Invention:
This invention introduces a vertical/slanted distributed fiber optic sensing system for advanced earthquake prediction and seismic monitoring. It uses fiber optic sensors embedded in vertical or slanted boreholes to monitor seismic activity through distributed acoustic sensing (DAS), temperature sensing (DTS), strain sensing (DSS), and other techniques. By embedding the sensing fibers into an array of bore holes placed strategically in the ground in the region being tested, both vertical and horizontal coverage are provided. The data gathered by the embedded sensing fibers is then analyzed with the help of AI and computer models to predict and detect earthquakes and other seismic events. This system could make possible the prediction and early detection of earthquakes, and has the potential to save lives by allowing for earlier evacuation before seismic events.
Background:
About 1,500 earthquakes of magnitude 5 or higher occur each year, and each has the potential to claim thousands of lives and leave many more injured. Advancing our systems to predict and detect seismic events could allow more time for evacuation when earthquakes occur. Currently, seismic monitoring is done using individual sensors at relatively shallow depth with limited detection capabilities. Seismic monitoring has traditionally relied on sparse networks of seismometers, which can lack the spatial density and resolution needed for accurate earthquake prediction. By embedding fibers in boreholes and analyzing data with advanced AI models, geographic areas can be continuously monitored in high-resolution to detect and predict earthquakes and other seismic events earlier than current technologies can.
Applications:
- Seismic monitoring
- Natural disaster mitigation
Advantages:
- Improved detection accuracy
- Expanded coverage due to sensor array
- Earlier seismic activity prediction
