The Controllable Seismic Source (CSS) can be used with any commercially available seismograph system with a standard trigger input. The unit is self-contained and designed to be used from a vehicle with minimum effort for the operator. The CSS uses a specific motor to induce a variable load. By adjusting the speed, acceleration and mass of the load, a variety of frequencies can be obtained. A computer controlled interface adjusts these parameters as well as repetition rate. The unit is attached to a standard 2” trailer hitch receiver in the back of a vehicle and powered by the vehicle 12V electrical system. An inflatable system is used to quickly deploy or retrieve the unit and to produce a solid coupling to ground. A remote control, handheld device is used to manually trigger the unit, either from inside or outside of the vehicle. This minimizes the operator’s exposure and physical fatigue. These unique features make the CSS a powerful tool compared to sledge hammers or conventional ground shakers. A low frequency is used to obtain wide data of the area whereas a higher frequency is used to obtain greater resolution. A wider range of frequencies can be obtained by changing the weight of the internal striker. Data is then collected by geophones or other sensors and then transmitted to the seismograph for processing and storage.
ADVANTAGES:
•The energy, repetition rate and frequency of the shock waves are controllable by using a magnetic linear motor, improving the frequency characteristics of the wave.
•The unit is adaptable for mobile deployment using any vehicle with a conventional trailer hitch.
•The configuration of the shock cavity and the motor provides higher frequency content with better repeatability than those obtained using sledge hammers, elastic or explosive sources.
•The capability of generating inward or outward shear waves as well as vibrational waves.
•Wave profiles can be saved in the computer and recalled for later use.
•Ergonomic advantages include low external acoustic noise eliminating the need of ear protection and reduced operator’s fatigue because hammering is not required.
APPLICATIONS:
• Geophysical Surveys
• Subsurface Structures and Void Detection
• Oil and Gas Exploration
• Road Defect Analysis
Intellectual Property Status This technology is patented under US Patent number 8,807,266 B1, issued 08/19/2014.