Solid fill acoustic array
US6262944A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 22, 1999 |
| Grant date | Jul 17, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 22, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01V1/201
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An acoustic array including a plurality of acoustic sensors positioned at predetermined telemetry points for measuring the acoustic energy from the surrounding environment. The acoustic sensors are each positioned within a fluid-filled pocket in the acoustic array, wherein each the various fluid-filled pockets are separated from each other by a section of solid fill buoyant material. The sections of solid fill material control the buoyancy of the acoustic array. The acoustic array is surrounded by a longitudinally extending outer hosewall which encloses the acoustic array and forms the fluid-filled pockets between the sections of solid fill material. A strength member is extended longitudinally throughout the length of the acoustic array to provide a load bearing mechanism for distributing longitudinal tensile loads applied to the acoustic array, while support spacers are situated within the acoustic array to provide radial support for the acoustic array. The acoustic array is formed of a lightweight and electrically passive structure which allows water to be used as the fill fluid for the pockets. Using water as the fill fluid provides an environmentally-safe fill fluid having buo…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.