WO2015177637A1

WO2015177637A1 - System and methods to manage a front-end of a seismic array

Info

Publication number: WO2015177637A1
Application number: PCT/IB2015/001172
Authority: WO
Inventors: Frédéric Simonnot; Timothée MOULINIER
Original assignee: Cgg Services Sa
Priority date: 2014-05-20
Filing date: 2015-05-19
Publication date: 2015-11-26

Abstract

A system and method to manage a front-end of a seismic array is provided. A method for controlling a seismic array includes receiving data from a control instrument. The control instrument is included in a steering assembly associated with a seismic array. The seismic array is coupled to a vessel that is configured to tow the seismic array, and the control instrument is configured to transmit data. The method also includes determining an adjustment to a navigation parameter of the steering assembly or the vessel, and communicating the determined adjustment.

Description

SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO MANAGE A FRONT-END OF A SEISMIC ARRAY

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/000,569, filed on May 20, 2014, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to seismic exploration and, more particularly, to systems and methods to manage a front-end of a seismic array.

BACKGROUND

[0003] In recent years, offshore drilling has become an increasingly important method of locating and retrieving oil and gas. But because drilling offshore involves high costs and high risks, marine seismic surveys of an exploration area are used to produce an image of subsurface geological structures. While the image may not directly show the location of oil or gas, those trained in the field can use such images to more accurately predict the location of oil and gas and thus reduce the chance of drilling a non-productive well.

[0004] Marine seismic surveys are usually accomplished by marine survey vessels towing a signal source and seismic sensors. Each seismic sensor, or "sensor," may be a hydrophone, which detects variations in pressure below the ocean surface. Marine survey vessels may also tow a signal source. The signal source generates a seismic signal, which is a series of seismic waves that travel in various directions including toward the ocean floor. The seismic waves penetrate the ocean floor and are at least partially reflected by interfaces between subsurface layers having different seismic wave propagation speeds. Sensors detect and receive these reflected waves. Sensors transform the seismic waves into seismic traces suitable for analysis. Sensors are in communication with a computer or recording system, which records the seismic traces from each sensor. A seismic trace thus represents the seismic waves received at a sensor from a source.

[0005] The sensors are contained within or attached to a cable that is towed behind the moving vessel. The cables are often multiple kilometers in length and each has many sensors. The towing process is referred to as "streaming" the cable, and the cables themselves are referred to as "streamer cables." In most surveys, the marine survey vessel tows multiple streamer cables that are attached to the vessel via lead-in cables. Streamers are connected to other streamers by spread cables, such that during operation, streamers are towed substantially parallel to each other. The end of the streamers located closer to the vessel is referred to as the "front-end" of the "seismic array," and the ends of the streamers located furthest from the vessel are referred to as "tails." Deflectors are utilized at the ends of the front-end of the seismic array to assist in producing necessary lift to obtain the required geometry, thus, deflectors may be steered.

[0006] In current marine survey systems, steering the front-end of the seismic array may be difficult. Indications that adjustments should be made to direction, speed, or rate of turn of the vessel may be determined manually, for example, by visually inspecting the seismic array from onboard the vessel or with the data available onboard on the navigation system screens. Issues with spread cables or streamers may not be detectable except by visual scan. As such, performing an efficient and complete survey of an exploration area can be challenging. Accordingly, methods and systems capable of actively managing the front-end of the seismic array to improve efficiency and completeness of a seismic survey are needed.

SUMMARY

[0007] In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, a method for controlling a seismic array includes receiving data from a control instrument. The control instrument is included in a steering assembly associated with a seismic array. The seismic array is coupled to a vessel that is configured to tow the seismic array, and the control instrument is configured to transmit data. The method also includes determining an adjustment to a navigation parameter of the steering assembly or the vessel, and communicating the determined adjustment.

[0008] In accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, a control system includes a control instrument included in a steering assembly associated with a seismic array. The seismic array is coupled to a vessel that is configured to tow the seismic array and the control instrument is configured to transmit data. The control system further includes a steering system associated with the steering assembly. The steering system is configured to receive data from the control instrument, determine an adjustment to a navigation parameter of the steering assembly or the vessel, and communicate the determined adjustment.

[0009] In accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, a non- transitory computer-readable medium includes instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to receive data from a control instrument. . The control instrument is included in a steering assembly associated with a seismic array. The seismic array is coupled to a vessel that is configured to tow the seismic array, and the control instrument is configured to transmit data. The processor is also caused to determine an adjustment to a navigation parameter of the deflector assembly or the vessel, and transmit a signal indicating the determined adjustment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure and its features and advantages, reference is now made to the following description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which may include drawings that are not to scale and wherein like reference numbers indicate like features, in which:

[0011] FIGURE 1 illustrates a top view of an example marine seismic survey system used to manage the front-end of a seismic array in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0012] FIGURE 2 illustrates a perspective view of a deflector system in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0013] FIGURE 3 illustrates a diagram of an exemplary fluid flow system around a foil in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0014] FIGURE 4 illustrates a plot of exemplary data transmitted by a tell-tale device versus time in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0015] FIGURE 5 illustrates a schematic diagram of an example system used to manage a front-end of a seismic array in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0016] FIGURE 6 illustrates a flow chart of an example method to manage a firont- end of a seismic array in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] The present disclosure is directed to methods and systems to manage the front- end of a seismic array by monitoring the front-end and processing data to act on the deflectors and the vessel. In some embodiments, data is gathered from the deflectors relating to position, orientation, fluid flow, cable tension, and other suitable parameters. The gathered data is transmitted to a control system. Then, the data is processed and, if needed, adjustments are made to a navigation parameter relating to the deflectors or vessel to improve the seismic survey. Parameter adjustments may be made to increase efficiency (for example, by decreasing drag), improve safety, or provide a more accurate seismic survey (for example, by improving position over the exploration area), or any other suitable goal. Navigation parameter adjustments to the vessel may include changing speed, modifying course, or adjusting direction of the vessel. Navigation parameter adjustments to the deflectors may include increasing or decreasing the angle of attack of one or more foils. Although described as monitoring and processing data from the front-end of a seismic array, in some embodiments, data from other locations may be utilized, and therefore, equivalent steering capabilities may be utilized. For example, data gathered from the tails of the streamers may be used to improve the seismic survey positioning by actively steering the tail buoys.

[0018] In some embodiments, tell-tale devices may be positioned on the foils of a deflector to monitor the fluid flow around the wings. Data from the tell-tale devices may provide an indication of the fluid flow (for example, direction, speed, quality). Accordingly, in some embodiments, data may be gathered from one or more tell-tale devices, position sensors (for example, a global positioning system (GPS)), orientation sensors (for example, a 3D accelerometer), tension sensors, cameras, or other suitable instruments to improve the seismic survey. In some embodiments, the present disclosure may further assist in a partial front-end recovery for debris cleaning.

[0019] As used herein, a hyphenated form of a reference numeral refers to a specific instance of an element and the un-hyphenated form of the reference numeral refers to the collective or generic element. Thus, for example, widget "72-1" refers to an instance of a widget class, which may be referred to collectively as widgets "72" and any one of which may be referred to generically as a widget "72".

[0020] FIGURE 1 illustrates a top view of an example marine seismic survey system

100 used manage the front-end of a seismic array in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. Marine seismic survey system 100 includes marine survey vessel 102. Vessel 102 may be traveling in direction shown by directional arrow 104. Vessel 102 includes vessel computing system 106 and one or more radio antennas 108. Vessel computing system 106 is communicatively coupled to radio antennas 108. Radio antennas 108 wirelessly receive data transmitted from other components of system 100 and provide the received data to vessel computing system 106 or to a remote computing device. As example, radio antennas 108 may be mounted on a mast of vessel 102. Radio antennas 108 include a position or navigation device, such as a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS or GLONASS) device or a GPS device. Vessel computing system 106 and radio antennas 108 may further be associated with vessel navigation system 126, such as an integrated navigation system (INS) for vessel 102.

[0021] Vessel 102 tows streamers 110 that carry sensors 112. In some embodiments, vessel 102 also tows one or more deflectors 114. During operation, lead-in cables 116 couple the heads 118 of streamers 110 to vessel 102. Tow cables 120 couple the deflectors 114 to vessel 102 and to the heads 118 of streamers 110. Further, heads 118 of streamers 110 are coupled to other streamers 110 via spread cables 122. Spread cables 122 enable streamers 110 to be towed approximately parallel at known lateral distances from other adjacent streamers 110. Cables 116, 120, and 122 may be any type of flexible cord, rope, or cable, which may include one or more electrical or optical conductors.

[0022] In some embodiments, front-end 124 includes heads 118 of streamers 110, deflectors 114, and spread cables 122. Based on the operation of deflectors 114 with reference to towing direction arrow 104, lateral forces occur that pull apart streamers 110 and extend spread cables 122. Tension sensors may be associated with heads 118 to monitor the tension in spread cables 122. In some embodiments, system 100 may be configured to transmit data from heads 118, sensors 112, and deflectors 114 to vessel computing system 106. For example, tension data from tension sensors associated with heads 118 may be transmitted to vessel computing system 106 or any other suitable computing system.

[0023] FIGURE 2 illustrates a perspective view of deflector system 200 in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. Deflector system 200 is configured to assist in control and management of the front-end of a seismic array, for example, to manage front-end 124 as discussed with reference to FIGURE 1. Deflector system 200 may include components of a steering assembly associated with the seismic array. The steering assembly may further include devices and sensors associated with heads 118, associated with tail buoys located at the tails of streamers 110, or associated with any other portion of system 100 discussed with reference to FIGURE 1. Deflector system 200 includes deflector 114, bridle block 204, and associated rig cables 206.

[0024] Bridle block 204 connects deflector 114 to the rest of the marine seismic survey system (for example, system 100 discussed with reference to FIGURE 1). For example, one or more tow cables 120 may connect bridle block 204 to a towing vessel or to the heads of the streamers. Deflector 114 is connected to bridle block 204 via rig cables 206. One or more tension sensors 208 are associated with bridle block 204. Tension sensors 208 measure tension and transmit data corresponding to the measured strength and direction of the tension from tow cable 120 and rig cables 206 for analysis. For example, in some embodiments, tension data may be transmitted to float 210 and deflector computing system 220 via a wire included in one of the rig cables 206 or may be transmitted acoustically, wirelessly, or using any other suitable manner of transmission. In some embodiments, data from tension sensors 208 may be transmitted to vessel computing system 106 located on vessel 102 via wires, acoustic, wirelessly, or any other suitable manner of transmission.

[0025] In some embodiments, deflector 114 includes wing system 212 that is submerged while towed, and float 210 that remains above the surface of the water while towed and allows deflector 114 to float. Wing system 212 includes multiple foils 214 configured vertically to rotate on a center pivot point. Although, wing system 212 is illustrated with approximately eight foils 214, any suitable number and shape of foils may be included in wing system 212. For example, wing system 212 may include only one foil 214. As a further example, foils 214 may be oriented horizontally rather than vertically. Each foil 214 may be operable to rotate in cooperation with other foils 214, or may be operable to rotate independently. Signals to control and adjust foils 214 may be transmitted by deflector computing system 220. In some embodiments, foils 214 may be controlled and adjusted manually by a user. Each foil 214 includes a front edge and trailing edge defined relative to the towing direction indicated by direction arrow 216. In some embodiments, the angle of the front edge of foils 214 with respect to the direction arrow 216 may be referred to as the "angle of attack," which may be adjusted based on transmissions from deflector computing system 220 or any other suitable control system. [0026] In some embodiments, one or more foils 214 include one or more tell-tale devices 218. Tell-tale devices 218 are operable to detect and indicate properties of the fluid flow around foils 214. For example, tell-tale devices 218 may detect whether the fluid flow is turbulent, laminar, or some variable degree of turbulence, as discussed below with reference 5 to FIGURE 3. Although tell-tale devices 218 are illustrated on only one face of each foil 214, additional tell-tale devices 218 may be located on other faces of foils 214. Further, more than one tell-tale device 218 may be located on a particular face of a foil 214 per the specific implementation. Tell-tale devices 218 are coupled to foils 214 using any suitable adhering mechanism. For example, tell-tale devices 218 may be bonded to foils 214. In some

10 embodiments, tell-tale devices 218 may be communicatively coupled to and configured to transmit data to deflector computing system 220 or other suitable system, via wires 222, acoustic, wirelessly, or any other suitable manner of transmission. Wires 222 may be located partially within the interior space of foils 214. In some embodiments, tell-tale devices 218 may be communicatively coupled to and configured to transmit data via wires, acoustic,

15 wirelessly, or any other suitable manner of transmission, to vessel computing system 106 located on vessel 102 discussed with reference to FIGURE 1. Additionally, tell-tale devices 218 may be calibrated as necessary for the particular implementation.

[0027] In some embodiments, deflector 114 includes one or more cameras 224.

Cameras 224 may be directed toward components of deflectors 114, toward bridle block 204,

20 or toward other components of the front-end of the seismic array. Cameras 224 may be utilized to verify received data, to check for debris near the front-end 124, or for any other suitable purpose associated with the seismic survey. In some embodiments, cameras 224 may be communicatively coupled to and configured to transmit data to deflector computing system 220 or other suitable system, via wires, acoustic, wirelessly, or any other suitable manner of

25 transmission. In some embodiments, cameras 224 may be communicatively coupled to and configured to transmit data via wires, acoustic, wirelessly, or any other suitable manner of transmission, to vessel computing system 106 located on vessel 102 discussed with reference to FIGURE 1.

[0028] In some embodiments, deflector 114 includes one or more orientation sensors

30 226. Orientation sensors 226 may be located within or attached to wing system 212 of deflector 114. Orientation sensors 226 indicate the orientation of deflector 114. For example, orientation sensors 226 provide data regarding rotation motions (for example, roll, pitch, yaw) and linear motions (for example, heave (vertical (up/down) motion), sway (lateral (side-to- side) motion), and surge (longitudinal (front/back) motion)). In some embodiments, one or more 3D accelerometers may be included in orientation sensors 226. Further, in some embodiments, orientation sensors 226 may be placed substantially in the center of wing system 212, or may be placed in any other suitable location. In some embodiments, orientation sensors 226 may be communicatively coupled to and configured to transmit data to deflector computing system 220 or other suitable system, via wires, acoustic, wirelessly, or any other suitable manner of transmission. In some embodiments, orientation sensors 226 may be communicatively coupled to and configured to transmit data via wires, acoustic, wirelessly, or any other suitable manner of transmission, to vessel computing system 106 located on vessel 102 discussed with reference to FIGURE 1.

[0029] In some embodiments, deflector 114 includes one or more position sensors

228. Position sensors 228 may include one or more of any suitable device that provides position data and is mounted on float 210. For example, position sensors 228 may include two GNSS devices or GPS devices. In some embodiments, position sensors 228 may be communicatively coupled to and configured to transmit data to deflector computing system 220 or other suitable system, via wires, acoustic, wirelessly, or any other suitable manner of transmission. In some embodiments, position sensors 228 may be communicatively coupled to and configured to transmit data via wires, acoustic, wirelessly, or any other suitable manner of transmission, to vessel computing system 106 located on vessel 102 discussed with reference to FIGURE 1.

[0030] In some embodiments, deflector 114 includes one or more depth sensors 232.

Depth sensors 232 measure the actual depth of wing system 212 and foils 214. In some embodiments, depth sensors 232 may be communicatively coupled to and configured to transmit data to deflector computing system 220 or other suitable system, via wires, acoustic, wirelessly, or any other suitable manner of transmission. In some embodiments, depth sensors 232 may be communicatively coupled to and configured to transmit data via wires, acoustic, wirelessly, or any other suitable manner of transmission, to vessel computing system 106 located on vessel 102 discussed with reference to FIGURE 1.

[0031] In some embodiments, deflector 114 includes one or more radio antennas 230.

Radio antennas 230 may be communicatively coupled to deflector computing system 220. Radio antennas 230 are configured to wirelessly receive data transmitted from other components of system 100 discussed with reference to FIGURE 1 , including receiving and transmitting data to and from vessel computing system 106 located on vessel 102. As example, radio antennas 230 may be mounted on a mast associated with float 210 or may be coupled to position sensors 228.

[0032] In some embodiments, float 210 includes a cavity or other mount that accommodates deflector computing system 220. Deflector computing system 220 may be installed in float 210 in an approximately water tight configuration. In some embodiments, deflector computing system 220 may be installed proximate to bridle block 204 to allow receiving and transmitting of data via tow cable 120. Deflector computing system 220 may be included in a steering system to control the seismic array. In some embodiments, portions of the steering system may be controlled manually, in lieu of, or in cooperation with, deflector computing system 220. In some embodiments, deflector computing system 220 may receive, process, or store data from control instruments, such as, tension sensors 208, tell-tales devices 218, cameras 224, orientation sensors 226, position sensors 228, radio antennas 230, depth sensors 232, or any other suitable data source. The control instruments may be configured to transmit data to deflector computing system 220 continuously, at specified frequencies, or based on triggers or alarms. In some embodiments, deflector computing system 220 may be configured to transmit the data received from the control instruments in real-time to a computing system, such as vessel computing system 106 discussed with reference to FIGURE 1. In some embodiments, deflector computing system 220 may be configured to receive data from vessel computing system 106, or any other suitable computing system, relating to an adjustment to a navigation parameter of deflector 114. Deflector computing system 220 may transmit and receive data via wires or wirelessly. Deflector computing system 220 is described in further detail below with reference to FIGURE 5.

[0033] FIGURE 3 illustrates a diagram of an exemplary fluid flow system 300 around foil 214 in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. System 300 illustrates fluid 302 flowing around foil 214. Foil 214 includes two tell-tale devices 218, one located on extrados face 304 of foil 214 and one located on intrados face 306 of foil 214. Fluid flows around foil 214 and separates at separation point 308. Fluid flowing on intrados face 304 re-contacts foil 214 at reattachment point 310. As shown on the inset, tell-tale device 218-1 may indicate substantially turbulent flow at point 308 and may detect a value of approximately 500 millivolts (raV) that may be transmitted as a value of zero. Tell-tale device 218-2 may indicate substantially laminar flow at point 310 and may detect a value of approximately zero mV that may be transmitted as a value of one. In some embodiments, any transmitted value less than one, indicating at least some turbulent flow, may trigger an alarm. Thus, tell-tale devices 218 may transmit data reflecting the properties of the fluid flow at 5 various locations on foil 214. The data transmitted by tell-tale devices 218 may be utilized to increase or decrease the angle of foil 214 (change the angle of attack) with respect to the direction of fluid flow. Adjustments to the angle of attack may be used to control or steer the front-end of the seismic array or to improve efficiency of foil 214 by decreasing drag.

[0034] FIGURE 4 illustrates plot 400 of exemplary data transmitted by tell-tale

10 device 218 versus time in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. Plot 400 includes alarm trigger 402 that may be set at approximately one, which indicates laminar flow. Plot 400 also includes instantaneous value 404 transmitted by tell-tale device 218, and moving average 406 that may be transmitted by tell-tale device 218 or calculated at deflector computing system 220 discussed with reference to FIGURE 2 or at vessel computing system

15 106 discussed with reference to FIGURE 1. Alarms may be triggered when instantaneous value 404 or moving average value 406 is less than alarm trigger 402. As such, indication of alarms may result in modification of angle of attack of foil 214 with respect to the fluid flow, for example, to decrease turbulence, decrease drag, and improve efficiency.

[0035] In some embodiments, alarms, triggers, or thresholds may be defined for

20 additional control instruments within marine seismic survey system 100. Deflector computing system 220 or vessel computing system 106 may be configured to detect and transmit warnings or alarms when the data from one of the control instruments departs from predetermined conditions or violates a threshold. For example, a threshold (or peak) tension value or a twenty second mean value may be set for tow cables 120, spread cables 122, or rig

25 cables 206. As another example, threshold mean, standard deviation, or peak values may be set for orientation sensors 226, such as, for roll, pitch, yaw, heave, surge or sway. Additionally, a threshold may be set for a maximum difference between the heading of deflector 114 and vessel 102. The thresholds may be monitored in real time or periodically based on the implementation. Further, alarms may be triggered when cameras 224 indicate

30 that debris (such as, fishing gear) interferes or obstructs any portion of front-end 124.

[0036] FIGURE 5 illustrates a schematic diagram of an example control system 500 used to manage a front-end of a seismic array in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. Control system 500 is configured to receive and process data from components of the seismic survey system. Control system 500 is also configured to transmit signals to control and manage the operation of the front-end of the seismic array by transmitting modifications in navigation parameters to deflectors 114 (and foils 214) or vessel 5 102 (and vessel navigation system 126). Control system 500 includes control instruments 502 communicatively coupled to one or more deflector computing systems 220. Deflector computing systems 220 are communicatively coupled to one or more vessel computing systems 106. Control system 500 may further include manual controls for adjusting portions of the marine seismic survey system. Additionally, portions of control system 500 may 0 comprise a steering system for steering the seismic array.

[0037] Control instruments 502 include any devices, sensors, or instrumentalities that provide data for control and management of a front-end of a seismic array. For example, control instruments 506 may include tension sensors 208, tell-tales devices 218, cameras 224, orientation sensors 226, position sensors 228, and depth sensors 232 as discussed with5 reference to FIGURE 2. Deflector computing system 220 may include interfaces 504, processor 506-1 , memory 508-1, and power supply 510. Deflector computing system 220 may be further coupled to transmit signals to radio antenna 230 and foils 214 (on deflectors 114). In some embodiments, vessel computing system 106 may include processor 506-2, memory 508-2, network interface 512, and I/O system 514. Vessel computing system 1060 may also be coupled to radio antenna 108 or other suitable communication system, such as an acoustic communication system, and vessel navigation system 126 (on vessel 102).

[0038] In some embodiments, interfaces 504 communicatively couple control instruments 502 to deflector computing system 220. Interfaces 504 represent any suitable instrumentalities operable to receive data from control instruments 502, transmit data to5 control instruments 502 or foils 214, perform suitable processing of data, communicate with other devices, or any combination thereof Interfaces 504 may be any port or connection, real or virtual, including any suitable hardware and/or software (including protocol conversion and data processing capabilities).

[0039] Power supply 510 is configured to provide power to components of deflector0 computing system 220. In some embodiments, power supply 510 may include one or more batteries, a solar cell, a hydro generator, or any other suitable power source. [0040] Vessel computing system 106 may include any instrumentality or aggregation of instrumentalities operable to compute, classify, process, transmit, receive, store, display, record, or utilize any form of information, intelligence, or data. For example, vessel computing system 106 may be one or more mainframe servers, desktop computers, laptops, cloud computing systems, storage devices, or any other suitable devices and may vary in size, shape, performance, functionality, and price. Vessel computing system 106 may be configured to permit communication over any type of network. The network can be a wireless network, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN) such as the Internet, or any other suitable type of network. In some embodiments

[0041] Processors 506-1 and 506-2, collectively processors 506, may be communicatively coupled to memory 508-1 and 508-2, respectively. Processors 506 control the operation and administration of deflector computing system 220 and vessel computing system 106 by processing information received from interfaces and memory 508. Processors 506 include any hardware and/or software that operate to control and process data. In some embodiments, processors 506 may be programmable logic devices, microcontrollers, microprocessors, any suitable processing device, or any suitable combination of the preceding. Control system 500 may have any suitable number, type, and/or configuration of processors 506. Processors 506 may execute one or more sets of instructions to manage the front-end of a seismic array, including the steps described below with respect to FIGURE 6.

[0042] Memory 508-1 and 508-2, collectively memory 508, stores, either permanently or temporarily, data, operational software, or other information for processor 506, or other components of control system 500. Memory 508 includes any one or a combination of volatile or nonvolatile local or remote devices suitable for storing data. For example, memory 508 may include random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), flash memory, magnetic storage devices, optical storage devices, network storage devices, cloud storage devices, solid-state devices, external storage devices, any other suitable information storage device, or a combination of these devices. Memory 508 may store information in one or more databases, file systems, tree structures, any other suitable storage system, or any combination thereof. Furthermore, different types of information stored in memory 508 may use any of these storage systems. Moreover, any information stored in memory may be encrypted or unencrypted, compressed or uncompressed, and static or editable. Control system 500 may have any suitable number, type, and/or configuration of memory 508. Memory 508 may include any suitable data for use in the operation of control system 500. For example, memory 508 may store computer-executable instructions operable to perform the steps discussed below with respect to FIGURE 6 when executed by processors 506. Memory 508 may also store any data received from control instruments 502, for 5 example, orientation data, tension data, position data, fluid flow data, or any other suitable data.

[0043] Network interface 512 represents any suitable device operable to receive information from a network, transmit information through a network, perform suitable processing of information, communicate with other devices, or any combination thereof.

10 Network interface 512 may be any port or connection, real or virtual, including any suitable hardware and/or software (including protocol conversion and data processing capabilities) that communicates through a LAN, WAN, or other communication system. This communication allows vessel computing system 106 to exchange information with a network, other computing systems, or other components of control system 500. Control system 500 may

15 have any suitable number, type, and/or configuration of network interface 512.

[0044] I/O system 514 may comprise a system, device, or apparatus generally operable to receive or transmit data to/from/within vessel computing system 106. I O system 514 may represent, for example, a variety of communication interfaces, graphics interfaces, video interfaces, user input interfaces, and/or peripheral interfaces. For example, I/O system

20 514 may include a keyboard, keypad, microphone, monitor, mouse, printer, scanner, speaker, still camera, stylus, tablet, touch screen, trackball, video camera, another suitable I/O device or a combination of two or more of these. Where appropriate, I/O system 514 may include one or more device or software drivers enabling processor 506-2 to drive one or more of these I/O devices.

25 [0045] FIGURE 6 illustrates a flow chart of an example method 600 to manage a front-end of a seismic array in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. For illustrative purposes, method 600 is described with respect to control system 500 to manage front-end 124 of marine seismic survey system 100, discussed with reference to FIGURES 1 and 5; however, method 600 may be used to manage the front-end of any

30 appropriate front-end of any seismic array. The steps of method 600 can be performed by a user, electronic or optical circuits, various computer programs, models, or any combination thereof, configured to process seismic traces. The programs and models may include instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium and operable to perform, when executed, one or more of the steps described below. The computer-readable media can include any system, apparatus, or device configured to store and retrieve programs or instructions such as a hard disk drive, a compact disc, flash memory, or any other suitable device. The programs and models may be configured to direct a processor or other suitable unit to retrieve and execute the instructions from the computer readable media. Collectively, the user, circuits, or computer programs and models used to process seismic traces may be referred to as a "control system." For example, the control system may be control system 500 discussed with reference to FIGURE 5. In some embodiments, portions of control system 500 are located on deflector 114, on vessel 102 or located elsewhere, and receive data stored during the seismic survey. For example, control system 500 may record data and deliver the recorded data to an on-shore computing system for processing at a later time.

[0046] Method 600 begins at step 605 where the control system receives data from one or more control instruments. For example, deflector computing system 220 may receive information from control instruments 502, such as include tension sensors 208, orientation sensors 226, tell-tales devices 218, position sensors 218, cameras 224, or depth sensors 232.

[0047] At step 610, the control system determines an adjustment to a navigation parameter of the vessel or a deflector based on the received data. For example, control system 500 may receive data from a particular tell-tale device 218 indicating laminar flow and data from position sensors 218 indicating that propulsion is greater than a set threshold.

[0048] At step 615, the control system communicates the determined adjustment by, for example, transmitting a signal indicating the determined adjustment. For example, control system 500, having determined there is laminar flow at a tell-tale device 218 located on an extrados face of a particular foil 214 (where the fluid flow value is approximately one) and propulsion over a threshold, may transmit a signal to a particular deflector 114 to decrease the angle of attack of one or more foils 214. Control system 500 may also transmit a signal to vessel 102 to increase the lay-back of the front-end 124 by increasing the length of one or more lead-in cables 114, discussed with reference to FIGURE 1.

[0049] As another example, at step 605, control system 500 receives tension data from tension sensors 208 or from tension sensors at heads 118. At step 610, control system 500 determines, based on the received data, that the inner-streamer separation (such as, tension on spread cables 122) is higher than a set tension threshold. At step 615, control system 500 transmits a signal to a particular deflector 114 to increase the angle of attack of one or more foils 214 to bring the tension on spread cables 122 within the set threshold.

[0050] Additionally, for example, at step 605, control system 500 receives tension data from tension sensors 208 that tension in a particular tow cable 120 is greater than a threshold. At step 610, control system 500 determines that, based on the received data, the speed of vessel 102 should be reduced. At step 615, control system 500 transmits a signal to vessel 102 and vessel navigation system 126 to reduce speed to decrease the tension on the particular tow cable 12 to less than the threshold.

[0051] As further example, at step 605, control system 500 receives tension data from tension sensors 208 at both ends of front-end 124. At step 610, control system 500 determines, based on comparison of the tension data, that the difference in the tension data is greater than a threshold. At step 615, control system 500 transmits a signal to vessel 102 and vessel navigation system 126 to increase or decrease the rate of turn based on lowering the tension difference to acceptable levels.

[0052] As additional example, at step 605, control system 500 receives tension data from a particular tension sensor 208 . At step 610, control system 500 determines, based on the received tension data, that the tension on a particular rig cable 206 is greater than a threshold. At step 615, control system 500 transmits a signal to a particular deflector 114 to decrease the angle of attack of one or more foils 214 to decrease the tension on the particular rig cable 206.

[0053] As another example, at step 605, control system 500 receives position data from position sensors 228. At step 610, control system 500 determines, based on the location over the exploration area, that vessel 102 should be steered to port. At step 615, control system 500 transmits a signal to the port side deflector 114 to increase the angle of attack of one or more foils 214, and transmits a signal to vessel 102 and vessel navigation system 126 to steer to port.

[0054] For another example, at step 605, control system 500 receives tension data for a particular tow cable 120 from a particular tension sensor 208. At step 610, control system 500 determines that the tension data is above a lower threshold and below a higher threshold, and thus, the speed of vessel 102 can be increased. At step 615, control system 500 transmits a signal to vessel 102 and vessel navigation system 126 to increase the speed of the vessel. [0055] As an additional example, at step 605, control system 500 receives orientation data from a particular orientation sensor 226. At step 610, control system 500 calculates, based on the received orientation data, a moving average and standard deviation of roll, pitch and yaw, and then determines that the moving average or standard deviation is greater than a threshold. At step 615, control system 500 transmits a signal to a particular deflector 114 to increase the angle of attack of one or more foils 214, and transmits a signal to vessel 102 and vessel navigation system 126 to decrease the speed of the vessel and bring the orientation data within acceptable limits.

[0056] Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to method 600 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the steps may be performed in a different order than that described and some steps may be performed at the same time. For example, step 615 may be performed simultaneously with step 610. Further, more steps may be added or steps may be removed without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

[0057] This disclosure encompasses all changes, substitutions, variations, alterations, and modifications to the example embodiments herein that a person having ordinary skill in the art would comprehend. Similarly, where appropriate, the appended claims encompass all changes, substitutions, variations, alterations, and modifications to the example embodiments herein that a person having ordinary skill in the art would comprehend. Moreover, reference in the appended claims to an apparatus or system or a component of an apparatus or system being adapted to, arranged to, capable of, configured to, enabled to, operable to, or operative to perform a particular function encompasses that apparatus, system, component, whether or not it or that particular function is activated, turned on, or unlocked, as long as that apparatus, system, or component is so adapted, arranged, capable, configured, enabled, operable, or operative.

[0058] Any of the steps, operations, or processes described herein may be performed or implemented with one or more hardware or software modules, alone or in combination with other devices. In some embodiments, a software module is implemented with a computer program product comprising a computer-readable medium containing computer program code, which can be executed by a computer processor for performing any or all of the steps, operations, or processes described.

[0059] Embodiments of the disclosure may also relate to an apparatus for performing the operations herein. This apparatus may be specially constructed for the required purposes, and/or it may comprise a general-purpose computing device selectively activated or reconfigured by a computer program stored in the computer. Such a computer program may be stored in a tangible computer readable storage medium or any type of media suitable for storing electronic instructions, and coupled to a computer system bus. Furthermore, any computing systems referred to in the specification may include a single processor or may be architectures employing multiple processor designs for increased computing capability. For example, the control system described in method 600 with respect to FIGURE 6 may be stored in tangible computer readable storage media.

[0060] Although the present disclosure has been described with several embodiments, changes, variations, alterations, transformations, and modifications may be suggested to one skilled in the art, and it is intended that the present disclosure encompass such changes, variations, alterations, transformations, and modifications as fall within the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, while the present disclosure has been described with respect to various embodiments, it is fully expected that the teachings of the present disclosure may be combined in a single embodiment as appropriate. Instead, the scope of the disclosure is defined by the appended claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A method for controlling a seismic array, the method comprising:

receiving data from a control instrument, the control instrument is included in a steering assembly associated with a seismic array, the seismic array is coupled to a vessel that is configured to tow the seismic array, the control instrument is configured to transmit data; determining an adjustment to a navigation parameter of the steering assembly or the vessel; and

communicating the determined adjustment.

2. The method of Claim 1, wherein communicating the determined adjustment includes transmitting a signal indicating the determined adjustment.

3. The method of Claim 1, wherein the control instrument comprises a tell-tale device located on a face of a foil of a deflector, the tell-tale device configured to transmit a value indicating a property of fluid flow.

4. The method of Claim 3, further comprising, triggering an alarm when the transmitted value is less than one.

5. The method of Claim 4, wherein the determined adjustment includes decreasing an angle of attack of the foil when the transmitted value is less than one.

6. The method of Claim 3, wherein the control instrument further comprises a position device located on the vessel; and

wherein the determined adjustment includes:

increasing an angle of attack of the foil based on the transmitted value being one; and increasing a lay-back of the seismic array based on the position device indicating propulsion is greater than a threshold.

7. The method of Claim 1, wherein the control instrument comprises a tension sensor positioned on a head of a seismic streamer of the seismic array; and wherein the determined adjustment includes increasing an angle of attack of a foil located on a deflector based on a tension detected by the tension sensor being greater than a threshold.

8. The method of Claim 1, wherein the control instrument comprises a tension sensor positioned on a tow cable of the deflector; and

wherein the determined adjustment includes decreasing the speed of the vessel based on a tension detected by the tension sensor being greater than a threshold.

9. The method of Claim 1, wherein the control instrument comprises a tension sensor positioned on a rig cable of the deflector; and

wherein the determined adjustment includes decreasing an angle of attack of a foil located on a deflector based on a tension detected by the tension sensor being greater than a threshold.

10. A control system comprising:

a control instrument included in a steering assembly associated with a seismic array, the seismic array is coupled to a vessel that is configured to tow the seismic array, the control instrument is configured to transmit data;

a steering system associated with the steering assembly, the steering system configured to:

receive data from the control instrument;

determine an adjustment to a navigation parameter of the steering assembly or the vessel; and

communicate the determined adjustment.

11. The control system of Claim 10, wherein the steering system comprises a computing system.

12. The control system of Claim 11, wherein communicating the determined adjustment includes transmitting a signal indicating the determined adjustment.

13. The control system of Claim 10, wherein the control instrument comprises a telltale device located on a face of a foil of a deflector, the tell-tale device configured to transmit a value indicating a property of fluid flow.

14. The control system of Claim 13, wherein the steering system is further configured to trigger an alarm when the transmitted value is less than one.

15. The control system of Claim 14, wherein the determined adjustment includes decreasing an angle of attack of the foil when the transmitted value is less than one.

16. The control system of Claim 13, wherein the control instrument further comprises a position device located on the vessel; and

wherein the determined adjustment includes:

17. The control system of Claim 10, wherein the control instrument comprises a tension sensor positioned on a head of a seismic streamer of the seismic array; and

wherein the determined adjustment includes increasing an angle of attack of a foil located on a deflector based on a tension detected by the tension sensor being greater than a threshold.

18. The control system of Claim 10, wherein the control instrument comprises a tension sensor positioned on a tow cable of the deflector; and

19. The control system of Claim 10, wherein the control instrument comprises a tension sensor positioned on a rig cable of the deflector; and wherein the determined adjustment includes decreasing an angle of attack of a foil located on a deflector based on a tension detected by the tension sensor being greater than a threshold.

20. A non-transitory computer-readable medium, comprising instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to:

receive data from a control instrument, the control instrument is included in a deflector assembly associated with a front-end of a seismic array, the front-end of the seismic array is coupled to a vessel that is configured to tow the seismic array, the control instrument is configured to transmit data;

determine an adjustment to a navigation parameter of the deflector assembly or the vessel; and

transmit a signal indicating the determined adjustment.