Induction Magnetometer Array for ATEM Geophysical Exploration
Technology description
This invention provides an array of induction magnetometers for use in airborne transient electromagnetic geophysical exploration. These induction magnetometers have a similar weight and external dimensions to prior art induction magnetometers but are improved by using several smaller diameter cores instead of a single larger diameter core. Each smaller diameter core has an increased length-to-diameter ratio which increases the apparent permeability of the cores.
The reduction in core cross-sectional area is compensated for by having multiple cores. Spreading the coil windings over several cores, instead of just one, allows for smaller circumference windings over the small diameter cores, resulting in less total wire length being required which reduces noise and weight. Multiple smaller coils with fewer windings each also reduces inductance and allows for increased bandwidth.
The configuration of the individual elemental induction magnetometers in a cube arrangement allows for a very compact package, whose symmetry and hollow aspect permits the incorporation of a calibration field source in the center of the package, thus taking up no additional space and allowing for a permanent calibration system which is easy to use and can be used in flight.
Other embodiments of the present invention provide:
- An induction magnetometer array for airborne geophysical exploration.
- An orthogonal induction magnetometer for airborne geophysical exploration.
- A method for designing an optimized induction magnetometer:
- Considering a design of a conventional induction magnetometer comprising a single permeable.
- Adapting the design of the conventional induction magnetometer.
Advantages
The novel features of the induction magnetometer are:
- Improved signal strength;
- Improved signal-to-noise ratio;
- Higher frequency self-resonance and bandwidth;
- Accurate and well monitored calibration.
Stage of development
A prototype is developed and beta tests have been successful on a small scale.
Intellectual property
US Patent 7,375,529 – Induction Magnetometer
This technology is available for licensing.
Contact information
Office of Research Services, Industry-Government Services
University of New Brunswick
Phone: (506) 453-4674
partner@unb.ca
