US4739857A
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Seismic source using self-propelled projectile
Assignee: Atlantic Richfield Co
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Filing: 1981-11-27
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Granted: 1988-04-26
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Expires: 2001-11-27
Abstract
Abstract A man-portable, easily disassembled seismic source is described which utilizes a self-propelled projectile. The projectile, carrying a container of compressed gas, is supported over a rigid earth-contacting target at one end of a lightweight linear guide or track. When the support is removed, the container is automatically vented to atmosphere in an upward direction. In this way, the projectile is jet-propelled to the target, which in turn produces an acoustic pulse in the earth.
Inventors
- 👤 Tom P. Airhart
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-11-05 10:23
CPC Classifications
G; G01; G01V; G01V1/00; G01V1/02; G01V1/143; G01V1/147
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 4
Claim 1
Independent Claim
123 words
An impulsive type seismic source comprising: (a) an impact projectile; (b) an elongated linear guide means along which said projectile is constrained to travel; (c) means for supporting said guide means in an upright position; (d) means for supporting said impact projectile adjacent the upper end of said guide means in a firing position; (e) a container for compressed gas within said projectile (f) means for supplying said container with a charge of compressed air in said firing position; (g) means for disengaging said projectile from said support means; and (h) means responsive to said disengagement for venting said compressed gas upwardly, thereby causing said projectile to be downwardly propelled to strike a target positioned adjacent the lower end of said guide means.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
123 words
An impulsive type seismic source comprising: (a) an impact projectile; (b) an elongated linear guide means along which said projectile is constrained to travel; (c) means for supporting said guide means in an upright position; (d) means for supporting said impact projectile adjacent the upper end of said guide means in a firing position; (e) a container for compressed gas within said projectile (f) means for supplying said container with a charge of compressed air in said firing position; (g) means for disengaging said projectile from said support means; and (h) means responsive to said disengagement for venting said compressed gas upwardly, thereby causing said projectile to be downwardly propelled to strike a target positioned adjacent the lower end of said guide means.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
30 words
Apparatus as in claim 1 including a nozzle positioned at the upper end of said container through which said vented gas is adapted to be expelled to increase its velocity.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
23 words
Apparatus as in claim 2 wherein said projectile additionally comprises an impact mass to which said container for compressed gas is detachably joined.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1991-04-26 | 1991-10-26 | 1992-04-26 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1995-04-26 | 1995-10-26 | 1996-04-26 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 1999-04-26 | 1999-10-26 | 2000-04-26 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |