows an example circuit topology of the preprocessing circuitry;

[0014] FIG. 7 shows a plot of acceleration noise amplitude spectral density vs frequency of an example preprocessing circuitry;

[0015] FIG. 8A shows a frequency response signal provided by an example geophone;

[0016] FIG. 8B shows the frequency response of example preprocessing circuitry;

[0017] FIG. 8C shows the normalized product of the geophone frequency response shown in FIG. 8A and the frequency response of example preprocessing circuitry shown in FIG. 8B;

[0018] FIG. 9 shows a plot illustrating the BER of a communication FSK signal with and without different types of Reed-Solomon error correction codes vs. Eb/N₀

[0019] FIG. 10A is a schematic illustration of a plurality of seismic sensing devices connected with each other and with a main unit by CPS line, according to some examples;

[0020] FIG. 10B is a schematic cross-sectional view of an example CPS line;

[0021] FIG. 11 is a schematic illustration of a seismic sensing system, according to an alternative embodiment;

[0022] FIG. 12 is a flow chart of a sensing method, according to some embodiments;

[0023] FIG. 13A is a flow chart of a sensing method, according to alternative embodiments; and

[0024] FIG. 13B is a flow chart of a method for the powering of sensor circuitry and for the processing of signals thereby, according to alternative embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] The following description of seismic sensing devices, systems and methods is given with reference to particular examples, with the understanding that such devices and methods are not limited to these examples.

[0026] It is noted that seismic sensing systems, devices and methods, for example, as described herein, may in some embodiments be employable as or as part of seismic imaging systems, devices and methods.

[0027] Referring to FIG. 1, a seismic sensing system 1000 comprises one or more vibratory sources 1100 for actively generating seismic waves, and a plurality of (e.g., not necessarily equally) spaced apart seismic sensing devices 1200 which are arranged in an array and are operably deployed or "planted" into the Earth's ground 510. The seismic sensing devices 1200 comprise a seismic sensor that is operable to generate signals in response to sensing ground speed and/or acceleration. Seismic sensing devices 1200 output the generated signals. Based on the measurement of the signals output by the seismic sensing devices 1200, one or more characteristics of the ground's subsurface 510 of a selected geographic region can be determined. It is noted that the expression "based on the signal" can also include the meaning of the expression "based on the measurement of the signal"

[0028] Vibratory sources 1100 are operable to generate seismic waves that travel into and through the medium (i.e. Earth's soil) to obtain reflections from, e.g., ground layers in the subsurface. A vibratory source 1100 can encompass, for example, explosions and/or vehicle- (e.g., truck-) mounted seismic vibrators.

[0029] Optionally, seismic sensing system 1000 may include power sources (not shown) for powering the various parts of seismic sensing system 1000.

[0030] In some examples, a seismic sensing device may embody a seismic sensor operable to send unprocessed analog signals to remotely located intermediate apparatuses (e.g., units) performing amplification, and/or filtering, and A/D conversion to generate an amplified digital signal. A geophone 1201 shown in FIG. 2 is an example of such seismic sensor. The amplified digital signal is then sent to central recording station 1400, directly or indirectly (e.g., via main units).

[0031] In other examples, schematically shown in FIGs. 3A-B, seismic sensing devices 2200 includes a seismic sensor (e.g., a geophone, MEMS-based sensors, etc.) and circuitry. Seismic sensing devices 2200 may be operably coupled via communication and power supply (CPS) line(s) 2300 with each other, directly or indirectly. Seismic sensing devices 2200 are also coupled, via the CPS lines, directly or indirectly, with a central recording station 1400. Seismic sensing devices 2200 may be indirectly coupled with central recording station 1400 via one or more main units (not shown). It is noted that although communication and CPS lines 2300 are illustrated as a single line, this should by no means be construed in a limiting manner. Accordingly, in some embodiments, data transmission and powering of equipment may be implemented by employing a plurality of separate lines for data communication and/or power transmission, e.g., as described later below. Signals output by seismic sensing devices 2200 may be carried by CPS lines 2300 to central recording station 1400, e.g., for further processing, storage, etc.

[0032] A plurality of seismic sensing devices 1200 which provide analog output signals (such as the geophone shown in FIG. 2) may be connected in parallel and/or in series to create a "string" of sensing devices 1200. In examples where the seismic sensing device is implemented as a geophone, the string of sensing devices may be referred to as "geophone string". Such string of sensing devices may improve, for example, SNR, reduce distortion, reduce and/or eliminate ground-roll, etc.

[0033] Referring again to FIGs. 3A and 3B, each one of seismic sensing devices 2200 comprises circuitry operable to perform "on-site", at the seismic measurement location, for example, amplification, preprocessing and A/D conversion to generate amplified digital signals. Seismic sensing device 2200 records and/or transmits (e.g., via cables or wirelessly) the "on-site" generated amplified digital signals to central recording station 1400 (directly and/or indirectly). In this implementation, the seismic sensing devices 1200 may also be referred to as "point receivers". Compared to, for example, geophones, digital point receivers are less susceptible to electromagnetic interferences, and can be configured (e.g., calibrated) to offset for ground height differences, variations in geophone sensitivity coefficients, and/or the like.

[0034] In other example implementations, seismic sensing devices 1200 include a data recorder (not shown) for storing data descriptive of the output provided by the seismic sensor. The data stored in the data recorder is later collected, e.g., wirelessly, for example, to store and/or analyze the recorded data. This approach is sometimes referred to as "blind shooting".

[0035] Seismic sensing devices 1200 may comprise an external case 1210 with a spike 1220 on the bottom to improve mechanical coupling of the external case with the ground 510. External case 1210 may be a rugged external case.

[0036] A seismic sensing device implemented as a geophone 1201 may encase a proof mass 1230 that is operably connected to a spring 1240.

[0037] In some embodiments, the seismic sensor may comprise a magnet 1250 that is spatially fixed relative to external case 1210 and a conductive coil 1260 that is fixedly coupled to or part of proof mass 1230, allowing the measurement of the relative motion between proof mass 1230 and external case 1210, schematically indicated by arrow Q, through voltage changes induced in the coil. It is noted that alternative geophone configuration than the example configuration shown in FIG.2 may be conceived. For instance, proof mass 1230 may be magnetized and conductive coil 1260 may be fixed relative to external case 1210.

[0038] In some examples, seismic sensing devices 1200 may measure relative movement between external case 1210 and proof mass 1230 by capacitive sensing, laser distance measurement, and/or the like.

[0039] As shown schematically in FIGs. 3A and 3B. A seismic sensing device 2200 may comprise a sensing part 2202 and a powering & data transmission (PDT) part 2204. Sensing part 2202 may have a seismic sensor implemented as exemplified in FIG. 2 and sensor circuitry 2270. PDT part 2204 may comprise powering, control & communication (PCC) circuitry 2280.

[0040] Power consumption of sensor circuitry 2270 may be, e.g., equal or less than about 15 mW (e.g., in the range of about 10 mW to about 15 mW). This allows power consumption of seismic sensing device 2200 to be, for example, less than about 60 mW (e.g., in the range of about 25-55 mW, or about 35-55 mW, or about 25- 35 mW). Hence, power consumption of seismic sensing device 2200 may be about 80% or less, 75% or less, about 60% or less, 50% or less, 40% or less, than the power consumption of point receivers known in the art. [0041] The comparatively reduced power consumption allows, per point of voltage supply along the line at a given voltage, the deployment of an increased number of seismic sensing devices per unit length and/or their deployment along a greater distance and/or reduced cross-sectional area of the conductive wiring for a given conductive wiring material. This results in reduction of weight of the conductive wiring per unit length for a given conductive wiring material.

[0042] As exemplified in FIG. 3A, the seismic sensor and sensor circuitry 2270 of seismic sensing device 2200A can be located in the same casing cavity. As shown in FIG. 3B, the seismic sensor of seismic sensing device 2200B may be enclosed by a casing 1290, and sensor circuitry 2270 may be located outside casing 1290.

[0043] Sensing part 2202 may be configured to allow operably coupling thereto a variety of different units. Hence, PDT part 2204 can be replaced with other units for implementing, for example, wireless configurations, local recording configurations, etc.

[0044] PDT part 2204 may be removably (e.g., via a "connector") or non-removably (e.g., hardwired) coupled with CPS lines 2300. The term "non-removably coupled" as well as grammatical variations thereof may relate to a configuration in which a first part is, by design-intent, not intended to be removed from a second part without, for example, damaging or otherwise compromising the structural and/or functional integrity of the first and/or the second part. For example, PDT part 2204 may, by design-intent, not intended to be decoupled from CPS line 2300 without, for example, damaging or compromising the structural and/or functional integrity of PDT part 2204 and/or CPS line 2300. The CPS line may include connectors along its length to allow one to divide it into section for easier carrying, deployment, etc.

[0045] In some embodiments, sensing part 2202 may be arranged between spike 1220 and PDT part 2204. For example, when seismic sensing device 2200 is "planted" into and/or otherwise coupled to the Earth's ground 510, sensing part 2202 may be located between spike 1220 and PDT part 2214. Other configurations may be conceived.

[0046] In some embodiments, sensing part 2202 and PDT part 2204 may comprise sensing and PDT part casings 2212 and 2214 environmentally sealing and protecting parts of sensing part 2202 and PDT part 2204. Optionally, sensing part casing 2212 may be removably coupled with PDT part casing 2214, e.g., magnetically and/or in a frictional and/or form-fitting manner. For example, screws and/or snap-fit connectors may be employed for removably coupling sensing part casing 2212 with PDT part casing 2214. Optionally, sensing part casing 2212 may comprise a profile operable to engage with a mating profile of PDT part casing 2214. Optionally, when sensing part casing 2212 and PDT part casing 2214 are operably coupled with each other, components housed in sensing part casing 2212 and PDT part casing 2214 are in comparatively close proximity but physically decoupled from each other. The expression "close proximity" may, for example, refer to a distance allowing wireless power transmission of power from PDT part 2204 to sensing part 2202. Sensing part casing 2212 and/or PDT part casing 2214 may be metal or metallic casings or plastic or composite materials (e.g. Carbon fiber) or a combination of metal and/or plastic and/or composite materials and/or any suitable material or materials.

[0047] In some other embodiments, sensing part 2202, PDT part 2204 and/or spike 1220 may be integrally formed with each other (e.g., in monobloc configuration).

[0048] In some embodiments, sensing part 2202 and PDT part 2204 may be housed in the same casing (not shown) in which case, for example, sensor circuitry 2270 and PCC circuitry 2280 may be physically decoupled (i.e., not physically connected with each other) yet located within the same cavity.

[0049] PCC circuitry 2280 may be operable to receive data transmitted by sensor circuitry 2270 without such PCC circuitry 2280 being physically connected to sensor circuitry 2270. In a further example, sensor circuitry 2270 may be operable to wirelessly receive a power transmitted from PCC circuitry 2280 without such PCC circuitry 2280 being physically connected to sensor circuitry 2270. Sensor circuitry 2270 and PCC circuitry 2280 may be environmentally sealed by sensing part casing 2212 and PDT part casing 2214. For example, sensor circuitry 2270 and PCC circuitry 2280 may be located in physically separate cavities.

[0050] Sensor circuitry 2270 is, for example, operable to preprocess the input signal generated by geophone 1200 to generate pre-processed data, to transmit the preprocessed data to PCC circuitry 2280, and further operable to wirelessly receive power transmitted from PCC circuitry 2280. Correspondingly, PCC circuitry 2280 is, for example, operable to wirelessly receive the pre-processed data from sensor circuitry 2270 and send the processed seismic to central recording station 1400 (directly, or indirectly). PCC circuitry 2280 is further operable to wirelessly transmit power to sensor circuitry 2270 of sensing part 2202. Sensor circuitry 2270 may also be operable to receive signals from PCC circuitry 2280 (e.g., control signals).

[0051] Further reference is made to FIG. 4. In some embodiments, sensor circuitry 2270 may comprise preprocessing circuitry 2272, wireless sensor communication module 2274 and a wireless power receiving module 2276. Sensor circuitry 2270 may further comprise a memory (not shown), a controller (not shown) and/or additional parts. PCC circuitry 2280 may comprise a wireless PDT communication module 2284, a wireless power transmission module 2286 and a wired communication module 2288. PCC circuitry 2280 may further comprise a memory (not shown), a controller (not shown) and/or additional parts.

[0052] Wireless sensor communication module 2274 transmits signals encoding data received from preprocessing circuitry 2272 to wireless PDT communication module 2284. Signals provided by preprocessing circuitry 2272 may undergo additional processing prior to being sent to wireless PDT communication module 2284. Wireless power receiving module 2276 may be operable to wirelessly receive power transmitted by wireless power transmission module 2286. Wireless power receiving module 2276 may, for example, comprise a receiving conductive coil enabling to wirelessly receiving power through inductive coupling. [0053] In some embodiments, sensor circuitry 2270 may be operable to consume less power compared to sensor circuitry employed by point receivers known in the art. In addition, preprocessing circuitry 2272 may be operable to generate, in conjunction with the geophone, a combined flat frequency response to velocity and/or acceleration, allowing measuring of low frequency signals; down to, for example, 1 Hz or below.

[0054] Equipping each seismic sensing device 2200 with a preprocessing circuitry 2272 allows customization of its operational parameter values according to the respective seismic sensor parts characteristics. For example, preprocessing circuitry 2272 can be calibrated in accordance with the geophone's sensitivity, which is defined as the geophone's responsiveness to ground speed or acceleration, Hence, gain matching between different seismic sensing can be improved.

[0055] Furthermore, on-site employment of preprocessing circuitry 2272 may decrease susceptibility to seismic sensor measuring artifacts related to possibly tilted orientation of sensing part 2202 relative to the Earth's ground surface; obviates the need of transmitting analog signals to an intermediate apparatus for signal amplification, thus obviating the need of corresponding wiring/cabling. Furthermore, preprocessing circuitry 2272 in conjunction with the geophone, exhibits improved better acceleration noise amplitude spectral density compared to point receivers known in the art. For example, preprocessing circuitry 2272 in conjunction with the geophone may exhibit an acceleration noise amplitude spectral density of, e.g., <150 nm/s²/sqrt(Hz) at, for example, about 2-10 Hz, about 5-10 Hz, about 5-50 Hz, about 5-100 Hz.

[0056] Sensor circuitry 2270 may be operable to perform processes, for example, as described schematically in FIG. 5, to achieve the performance parameter values described herein.

[0057] For example, as indicated by block 5100, a comparative weak analog signal Si„ that is output by the seismic sensor of seismic sensing device 2200 may be fed into a pre-amplifier circuitry (not shown) for pre amplification to obtain a pre-amplified signal S_preamp (block 5200).

[0058] In some embodiments, preamplification of Si_n may be performed by discrete pre-amplification circuitry (not shown) for providing pre-amplification capabilities that are comparatively improved or optimized for different characteristics of (e.g., geophone) signal Si_n. The preamplification circuitry may for example be based on Bipolar Junction Transistors (BJT). Performance characteristics of seismic sensing devices employing discrete BJT pre-amplifier circuitry may exhibit reduced power consumption of seismic sensing devices 2200 and, at the same time, in some examples, improved input voltage noise compared to seismic sensing devices known in the art which implement pre-amplifier circuitry by employing commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) monolithic operational amplifiers. The acceleration noise amplitude spectral density (ASD) of seismic sensing devices 2200 can be improved, for example, at least by about 2, 3, or 5 times compared to seismic sensing devices of identical or similar configuration, without increasing power consumption or even at comparatively reduced power consumption. [0059] After pre-amplification (block 5200) a plurality of different frequency bands of the preamplified signal (S_preamp) may be shaped by a corresponding plurality of frequency-dependent signal shaping circuitries in a frequency band-dependent manner to obtain band-dependent shaped signals S_bandamp. The signal shaping, herein schematically illustrated by blocks 5300-5500, may be performed independently for each frequency band.

[0060] The term "frequency band-dependent shaping", as used herein, refers to applying band-specific signal shaping. The term "signal shaping", as well as grammatical variations thereof, can include signal amplification and/or filtering. In the context of signal shaping, the term "amplification" can pertain to increasing and/or reducing the signal amplitude. It is noted that amplification can be non-uniform within the specific frequency range. In addition, the band shaping circuitries are operable to filter out undesired signal frequencies. Hence, the shaping signal shaping circuitries reject out-of-band signals with "out of band filters", and shape non- rejected or in-band signals.

[0061] It is noted that the plurality of different frequency bands may have partially overlapping frequency components. In some embodiments, the frequency bands may be non-overlapping.

[0062] As indicated by block 5300, "high frequency" components may be shaped by high frequency signal shaping circuitry, "mid-range frequency" components may be shaped by mid-range frequency signal shaping circuitry (block 5400), and "low range" frequency signals may be shaped by low-range frequency signal shaping circuitry (block 5500). For example, the high frequency signal amplifier may be operable to shape S_preamp signal components relating to a frequency threshold value of, e.g., about >20 Hz, mid-range frequency signal amplifier may be operable to shape S_preamp signal components relating to a frequency band threshold value of, e.g., about 10 Hz, and low-range frequency signal amplifier may be operable to shape S_preamp signal components relating to a frequency band threshold value of, e.g., about < 5 Hz. Clearly, other frequency band threshold values for applying corresponding signal shaping functions may be applicable. Also, fewer or more signal shaping stages may be employed for the shaping of different frequency bands.

[0063] The preprocessing circuitry 2272 can be configured such that the frequency band threshold values applied by the preprocessing circuitry 2272 are chosen in accordance with the resonance frequency of the seismic sensor. For example, as shown in FIGs. 8B, the mid-range frequency signal shaping stage 5400 amplifies and rotates the phase of frequencies around the 10 Hz resonance frequency to mirror or offset the transitional frequency response around the resonance frequency. The high and low-frequency sampling stages (5300 & 5500) affect the shaping of the frequency response around the resonance frequency.

[0064] In other words, around the resonance frequency, the frequency response is slightly curved or. This behavior around the seismic sensor (e.g., COTS geophone) resonance frequency is taken into account when processing the signal to arrive at a desired output signal S_{e u}· [0065] In addition, the high-frequency signal shaping stage (block 5300) amplifies frequencies higher than, for example, about 20 Hz with a uniform gain, and the low frequency signal shaping stage (block 5500) amplifies frequencies lower than about 5 Hz by increasing the gain the lower the frequency with a roll-off of, for example, about 40 dB/decade.

[0066] In FIG. 5, blocks 5300-5500 which relate to the shaping of different frequency bands of the signal are illustrated in parallel configuration. Hence, corresponding shaping may be connected in parallel to the output of the preamplification circuitry. In some other embodiments, shaping of respective frequency bands of the signal may performed sequentially, e.g., when connected in series. In further embodiments, a combination of parallel and series shaping may be employed. In some embodiments, only two frequency bands may be independently shaped.

[0067] In some embodiments, spectral band-dependent shaped signals S_bandamp may then be further processed by an equalizer (not shown) (block 5600), performing weighted summing and equalizing of the spectral band-dependent shaped signals to obtain equalized signal S_{e u}·

[0068] The frequency-dependent amplification stages (blocks 5300-5500) and the signal equalization stage (block 5600) can be configured such that at a uniform frequency response is obtained across a comparatively broad spectrum of input signals or seismic signals Si_n relating to measured seismic waves, including a spectrum of low frequency geophone output signals Si„ of, for example, 1 Hz or lower. The term "uniform" may in some embodiments also encompass the term "substantially uniform". Optionally, the frequency response does not exhibit overshoot or undershoot, e.g., around the resonance frequency of the seismic sensor.

[0069] In some embodiments, the signal (S_equ) that is output by the equalizer (block 5600) may be processed further. S_{e u} may be filtered by filter circuitry (not shown) (block 5700) to obtain filtered signal Sm_t, and digitized by analog to digital converter (ADC) (not shown) (block 5800) prior to being transmitted, e.g., wirelessly, to wireless PDT communication module 2284. Optionally, the ADC may be located in PDT part casing 2214.

[0070] It is noted that, in some embodiments, the order of the signal processing stages may differ from the sequence that is described in conjunction with FIG. 4. For example, analog signal S_{e u} may first be converted by the ADC circuitry into a digital signal and only then filtered by corresponding digital signal filter circuitry.

[0071] Further reference is made to FIG. 6, showing an example topology and corresponding example operating parameter values of a preprocessing circuitry 2272. The preprocessing circuitry topology parameter values shown in FIG. 6 should be no means be construed in a limiting manner. Accordingly, the parts of a preprocessing circuitry may in other examples have different operating parameter values.

[0072] FIG. 7 shows a plot of the acceleration noise amplitude spectral density (ASD) of preprocessing circuitry 2272 of FIG. 6. The acceleration noise amplitude spectral density (ASD) of preprocessing circuitry 2272 can be lower than, for example, 150 nm/s²/sqrt(Hz) @ a frequency range from about 1 Hz to about 100 Hz. [0073] Additional reference is now made to FIGs. 8A-C. FIG. 8A shows a frequency response signal Si_n of a geophone having a resonance frequency of about 10 Hz and about 70% damping and FIG. 8B shows the frequency response of sensor circuitry 2270. FIG. 8C shows equalized signal S_equ as a result of processing S_m by sensor circuitry 2270. As can readily be seen from the plot shown in FIG. 8C, sensor circuitry 2270 is operable to generate a signal relating to a frequency ranging from 1000 Hz down to, e.g., 1 Hz, or even lower.

[0074] In some embodiments, seismic sensing device 2200 may thus allow the measurement of seismic waves having a frequency that can be as low as, for example, 1 Hz or lower, while maintaining or improving SNR of the related signal, and maintaining or decreasing power consumption compared to other geophones, e.g., as known in the art used for measuring seismic wave characteristics.

[0075] As described above, sensor circuitry 2270 may be encased in sensing part casing 2212 (e.g., monocoque), and PCC circuitry 2280 may be encased in PDT part casing 2214 (e.g., also monocoque). Sensor circuitry 2270 and PCC circuitry 2280 may be physically decoupled from each other. Optionally, sensing part casing 2212 and PDT part casing 2214 may be made, for example, of conductive materials (e.g., metal), for example, to reduce or prevent electromagnetic interference. Also, the (e.g., metallic) casings may have to be sturdy and rugged for environmental protection of parts housed in the casings.

[0076] Despite sensing part casing 2212 and PDT part casing 2214 optionally being made of metallic material, wireless PDT communication module 2284 may nonetheless be operable to wirelessly receive signals, e.g., S_digit, transmitted from wireless sensor communication module 2272; and wireless power receiving module 2276 may nonetheless be operable to wireless receive power transmitted from wireless power transmission module 2286.

[0077] Wireless power transmission module 2286 and wireless power receiving module 2276 may be configured to achieve a power transfer at an efficiency of, for example, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, or at least 70%, for the transfer of, e.g., 15 mW or less.

[0078] Wireless power transmission module 2286 may comprise a transmitting coil that may have, for example, thousands (e.g., 1000-50000) of windings arranged into a conductive coil having a diameter of, for example, 1-6 cm. The coil's windings are fed with an ac-power source (e.g., transistor half-bridge) to generate a sufficiently strong magnetic field at a comparatively low frequency that may range, for example, from about 5 kHz to about 20 kHz. This allows wireless transmission of power by wireless power transmission module 2286 from within (optionally metallic) PDT part casing 2214 to wireless power receiving module 2276 located within (optionally metallic) sensing part casing 2212 through inductive coupling.

[0079] In some embodiments, wireless data transmission may be implemented similarly to the transmission of a power. For example, wireless sensor communication module 2274 may comprise a conductive transmission coil (not shown) for transmitting a communication signal through inductive coupling. Wireless PCC communication module 2282 may comprise a conductive receiving coil (not shown) operable to inductively receive signals transmitted by wireless sensor communication module 2274. The communication signal carries or encodes data descriptive of, for example, seismic measurement information, seismic sensing device parameter values, and/or the like. Optionally, for such process of induction-based transmission and reception of communication signals to happen, the transmission and receiving coils may have to be "inductively coupled" with each other.

[0080] In analogy with what is described above with respect to the wireless power transmission, the magnetic field for transmitting and/or receiving data through inductive coupling may have sufficiently low frequency for allowing communication between wireless sensor communication module 2274 and wireless PDT communication module 2284 to/from within (optionally metallic) sensing part casing 2212 to / from within (optionally metallic) PDT part casing 2214.

[0081] In some embodiments, the coils that are employed for communication are decoupled from the coils which are employed for the transfer of power. Decoupling can be achieved, for example, by using different resonant frequencies, geometries, timed coordination of communication signal and power transmission, etc.

[0082] In some embodiments, the frequency of a magnetic field used for transmitting communication signals may be higher than the frequency employed for wirelessly transmitting power to wireless power receiving module 2276, for example, to obtain larger bandwidth. In some embodiments, the same pair of coils may be employed for wireless data and power transmission.

[0083] In some embodiments, digitized signal output S_digit provided by the ADC circuitry (block 5800 in FIG. 5) may be transmitted to PCC circuitry 2280. Optionally, digital signal output S_digit may undergo additional processing (e.g., filtering and downsampling) prior to transmission to PCC circuitry 2280. Optionally, some of the digitized signal output S_digit may be stored in a local memory of sensor circuitry 2270 for later retrieval.

[0084] Optionally, the data transmission rate may be, for example, at least 5kBs, at least 10 kBs, at least 20 kBs, at least 200 kBs, or at least 1 Mbps, e.g., to provide a data rate that allows transmission of the data and, additionally, bits for error correction, to ensure a desired bit error rate (BER). For example, a BER criterion may define a BER better than, for example, about 10⁹, about 10¹², or about 10 ¹³

[0085] In some embodiments, phase shift keying (PSK) or frequency shift keying (FSK) may be employed by sensor circuitry 2270 for modulating a magnetic field to generate a communication signal. In some embodiments, the frequency of the carrier signal may be, for example, about 100 kHz or higher, or about 1 MHz or higher, and the bandwidth may be about 10 kHz, or about 100 kHz, or higher. The SNR may be lower than, for example, 20 dB. Optionally, an error correction code may be employed to obtain a BER better than, e.g., about 10⁹, about 10¹², or about 10¹³. Examples of error correction codes can include, for example, Reed- Solomon. FIG. 9 shows a plot illustrating the outcome of applying the Reed-Solomon error correction code compared to FSK signal without error correction. [0086] Additional reference is made to FIGs. 10A-B. A plurality of seismic sensing devices (herein exemplified as seismic sensing devices 22001-VIII) are connected with each other by CPS line 2300. Optionally, main unit 1350 may be employed to connect a plurality of CPS line ends with each other. Optionally, main unit 1350 may connect to only one end of a CPS line.

[0087] Further referring to FIG. 11, CPS line 2300 may operably couple with each other a plurality of acquisition and communication apparatuses 11280 of a seismic sensing system 11000. It is noted that PCC circuitry and/or sensor circuitry may be employed or may implement, at least partially, functionalities of an acquisition and communication apparatus, for example, with respect to the adaptive transmission and/or receiving of optical communication signals, e.g., as outlined herein.

[0088] Optionally, the main unit 1350 may supply the seismic sensing devices and/or acquisition and communication apparatuses 11280 along the CPS line with power, and the seismic sensing devices transmit communication signals to main unit 1350. The main unit may be connected, for example, with one or more CPS lines 2300.

[0089] Wherever applicable, the expression "seismic sensing device" and "acquisition and communication apparatus", as well as grammatical variations thereof, may be used interchangeably.

[0090] In some embodiments, CPS line 2300 may be operable to carry communication signals, e.g., via optical fibers and/or conductive medium. Optical fibers may be non-glass optical fibers. The communication signals may be generated based on (e.g., analog and/or digital) signals relating to (e.g., descriptive) sensed physical quantities generated by the seismic sensors (e.g., geophones).

[0091] CPS line 2300 may be operable to convey power for powering parts of the plurality of seismic sensing devices 2200 from, for example, main unit 1350 via conductive wiring comprising, for example, copper and/or any other suitable material.

[0092] Optionally, seismic sensing devices may comprise on-site or local power supply, e.g., via a battery, solar-panel, etc., located on-site with a seismic sensing device.

[0093] Optionally, power supply units may be arranged and configured to supply power to a selected number of seismic sensing devices and/or acquisition and communication apparatuses, for example, of the same CPS line, e.g., as outlined herein.

[0094] Generally, the signals should be transmitted over the CPS line to ensure that signals received at a main unit and/or at (e.g., neighboring) an acquisition and communication apparatus meet one or more received signal quality criteria (e.g., that they are received at a signal strength which is above a minimum threshold, for example, to meet BER requirements). [0095] In some embodiments, a seismic sensing device may be configured to implement repeater functionality to ensure that the (repeated or retransmitted) communication signals are received by main unit 1350, and/or by (e.g., neighboring) seismic sensing devices such to meet a received signal quality criterion.

[0096] In some embodiments, depending on the system configuration, a seismic signal may be amplified, filtered, digitized and/or otherwise processed to obtain a communication signal carrying, for example, information about sensed physical quantity of the seismic wave.

[0097] In one example, conversion of seismic signals generated by geophones into (e.g. optical) communication signals may be performed at the geophone location, for example, by sensor circuitry and/or PCC circuitry exemplified in FIGs. 3A-B. In another example, conversion of seismic signals into communication signals may be executed remotely from the seismic sensor (e.g., geophone) location, for example, by different parts of acquisition and communication apparatus 11280 (e.g., fiber optics modem 11282) shown in FIG. 11. Optionally, all parts of an acquisition and communication apparatus may be implemented at the seismic sensor location. Optionally, the acquisition and communication apparatus may be encased with the seismic sensor (e.g., with the geophone) in the same casing.

[0098] In FIG. 11, the link (e.g., copper wire) for transmitting seismic signals generated by the geophones is shown by double-compounded lines, and the link for transmitting related communication signals, e.g., from the acquisition and communication apparatus is shown by the single solid line.

[0099] Control signals for controlling, for example, seismic sensing devices 2200 may be sent over the CPS line from and/or to, for example, main unit 1350 and/or from and/or to one seismic sensing device to another (e.g., neighboring) sensing device to control, for example, sampling rate, to apply self-testing schemes, timed coordination of signal transmission, clocking data and/or the like.

[0100] As briefly indicated herein, an acquisition and communication apparatus 11280 may comprise a fiber optic modem.

[0101] Compared to conductive wire-based signal transmission implementations, fiber optics transmission is inherently immune to surge, electrical fast transients (EFT), and electromagnetic interference (EMI). Accordingly, fiber optic modems may not require, or require less EMI protection as opposed to, for example, electrical communication modems. Therefore, fiber optic modems may be smaller, lighter and less expensive than electrical communication modems.

[0102] Field repairability of non-glass fibers (e.g., plastic optical fibers and/or hard-clad silica fibers), is superior (e.g., easier, simpler and/or cheaper) to that of glass optical fibers. However, attenuation of non-glass fibers is significantly higher than the attenuation in glass fibers. A distributed configuration of the seismic sensing system reduces the distance between neighboring apparatuses, thereby overcoming transmission distance limitations imposed by non-glass fibers. [0103] The term "distributed configuration" as used herein may refer to a setup in which information is sent from source apparatus to a target apparatus via one or more intermediate apparatuses, if such intermediate apparatus exists.

[0104] In such distributed configurations, communication signals can be retransmitted (or repeated) by an intermediate apparatus such to meet a received signal quality criterion at a destination apparatus.

[0105] Fiber optics modems are communicably coupled with each other, e.g., in series for the transmission of information via optical communication signals from one fiber optics modem of an acquisition and communication apparatus to the next (also: subsequent, or neighboring) acquisition and communication apparatus. The optical communication signals may relate to and/or carry information about, for example, the seismic signals, encoding schemes, clocking, synchronization signals, hand-shaking messages, instructions, and/or the like.

[0106] Optionally, the distance between two neighboring fiber optics modems may range, for example, from 5 meters to 50 meters, 5 meters to 100 meters, 5 meters to 150 meters, 5 meters to 200 meters, 5 meters to 250 meters, or 5 meters to 300 meters. Optionally, the distance between two neighboring fiber optic modems may be 300 meters or less, 250 meters or less, 200 meters or else, 150 meters or less, 100 meters or less, 50 meters or less, 10 meters or less, or 5 meters or less.

[0107] Optionally, acceptable attenuation may be 0.3 dB/meter or less; 0.25 dB/meter or less; 0.20 dB/meter or less; 0.19 dB/meter or less; 0.15 dB/meter or less.

[0108] Optionally, the fiber optics modem may be configured such that the minimum required power for reliably detecting an input optical communication signal may be, for example, -lOdBm or less; -20dBm or less; -25 dBm or less, -30dBm; -35 dBm or less, or -40 dBm or less. The term "reliably" as used in this context means that characteristics (e.g., parameters) of a received communication signal are acceptable for operation of an application for which the signal is intended.

[0109] Detection of low input power may be enabled, for example, by ultra-low noise bandwidth-optimized preamplifier connected to the photodiode at the receiving end of the fiber. For example, such preamplifier can be based, for example, on a SiGe, high-speed transistor in a transimpedance configuration. Clearly, additional or alternative photosensor configurations may be employed.

[0110] The required output power of an optical communication signal may be determined accordingly. For example, assuming a distance of 200 meters and attenuation of 0.19 db/meter and a minimum required input power of an optical communication signal of, for example, -20 dBm, the required output power of the optical communication signal may be about 18 dBm. Optionally, a safety margin of for example 2 dB may be added to calculated required output power of the optical communication signal. In the example described herein above, this amounts to 20 dBm, which corresponds to 100 milliwatt of power required for powering the light source at the transmitting part of the fiber optics modem. In addition, a power consumption of, for example, 25 mW is required by the receiver part of the neighboring fiber optics modem, resulting in a total of 125 mW.

[0111] In another example, if the communication distance of 200 meters is instead covered by two sections of 100 meters with an additional acquisition and communication apparatus having a minimum required input power of an optical communication signal of, for example, -20 dBm, then the required output power of each optical communication transmitter with a 2 dB safety margin, will be 0 dBm. As a result, the total power consumption by the two transmitters and corresponding two receivers, would only be 52 mW. The above example demonstrates one of the benefits of implementing a (more) densely distributed system when using non-glass optical fibers.

[0112] In some embodiments, that required output power may be capped to a maximum threshold value above which the employment of fiber optics modem configured for use with non-glass optical fibers may not be considered advantageous compared to conductive communication wires. Correspondingly, if the required output power is below the maximum threshold value, the employment of non-glass optical fibers and of fiber optics modems as described herein in conjunction with feedback control may be more energy efficient than systems employing conductive wires in a similar or identical distributed setup or arrangement.

[0113] Per output part of an acquisition and communication apparatus, this maximum threshold value may be, for example, equal to about 100 mW or less, 95 mW or less, 90 mW or less, 85 mW or less, 80 mW or less, or 50 mW or less, or 40 mW or less, or 30 mW or less, or 20 mW or less, or 10 mW or less, or 5 mW or less, or 2 mW or less, or 1 mW or less.

[0114] In some embodiments, a seismic sensing device receiving an optical signal may provide, via an optical fiber of the CPS line, a feedback signal to the transmitting seismic sensing device. The feedback can for example be indicative of the received optical signal strength and/or of other signal characteristics (e.g., BER). This feedback signal may be transmitted optically, via a different optical (e.g., non-glass) fiber, or the same optical (e.g., non-glass) fiber used for transmission of the optical communication signal.

[0115] Optionally, the feedback signal may be indicative of the light output power required to be provided by the fiber optics modem such that is just about sufficient, for example, in terms of signal strength, BER, and/or the like, (e.g., equal or slightly above the minimum input power required) for obtaining, at the receiving end of the neighboring fiber optics modem, optical communication signals having a received power that is reliably detectable by circuitry of the neighboring modem.

[0116] Optionally, based on feedback signals transmitted from one apparatus to a neighboring apparatus, the transmission characteristics of the optical signal sent over the CPS line 2300 may be adapted in accordance with a received signal quality criterion, for example, such to reduce or minimize the power used, for example, by the light source (e.g., LED) employed for injecting light into an optical fiber. This may also prolong the lifespan of the light source. [0117] It is further noted that the system may be subjected to external environmental temperature fluctuations. However, due to the adaptation of the optical signal transmission characteristics, the system's operating characteristics may be comparatively less prone to temperature-based variability. Analogously, component aging effects may be mitigated.

[0118] Optionally, operating characteristics of a corresponding receiver /detector may be adapted, based on corresponding feedback signals, to reduce or minimize their power consumption, for example, by using a higher noise/less power-consuming pre-amplifier connected to the photodetector at the receiving end. This process can take place between each transmitter-receiver pair of neighboring apparatuses. Clearly, two neighboring apparatuses may communicate with each other via one or more non-glass optical fibers and corresponding transmitter-receiver pairs. Thereby, the overall power consumption of the seismic sensing system may be reduced (e.g., minimized).

[0119] Additionally or alternatively, other optical signal transmission characteristics may be adapted to improve (e.g., optimize) performance of the seismic sensing system (e.g., communication rate; BER; etc.).

[0120] In some embodiments, a current that is employed for powering the light source of a fiber optics modem is adapted in accordance with the feedback signal received at the fiber optic modem from a neighboring fiber optics modem.

[0121] In some embodiments, to further reduce the power consumption, a DC-DC converter may be employed for efficiently generating a comparatively lower (e.g., minimal) required voltage of the light source power supply providing the current required for driving the light source to output an optical communication signal such that the received signal meets a received signal quality criterion.

[0122] Employment of fiber optic modems and non-glass fibers as outlined herein may reduce power consumption compared to implementations in which wire-based communication is employed.

[0123] In some embodiments, the feedback signal may be used for improving communication reliability and/or controlling operation of the optical fiber modems in timed coordination with each other.

[0124] Optionally, light sources that may be employed for transmitting optical signals over the optical fiber may include Light-Emitting-Diodes (LEDs) and lasers.

[0125] Turning now to FIG. 10B, a schematic cross-sectional view of hybrid CPS line 2300 is shown. For example, CPS line 2300 may comprise at least one optical fiber (e.g., optical fibers 2310A and 2310B), and at least two conductive wirings 2320A and 2320B. Optionally, the use of non-glass optical fibers may facilitate connecting them with communication modules (e.g., fiber optics modems). This way, the optical signal may be re-transmitted along different sections of optical fiber 2310. Optionally, non-glass optical fibers may be lighter than other wired communication links; may be easier to fix; are less susceptible to electromagnetic interference than conductive communication wiring; less or not susceptible to lightning damage, etc. With proper modem configuration, comparatively high communication rate may be achieved with comparatively low power consumption.

[0126] As shown in FIG. 11, a seismic sensing system 11000 according to an embodiment may comprise an acquisition and communication apparatus 11280A. Acquisition and communication apparatus 11280A may include a fiber optics modem 11282A for communicably coupling the acquisition and communication apparatus 11280A with another acquisition and communication apparatus 11280B via fiber optics 2310 by a fiber optics modem 11282B of the apparatus.

[0127] Acquisition and communication apparatus 11280A may comprise sensor circuitry 11270 that is operably coupled, via conductive wiring (e.g., copper wires) with one or more geophones 11201.

[0128] Sensor circuitry 11270 may for example amplify, filter and/or otherwise process signals coming from the geophones including, for example, performing signal shaping, e.g., as outlined herein. For example, first sensor circuitry 11270AΪ may be connected to geophone 11201AΪ, via a conductive wire; and second sensor circuitry 11270Aii may be connected with geophone 11201Aii.

[0129] Acquisition and communication apparatus 11280 may further include communication and control circuitry 11284 and power circuitry 11286. Communication and control circuitry 11284 may, for example, be operable to manage communication, control power supply to various parts of seismic sensing system 11000 and/or processing including digitizing of the signal provided by sensor circuitry 11270.

[0130] Acquisition and communication apparatus 11280 may further comprise a power circuitry 11286 which receives power from conducting wiring 2320. Power circuitry 11286 may be operable to power various parts of acquisition and communication apparatus 11280 including, for example, communication and control circuitry 11284.

[0131] In one example, an acquisition and communication apparatus may be located adjacent to two neighboring acquisition and communication apparatuses along CPS line 11300. In another example, an acquisition and communication apparatus may be located between another acquisition and communication apparatus and main unit 1350 (FIG.10B). In a further example, an acquisition and communication apparatus may be located at the edge of CPS line 2300. Although embodiments and/or examples disclosed herein pertain to the measurement of seismic waves, this should by no means be construed in a limiting manner. Accordingly, systems, devices, methods and/or subcomponents thereof disclosed herein, can also be used, for example, for the measurement of acoustic waves, magnetic signals, strain gauging and/or IR measurement, etc., by replacing or supplementing the geophones 11201 with suitable sensing devices.

[0132] Optionally, geophones 11201 may be standard geophones as schematically shown, for example, in FIG.

2 [0133] It is noted that the configuration shown in FIG. 11 is for illustrative purposes only and, therefore, should by no means be construed in a limiting manner. Correspondingly, in one embodiment, a seismic sensing system may be configured to comprise acquisition and communication apparatuses in an arrangement with respect to seismic sensors as schematically illustrated in FIG. 11, where the acquisition and communication apparatuses are remotely located from the one or more seismic sensors.

[0134] In some embodiments, an acquisition and communication apparatus may be part of a seismic sensing device comprising a sensing part and the acquisition and communication apparatus, all at the same location. For example, parts of the acquisition and communication apparatus may be comprised in or attached to a housing of a sensing part of a seismic sensing device.

[0135] In some embodiments, parts of the acquisition and communication apparatus may be distributed across multiple sites. For example, circuitry for amplification and sampling of seismic signals may be located remotely from powering circuitry which is employed for powering the parts of the acquisition and communication apparatus. For example, circuitry for seismic signal amplification and sampling may be located at the same site as the geophone, whereas, for example, the powering circuitry may be remotely located from the corresponding amplification and circuitry.

[0136] In some embodiments, an acquisition and communication apparatus may handle or manage seismic signals received from a plurality of geophones.

[0137] Although the acquisition and communication apparatuses are herein described in conjunction with seismic sensors such as geophones, this should by no means be construed as limiting. Accordingly, an acquisition and communication apparatus may also be employed for the transmission and retransmission of signals received from sensors other than seismic sensors.

[0138] Referring now to FIG. 12, a seismic sensing method may comprise, for example, sensing at least one physical quantity of a seismic wave to responsively generate seismic signals relating to the physical quantity (block 12002).

[0139] The method may further comprise generating, based on the seismic signal, optical communication signals (block 12004). The optical communication signals may relate and/or carry information about, for example, the seismic signals, encoding schemes, clocking, synchronization signals, hand-shaking messages, instructions, and/or the like.

[0140] Optionally, the seismic signal may be, for example, an analog or a digitized signal. Voltage or current of the analog signal may be descriptive of the seismic wave. The digitized signal may be descriptive of the seismic wave.

[0141] Optionally, the analog and/or digitized signal may be amplified, filtered and/or digitally processed. [0142] Optionally, an analog signal may be generated by a geophone, piezoelectric-based sensor, capacitive- based. Optionally, a digitized signal may be generated by a MEMS-based sensor.

[0143] In some embodiments, the method may further comprise transmitting the optical communication signals (block 12006). The optical communication signals may for example be transmitted from a fiber optics modem of the acquisition and communication apparatus to a fiber optics modem of a neighboring acquisition and communication apparatus, via a non-glass fiber.

[0144] Referring now to FIG. 13A, a seismic sensing method may comprise, for example, sensing at least one physical quantity of a seismic wave to generate seismic signals relating to the sensed physical quantity (block

13002).

[0145] In some embodiments, the method may further include wirelessly transmitting a wireless signal relating to the seismic signals to powering, control and data communication (PCC) circuitry (13004).

[0146] In some embodiments, based on the wireless signals received at the PCC circuitry, communication signals (e.g., via a non-glass optical fiber or a conductive medium) may be transmitted, for example, from one acquisition and communication apparatus to a neighboring acquisition and communication apparatus, e.g., as described herein.

[0147] Additional reference is made to FIG. 13B. In some embodiments, a method for the powering of sensor circuitry and for the processing of signals thereby may include wirelessly transmitting power from the PCC circuitry to the sensor circuitry for the powering of the sensor circuitry (block 13102).

[0148] In some embodiments, the method may further comprise pre-processing, by sensor circuitry, the seismic signals relating to the sensed seismic wave characteristics to obtain pre-processed data (block 13104).

[0149] Additional Examples:

[0150] Example 1 pertains to a sensing system, comprising: at least one sensor; at least one acquisition and communication apparatus; at least one main unit; a communication and power supply (CPS) line; wherein a given acquisition and communication apparatus is operable to generate, based on signals relating to one or more physical stimuli sensed by the at least one sensor, optical communication signals; and wherein the given acquisition and communication apparatus is operable to transmit the optical communication signals to a neighboring acquisition and communication apparatus and/or the main unit, which are operable to receive the transmitted optical communication signals.

[0151] Example 2 includes the subject matter of example 1 and, optionally, wherein the given acquisition and communication apparatus is operable to receive an optical communication signal from the same and/or a different neighboring acquisition and communication apparatus and/or from the main unit. [0152] Example 3 includes the subject matter of example 1 or 2 and, optionally, a plurality of acquisition and communication apparatuses; wherein at least one of the plurality of apparatuses is configured to implement repeater functionality to ensure that a repeated communication signal is received by neighboring acquisition and communication apparatuses and/or a main unit; and wherein a received signal meets at least one received signal quality criterion.

[0153] Example 4 includes the subject matter of any one or more of the examples 1 to 3 and, optionally, wherein an acquisition and communication apparatus functions as the main unit.

[0154] Example 5 includes the subject matter of any one or more of the examples 1 to 4, and optionally, wherein the plurality of sensors are operable to sense one or more physical stimuli relating to seismic waves.

[0155] Example 6 includes the subject matter of any one or more of the examples 1 to 5, and optionally, wherein the neighboring acquisition and communication apparatus or main unit provides a feedback signal to the given acquisition and communication apparatus for controlling the output power of light to be injected into the non-glass fiber in accordance with at least one received signal quality criterion of an optical communication signal at the neighboring acquisition and communication apparatus and/or main unit.

[0156] Example 7 includes the subject matter of any one or more of the examples 1 to 6, and optionally, wherein the feedback signal is provided using a wired, wireless and/or optical communication medium.

[0157] Example 8 includes the subject matter of any one or more of the examples 1 to 7, and optionally, wherein an acquisition and communication apparatus and/or the main unit is configured to reliably detect an optical communication signal which is received, by the acquisition and communication apparatus and/or the main unit, at -lOdBm or less; -20dBm or less; -25dBm or less; -30dBm or less; -35dBm or less; or -40 dBm or less.

[0158] Example 9 includes the subject matter of Example 8 and, optionally, wherein the acquisition and communication apparatus and/or the main unit comprises: a photodiode; and an ultra-low noise bandwidth- optimized preamplifier connected to the photodiode for the detection light transmitted over a non-glass fiber.

[0159] Example 10 includes the subject matter of any one or more of the examples 3 to 9, and optionally, wherein a required output power of an optical communication signal output by an acquisition and communication apparatus and/or the main unit is determined in accordance with the at least one received signal quality criterion.

[0160] Example 11 includes the subject matter of any one or more of the examples 6 to 10 and, optionally, wherein the power required for powering the light source for transmitting an optical communication signal over a non-glass fiber is 100 mW or less, 95 mW or less, 90 mW or less, 85 mW or less, 80 mW or less, or 50 mW or less, or 40 mW or less, or 30 mW or less, or 20 mW or less, or 10 mW or less, or 5 mW or less, or 2 mW or less, or 1 mW or less. [0161] Example 12 includes the subject matter of any one or more of the examples 1 to 11 and, optionally, wherein a distance between the at least two acquisition and communication apparatuses and/or one acquisition and communication apparatus and the main unit is 300 meters or less, 250 meters or less, 200 meters or else, 150 meters or less, 100 meters or less, 50 meters or less, 10 meters or less, or 5 meters or less.

[0162] Example 13 includes the subject matter of any one or more of the examples 1 to 12 and, optionally, wherein an acquisition and communication apparatus is located on-site with at least one of the plurality of sensors.

[0163] Example 14 includes the subject matter of any one or more of the examples 1 to 13 and, optionally, wherein an acquisition and communication apparatus is located remotely from at least one of the plurality of sensors.

[0164] Example 15 includes the subject matter of any one or more of the examples 1 to 14 and, optionally, wherein one or more parts of an acquisition and communication apparatus are located remotely from at least one of the plurality of sensors, and wherein one or more other parts of the acquisition and communication apparatus are located on-site with the at least one sensor.

[0165] Example 16 includes the subject matter of any one or more of the examples 1 to 15 and, optionally, wherein an acquisition and communication apparatuses comprises preprocessing circuitry which, when operating with a geophone, exhibits a substantially uniform or flat frequency response across a comparatively broad spectrum, compared to the geophone frequency response without the preprocessing circuitry

[0166] Example 17 pertains to a sensing method comprising: sensing at least one physical quantity to responsively generate signals relating to the sensed physical quantity; generating, based on the signal, optical communication signals; and transmitting the optical communication signals.

[0167] Example 18 includes the subject matter of example 17 and, optionally, wherein the at least one physical quantity relates to seismic waves.

[0168] Example 19 includes the subject matter of examples 17 or 18 and, optionally, wherein the optical communication signals are transmitted over non-glass fibers.

[0169] Example 20 includes the subject matter of any one or more of examples 17 to 19 and, optionally, providing a feedback signal from a neighboring acquisition and communication apparatus to a given acquisition and communication apparatus and/or a main unit for controlling the output power of the light source emitting light to be injected into the non-glass fiber in accordance with at least one received signal quality criterion of an optical communication signal at the neighboring acquisition and communication apparatus.

[0170] Example 21 includes the subject matter of Example 20 and, optionally, wherein the given acquisition and communication apparatus is operable to receive an optical communication signal from the same and/or a different neighboring acquisition and communication apparatus and/or from the main unit. [0171] Example 22 includes the subject matter of Examples 20 or 21 and, optionally, wherein at least one of a plurality of apparatuses is configured to implement repeater functionality to ensure that a repeated communication signal is received by neighboring acquisition and communication apparatuses and/or a main unit; and wherein a received signal meets at least one received signal quality criterion.

[0172] Example 23 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 20 to 22 and, optionally, wherein an acquisition and communication apparatus functions as the main unit.

[0173] Example 24 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 20 to 23 and, optionally, wherein the plurality of sensors are operable to sense one or more physical stimuli relating to seismic waves.

[0174] Example 25 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 20 to 24 and, optionally, wherein the feedback signal is provided using a wired, wireless and/or optical communication medium.

[0175] Example 26 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 20 to 25 and, optionally, wherein an acquisition and communication apparatus and/or a main unit is configured to reliably detect an optical communication signal which is received, by the acquisition and communication apparatus, at -lOdBm or less; -20dBm or less; -25dBm or less; -30dBm or less; -35dBm or less; or -40 dBm or less.

[0176] Example 27 includes the subject matter of example 26 and, optionally, wherein the acquisition and communication apparatus and/or a main unit comprises: a photodiode; and an ultra-low noise bandwidth- optimized preamplifier connected to the photodiode for the detection light transmitted over the non-glass fiber.

[0177] Example 28 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 20 to 27 and, optionally, wherein a required output power of an optical communication signal output by an acquisition and communication apparatus and/or the main unit is determined in accordance with the at least one received signal quality criterion.

[0178] Example 29 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 20 to 28 and, optionally, wherein the power required for powering the light source for transmitting an optical communication signal over a non-glass fiber is 100 mW or less, 95 mW or less, 90 mW or less, 85 mW or less, 80 mW or less, or 50 mW or less, or 40 mW or less, or 30 mW or less, or 20 mW or less, or 10 mW or less, or 5 mW or less, or 2 mW or less, or 1 mW or less.

[0179] Example 30 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 20 to 29 and, optionally, wherein a distance between the at least two acquisition and communication apparatuses and/or one acquisition and communication apparatus and the main unit is 300 meters or less, 250 meters or less, 200 meters or else, 150 meters or less, 100 meters or less, 50 meters or less, 10 meters or less, or 5 meters or less. [0180] Example 31 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 20 to 30 and, optionally, wherein an acquisition and communication apparatus is located on-site with at least one of the plurality of sensors.

[0181] Example 32 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 20 to 31, wherein an acquisition and communication apparatus is located remotely from at least one of the plurality of sensors.

[0182] Example 33 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 20 to 32 and, optionally, wherein one or more parts of an acquisition and communication apparatus are located remotely from at least one of the plurality of sensors, and wherein one or more other parts of the acquisition and communication apparatus are located on-site with the at least one sensor. It is noted that an acquisition and communication apparatus may comprise or may be embodied, at least partially, by PCC circuitry.

[0183] Example 34 pertains to a sensing system, comprising: a plurality of sensors that are operable to generate electronic signals based on the sensing one or more physical stimuli; sensor circuitry for generating, based on the electronic signals, wireless signals; and powering, control and data communication (PCC) circuitry operable to receive the wireless signals.

[0184] Example 35 includes the subject matter of Example 34 and, optionally, wherein the sensor is operable to sense one or more physical stimuli relating to seismic waves.

[0185] Example 36 includes the subject matter of Examples 34 or 35 and, optionally, wherein the PCC circuitry is operable to wirelessly transmit power to the sensor circuitry.

[0186] Example 37 includes the subject matter of any one or more of the Examples 34 to 36 and, optionally, further comprises a sensing part casing enclosing the sensor circuitry; and a powering & data transmission (PDT) part casing enclosing the powering, control and communication (PCC) circuitry such that that the sensor circuitry and the PCC circuitry are physically decoupled from each other.

[0187] Example 38 includes the subject matter of Examples 37 and, optionally, wherein the sensing part casing and/or the PDT part casing comprise metallic casings or plastic or composite materials or any combination thereof.

[0188] Example 39 includes the subject matter of Examples 37 or 38 and, optionally, wherein the sensing part casing is removably coupled to the PDT part casing.

[0189] Example 40 includes the subject matter of one or more of the Examples 34 to 39 and, optionally, wherein the sensor circuitry comprises a preprocessing circuitry that, when operating with a geophone, exhibits a substantially uniform or flat frequency response across a comparatively broad spectrum, compared to the geophone frequency response without the preprocessing circuitry. [0190] Example 41 includes the subject matter of any one or more of the Examples 34 to 40 and, optionally, wherein the sensor circuitry has a uniform frequency response of 5 Hz or lower, 2 Hz, or lower, 1 Hz or lower, 0.5 Hz or lower, or 0.1 Hz or lower.

[0191] Example 42 includes the subject matter of any one or more of the Examples 34 to 41 and, optionally, having a power consumption of less than about 60 mW, for example, in the range of about 25-55 mW, or about 35-55 mW, or about 25-35 mW.

[0192] Example 43 includes the subject matter of any one or more of the Examples 34 to 42 and, optionally, wherein the PCC circuitry is operable to transmit communication signals to a neighboring PCC circuitry and/or a main unit via an optical, conductive and/or wireless communication medium.

[0193] Example 44 includes the subject matter of Example 43 and, optionally, wherein the optical communication medium comprises a non-glass fiber optics.

[0194] Example 45 pertains to a sensing method, comprising: generating electronic signals based on the sensing one or more physical stimuli by a sensor; generating by sensor circuitry, based on the electronic signals, wireless signals; and powering, control and data communication (PCC) circuitry operable to receive the wireless signals.

[0195] Example 46 includes the subject matter of Example 45 and, optionally, wherein the sensor is operable to sense one or more physical stimuli relating to seismic waves.

[0196] Example 47 includes the subject matter of Examples 45 or 46 and, optionally, wirelessly transmitting, by the PCC circuitry, power to the sensor circuitry.

[0197] Example 48 includes the subject matter of any one or more of the Examples 45 to 47 and, optionally, enclosing the sensor circuitry by a sensing part casing; and enclosing the powering, control and communication (PCC) circuitry with a powering & data transmission (PDT) part casing such that that the sensor circuitry and the PCC circuitry are physically decoupled from each other. Optionally, the wireless signals may be transmitted from within the sensing part casing. Optionally, the wireless charging may be performed from within the PDT part casing.

[0198] Example 49 includes the subject matter of Example 49 and, optionally, wherein the sensing part casing and/or the PDT part casing comprise metallic casings or plastic or composite materials or any combination thereof.

[0199] Example 50 includes the subject matter of Example 48 or Example 49 and, optionally, comprising removably coupling the PDT part casing and the sensing part casing with each other.

[0200] Example 51 includes the subject matter of any one or more of the Examples 45 to 50 and, optionally, wherein the sensor circuitry comprises a preprocessing circuitry that, when operating with a geophone, exhibits a substantially uniform or flat frequency response across a comparatively broad spectrum, compared to the geophone frequency response without the preprocessing circuitry.

[0201] Example 52 includes the subject matter of any one or more of the Examples 45 to 51 and, optionally, wherein the sensor circuitry has a uniform frequency response of 5 Hz or lower, 2 Hz, or lower, 1 Hz or lower, 0.5 Hz or lower, or 0.1 Hz or lower.

[0202] Example 53 includes the subject matter of any one or more of the Examples 45 to 52 and, optionally, having a power consumption of less than about 60 mW, for example, in the range of about 25-55 mW, or about 35-55 mW, or about 25-35 mW.

[0203] Example 54 includes the subject matter of any one or more of the Examples 45 to 53 and, optionally, wherein the PCC circuitry is operable to transmit communication signals to a neighboring PCC circuitry and/or a main unit via an optical, conductive and/or wireless communication medium.

[0204] Example 55 includes the subject matter of Example 54 and, optionally, wherein the optical communication medium comprises a non-glass fiber optics.

[0205] Example 56 includes a seismic sensing device comprising a seismic sensor that is operable to sense one or more seismic waves characteristics and to responsively generate an electronic signal relating to the sensed seismic waves characteristics; a sensing part comprising sensor circuitry for pre-processing the electronic signal relating to the sensed seismic wave characteristics to obtain pre-processed data; and a powering and data transmission (PDT) part comprising powering, control and data communication (PCC) circuitry that is operable to receive the pre-processed data wirelessly transmitted by the sensor circuitry, and wherein the PCC circuitry is operable to wirelessly transmit power for the powering of the sensor circuitry.

[0206] Example 57 includes the subject matter of Example 56 and, optionally, wherein the sensing part comprises a sensing part casing and the sensor circuitry is enclosed in the sensing part casing; and wherein the PDT part comprises a PDT part casing and the PCC circuitry in enclosed in the PDT part casing such that that the sensor circuitry and the PCC circuitry are physically decoupled from each other.

[0207] Example 58 includes the subject matter of Example 56 or Example 57 and, optionally, wherein the sensing part casing and/or the PDT part casing comprise metallic casings or plastic or composite materials or any combination thereof.

[0208] Example 59 includes the subject matter of any one of the Examples 56 to 58 and, optionally, wherein the sensing part is removably coupled to the PDT part.

[0209] Example 60 includes the subject matter of any one of the Examples 56 to 59 and, optionally, wherein the sensor circuitry comprises preprocessing circuitry that has a uniform frequency response across a comparatively broad spectrum of seismic waves sensed by the seismic sensor. [0210] Example 61 includes the subject matter of Example 60 and, optionally, wherein the sensor circuitry has a uniform frequency response of 1 Hz or lower.

[0211] Example 62 includes the subject matter of Example 61 and, optionally, having a power consumption of less than about 60 mW, for example, in the range of about 25-55 mW, or about 35-55 mW, or about 25-35 mW.

[0212] Example 63 includes the subject matter of any one of the Examples 56 to 62 and, optionally, wherein the seismic sensor is a geophone.

[0213] Example 64 includes a seismic sensing system, comprising a seismic sensing device according to any one of the examples 56 to 63 and, optionally, a recording station, and communication and power supply (CPS) lines, wherein the plurality of seismic sensing devices are operably coupled with each other through the communication and power supply (CPS) lines, and wherein the plurality seismic sensing devices are operably coupled, directly or indirectly, through the CPS lines with a central recording station.

[0214] Example 65 includes the subject matter of Example 64 and, optionally, wherein the CPS lines are operable to optically carry communication signal provided by the PCC circuitry, e.g., via optical fibers.

[0215] Example 66 includes the subject matter of Example 64 or 65 and, optionally, a main unit wherein the CPS line is operable to convey power for powering parts of the plurality of seismic sensing devices from the main unit via conductive wiring.

[0216] In the discussion, unless otherwise stated, adjectives such as "substantially" and "about" that modify a condition or relationship characteristic of a feature or features of an embodiment of the invention, are to be understood to mean that the condition or characteristic is defined to within tolerances that are acceptable for operation of the embodiment for an application for which it is intended.

[0217] "Coupled to" can mean indirectly or directly "coupled to".

[0218] It is important to note that the method may include is not limited to those diagrams or to the corresponding descriptions. For example, the method may include additional or even fewer processes or operations in comparison to what is described in the figures. In addition, embodiments of the method are not necessarily limited to the chronological order as illustrated and described herein.

[0219] It should be noted that where an embodiment refers to a condition of "above a threshold", this should not be construed as excluding an embodiment referring to a condition of "equal or above a threshold". Analogously, where an embodiment refers to a condition "below a threshold", this should not to be construed as excluding an embodiment referring to a condition "equal or below a threshold". It is clear that should a condition be interpreted as being fulfilled if the value of a given parameter is above a threshold, then the same condition is considered as not being fulfilled if the value of the given parameter is equal or below the given threshold. Conversely, should a condition be interpreted as being fulfilled if the value of a given parameter is equal or above a threshold, then the same condition is considered as not being fulfilled if the value of the given parameter is below (and only below) the given threshold.

[0220] It should be understood that where the claims or specification refer to "a" or "an" element and/or feature, such reference is not to be construed as there being only one of that element. Hence, reference to "an element" or "at least one element" for instance may also encompass "one or more elements".

[0221] Terms used in the singular shall also include the plural, except where expressly otherwise stated or where the context otherwise requires.

[0222] In the description and claims of the present application, each of the verbs, "comprise" "include" and "have", and conjugates thereof, are used to indicate that the object or objects of the verb are not necessarily a complete listing of components, elements or parts of the subject or subjects of the verb.

[0223] Unless otherwise stated, the use of the expression "and/or" between the last two members of a list of options for selection indicates that a selection of one or more of the listed options is appropriate and may be made. Further, the use of the expression "and/or" may be used interchangeably with the expressions "at least one of the following", "any one of the following" or "one or more of the following", followed by a listing of the various options.

[0224] "Adaptively", as used herein, may for example mean changing an operating parameter in response to changes in characteristics of the system and may vary depending on a variety of system parameters.

[0225] As used herein, the phrase "A,B,C, or any combination of the aforesaid" should be interpreted as meaning all of the following: (i) A or B or C or any combination of A, B, and C, (ii) at least one of A, B, and C; and (iii) A, and/or B and/or C. This concept is illustrated for three elements (i.e., A,B,C), but extends to fewer and greater numbers of elements (e.g., A, B, C, D, etc.).

[0226] It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments or example, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, example and/or option, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination or as suitable in any other described embodiment, example or option of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments, examples and/or optional implementation are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment, example and/or optional implementation is inoperative without those elements.

[0227] It is noted that the term "exemplary" is used herein to refer to examples of embodiments and/or implementations, and is not meant to necessarily convey a more-desirable use-case.

[0228] It is noted that the terms "in some embodiments", "according to some embodiments", "for example", "e.g.", "for instance" and "optionally" may herein be used interchangeably. [0229] The number of elements shown in the Figures should by no means be construed as limiting and is for illustrative purposes only.

[0230] The term "circuitry" as used herein, may also comprise a processor and/or controller. A controller may, for example, be programmed to cause the device to implement the methods, processes and/or operations as disclosed herein. For example, a controller may be implemented as a hardware circuit comprising, e.g., custom VLSI circuits or gate arrays, application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), off-the-shelf semiconductors such as logic chips, transistors, and/or other discrete components. A controller may also be implemented in programmable hardware devices such as field programmable gate arrays, programmable array logic, programmable logic devices and/or the like.

[0231] Program instructions for implementing methods and/or processes disclosed herein may be implemented as a computer program product that may be tangibly embodied in an information carrier including, for example, in a non-transitory tangible computer-readable and/or non-transitory tangible machine-readable storage device. The computer program product may directly loadable into an internal memory of a digital computer, comprising software code portions for performing the methods and/or processes as disclosed herein.

[0232] Additionally or alternatively, methods and/or processes disclosed herein may be implemented as a computer program that may be intangibly embodied by a computer readable signal medium. A computer readable signal medium may include a propagating data signal (e.g., a communication signal) with computer readable program code embodied therein, for example, in baseband or as part of a carrier wave. Such a propagating signal may take any of a variety of forms, including, but not limited to, electro-magnetic, optical, or any suitable combination thereof. A computer readable signal medium may be any computer readable medium that is not a non-transitory computer or machine-readable storage device and that can communicate, propagate, or transport a program for use by or in connection with apparatuses, systems, platforms, methods, operations and/or processes discussed herein.

[0233] The terms "non-transitory computer-readable storage device" and "non-transitory machine-readable storage device" encompasses distribution media, intermediate storage media, execution memory of a computer, and any other medium or device capable of storing for later reading by a computer program implementing embodiments of a method disclosed herein, and these terms do not encompass a propagating data signal.

[0234] The computer readable and executable instructions may also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus or other device to produce a computer implemented process, such that the instructions which execute on the computer, other programmable apparatus, or other device implement the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

[0235] Throughout this application, various embodiments may be presented in and/or relate to a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the embodiments. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed subranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

[0236] Where applicable, whenever a numerical range is indicated herein, it is meant to include any cited numeral (fractional or integral) within the indicated range.

[0237] The phrases "ranging/ranges between" a first indicate number and a second indicate number and "ranging/ranges from" a first indicate number "to" a second indicate number are used herein interchangeably and are meant to include the first and second indicated numbers and all the fractional and integral numerals there between.

[0238] Unless otherwise specified, the terms 'about' and/or 'close' with respect to a magnitude or a numerical value may imply to be within an inclusive range of -10% to +10% of the respective magnitude or value.

[0239] As used herein, if a machine (e.g., a processor) is described as "configured to" perform a task (e.g., configured to cause application of a predetermined field pattern), then, at least in some embodiments, the machine may include components, parts, or aspects (e.g., software) that enable the machine to perform a particular task. In some embodiments, the machine may perform this task during operation.

[0240] It is noted that the terms "operable to" can encompass the meaning of the term "adapted or configured to". In other words, a machine "operable to" perform a task can in some embodiments, embrace a mere capability (e.g., "adapted") to perform the function and, in some other embodiments, a machine that is actually made (e.g., "configured") to perform the function.

[0241] While the invention has been described with respect to a limited number of embodiments, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention, but rather as exemplifications of some of the embodiments.

Claims

Claims What is claimed is:

1. A sensing system, comprising:

at least one sensor;

at least one acquisition and communication apparatus;

at least one main unit;

a communication and power supply (CPS) line;

wherein a given acquisition and communication apparatus is operable to generate, based on signals relating to one or more physical stimuli sensed by the at least one sensor, optical communication signals; and wherein the given acquisition and communication apparatus is operable to transmit the optical communication signals to a neighboring acquisition and communication apparatus and/or the main unit, which are operable to receive the transmitted optical communication signals.

2. The sensing system of claim 1, wherein the given acquisition and communication apparatus is operable to receive an optical communication signal from the same and/or a different neighboring acquisition and communication apparatus and/or from the main unit.

3. The sensing system of claim 1 or claim 2, comprising:

a plurality of acquisition and communication apparatuses;

wherein at least one of the plurality of apparatuses is configured to implement repeater functionality to ensure that a repeated communication signal is received by neighboring acquisition and communication apparatuses and/or a main unit; and

wherein a received signal meets at least one received signal quality criterion.

4. The sensing system of any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein an acquisition and communication apparatus functions as the main unit.

5. The sensing system of any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of sensors are operable to sense one or more physical stimuli relating to seismic waves.

6. The sensing system of any one or more of the preceding claims, further comprising:

a non-glass fiber;

wherein the neighboring acquisition and communication apparatus or main unit provides a feedback signal to the given acquisition and communication apparatus for controlling the output power of a light source emitting light to be injected into the non-glass fiber in accordance with at least one received signal quality criterion of an optical communication signal at the neighboring acquisition and communication apparatus and/or main unit.

7. The sensing system of claim 6, wherein the feedback signal is provided using a wired, wireless and/or optical communication medium.

8. The sensing system of any one or more of the preceding claims,

wherein an acquisition and communication apparatus and/or the main unit are configured to reliably detect an optical communication signal which is received, by the acquisition and communication apparatus and/or the main unit, at -lOdBm or less; -20dBm or less; -25dBm or less; -30dBm or less; -35dBm or less; or -40 dBm or less.

9. The sensing system of claim 8, wherein the acquisition and communication apparatus and/or the main unit comprises: a photodiode; and

an ultra-low noise bandwidth-optimized preamplifier connected to the photodiode for the detection light transmitted over the non-glass fiber.

10. The sensing system of any one or more of claims 3 to 9, wherein a required output power of an optical communication signal output by an acquisition and communication apparatus and/or the main unit is determined in accordance with the at least one received signal quality criterion.

11. The sensing system of any one of the claims 6 to 10, wherein the power required for powering the light source for transmitting an optical communication signal over a non-glass fiber is 100 mW or less, 95 mW or less, 90 mW or less, 85 mW or less, 80 mW or less, or 50 mW or less, or 40 mW or less, or 30 mW or less, or 20 mW or less, or 10 mW or less, or 5 mW or less, or 2 mW or less, or 1 mW or less.

12. The sensing system of any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein a distance between the at least two acquisition and communication apparatuses and/or one acquisition and communication apparatus and the main unit is 300 meters or less, 250 meters or less, 200 meters or else, 150 meters or less, 100 meters or less, 50 meters or less, 10 meters or less, or 5 meters or less.

13. The sensing system of any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein an acquisition and communication apparatus is located on-site with at least one of the plurality of sensors.

14. The sensing system of any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein an acquisition and communication apparatus is located remotely from at least one of the plurality of sensors.

15. The sensing system of any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein one or more parts of an acquisition and communication apparatus are located remotely from at least one of the plurality of sensors, and wherein one or more other parts of the acquisition and communication apparatus are located on-site with the at least one sensor.

16. The sensing system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a given and/or neighboring acquisition and communication apparatuses comprise preprocessing circuitry which, when operating with a geophone, exhibits a substantially uniform or flat frequency response across a comparatively broad spectrum, compared to the geophone frequency response without the preprocessing circuitry.

17. A sensing method comprising:

sensing at least one physical quantity to responsively generate signals relating to the sensed physical quantity;

generating, based on the signal, optical communication signals; and

transmitting the optical communication signals.

18. The sensing method of claim 17, wherein the at least one physical quantity relates to seismic waves.

19. The sensing method of claim 17 or claim 18, wherein the optical communication signals are transmitted over non-glass fibers.

20. The sensing method of any one or more the claims 17 to 19, further comprising:

providing a feedback signal from a neighboring acquisition and communication apparatus to a given acquisition and communication apparatus and/or a main unit for controlling the output power of the light source emitting light to be injected into the non-glass fiber in accordance with at least one received signal quality criterion of an optical communication signal at the neighboring acquisition and communication apparatus.

21. The sensing method of claim 20, wherein the given acquisition and communication apparatus is operable to receive an optical communication signal from the same and/or a different neighboring acquisition and communication apparatus and/or from the main unit.

22. The sensing method of claim 20 or claim 21, comprising:

wherein at least one of a plurality of apparatuses is configured to implement repeater functionality to ensure that a repeated communication signal is received by neighboring acquisition and communication apparatuses and/or a main unit; and

wherein a received signal meets at least one received signal quality criterion.

23. The sensing method of any one or more of the preceding claims 20 to 22, wherein an acquisition and communication apparatus functions as the main unit.

24. The sensing method of any one or more of the claims 20 to 23, wherein the plurality of sensors are operable to sense one or more physical stimuli relating to seismic waves.

25. The sensing method of any one or more of the claims 20 to 24, wherein the feedback signal is provided using a wired, wireless and/or optical communication medium.

26. The sensing method of any one or more of the claims 20 to 25,

27. The sensing method of claim 26, wherein the acquisition and communication apparatus and/or the main unit comprises:

a photodiode; and

28. The sensing method of any one or more of claims 20 to 27, wherein a required output power of an optical communication signal output by an acquisition and communication apparatus and/or the main unit are determined in accordance with the at least one received signal quality criterion.

29. The sensing method of any one of the claims 20 to 28, wherein the power required for powering the light source for transmitting an optical communication signal over a non-glass fiber is 100 mW or less, 95 mW or less, 90 mW or less, 85 mW or less, 80 mW or less, or 50 mW or less, or 40 mW or less, or 30 mW or less, or 20 mW or less, or 10 mW or less, or 5 mW or less, or 2 mW or less, or 1 mW or less.

30. The sensing method of any one or more of the claims 20 to 29, wherein a distance between the at least two acquisition and communication apparatuses and/or one acquisition and communication apparatus and the main unit is 300 meters or less, 250 meters or less, 200 meters or else, 150 meters or less, 100 meters or less, 50 meters or less, 10 meters or less, or 5 meters or less.

31. The sensing method of any one or more of the claims 20 to 30, wherein an acquisition and communication apparatus is located on-site with at least one of the plurality of sensors.

32. The sensing method of any one or more of the claims 20 to 31, wherein an acquisition and communication apparatus is located remotely from at least one of the plurality of sensors.

33. The sensing method of any one or more of the claims 20 to 32, wherein one or more parts of an acquisition and communication apparatus are located remotely from at least one of the plurality of sensors, and wherein one or more other parts of the acquisition and communication apparatus are located on-site with the at least one sensor.

34. The sensing method of any one or more of the claims 20 to 33, wherein the given and/or neighboring acquisition and communication apparatuses comprise preprocessing circuitry which, when operating with a geophone, exhibits a substantially uniform or flat frequency response across a comparatively broad spectrum, compared to the geophone frequency response without the preprocessing circuitry

35. A sensing system, comprising:

a plurality of sensors that are operable to generate electronic signals based on the sensing one or more physical stimuli;

sensor circuitry for generating, based on the electronic signals, wireless signals; and

powering, control and data communication (PCC) circuitry operable to receive the wireless signals.

36. The sensing system of claim 35, wherein the sensor is operable to sense one or more physical stimuli relating to seismic waves.

37. The sensing system of claim 35 or claim 36, wherein the PCC circuitry is operable to wirelessly transmit power to the sensor circuitry.

38. The sensing system of any one or more of the claims 35 to 37,

further comprising a sensing part casing enclosing the sensor circuitry; and

a powering & data transmission (PDT) part casing enclosing the powering, control and communication (PCC) circuitry such that that the sensor circuitry and the PCC circuitry are physically decoupled from each other.

39. The sensing system of claim 38,

wherein the sensing part casing and/or the PDT part casing comprise metallic casings or plastic or composite materials or any combination thereof.

40. The sensing system of claim 38 or claim 39, wherein the sensing part casing is removably coupled to the PDT part casing.

41. The sensing system any one or more of the claims 35 to 40, wherein the sensor circuitry comprises a preprocessing circuitry that, when operating with a geophone, exhibits a substantially uniform or flat frequency response across a comparatively broad spectrum, compared to the geophone frequency response without the preprocessing circuitry.

42. The sensing system of any one or more of the claim 35 to 41, wherein the sensor circuitry has a uniform frequency response of 5 Hz or lower, 2 Hz, or lower, 1 Hz or lower, 0.5 Hz or lower, or 0.1 Hz or lower.

43. The sensing system of any one or more of the claims 35 to 42, having a power consumption of less than about 60 mW, for example, in the range of about 25-55 mW, or about 35-55 mW, or about 25-35 mW.

44. The sensing system of any one or more of the claims 35 to 43, wherein the PCC circuitry is operable to transmit communication signals to a neighboring PCC circuitry and/or a main unit via an optical, conductive and/or wireless communication medium.

45. The sensing system of claim 44, wherein the optical communication medium comprises a non-glass fiber optics.

46. A sensing method, comprising:

generating electronic signals based on the sensing one or more physical stimuli by a sensor;

generating by sensor circuitry, based on the electronic signals, wireless signals; and

47. The sensing method of claim 46, wherein the sensor is operable to sense one or more physical stimuli relating to seismic waves.

48. The sensing method of claim 46 or claim 47, wirelessly transmitting, by the PCC circuitry, power to the sensor circuitry.

49. The sensing method of any one or more of the claims 46 to 48,

enclosing the sensor circuitry by a sensing part casing; and

enclosing the powering, control and communication (PCC) circuitry with a powering & data transmission (PDT) part casing such that that the sensor circuitry and the PCC circuitry are physically decoupled from each other.

50. The sensing method of claim 49,

51. The sensing method of claim 49 or claim 50, comprising removably coupling the PDT part casing and the sensing part casing with each other.

52. The sensing method any one or more of the claims 46 to 51, wherein the sensor circuitry comprises a preprocessing circuitry that, when operating with a geophone, exhibits a substantially uniform or flat frequency response across a comparatively broad spectrum, compared to the geophone frequency response without the preprocessing circuitry.

53. The sensing method of any one or more of the claims 46 to 52, wherein the sensor circuitry has a uniform frequency response of 5 Hz or lower, 2 Hz, or lower, 1 Hz or lower, 0.5 Hz or lower, or 0.1 Hz or lower.

54. The sensing method of any one or more of the claims 46 to 53, having a power consumption of less than about 60 mW, for example, in the range of about 25-55 mW, or about 35-55 mW, or about 25-35 mW.

55. The sensing method of any one or more of the claims 46 to 54, wherein the PCC circuitry is operable to transmit communication signals to a neighboring PCC circuitry and/or a main unit via an optical, conductive and/or wireless communication medium.

56. The sensing method of claim 55, wherein the optical communication medium comprises a non-glass fiber optics.