New Passive All Optical Seismic Survey System

地震勘探的要求不断推动测量能力的界限：非常高的温度和压力与勘探深度直接相关。用于产生测量的电子系统在许多较深的钻孔中是不充分的，因为电子设备被推到超出其能力的极限。等效的无源光纤系统提供了提高灵敏度的希望，以及对更高温度的更好的耐受性。然而，为了开发这种系统，有必要设计一种新的光学结构，该结构与钻孔系统的严格要求相一致。具体来说，只有少量的光纤可用，但必须连接数百个传感器。这种架构的一部分将依赖于在不损坏或接触其他纤维的情况下访问包含在铠装束中的特定纤维的能力;实现这一目标的微妙过程具有挑战性，需要相当大的研发工作。如果成功，该项目将使阿瓦隆科学公司扩大其市场份额，并进入新的全球市场。此外，扩建光学设施将为本地中小企业提供独特而有用的资源，并为本地学校提供宝贵的机会，以观察更多先进的技术和工程。

Seismic exploration requirements are constantly pushing the boundaries of measurement capability: very high temperatures and pressures are directly related to the depth of a survey. Electronic systems for producing surveys are inadequate in many deeper boreholes because the electronics are pushed beyond the limits of their capability. An equivalent passive fibre system offers the promise of improved sensitivity, as well as considerably better tolerance to higher temperatures. However, to develop this system, it is necessary to design a new optical architecture which aligns with the stringent requirements of the borehole system. Specifically, only a small number of fibres are available, and yet several hundred sensors must be connected. Part of this architecture will rely on the ability to access specific fibres contained in an armoured bundle without damaging or touching the other fibres; the delicate process for achieving this is challenging and requires considerable R&D effort. If successful, this project will enable Avalon Sciences to broaden its market share as well as enter new global markets. Furthermore, the expansion of our optical facilities will provide a unique and useful resource for local SMEs, as well as a valuable oppportunity for local schools to observe more of advanced technology and engineering.