Seismic survey optimisation and SIMOPS planning

Planning and efficiently executing a seismic survey can dramatically reduce the cost of acquiring seismic data. During a seismic acquisition, many complex activities are happening simultaneously - plans can change rapidly in response to the weather, ocean conditions, marine life, crew changes and other nearby vessels.

RPS’ seismic project coordinators and QC specialists take a pragmatic approach to maximising operational efficiency while minimising risk. We use our Osprey software to generate a visual overview of the project location. And as infield conditions change, coordinators and QC specialists use Osprey’s unique visualisation tools to adjust plans and improve the efficiency of the seismic survey.

The outcome is better quality seismic data faster, reduced costs and minimised risks.

Remote survey solutions offshore - flexible solutions that matter

The level of change and disruption we’ve experienced over the last few years has seen the development of innovative work practices accelerated, including remote survey operations. Our ability to deliver these services remotely delivers real value on our clients projects – some of the advantages are explored in this short video.

seismic vessel with streamers

3D/4D survey optimisation

Onshore design and planning

  • Current modelling
  • 3D/4D acquisition simulation and modelling
  • OBN source/ receiver layout planning
  • Coverage/overlap/repeatability analysis
  • Acquisition strategy design for infield survey optimisation

Infield survey management

  • Real-time current analysis and forecasting
  • intelligent line selection using tunnelling technology
  • Optimal line planning
  • SI/SIMOPS management
  • Osprey Online - Web-based GIS integrated client dashboards, visualisation tools, progress updates and QC data

Seismic interference (SI) management

The quality of the data acquired can be negatively impacted by seismic interference (SI) when multiple seismic vessels are working in close proximity. Depending on the severity of the impact, data may need to be re-acquired, which could invoke timeshare and increase costly standby time.

RPS’ seismic project coordinators and QC specialists proactively forecast and design mitigation strategies for vessels to minimise or avoid SI altogether.

  • Pre-survey mitigation planning
  • Shooting plan development
  • Infield management, conflict detection and mitigation
  • Continual improvement through data feedback
  • Osprey Online - Web-based GIS integrated client dashboards, visualisation tools, progress updates and QC data

Simultaneous operations (SIMOPS) management

Actively monitoring each of the activities during seismic acquisition surveys is complex. If not adequately managed, lines may need to be aborted - increasing project duration and cost.

RPS’ SIMOPS survey and QC management team use our customised Osprey 3D/4D seismic software to generate a visual overview of the project area and log activities in real-time. They identify unforeseen issues and manage them before they impact the seismic operation. Shooting plans are available online, in real-time, keeping all parties up-to-date, informed and importantly safe.

  • Multi-vessel / Multi-survey, 3D or 4D
  • Pre-survey mitigation plan
  • AIS feed integrates position data for vessels in the area into the Osprey database
  • Data analytics
  • SIMOPS aware, intelligent line plans, keep the seismic vessel operating efficiently
  • Infield management
  • Osprey Online - Web-based GIS integrated client dashboards, visualisation tools, progress updates and QC data
Lapierre_Tony_2018.11.jpg

Tony LaPierre

Technical Director - Seismic Operations and Site Investigations T: +1 281 448 6188 Email
View profile »
Houston - Dairy Ashford | US
Gregor Meikle, Technical Director seismic ooperations, RPS

Gregor Meikle

Technical Director - Seismic survey optimisation and SIMOPS planning T: +44 778 691 3692 Email

Zander Sneddon

Operations Manager Email
Edinburgh - Atholl Exchange | UK

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