INDUCED MICROSEISMIC MONITORING USI NG DISTRIBUTED PROCESSING

RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of a US Provisional Application having Serial No. 62/273,915, filed 31 December 2015, which is incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Seismology involves acquisition and analysis of seismic energy such as seismic waves that travel through the Earth. Seismology can include analyses of seismic data to identify structures, determine compositions, etc., of a geologic environment. Seismic waves may be generated by natural movements of rock, by artificially induced movements of rock, by firing of sources that emit energy, etc. Various types of equipment may be utilized to sense seismic energy. For example, a geophone may be utilized to sense ground velocity produced by seismic waves. As an example, a seismic survey may utilize an array of geophones at spaced locations, optionally with more than one geophone per location. For example, consider an arrangement of three mutually orthogonal geophones that may be used in

combination to collect 3C seismic data. As an example, a seismic survey may employ geophones, which that can sense variations in pressure. As an example, a seismic survey performed using sensors in a water environment may include hydrophones that can sense pressure waves. In the field of resource extraction, enhancements to seismic data acquisition and analysis can allow for construction of a more accurate model of a subterranean environment, which, in turn, may facilitate development, resource extraction, etc. Various techniques described herein pertain to acquisition and/or processing of seismic data, for example, for analysis of such data to characterize one or more regions in a geologic environment and, for example, to perform one or more operations (e.g., field operations, etc.).

SUMMARY

[0003] A method can include, during a hydraulic fracturing operation in a field, receiving at a unit, via a first network, sensor information from a plurality of seismic sensors disposed in the field; during the hydraulic fracturing operation, processing the sensor information at the unit according to one or more processing parameters to generate processed information associated with the hydraulic fracturing operation; and, during the hydraulic fracturing operation, transmitting by the unit, via a second network, the processed information. A unit can include a case; a processor disposed in the case; memory disposed in the case and operatively coupled to the processor; a first network interface operatively coupled to the processor; a second network interface operatively coupled to the processor; and processor-executable instructions stored in the memory to instruct the unit to: receive sensor information from a plurality of seismic sensors via the first network interface, process the sensor information via the processor according to one or more processing parameters to generate processed information, and transmit the processed information via the second network interface. A system can include a plurality of seismic sensors where each of the seismic sensors includes wireless communication circuitry that operates according to a first network protocol; and a unit that includes a case, a processor disposed in the case, memory disposed in the case and operatively coupled to the processor, wireless communication circuitry that operates according to the first network protocol, wireless communication circuitry that operates according to a second network protocol, and processor-executable instructions stored in the memory to instruct the unit to: receive sensor information from the plurality of seismic sensors according to the first network protocol, process the sensor information via the processor according to one or more processing parameters to generate processed information, and transmit the processed information according to the second network protocol. Various other apparatuses, systems, methods, etc., are also disclosed.

[0004] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] Features and advantages of the described implementations can be more readily understood by reference to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [0006] Fig. 1 illustrates an example system that includes various components for modeling a geologic environment and various equipment associated with the geologic environment;

[0007] Fig. 2 illustrates an example of a sedimentary basin, an example of a method, an example of a formation, an example of a borehole, an example of a borehole tool, an example of a convention and an example of a system;

[0008] Fig. 3 illustrates an example of a technique that may acquire data;

[0009] Fig. 4 illustrates an example of a model that includes fractures and an example of a method;

[0010] Fig. 5 illustrates an example of a fracture in a geologic environment and an example of a method;

[0011] Fig. 6 illustrates examples of analysis techniques associated with microseismology;

[0012] Fig. 7 illustrates an example of a system;

[0013] Fig. 8 illustrates an example plot of data with respect to time of a fracturing job and an example plot of hypocenters with respect to substantially lateral bores;

[0014] Fig. 9 illustrates an example of a system;

[0015] Fig. 10 llustrates an example of circuitry;

[0016] Fig. 1 1 llustrates an example of a system;

[0017] Fig. 12 llustrates an example of a unit;

[0018] Fig. 13 llustrates examples of systems and examples of scenarios;

[0019] Fig. 14 llustrates an example of a system and an example of a method;

[0020] Fig. 15 llustrates an example of a method;

[0021] Fig. 16 llustrates an example of a system;

[0022] Fig. 17 llustrates an example of a system;

[0023] Fig. 18 llustrates an example of a system;

[0024] Fig. 19 llustrates an example of a method;

[0025] Fig. 20 llustrates an example of a system;

[0026] Fig. 21 llustrates example plots;

[0027] Fig. 22 llustrates an example of a deployed unit;

[0028] Fig. 23 llustrates an example of a unit; [0029] Fig. 24 illustrates the unit of Fig. 23;

[0030] Fig. 25 illustrates an example of a plot; and

[0031] Fig. 26 illustrates example components of a system and a networked system.

DETAI LED DESCRIPTION

[0032] This description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, but rather is made merely for the purpose of describing the general principles of the

implementations. The scope of the described implementations should be

ascertained with reference to the issued claims.

[0033] Fig. 1 shows an example of a system 100 that includes various management components 1 10 to manage various aspects of a geologic environment 150 (e.g., an environment that includes a sedimentary basin, a reservoir 151 , one or more faults 153-1 , one or more geobodies 153-2, one or more fractures 159, etc.). For example, the management components 1 10 may allow for direct or indirect management of sensing, drilling, injecting, extracting, etc., with respect to the geologic environment 150. In turn, further information about the geologic

environment 150 may become available as feedback 160 (e.g., optionally as input to one or more of the management components 1 10).

[0034] In the example of Fig. 1 , the management components 1 10 include a seismic data component 1 12, an additional information component 1 14 (e.g. , well/logging data), a processing component 1 16, a simulation component 120, an attribute component 130, an analysis/visualization component 142 and a workflow component 144. In operation, seismic data and other information provided per the components 1 12 and 1 14 may be input to the simulation component 120.

[0035] In an example embodiment, the simulation component 120 may rely on entities 122. Entities 122 may include earth entities or geological objects such as wells, surfaces, bodies, reservoirs, etc. In the system 100, the entities 122 can include virtual representations of actual physical entities that are reconstructed for purposes of simulation. The entities 122 may include entities based on data acquired via sensing, observation, etc. (e.g., the seismic data 1 12 and other information 1 14). An entity may be characterized by one or more properties (e.g., a geometrical pillar grid entity of an earth model may be characterized by a porosity property). Such properties may represent one or more measurements (e.g. , acquired data), calculations, etc.

[0036] In an example embodiment, the simulation component 120 may operate in conjunction with a software framework such as an object-based framework. In such a framework, entities may include entities based on pre-defined classes to facilitate modeling and simulation. A commercially available example of an object-based framework is the MICROSOFT® . NET™ framework (Redmond, Washington), which provides a set of extensible object classes. In the .NET™ framework, an object class encapsulates a module of reusable code and associated data structures. Object classes can be used to instantiate object instances for use in by a program, script, etc. For example, borehole classes may define objects for representing boreholes based on well data.

[0037] In the example of Fig. 1 , the simulation component 120 may process information to conform to one or more attributes specified by the attribute component 130, which may include a library of attributes. Such processing may occur prior to input to the simulation component 120 (e.g. , consider the processing component 1 16). As an example, the simulation component 120 may perform operations on input information based on one or more attributes specified by the attribute component 130. In an example embodiment, the simulation component 120 may construct one or more models of the geologic environment 150, which may be relied on to simulate behavior of the geologic environment 150 (e.g., responsive to one or more acts, whether natural or artificial). In the example of Fig. 1 , the

analysis/visualization component 142 may allow for interaction with a model or model-based results (e.g. , simulation results, etc.). As an example, output from the simulation component 120 may be input to one or more other workflows, as indicated by a workflow component 144.

[0038] As an example, the simulation component 120 may include one or more features of a simulator such as the ECLIPSE™ reservoir simulator

(Schlumberger Limited, Houston Texas), the INTERSECT™ reservoir simulator (Schlumberger Limited, Houston Texas), etc. As an example, a simulation component, a simulator, etc. may include features to implement one or more meshless techniques (e.g., to solve one or more equations, etc.). As an example, a reservoir or reservoirs may be simulated with respect to one or more enhanced recovery techniques (e.g., consider a thermal process such as SAGD, etc.).

[0039] In an example embodiment, the management components 1 10 may include features of a commercially available framework such as the PETREL® seismic to simulation software framework (Schlumberger Limited, Houston, Texas). The PETREL® framework provides components that allow for optimization of exploration and development operations. The PETREL® framework includes seismic to simulation software components that can output information for use in increasing reservoir performance, for example, by improving asset team productivity. Through use of such a framework, various professionals (e.g., geophysicists, geologists, and reservoir engineers) can develop collaborative workflows and integrate operations to streamline processes. Such a framework may be considered an application and may be considered a data-driven application (e.g., where data is input for purposes of modeling, simulating, etc.).

[0040] In an example embodiment, various aspects of the management components 1 10 may include add-ons or plug-ins that operate according to specifications of a framework environment. For example, a commercially available framework environment marketed as the OCEAN® framework environment

(Schlumberger Limited, Houston, Texas) allows for integration of add-ons (or plug- ins) into a PETREL® framework workflow. The OCEAN® framework environment leverages .NET® tools (Microsoft Corporation, Redmond, Washington) and offers stable, user-friendly interfaces for efficient development. In an example

embodiment, various components may be implemented as add-ons (or plug-ins) that conform to and operate according to specifications of a framework environment (e.g., according to application programming interface (API) specifications, etc.).

[0041] Fig. 1 also shows an example of a framework 170 that includes a model simulation layer 180 along with a framework services layer 190, a framework core layer 195 and a modules layer 175. The framework 170 may include the commercially available OCEAN® framework where the model simulation layer 180 is the commercially available PETREL® model-centric software package that hosts OCEAN® framework applications. In an example embodiment, the PETREL® software may be considered a data-driven application. The PETREL® software can include a framework for model building and visualization. [0042] As an example, a framework may include features for implementing one or more mesh generation techniques. For example, a framework may include an input component for receipt of information from interpretation of seismic data, one or more attributes based at least in part on seismic data, log data, image data, etc. Such a framework may include a mesh generation component that processes input information, optionally in conjunction with other information, to generate a mesh.

[0043] In the example of Fig. 1 , the model simulation layer 180 may provide domain objects 182, act as a data source 184, provide for rendering 186 and provide for various user interfaces 188. Rendering 186 may provide a graphical environment in which applications can display their data while the user interfaces 188 may provide a common look and feel for application user interface components.

[0044] As an example, the domain objects 182 can include entity objects, property objects and optionally other objects. Entity objects may be used to geometrically represent wells, surfaces, bodies, reservoirs, etc., while property objects may be used to provide property values as well as data versions and display parameters. For example, an entity object may represent a well where a property object provides log information as well as version information and display information (e.g., to display the well as part of a model).

[0045] In the example of Fig. 1 , data may be stored in one or more data sources (or data stores, generally physical data storage devices), which may be at the same or different physical sites and accessible via one or more networks. The model simulation layer 180 may be configured to model projects. As such, a particular project may be stored where stored project information may include inputs, models, results and cases. Thus, upon completion of a modeling session, a user may store a project. At a later time, the project can be accessed and restored using the model simulation layer 180, which can recreate instances of the relevant domain objects.

[0046] In the example of Fig. 1 , the geologic environment 150 may include layers (e.g., stratification) that include the reservoir 151 and one or more other features such as the fault 153-1 , the geobody 153-2, etc. As an example, the geologic environment 150 may be outfitted with any of a variety of sensors, detectors, actuators, etc. For example, equipment 152 may include communication circuitry to receive and to transmit information with respect to one or more networks 155. Such information may include information associated with downhole equipment 154, which may be equipment to acquire information, to assist with resource recovery, etc. Other equipment 156 may be located remote from a well site and include sensing, detecting, emitting or other circuitry. Such equipment may include storage and communication circuitry to store and to communicate data, instructions, etc. As an example, one or more satellites may be provided for purposes of communications, data acquisition, etc. For example, Fig. 1 shows a satellite in communication with the network 155 that may be configured for communications, noting that the satellite may additionally or alternatively include circuitry for imagery (e.g., spatial, spectral, temporal, radiometric, etc.).

[0047] Fig. 1 also shows the geologic environment 150 as optionally including equipment 157 and 158 associated with a well that includes a substantially horizontal portion that may intersect with the one or more fractures 159. For example, consider a well in a shale formation that may include natural fractures, artificial fractures (e.g. , hydraulic fractures) or a combination of natural and artificial fractures. As an example, a well may be drilled for a reservoir that is laterally extensive. In such an example, lateral variations in properties, stresses, etc. may exist where an assessment of such variations may assist with planning, operations, etc. to develop a laterally extensive reservoir (e.g., via fracturing, injecting, extracting, etc.). As an example, the equipment 157 and/or 158 may include components, a system, systems, etc. for fracturing, seismic sensing, analysis of seismic data, assessment of one or more fractures, etc.

[0048] As mentioned, the system 100 may be used to perform one or more workflows. A workflow may be a process that includes a number of worksteps. A workstep may operate on data, for example, to create new data, to update existing data, etc. As an example, a workstep may operate on one or more inputs and create one or more results, for example, based on one or more algorithms. As an example, a system may include a workflow editor for creation, editing, executing, etc. of a workflow. In such an example, the workflow editor may provide for selection of one or more pre-defined worksteps, one or more customized worksteps, etc. As an example, a workflow may be a workflow implementable in the PETREL® software, for example, that operates on seismic data, seismic attribute(s), etc. As an example, a workflow may be a process implementable in the OCEAN® framework. As an example, a workflow may include one or more worksteps that access a module such as a plug-in (e.g. , external executable code, etc.).

[0049] Fig. 2 shows an example of a sedimentary basin 210 (e.g. , a geologic environment), an example of a method 220 for model building (e.g., for a simulator, etc.), an example of a formation 230, an example of a borehole 235 in a formation, an example of a convention 240 and an example of a system 250.

[0050] As an example, reservoir simulation, petroleum systems modeling, etc. may be applied to characterize various types of subsurface environments, including environments such as those of Fig. 1 .

[0051] In Fig. 2, the sedimentary basin 210, which is a geologic environment, includes horizons, faults, one or more geobodies and fades formed over some period of geologic time. These features are distributed in two or three dimensions in space, for example, with respect to a Cartesian coordinate system (e.g. , x, y and z) or other coordinate system (e.g., cylindrical, spherical, etc.). As shown, the model building method 220 includes a data acquisition block 224 and a model geometry block 228. Some data may be involved in building an initial model and, thereafter, the model may optionally be updated in response to model output, changes in time, physical phenomena, additional data, etc. As an example, data for modeling may include one or more of the following: depth or thickness maps and fault geometries and timing from seismic, remote-sensing, electromagnetic, gravity, outcrop and well log data. Furthermore, data may include depth and thickness maps stemming from facies variations (e.g., due to seismic unconformities) assumed to following geological events ("iso" times) and data may include lateral facies variations (e.g., due to lateral variation in sedimentation characteristics).

[0052] To proceed to modeling of geological processes, data may be provided, for example, data such as geochemical data (e.g. , temperature, kerogen type, organic richness, etc.), timing data (e.g. , from paleontology, radiometric dating, magnetic reversals, rock and fluid properties, etc.) and boundary condition data (e.g., heat-flow history, surface temperature, paleowater depth, etc.). As an example, data may be provided via a storage medium, via wire, via wireless circuitry, etc. For example, a computing system may receive and/or access data via a storage medium, via wire, via wireless circuitry, etc. [0053] In basin and petroleum systems modeling, quantities such as temperature, pressure and porosity distributions within the sediments may be modeled, for example, by solving partial differential equations (PDEs) using one or more numerical techniques. Modeling may also model geometry with respect to time, for example, to account for changes stemming from geological events (e.g. , deposition of material, erosion of material, shifting of material, etc.).

[0054] A commercially available modeling framework marketed as the

PETROMOD® framework (Schlumberger Limited, Houston, Texas) includes features for input of various types of information (e.g., seismic, well, geological, etc.) to model evolution of a sedimentary basin. The PETROMOD® framework provides for petroleum systems modeling via input of various data such as seismic data, well data and other geological data, for example, to model evolution of a sedimentary basin. The PETROMOD® framework may predict if, and how, a reservoir has been charged with hydrocarbons, including, for example, the source and timing of hydrocarbon generation, migration routes, quantities, pore pressure and

hydrocarbon type in the subsurface or at surface conditions. In combination with a framework such as the PETREL® framework, workflows may be constructed to provide basin-to-prospect scale exploration solutions. Data exchange between frameworks can facilitate construction of models, analysis of data (e.g.,

PETROMOD® framework data analyzed using PETREL® framework capabilities), and coupling of workflows.

[0055] As shown in Fig. 2, the formation 230 includes a horizontal surface and various subsurface layers. As an example, a borehole may be vertical. As another example, a borehole may be deviated. In the example of Fig. 2, the borehole 235 may be considered a vertical borehole, for example, where the z-axis extends downwardly normal to the horizontal surface of the formation 230 (e.g., consider a borehole that extends substantially along a direction of Earth's gravity). As an example, a tool 237 may be positioned in a borehole, for example, to acquire information. As mentioned, a borehole tool may be configured to acquire electrical borehole images. As an example, the fullbore Formation Microlmager (FMI) tool (Schlumberger Limited, Houston, Texas) can acquire borehole image data. A data acquisition sequence for such a tool can include running the tool into a borehole with acquisition pads closed, opening and pressing the pads against a wall of the borehole, delivering electrical current into the material defining the borehole while translating the tool in the borehole, and sensing current remotely, which is altered by interactions with the material. Data may be acquired, for example, via technologies such as intra-borehole, inter-borehole, surface-to-borehole, borehole-to-surface, etc.

[0056] As an example, a borehole may be vertical, deviate and/or horizontal. As an example, a tool may be positioned to acquire information in a horizontal portion of a borehole. Analysis of such information may reveal vugs, dissolution planes (e.g., dissolution along bedding planes), stress-related features, dip events, etc. As an example, a tool may acquire information that may help to characterize a fractured reservoir, optionally where fractures may be natural and/or artificial (e.g. , hydraulic fractures). Such information may assist with completions, stimulation treatment, etc. As an example, information acquired by a tool may be analyzed using a framework such as the TECHLOG® framework (Schlumberger Limited, Houston, Texas).

[0057] As to the convention 240 for dip, as shown, the three dimensional orientation of a plane can be defined by its dip and strike. Dip is the angle of slope of a plane from a horizontal plane (e.g., an imaginary plane) measured in a vertical plane in a specific direction. Dip may be defined by magnitude (e.g. , also known as angle or amount) and azimuth (e.g. , also known as direction). As shown in the convention 240 of Fig. 2, various angles φ indicate angle of slope downwards, for example, from an imaginary horizontal plane (e.g., flat upper surface); whereas, dip refers to the direction towards which a dipping plane slopes (e.g. , which may be given with respect to degrees, compass directions, etc.). Another feature shown in the convention of Fig. 2 is strike, which is the orientation of the line created by the intersection of a dipping plane and a horizontal plane (e.g., consider the flat upper surface as being an imaginary horizontal plane).

[0058] As shown in the convention 240 of Fig. 2, the dip of a plane as seen in a cross-section perpendicular to the strike is true dip (see, e.g. , the surface with ^ as DipA = DipT for angle mo with respect to the strike). As indicated, dip observed in a cross-section in any other direction is apparent dip (see, e.g. , surfaces labeled DIPA). Further, as shown in the convention 240 of Fig. 2, apparent dip may be

approximately 0 degrees (e.g., parallel to a horizontal surface where an edge of a cutting plane runs along a strike direction). In sedimentological interpretations from borehole images, "relative dip" (e.g., DIPR) may be used.

[0059] Seismic interpretation may aim to identify and/or classify one or more subsurface boundaries based at least in part on one or more dip parameters (e.g. , angle or magnitude, azimuth, etc.). As an example, various types of features (e.g., sedimentary bedding, faults and fractures, cuestas, igneous dikes and sills, metamorphic foliation, etc.) may be described at least in part by angle, at least in part by azimuth, etc.

[0060] As shown in Fig. 2, the system 250 includes one or more information storage devices 252, one or more computers 254, one or more networks 260 and instructions 270. As to the one or more computers 254, each computer may include one or more processors (e.g. , or processing cores) 256 and memory 258 for storing the instructions 270, for example, executable by at least one of the one or more processors 256. As an example, a computer may include one or more network interfaces (e.g. , wired and/or wireless), one or more graphics cards, a display interface (e.g., wired or wireless), etc. As an example, imagery such as surface imagery (e.g., satellite, geological, geophysical, etc.) may be stored, processed, communicated, etc. As an example, data may include SAR data, GPS data, etc. and may be stored, for example, in one or more of the storage devices 252.

[0061] As an example, the instructions 270 can include instructions (e.g. , stored in memory) executable by one or more processors to instruct the system 250 to perform various actions. As an example, the system 250 may be configured such that the instructions 270 provide for establishing the framework 170 of Fig. 1 or a portion thereof. As an example, one or more methods, techniques, etc. may be performed using instructions.

[0062] As mentioned, seismic data may be acquired and analyzed to understand better subsurface structure of a geologic environment. Reflection seismology finds use in geophysics, for example, to estimate properties of subsurface formations. As an example, reflection seismology may provide seismic data representing waves of elastic energy (e.g. , as transmitted by P-waves and S- waves, in a frequency range of approximately 1 Hz to approximately 100 Hz or optionally less than 1 Hz and/or optionally more than 100 Hz). Seismic data may be processed and interpreted, for example, to understand better composition, fluid content, extent and geometry of subsurface rocks.

[0063] Fig. 3 shows an example of an acquisition technique 340 to acquire seismic data (see, e.g. , data 360). As an example, a system may process data acquired by the technique 340, for example, to allow for direct or indirect

management of sensing, drilling, injecting, extracting, etc., with respect to a geologic environment. In turn, further information about the geologic environment may become available as feedback (e.g., optionally as input to the system). As an example, an operation may pertain to a reservoir that exists in a geologic

environment such as, for example, an oil, gas or oil and gas reservoir. As an example, a technique may provide information (e.g., as an output) that may specifies one or more location coordinates of a feature in a geologic environment, one or more characteristics of a feature in a geologic environment, etc.

[0064] In Fig. 3, the technique 340 may be implemented with respect to a geologic environment 341. As shown, an energy source (e.g., a transmitter) 342 may emit energy where the energy travels as waves that interact with the geologic environment 341 . As an example, the geologic environment 341 may include a bore 343 where one or more sensors (e.g., receivers) 344 may be positioned in the bore 343. As an example, energy emitted by the energy source 342 may interact with a layer (e.g. , a structure, an interface, etc.) 345 in the geologic environment 341 such that a portion of the energy is reflected, which may then be sensed by one or more of the sensors 344. Such energy may be reflected as an upgoing primary wave (e.g., or "primary" or "singly" reflected wave). As an example, a portion of emitted energy may be reflected by more than one structure in the geologic environment and referred to as a multiple reflected wave (e.g., or "multiple"). For example, the geologic environment 341 is shown as including a layer 347 that resides below a surface layer 349. Given such an environment and arrangement of the source 342 and the one or more sensors 344, energy may be sensed as being associated with particular types of waves.

[0065] As an example, a "multiple" may refer to multiply reflected seismic energy or, for example, an event in seismic data that has incurred more than one reflection in its travel path. As an example, depending on a time delay from a primary event with which a multiple may be associated, a multiple may be characterized as a short-path or a peg-leg, for example, which may imply that a multiple may interfere with a primary reflection, or long-path, for example, where a multiple may appear as a separate event. As an example, seismic data may include evidence of an interbed multiple from bed interfaces, evidence of a multiple from a water interface (e.g., an interface of a base of water and rock or sediment beneath it) or evidence of a multiple from an air-water interface, etc.

[0066] As shown in Fig. 3, the acquired data 360 can include data associated with downgoing direct arrival waves, reflected upgoing primary waves, downgoing multiple reflected waves and reflected upgoing multiple reflected waves. The acquired data 360 is also shown along a time axis and a depth axis. As indicated, in a manner dependent at least in part on characteristics of media in the geologic environment 341 , waves travel at velocities over distances such that relationships may exist between time and space. Thus, time information, as associated with sensed energy, may allow for understanding spatial relations of layers, interfaces, structures, etc. in a geologic environment.

[0067] Fig. 3 also shows a diagram 380 that illustrates various types of waves as including P, SV an SH waves. As an example, a P-wave may be an elastic body wave or sound wave in which particles oscillate in the direction the wave propagates. As an example, P-waves incident on an interface (e.g., at other than normal incidence, etc.) may produce reflected and transmitted S-waves (e.g., "converted" waves). As an example, an S-wave or shear wave may be an elastic body wave, for example, in which particles oscillate perpendicular to the direction in which the wave propagates. S-waves may be generated by a seismic energy sources (e.g. , other than an air gun). As an example, S-waves may be converted to P-waves. S-waves tend to travel more slowly than P-waves and do not travel through fluids that do not support shear. In general, recording of S-waves involves use of one or more receivers operatively coupled to earth (e.g., capable of receiving shear forces with respect to time). As an example, interpretation of S-waves may allow for

determination of rock properties such as fracture density and orientation, Poisson's ratio and rock type, for example, by crossplotting P-wave and S-wave velocities, and/or by other techniques. As an example of parameters that may characterize anisotropy of media (e.g., seismic anisotropy), consider the Thomsen parameters ε, δ and γ. [0068] In the example of Fig. 3, a diagram 390 shows acquisition equipment 392 emitting energy from a source (e.g., a transmitter) and receiving reflected energy via one or more sensors (e.g. , receivers) strung along an inline direction. As the region includes layers 393 and, for example, the geobody 395, energy emitted by a transmitter of the acquisition equipment 392 can reflect off the layers 393 and the geobody 395. Evidence of such reflections may be found in the acquired traces. As to the portion of a trace 396, energy received may be discretized by an analog-to- digital converter that operates at a sampling rate. For example, the acquisition equipment 392 may convert energy signals sensed by sensor Q to digital samples at a rate of one sample per approximately 4 ms. Given a speed of sound in a medium or media, a sample rate may be converted to an approximate distance. For example, the speed of sound in rock may be on the order of around 5 km per second. Thus, a sample time spacing of approximately 4 ms would correspond to a sample "depth" spacing of about 10 meters (e.g. , assuming a path length from source to boundary and boundary to sensor). As an example, a trace may be about 4 seconds in duration; thus, for a sampling rate of one sample at about 4 ms intervals, such a trace would include about 1000 samples where latter acquired samples correspond to deeper reflection boundaries. If the 4 second trace duration of the foregoing example is divided by two (e.g. , to account for reflection), for a vertically aligned source and sensor, the deepest boundary depth may be estimated to be about 10 km (e.g., assuming a speed of sound of about 5 km per second).

[0069] Resource recovery from a geologic environment may benefit from application of one or more enhanced recovery techniques. For example, a geologic environment may be artificially fractured to increase flow of fluid from a reservoir to a well. As an example, consider hydraulic fracturing where fluid pressure is applied to a subterranean environment to generate fractures that can act as flow channels. Hydraulic fracturing may be planned in advance, for example, to develop a region, which may be referred to as a drainage area. Hydraulic fracturing may be analyzed during or post-fracturing. As an example, hydraulic fracturing may occur in stages where a later stage may be planned at least in part based on information associated with one or more earlier stages.

[0070] Fig. 4 shows an example of a model 410 that includes a horizontal well intersected by multiple transverse vertical hydraulic fractures. Equations may be associated with the model 410 such as, for example, equations that depend on dimensions and properties of the vertical fractures. As an example, consider a trilinear model that includes equations for analysis of low-permeability (e.g., micro- and nano-Darcy range) fractured shale reservoirs according to three linear flow regions. Such a model may help to characterize a drainage area completed with one or more horizontal wells that intersect multiple transverse vertical fractures. Such a model may assist with planning and other aspects of field development, operations, etc.

[0071] As an example, a model can include constructs that model, for example, a matrix, a well, natural fractures, hydraulic fractures, activated fractures and a stimulated inter-hydraulic fracture region. In the example of Fig. 4, the model 410 may encompass a drainage area, for example, defined as covering a surface area and as having a depth or depths. Given parameter values for the various constructs (e.g., locations, characteristics, etc.), the model 410 may be formulated with respect to a grid to form a numerical model suitable for providing solutions via a numerical solver.

[0072] As an example, a trilinear model can include a first region of idealized linear flow in a reservoir region within a length of fractures. Within the first region, linear flow may be assumed to exist in which fluid flow is normal to a plane of one or more vertical fractures. In such an example, reservoir volume may be defined by lengths of vertical fractures, formation thickness, number of vertical fractures, and spacing between adjacent fractures (e.g., consider a reservoir volume that may be referred to as a stimulated reservoir volume (SRV)). As an example, a second region in a trilinear model may be for idealized linear flow within a fracture and a third region may be for idealized linear flow in one or more reservoir regions beyond a length of vertical fracture(s). In low permeability reservoirs (e.g., such as fractured shale gas and oil reservoirs), contribution to production of a well from a reservoir region that lies beyond the SRV may be negligible in practice.

[0073] Fig. 4 also shows an example of a method 450 that includes a delivery block 454 for delivering fluid to a subterranean environment, a monitor block 458 for monitoring fluid pressure and a generation block 462 for generating fractures via fluid pressure. As an example, the generation block 462 may include activating one or more fractures. As an example, the generation block 462 may include generating and activating fractures. As an example, activation may occur with respect to a preexisting feature such as a fault or a fracture. As an example, a pre-existing fracture network may be at least in part activated via a method that includes applying fluid pressure in a subterranean environment.

[0074] The method 450 may be referred to as a treatment method or a "treatment" (e.g., a stimulation treatment). Such a method may include pumping an engineered fluid (e.g. , a treatment fluid) at high pressure and rate into a reservoir via one or more bores, for example, to one or more intervals to be treated, which may cause a fracture or fractures to open (e.g., new, pre-existing, etc.). As an example, a fracture may be defined as including "wings" that extend outwardly from a bore. Such wings may extend away from a bore in opposing directions, for example, according in part to natural stresses within a formation. As an example, proppant, such as grains of sand of a particular size, may be mixed with a treatment fluid to keep a fracture (or fractures) open when a treatment is complete. Hydraulic fracturing may create high-conductivity communication with an area of a formation and, for example, may bypass damage that may exist in a near-wellbore area. As an example, stimulation treatment may occur in stages. For example, after completing a first stage, data may be acquired and analyzed for planning and/or performance of a subsequent stage.

[0075] Size and orientation of a fracture, and the magnitude of the pressure to create it, may be dictated at least in part by a formation's in situ stress field. As an example, a stress field may be defined by three principal compressive stresses, which are oriented perpendicular to each other. The magnitudes and orientations of these three principal stresses may be determined by the tectonic regime in the region and by depth, pore pressure and rock properties, which determine how stress is transmitted and distributed among formations.

[0076] In situ stresses can control orientation and propagation direction of hydraulic fractures, which tend to be tensile fractures that open in the direction of least resistance. As an example, if the maximum principal compressive stress is an overburden stress, then the fractures tend to be vertical, propagating parallel to the maximum horizontal stress when the fracturing pressure exceeds the minimum horizontal stress. [0077] As the three principal stresses tend to increase with depth, the rate of increase with depth can define a vertical gradient. The principal vertical stress, referred to at times as overburden stress, is caused by the weight of rock overlying a measurement point. Its vertical gradient is known as the litho-static gradient. The minimum and maximum horizontal stresses are the other two principal stresses. Their vertical gradients, which may vary widely by basin and lithology, tend to be controlled by local and regional stresses, mainly through tectonics.

[0078] The weight of fluid above a measurement point in normally pressured basins creates in situ pore pressure. The vertical gradient of pore pressure can be referred to as the hydrostatic gradient. However, pore pressures within a basin may be less than or greater than normal pressures and can be designated as

underpressured or overpressured, respectively.

[0079] Where fluid pressure is monitored (see, e.g., the monitor block 458 of the method 450), a sudden drop in pressure can indicate fracture initiation of a stimulation treatment, as fluid flows into the fractured formation. As an example, to break rock in a target interval, fracture initiation pressure exceeds a sum of the minimum principal stress plus the tensile strength of the rock. To determine fracture closure pressure, a process may allow pressure to subside until it indicates that a fracture has closed. A fracture reopening pressure may be determined by pressurizing a zone until a leveling of pressure indicates the fracture has reopened. The closure and reopening pressures tend to be controlled by the minimum principal compressive stress (e.g., where induced downhole pressures exceed minimum principal stress to extend fracture length).

[0080] After performing fracture initiation, a zone may be pressurized for furthering stimulation treatment. As an example, a zone may be pressurized to a fracture propagation pressure, which is greater than a fracture closure pressure. The difference may be referred to as the net pressure, which represents a sum of frictional pressure drop and fracture-tip resistance to propagation (e.g., further propagation).

[0081] As an example, a method may include seismic monitoring during a treatment operation (e.g., to monitor fracture initiation, growth, etc.). For example, as fracturing fluid forces rocks to crack and fractures to grow, relatively small scale seismic emissions, called microseisms, can be generated. Equipment may be positioned in a field, in a bore, etc. to sense such emissions and to process acquired data, for example, to locate microseisms in the subsurface (e.g., to locate

hypocenters). Information as to direction of fracture growth may allow for actions that can "steer" a fracture into a desired zone(s) or, for example, to halt a treatment before a fracture grows out of an intended zone.

[0082] Fig. 5 shows an example of a geologic environment 501 in an approximate perspective view and in an approximate side view where the geologic environment 501 includes a monitoring bore 543 with a sensor array 544, a treatment bore 546, a fracture 548, a surface 549 and surface sensors 554 (e.g. , seismic sensors, tiltmeters, etc.). As an example, during growth of the fracture 548, energy may be emitted as a microseismic event 556. As shown, at least a portion of the energy associated with the microseismic event 556 may be detected at one or more sensors such as, for example, one or more sensors of the sensor array 544 and/or one or more of the surface sensors 554.

[0083] Where energy is sensed via the sensor array 544, such an approach may be referred to as a crosswell survey or crosswell technique. As illustrated in Fig. 5, the bore 546 may be an injection bore, for example, for injecting fluid, particles, chemicals, etc. germane to fracturing (e.g. , a fracturing operation) and the bore 543 may be referred to as a monitoring bore (e.g., or a receiver or sensor bore).

[0084] As an example, tiltmeter information as to fracture-induced tilt or deformation may be acquired and analyzed and/or seismographic information as to microseismic energy may be acquired and analyzed. As an example, a map of deformation at a surface may allow for estimation of one or more of azimuth, dip, depth and width of a fracture. As an example, an acquisition system may be selected based in part on fracture depth. For example, microseismology may be implemented for monitoring where a fracture is expected to cause relatively little detectable surface tilt or deformation.

[0085] Fig. 5 also shows an example of a method 580 that includes an acquisition block 584 for acquiring data, an analysis block 588 for analyzing at least a portion of the acquired data and an adjustment block 592 for adjusting one or more field operations, for example, based at least in part on the analyzing. Such a method may include acquiring microseismic data, analyzing at least a portion of the microseismic data and optionally adjusting one or more field operations based at least in part on the analyzing. As an example, a method may include rendering to a display visual representations of information associated with one or more fractures, for example, to determine size, orientation, etc. of one or more fractures.

[0086] The method 580 may be associated with various computer-readable media (CRM) blocks 585, 589 and 593. Such blocks can include instructions suitable for execution by one or more processors (or processor cores) to instruct a computing device or system to perform one or more actions. As an example, a single medium may be configured with instructions to allow for, at least in part, performance of various actions of the method 580. As an example, a computer- readable medium (CRM) may be a computer-readable storage medium that is not a carrier wave, that is not a signal and that is non-transitory.

[0087] Fig. 6 shows an example of a microseismic survey 610, which may be considered to be a method that implements equipment for sensing elastic wave emissions of microseismic events (e.g., elastic wave energy emissions caused directly or indirectly by a treatment). As shown, the survey 610 is performed with respect to a geologic environment 61 1 that may include a reflector 613. The survey 610 includes an injection bore 620 and a monitoring bore 630. Fluid injected via the injection bore 620 generates a fracture 622 that is associated with microseismic events such as the event 624. As shown in the example of Fig. 6, energy of a microseismic event may travel through a portion of the geologic environment 61 1 , optionally interacting with one or more reflectors 613, and pass to the monitoring bore 630 where at least a portion of the energy may be sensed via a sensing unit 634, which may include a shaker, three-component (3C) geophone accelerometers isolated from a sensing unit body (e.g. , via springs, etc.), coupling contacts, etc. In the example of Fig. 6, the sensed energy includes compressional wave energy (P- wave) and shear wave energy (S-wave).

[0088] As an example, sensed energy may be analyzed, for example, to determine one or more of distance and azimuth from a sensor to a source of an elastic wave emission and depth of a source of an elastic wave emission. In a fracturing operation, a source of an elastic wave emission may be registered as an event, which includes a time, a location and one or more acquired signals (e.g., traces). [0089] As an example, distance (d) to an event may be derived by measuring a time difference (ΔΤ) between arrival times for a P-wave (TP) and an S-wave (TS). The value of d may depend on use of a velocity model that characterizes velocity of elastic wave energy (e.g., elastic waves) with respect to depth. A velocity model may describe P-wave velocity and S-wave velocity with respect to depth (e.g. , variation in material, pressures, etc. of a geologic environment).

[0090] As an example, azimuth to a microseismic event may be determined by analyzing particle motion of P-waves, for example, using hodograms. Fig. 6 shows an example of a hodogram 660 as a plot of sensed energy along at least two geophone axes as a function of time. A hodogram may be a graph or curve that displays time versus distance of motion. For example, a hodogram may be a crossplot of two components of particle motion over a time window. Hodograms may be part of a borehole seismologic survey where they may be used to determine arrival directions of waves and to detect shear-wave splitting.

[0091] As to determination of depth of a microseismic event, as illustrated in a plot 680, P-wave and S-wave arrival delays between sensors, or moveout, at the monitoring bore 630 may be analyzed.

[0092] Fig. 7 shows an example of a field scenario 700 with respect to a subterranean environment 701 that includes a rig 741 at a well 746 where pumping equipment 743 can pump fluid into the well 746 to increase pressure to generate fractures. In the example of Fig. 7, sensor patches 744 (e.g., surface sensor patches) are disposed at a surface 749 of the subterranean environment 701 where fluid delivered via a bore of the well 746 that defines a path into the subterranean environment 701 is utilized to create a hydraulic fracture 748 where microseismic events 756 are generated at least in part due to the hydraulic fracturing and where sensors of the sensor patches 744 can receive acoustic waves (e.g., seismic waves such as P, SV, and SH) associated with one or more microseismic events 756. As shown in the example of Fig. 7, each of the sensor patches 744 can include a corresponding unit 745. As an example, the rig 741 can include rigsite equipment 747, which can include circuitry to receive and/or transmit information to a plurality of the units 745.

[0093] As an example, such the unit 745 may be deployable and/or retrievable via a remotely operated vehicle 790. As an example, a unit may be operatively coupled to a remotely operated vehicle and include circuitry that may optionally be shared with the remotely operated vehicle. Fig. 7 shows an example of circuitry 795, which may be control circuitry for the vehicle 790. As an example, such circuitry may be operatively coupled to circuitry of the unit 745. As an example, circuitry of the unit 745 may include circuitry suitable for performing one or more operations as to a remotely operated vehicle. As an example, a unit can be or include one or more features of a drone. As an example, the rigsite equipment 747 can include drone control circuitry (e.g., a drone flight control station).

[0094] In land-based seismic surveys, a sensor unit can include one or more of the features of a UNIQ™ sensor unit (Schlumberger Limited, Houston, Texas). A sensor unit may include an accelerometer or accelerometers. A sensor may be a geophone. A sensor may include circuitry for 1 C acceleration measurement, 2C acceleration measurement and/or 3C acceleration measurement. A sensor unit can include memory to perform data buffering and optionally retransmission. A sensor unit may include short circuit isolation circuitry, open circuit protection circuitry and earth-leakage detection and/or isolation circuitry. An assembly or sensor unit may include circuitry that can output samples at intervals of 1 ms, 2 ms, 4 ms, etc. An assembly or sensor unit can include an analog to digital converter (ADC) such as a 24-bit sigma-delta ADC.

[0095] Microseismicity recorded during multistage fracture treatments may provide disperse "clouds" of events (e.g. , located at individual event hypocenters). As an example, a method can include analyzing clouds of events to extract planar- type features. As an example, a method can include monitoring of induced microseismicity via a distributed processing system. As an example, hydraulic fracturing can be a technique that induces microseismicity (e.g., generation of microseismic events).

[0096] Fig. 8 shows example plots 801 and 810 where the plot 801 includes various data plotted versus time during hydraulic fracturing and where the plot 810 includes various hypocenters as determined via a method that includes receiving microseismic data and analyzing at least a portion of the microseismic data to determine hypocenters of microseismic events.

[0097] In the plot 801 , cumulative seismic moment is shown along with microseismic event rate and various pumping parameters associated with fracture stimulation job performance during the treatment as performed in a shale field. The plot 801 includes pump rate, surface pressure and proppant concentration. Such information can be utilized to identify time-dependent response of microseismic events to stimulation. The plot 801 shows an abrupt increase in cumulative seismic moment that indicates that deformation increased about halfway through the planned pumping schedule. A method may include comparing multiple treatments with respect to microseismicity and may include adjusting one or more fracturing job parameters, optionally in real-time or near real-time. A method may include model- based processing, for example, using a model of a reservoir that can include fractures.

[0098] The Gutenberg-Richter relationship can relate number of events (N) and event magnitude (M), for example, via parameters a and b, which may be assigned an a-value and a b-value, respectively. The value of b may be about 1 within seismically active regions such that, for example, for a magnitude 4 event there will be 10 magnitude 3 events and 100 magnitude 2 events. Data indicate some variation of b-values in a range of about 0.5 to about 1.5 depending on tectonic environment. Also, for earthquake swarms, b-value may become as high as about 2.5, which indicates an even larger proportion of smaller events to larger ones.

Acquired data may be for more smaller events than for larger events as observations of higher magnitude events are exponentially less likely; noting that due to the amount of energy associated with higher magnitude events, they tend to be more readily detected than smaller events, which can be more numerous.

[0099] As an example, a b-value may vary during a treatment process, for example, from stage-to-stage. As an example, a method may determine a variation in b-value via placing confidence intervals on b-value estimates and then analyzing estimates to determine whether different b-values differ in a statistical sense.

[00100] Surface microseismic monitoring acquisition may be performed using a large number of sensors where the number is of a magnitude that aims to acquire an amount of "signal" such that it may be possible to overcome noise, for example, noise present at the surface where sensors are positioned.

[00101 ] As an example, a real-time data analysis workflow can include sending field data via a communication network from sensor recorders to a centralized processing unit or data server. In such an example, at the central data server, the data are conditioned and processed for detecting and locating microseismic events (e.g., determining hypocenters, etc.).

[00102] As an example, real-time processing can include analyzing data with the shortest time delay from the signal reaching the sensors. As an example, a system that implements such a workflow can commence when the data are available in the memory of the central data server. Delays in a communication system and limited bandwidth can interrupt a data stream and/or reduce the amount of data, which may confound real-time processing. Such delays can impact an ability to reduce noise. For example, where an approach depends on using a large number of sensors to acquire an amount of data that can be processed to enhance signal with respect to noise, noise reduction may depend on availability of at least a certain amount of the data. In other words, where delays make certain data unavailable, this may delay implementation of a digital signal algorithm that aims to improve data quality.

[00103] As an example, a system can be distributed such that processing may occur at various locations where such processing may expedite data analysis and/or data transmission. For example, consider a system that is distributed in a manner that can reduce demands as to streaming large amount of data via a communication network. In such an example, locally conditioned data may be sent to a central data server where it can then be processed for detection and location, for example, without compromising an ability to apply noise reduction signal processing. In such an example, by applying digital data processing proximate to recorders, such an approach can allow for enhancing quality of data before being transmitted to a central system. As an example, a system may apply compression and/or decompression. As an example, a system can include one or more codecs for applying compression and/or decompression, which may be lossy and/or lossless.

[00104] As an example, a method can include adjusting one or more parameters associated with beamforming. For example, a distributed system may include receiving at nodes of the distributed system instructions concerning beamforming. In such an example, the instructions may be particular to a location of a node. For example, a node at one location may receive beamforming

instruction(s) that differ from a node at another, different location. In such an example, the two nodes may be associated with two patches where one patch is at one area and where the other patch is at another, different area. In such an example, the two patches (e.g., surface sensor patches) can "view" a microseismic event from two different points of view (POVs). As an example, beamforming can account for different points of view (POVs).

[00105] As an example, a system can include geophones, digitizers and data aggregator nodes and mini data processing units; field communication network antennas for radio frequency (RF) communications and, for example, WiFi cable (e.g., a WiFi cable modem); and a data storage server and processing server. As to WiFi, it can refer to circuitry for transmission and receipt of information via air as a medium as in a wireless local area network (WLAN). WiFi can be based on the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.1 1 standards.

[00106] As an example, a nodal system may include a few dozen groups of sensors arranged in grids that can be deployed in the field (e.g. , patches). As an example, a patch system can include a plurality of grids where a grid or patch may correspond to a node.

[00107] As an example, a system can include substantially regular grids of about 6 by about 8 sensors, for example, including about 48 planted geophones with purposely built digitizers. As an example, geophones and digitizers can be designed to achieve high sensitivity and low noise. As an example, data acquired by each patch can be collected by two field data aggregator nodes, for example, each with a capacity of storing about 24 channels capable of transmitting the 24 channels via network communication. As an example, recorders and/or data aggregators can be powered by batteries (e.g. , optionally assisted by solar collectors, wind turbines, etc.) and can be equipped with one or more communication antennas, for example, to transmit data via WiFi and/or another radio frequency (RF) based technique; noting that a laser based transmission scheme may be implemented where line of sight (LOS) is available (e.g. , at the surface). As an example, a "mini"-computer controller or processor (e.g., ARM, RISC, etc.) that may operate at relatively low power consumption can be connected to the nodes (e.g., via WiFi, etc.) and carry on one or more types of data conditioning.

[00108] Fig. 9 shows an example of a system 900 that includes geophone patches 910-1 to 910-N operatively coupled via one or more transmission links to a data acquisition machine 940, which may be operatively coupled via one or more transmission links to a storage layer 990 that can include one or more databases 992 and one or more servers 994. In Fig. 9, the geophone patches 910-1 to 910-N can include be individual edge nodes where each of the edge nodes can be a network edge node. As an example, a unit of a geophone patch can include network circuitry (e.g., a network interface) such that the unit can operate as an edge node in a network.

[00109] As an example, a geophone patch can include a unit that operates as an edge node of a network where seismic recorders communicate with the unit via Ethernet. As an example, communication over Ethernet can include dividing a stream of data into shorter pieces called frames. In such an example, each frame includes source and destination addresses and, for example, error-checking data so that damaged frames can be detected (e.g. , and discarded or otherwise handled). As an example, one or more higher-layer protocols can trigger retransmission of one or more lost frames. As an example, per an Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model, Ethernet can provide services up to and including a data link layer.

[00110] As an example, Ethernet can provide backward compatibility. As an example, a system may implement the 48-bit media access control address (MAC address) and Ethernet frame format as part of one or more networking protocols. As an example, a system may include Wi-Fi capabilities, for example, per the wireless protocol standardized as IEEE 802.1 1 .

[00111 ] As an example, a system can include transmitting information via one or more technologies to dedicated equipment. As an example, cellular technology can be utilized where such cellular technology can link to the Internet. As an example, cellular technology may link to the cloud (Internet-based resources for computing, storage, etc.).

[00112] As an example, a geophone patch can include a plurality of geophones (e.g., seismic recorders) and a computing device that includes at least one network interface. For example, such a computing device may be a unit that operates as a patch ring server that includes a microcontroller, which may be a microprocessor. As an example, a microcontroller can be a microcontroller that may be instructed by a real-time operating system (RTOS).

[00113] As an example, a microcontroller may be an ARM controller that includes an ARM architecture, for example, consider a controller with an ARM926 32-bit RISC processor. As an example, a microcontroller with an ARM architecture may optionally include a JAZELLE® technology (ARM Limited, Cambridge, UK) enhanced 32-bit RISC processor with flexible size instruction and data caches, tightly coupled memory (TCM) interfaces and a memory management unit (MMU).

[00114] As an example, a microcontroller can be a NVIDIA® microprocessor (Santa Clara, California) such as, for example, consider the TEGRA™ K1 SOC, which includes an NVI DIA® KEPLER GPU with 192 CUDA cores and an NVIDIA® 4- Plus-1™ quad-core ARM® CORTEX™-A15 CPU. Such an architecture may include, for example, 2 GB x 16 memory with 64-bit width; 16 GB 4.51 eMMC memory; a half mini-PCIE slot; a SD/MMC connector; an HDMI port; a USB port, a micro AB; a RS232 serial port; an audio codec; a microphone, in and line out; a GigE LAN; a SATA data port; and an SPI boot flash. As an example, instructions may be stored in the boot flash to establish an operating system that can execute program instructions that instruct the microcontroller to perform operations that may be associated with data acquisition, processing, transmission, receipt, etc.

[00115] As an example, a unit may be or include a GIGABYTE™ computing device (Giga-Byte Technology Co., Ltd., Taiwan), which can include, for example, an INTEL® CELERON™ (e.g., J1900) microprocessor (Intel Corporation, Santa Clara, California) with an integrated operating system (e.g. , GB-BXBT-1900). Such a device may include circuitry for one or more storage drives, DIMM DDR, IEEE 802.1 1 b/g/n Wi-Fi / BLUETOOTH® 4.0 mini-PCIe card, VGA, HDMI, Gigabit LAN, etc.

[00116] As an example, a unit may be or include a CM-QS600 - SNAPDRAGON™ 600 computer-on-module (Qualcomm, San Diego, California), which may include a Qualcomm SNAPDRAGON™ 600 APQ8064 quad-core

KRAIT™ 300, 1 .7GHz NEON SIMD and VFPv4; multimedia video sub-system that supports HD decoding / encoding up-to 1080, H.264, MPEG2/4, DivX and VC-1 ; an ADRENO™ 320 GPU (Qualcomm, San Diego, California) compliant with OpenGL ES 1.1 / 2.0 / 3.0 and OpenCL; a HEXAGON™ QDSP6 (Qualcomm, San Diego, California); RAM (e.g., 512MB to 2GB or more, DDR3-1066, dual channel 32-bit data bus); and on-board eMMC flash disk (e.g., up to 32GB or more). [00117] As an example, a unit may include one or more of the following features: DP/LVDS, touch SPI and CSI-2, one or more GPIOs, one or more UARTs, one or more HSICs, one or more l ² C buses/interfaces, etc.

[00118] As an example, a unit may include one or more of 1000Base-T Ethernet interface implemented with the ATHEROS™ AR8151 -B controller E (Qualcomm Atheros, Inc., San Jose, California); multi-band 802.1 1 a/b/g/n WiFi interface implemented with ATHEROS™ QCA6234; on-board connectors for antennas; BLUETOOTH® 4.0 (low energy); etc.

[00119] As an example, a unit can include Thermal Design Power (TDP) technology, which may operate at power levels of the order of about 10 W (e.g., or less in various power states). As an example, a unit may include instructions for establishing an operating system such as, for example, a LI NUX™ operating system (e.g., UBUNTU™ 14 (Canonical Limited, London, UK), etc.).

[00120] Fig. 10 shows an example of circuitry 1000. Such circuitry includes various components as included in, for example, a FITLET™ computer (marketed by Compulab, Yokneam lllit, Israel). As an example, a processor can be a processor marketed by Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (Sunnyvale, California). For example, consider an A4-6400T quad core 64-bit processor (e.g., about 4.5 W), an A10-6700T quad core 64-bit processor (e.g., about 4.5 W), etc. As an example, circuitry may include one or more features of the I NTEL® Bay Trail technology (e.g., consider the Bay Trail set with a CELERON™ J1900 64 bit quad core 2 GHz 10W TDP INTEL® HD graphics system, which may be configured as a single board computer (SBC), etc.).

[00121 ] As an example, a unit can include one or more of the components of the circuitry 1000 and optionally one or more other components. As an example, the circuitry 1000 can include memory (e.g. , DDR3L), on-board SSD storage, one or more HDMI ports, one or more GbE ports, one or more USB ports, one or more RS232 ports, one or more mini-PCIe ports, one or more mSATA ports, a DCV supply (e.g., about 2W to about 10W), and may include instructions for an operating system (e.g., WINDOW® OS, LI NUX™, etc.). As an example, the circuitry 1000 can include an extension board, which may provide I/O and/or one or more other types of components. [00122] As an example, the circuitry 1000 can include wireless communication circuitry (e.g., WiFi and/or BLUETOOTH®). As an example, various components may be interfaces with the circuitry 1000, optionally in a manner whereby the circuitry 1000 includes a multiplexer that can switch between various connections (e.g., MMC/SDIO, UART, SPI, l ² C, GPIO, etc.).

[00123] As shown in the example of Fig. 10, the circuitry 1000 can include and/or be operatively coupled to cellular network circuitry 1050. As an example, the cellular network circuitry 1050 can include Global System for Mobile

Communications (GSM) circuitry. As an example, the circuitry 1000 can include one or more subscriber identification module (SIM) card slots and/or one or more subscriber identification module (SI M) cards.

[00124] GSM is a cellular network, which means that cell devices can connect to the cellular network by searching for a cell or cells. In GSM, there can be cells defined by sizes such as macro, micro, pico, femto, and umbrella cells. In such an example, coverage area of each cell can vary according to an implementation environment. As an example, a macro cell can be regarded as a cell where a base station antenna is installed on a mast or other structure (e.g., above an average obstacle level). As an example, a micro cell can be a cell whose antenna height may be less than an average obstacle level (e.g. , as may be found in urban areas). As an example, a picocell can be a relatively small cell whose coverage diameter is, for example, of the order of about a few dozen meters. As an example, a femtocell can be designed for use in residential or small business environments and connect to a service provider ^' s network via a broadband Internet connection. As an example, an umbrella cell may be used to cover shadowed regions of smaller cells and fill in gaps in coverage between those cells.

[00125] As an example, a unit can include a subscriber identity module or subscriber identification module (SIM), for example, as an integrated circuit chip that is intended to securely store an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI) number and its related key, which can be used to identify and authenticate subscribers on telephony devices, which may be mobile devices. As an example, a SIM card may include memory to store other information. As an example, a device may include circuitry for GSM, code division multiple access (CDMA) and/or satellite network communications. [00126] Fig. 1 1 shows an example of a host 11 10, a mini PCI slot connection 1 120 and a Function And Connectivity Extension T-Card (FACET card) 1 130 that is operatively coupled to the host 1 1 10 via the mini PCI slot connection 1 120. A FACET card can serve as optional extension board providing additional peripherals and IO connectivity options for a host.

[00127] Fig. 12 shows an example of a unit 1200 that includes various ports 1220, circuitry 1230 and circuitry 1240. Fig. 12 also shows circuitry 1280 and 1290 where, for example, the component U1 may be a processor. As an example, such a unit may be or include various features of a GIGABYTE™ computing device (Giga- Byte Technology Co., Ltd., Taiwan) such as, for example, the GB-BXBT-1900 or another model device. As an example, the unit 1200 may be disposed in a housing suitable for field deployment. For example, a housing may protect the unit from environmental conditions such as one or more of rain, sun, snow, etc. As an example, a housing can include circuitry that may be operatively coupled to one or more sensors where information from the sensors can be routed to circuitry of the unit 1200. As an example, the unit 1200 can include cellular network circuitry (e.g. , for GSM, CDMA, satellite, etc.).

[00128] As an example, a unit may be a sealed unit, which may be sealed as to water intrusion. As an example, a unit may be sealed for operation underwater. For example, a unit may be positioned in a field in contact with water and/or in a region that may fill with water. As an example, a unit may have a water depth rating such as, for example, a depth rating of a few meters. As an example, a unit can include one or more elastomeric gaskets (e.g. , silicone, etc.).

[00129] As an example, a unit can include one or more batteries. As an example, a battery or batteries may be hot swappable. As an example, a unit can include one or more batteries that may be in a voltage range from about 1 V to about 48 V (e.g., consider one or more 12 V batteries, etc.). As an example, a unit may be self-grounded via a battery or batteries.

[00130] As an example, a unit can include one or more connectors that can be standardized connectors to be used for seismic recorders. As an example, a unit can operate as an edge node of a network where seismic recorders transmit information to the unit via Ethernet and where the unit transmits such information further to one or more nodes of the network. As an example, such a network can include a plurality of edge nodes and, for example, a central node. In such an example, an overall network may be a hybrid network in that it may include one type of network technology for seismic record to edge node transmissions and another type of network technology for edge node to central node transmissions.

[00131 ] As an example, a drone or drones may be implemented to validate a survey layout and/or to service one or more features of a geophone patch or geophone patches. As an example, a drone may include network communication circuitry to allow the drone to establish a network-based communication link with a component or components of a geophone patch. For example, a drone may establish communication with a geophone (e.g., a seismic recorder) or, for example, a drone may establish communication with a unit that operates as an edge node. As an example, a drone may establish communication with one or more seismic recorders and an associated unit, for example, for testing, quality control, information gathering, servicing, etc.

[00132] As an example, a unit can include a trusted platform module (TPM), which may be implemented for security (e.g., network security, encryption, etc.).

[00133] As an example, a unit can provide for pre-processing of information received from one or more seismic recorders. As an example, consider preprocessing that has been optimized by a deep learning scheme. In such an example, the pre-processing may aim to optimize signal quality.

[00134] As an example, a unit that operates as an edge node may send multiple copies of data with one or more different types of processing applied.

[00135] As an example, a dashboard may be implemented via a computing device that can monitor and/or control one or more components in a distributed data gathering system such as a system that includes at least one geophone patch. In such an example, the dashboard may be implemented via cloud-based resources where a browser application executing on a computing device can render information to a display via one or more graphical user interfaces (GUI) that can allow for transmission of information, commands, etc. such that a user can interact with a distributed data gathering system, which, as mentioned, can include data processing capabilities. As an example, a computing device with a browser application and one or more network interfaces may be operated locally with respect to a geophone patch and/or remotely with respect to a geophone patch where such operation may be via a dashboard (e.g., a dashboard application, etc.).

[00136] As an example, a microseismic surface acquisition system can include one or more features of a system that can provide for high-fidelity microseismic signal recording for surface or shallow-well monitoring configurations. Such a system can acquire data that can be analyzed as to hydraulic fracture geometry. Such a system can include one or more accelerometers, for example, with flat acceleration domain, coupled with ultra-low-noise electronics that enable detection of relatively small microseismic events. As an example, a system can include wireless waveform transmission circuitry that may help in streamlining data management, acquisition QC, and processing to expedite evaluation of hydraulic fracture geometry.

[00137] As an example, a sensor can include low-noise input circuitry designed for acceleration domain measurement and extended low-frequency response. As an example, a dual parallel geophone accelerometer (GAC) configuration can help to improve sensitivity with lower noise. As an example, a compact package of signal conditioning electronics can provide for point-sensor-based recording, in which each sensor is recorded on an individual data channel. As an example, a sensor may be individually testable, for example, as to performance, adjustment, etc.

[00138] As an example, GPS-synchronized data may be acquired (e.g., optionally continuously) and transmitted. As an example, real-time operations can be facilitated by onsite preprocessing, which may include one or more of noise- reduction filtering, digital-beam forming, and event detection.

[00139] As an example, beamforming may aim to suppress noise and thus enhance signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). As an example, for a seismic array, signal-to- noise ratio (SNR) of a seismic signal can be improved by summing coherent signals from single array sites. As an example, a beamforming process may include determining delay times, with which single traces can be shifted before summation to achieve large amplitudes due to coherent interference of the signals. As an example, beamforming may be implemented digitally in an effort to "listen" better to signals coming from a particular direction. For example, consider a stage of a fracturing operation where a direction is determined based on location of sensor or sensor array (e.g., a patch) and based on a general location or locations of expected induced seismic events (e.g., microseismic events).

[00140] As an example, direction from which a wave front originates can have an effect on the time at which the signal meets each sensor in an array. As an example, if an array's output is created by summing signals from sensors in the array, the maximum output amplitude may be achieved when the signal originates from a source perpendicular to the array as the signals arrive at approximately the same time such that they are highly correlated in time and reinforce each other; whereas, if a signal originates from a non-perpendicular direction, the sensors can sense arrivals at different times, which will be less correlated and can result in a lesser output amplitude.

[00141 ] As an example, a system can include circuitry that can perform adjustments, which may be performed locally on an array by array basis (e.g., consider a patch by patch basis). For example, an array can include circuitry that can act to adjust signals sensed by a plurality of sensors in an effort to correlate signals. In such an example, where a location or approximate location of expected microseismic activity can be determined, local array circuitry may act to adjust signals based on estimated delays that may occur for sensors of the local array with respect to a microseismic event or events. As an example, a system can include a unit and sensors that define a sensor patch. In such an example, the unit may determine locations of the sensors and adjust signals (e.g., digitally, etc.) based at least in part on the locations and orientation with respect to a region of

microseismicity (e.g. , a region where fractures may be generated via hydraulic or other fracturing technique).

[00142] As an example, a plurality of units for a corresponding plurality of patches may receive information from a centralized unit (e.g., a main unit, etc.) that can assist with local processing, which may include implementing one or more beamforming algorithms according to parameter values based at least in part on a patch's location (e.g. , with respect to microseismic activity, etc.).

[00143] As an example, a system can include two multichannel arrays that are operatively coupled to a common node. For example, consider two multichannel arrays with 24 channels per array for 48 channels of data that can be transmitted to a low power unit installed proximate to the aggregators of the two arrays (e.g., where each array includes an aggregator). In such an example, the unit can provide processing capability and enable conditioning of signals. For example, consider conditioning such as suppression of noise by applying one or more filters; signal enhancement and suppression of coherent noise by digital array beamforming; data reduction (e.g., as the output from the unit may be a single channel of processed data); data compression; etc.

[00144] Fig. 13 shows examples of systems 1300 including a system 1301 and a system 1302 where these systems 1300 are illustrated with respect to operational scenarios 1304 and 1306. As shown, the systems 1300 include a plurality of recorders 1310; however, the system 1301 and the system 1302 operate differently with respect to these recorders 1310. As shown in Fig. 13, the system 1301 includes an acquisition unit 1320 and a remote download component 1230 and the system 1302 includes a plurality of "mini" servers 1340 and a main server 1350. As an example, an individual mini server 1340 can be or include one or more features of a unit such as, for example, the unit 1200 of Fig. 12. As an example, an individual mini server 1340 can include one or more features of the circuitry 1000 of Fig. 10 and optionally one or more other features.

[00145] In the example of Fig. 13, the systems 1300 are shown with respect to an example configured for field deployment via 27 patches with 48 channels per patch (e.g. , two 24 channel assemblies) for a total of 1296 channels. Such an arrangement may be suitable for sensing induce microseismicity in a geologic environment. For example, consider microseismicity induced via a fracturing operation or operations, which may be performed in stages.

[00146] Per the scenario 1304, the acquisition unit 1320 is in communication with the recorders 1310 and concentrates data files for each of the recorders 1310 and the remote download component 1330 can act in a harvesting mode and/or a continuous mode to download data from memory of the acquisition unit 1320. In such an example, the remote download component 1330 can operate at least in part to generate SEG-D files.

[00147] As to file formats, the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG) sets forth various standards, which pertain to seismic field recording and for seismic trade data. Such formats have advances in that prior formats did not provide for submillisecond sampling intervals, were limited in range and slope of filters, were arc restricted in the number of recording channels, and made no provisions for either multiple sampling intervals or dynamic changes in parameters such as filters or sampling intervals. SEG-D aimed to overcome such restrictions while at the same time maintaining some compatibility with prior SEG formats.

[00148] SEG-D provides a family of formats with the same header structure, encompassing both multiplexed and demultiplexed data, with 1 , 2, 2½, and 4 byte data words; though, the SEG-D is not intended to replace SEG's A, B, C, or Y standard formats. The family is given the designation SEG-D followed by a code number defining the type of data word, and the designation "multiplexed" or

"demultiplexed".

[00149] In the example of Fig. 13, the system 1302 operates via transmission of information from various sets of recorders 1310 to respective corresponding mini servers 1340. As shown in Fig. 13, per the scenario 1302, interactions between thee mini servers 1340 and the main server 1350 can include pushing and/or pulling data packages from the mini servers 1340 to the main server 1350, for example, on an individualized basis (e.g., mini server by mini server basis, etc.). As an example, the main server 1350 can be utilized to transmit information to one or more of the mini servers 1340, for example, for time synchronization and/or other parameters, which may optionally include parameters associated with one or more beamforming algorithms as to one or more patches, recorders, etc. As an example, the main server 1350 may operate via remote procedure calls (RPCs) or one or more other techniques. As an example, the mini servers 1340 and the main server 1350 may be configured to output miniseed files, for example, in a streaming manner.

[00150] Fig. 14 shows an example of a system 1400 that includes an example scenario 1410 and an example of a method 1450. In Fig. 14, the scenario 1410 includes adjusting patches as to beams that correspond to individual stages of a multistage fracturing operation. In such an example, beamforming may be implemented to enhance acquisition and analysis of data associated with induced microseismicity of a stage of a fracturing operation.

[00151 ] As an example, a patch can include one or more recorders (e.g., recorder nodes), for example, consider a patch that includes two recorder nodes that can transmit data to a ring server, which may be or include a unit such as, for example, a unit with one or more features of the unit 1200 of Fig. 12, one or more features of the circuitry 1000 of Fig. 10, etc. As shown in Fig. 14, the method 1450 can include transmitting ringserver (e.g. , patch) information to a main server and can include transmitting information from a main server to a ringserver (e.g., a patch). As an example, information may be transmitted to multiple ringservers where each of the ringservers may receive different information as to individualized beamforming to assist with acquisition of microseismicity. Such individualized information may be based at least in part on patch location and/or stage location.

[00152] As an example, a unit can store real time data in one or more memory buffers locally or send conditioned data to a memory buffer running on a main data server.

[00153] As an example, the scenario 1306 of Fig. 13 when compared to the scenario 1304 of Fig. 13 can provide for data reduction. For example, the system 1302 may reduce an amount of data transmitted at various times during an operation or operations (e.g., when compared to a standard surface microseismic monitoring system such as the system 1301 . As mentioned, the system 1302 can include protocols, for example, to perform remote procedural calls that may enable setting and/or managing parameters for one or more data filters, etc. As mentioned, one or more beamforming algorithms may be performed locally by a mini server where such algorithm or algorithms may include parameters that can be specified via a communication channel. For example, a main server may specify individualized parameters as to beamforming and/or one or more other processes that can be executed using a processor (e.g., microcontroller, etc.) of a mini server.

[00154] As explained with respect to the example system 1400 of Fig. 14, a workflow can include making parameter adjustments to a digital array beamforming algorithm or algorithms. For example, a beam can be 'steered' in a desired direction in each patch (e.g. , or recorder) for processing purposes and, for example, according to an operation schedule (e.g. , a plan) as different zones are being stimulated along a well (e.g., consider a multistage operational plan).

[00155] Fig. 15 shows an example of a method 1500 that includes a reception block 1510 for, during a hydraulic fracturing operation in a field, receiving at a unit, via a first network, sensor information from a plurality of seismic sensors disposed in the field; a process block 1520 for, during the hydraulic fracturing operation, processing the sensor information at the unit according to one or more processing parameters to generate processed information associated with the hydraulic fracturing operation; and a transmit block 1530 for, during the hydraulic fracturing operation, transmitting by the unit, via a second network, the processed information. Such a method can include, for example, a reception block 1540 for receiving processing parameter information via the second network by the unit, optionally during the hydraulic fracturing operation.

[00156] In the method 1500, the first network can be or include a wireless network that operates according to a first protocol and the second network can be or include a wireless network that operates according to a second protocol.

[00157] The method 1500 is shown in Fig. 15 in association with various computer-readable media (CRM) blocks 151 1 , 1521 , 1531 and 1541 . Such blocks generally include instructions suitable for execution by one or more processors (or cores) to instruct a computing device or system to perform one or more actions. While various blocks are shown, a single medium may be configured with instructions to allow for, at least in part, performance of various actions of the method 1500. As an example, a CRM block can be a computer-readable storage medium that is non-transitory, not a carrier wave and not a signal.

[00158] Fig. 16 shows an example of a system 1600 that includes a first portion 1602 and a second portion 1604. As shown, the first portion 1602 includes a computing device 1610, a Web interface 1615, a Web server 1620, a database 1640 (e.g., with associated storage, servers, etc.), and a high performance computing (HPC) cluster 1660 and a data server 1680. As shown, the second portion 1604 includes edge nodes that can transmit information directly and/or indirectly to the data server 1680 of the first portion.

[00159] Fig. 17 shows an example of a system 1700 that includes various components, including a plurality of edge nodes 1704 for one or more of preprocessing, grouping, compression, shipping, health monitoring, etc.; a Web server 1720; a file server 1725 that may operate as a landing zone; a database 1740 for data storage; and a HPC cluster 1760 for one or more of data buffering, look-up- table operations (e.g. , LUT ray-tracing, etc.), migration, probability density function (PDF) extraction, detection, location, etc. As an example, the Web server 1720 can provide for interactions with one or more of the plurality of edge nodes 1704, the file server 1725, the database 1740 and the HPC cluster 1760. [00160] Fig. 18 shows an example of a system 1800 that includes various subsystems including a remote field location sub-system 1820, a network enclave subsystem 1840 and a secured virtual private network (VPN) sub-system 1860.

[00161 ] As shown, the sub-system 1820 can include field recorders and an edge unit and a modem operatively coupled to the edge unit. As shown, the subsystem 1840 can include a file server and a database server. As shown, the subsystem 1860 can include a Web server and an HPC server.

[00162] Fig. 19 shows an example of a method 1900 that includes a repeat block 1904 for repeating a process once per set interval, a selection block 1908 for selecting a raw data frame, a filter block 1912 for bandpass filtering the selected raw data frame, a measurement block 1916 for measuring root mean square of filtered raw data, an injection block 1920 for injecting synthetic signal and known noise, a creation block 1924 for creating frames, an application block 1928 for applying a combination of filter band and stack to frames, a processing block 1932 for one or more types of processing (e.g., whitening, raw stack, non-linear stack, raw frost, n-th root frost, etc.), a measurement block 1936 for measuring signal to noise ratio (SNR) and one or more detectability criteria, a rank block 1940 for ranking output of the measurement block 1936, a selection block 1944 for selecting a best workflow for pre-processing and a modification block 1948 for modifying one or more preprocessing parameters. In such an example, one or more units may optionally be programmed to implement pre-processing of data as received from one or more seismic recorders.

[00163] Fig. 20 shows an example of a system 2000 that includes a front-end Web dashboard that can allow for one or more users to interact with various features of the system. For example, a back-end Web server can receive various requests. As shown in Fig. 20, edge computing equipment may receive one or more requests (e.g., GET) and/or a HPC "rocket" may receive one or more requests (e.g., via Websocket technology, etc.). As shown, a data warehouse can be operatively coupled to one or more other portions of the system 2000.

[00164] Fig. 21 shows example plots 21 10 and 2120 where the plot 21 10 shows data size and data latency with respect to time and where the plot 2120 shows voltage and power of a unit with respect to time (e.g. , a period of days). [00165] Fig. 22 shows an example of a unit 2200 in contact with earth 2201 along with various temperatures. As an example, the unit 2200 can include one or more thermal coupling features 2270 (e.g., a thermal coupler or thermal couplers) that may be or include one or more pins, spikes, pegs, etc. that thermally couple (e.g., and optionally electrically couple) the unit 2200 to the earth 2201 (e.g., soil, sand, etc.). As shown, the unit 2200 is in contact with earth 2201 where an ambient temperature To about the unit 2200 as exposed to air and where an earth temperature T2 exists for the earth 2201. As shown, the unit 2200 may include an internal temperature Ti, which can be greater than T2. As an example, To may be greater than Ti and/or T2.

[00166] In the example of Fig. 22, the unit 2200 may be cooled via establishing a thermal gradient between the unit 2200 and the earth 2201 where thermal energy may be transferred from the unit 2200 via the one or more thermal coupling features 2270.

[00167] As an example, the unit 2200 can include one or more antennas 2215- 1 , 2215-2. As an example, an antenna can include an N-type connector (e.g. , Type N connector), which is a threaded, weatherproof, medium-size RF connector used to join coaxial cables. As an example, the unit 2200 can include one or more overvoltage protection circuits. As an example, arresting technology may be classified as crowbar or clamp. For example, crowbar can include air gap, carbon block, GDT, silicon controlled rectifier (SCR), etc.; while, for example, clamp can include Zener (avalanche) diode, metal oxide varistor (MOV), etc. As an example, an overvoltage protection unit or assembly may optionally implement one or more types of arresting technology.

[00168] As an example, an antenna may be telescoping and may be insulated such that conduction with water does not occur. As an example, a unit may be positioned on the ground where during a period of rain, the ground may hold water such that the water level rises to above a top of a case of the unit. As water may diminish certain wireless signals, an antenna can extend upwardly from the unit (e.g., optionally via a rotational socket) where an antenna may optionally be telescoping. In such an example, the unit may be submerged but for one or more antennas, which can allow for reception and/or transmission of wireless signals. [00169] As an example, a unit may be of the order of about 40 cm by about 40 cm by about 40 cm or less in one or more of such dimensions (e.g., not including an antenna, which may optionally extend more than about 40 cm).

[00170] Figs. 23 and 24 show an example of a unit 2300 that includes a case with a case lid 2302 and a case body 2304 that defines a recess for circuitry (see, e.g. , Fig. 12, etc.). As shown, the case lid 2302 can include a layer 2303, which may be an insulating layer. The case lid 2302 may be operatively coupled to the case body 2304 via one or more hinges 2306-1 and 2306-2. The unit 2300 can include one or more antennas 2315-1 and 2315-2 that are operatively coupled to transmitter and/or receiver circuitry and optionally overvoltage protection circuitry. The unit 2300 can include ports 2321 , 2322, 2323 and 2324 that provide for connecting equipment to the exterior of the unit 2300 where electrical conductors and/or optical conductors are coupled to circuitry within the unit 2300. As an example, the case lid 2302 and the case body 2304 can be made of a resilient polymeric material that is relatively shock resistant. As an example, a case may be made of one or more of polycarbonate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), NORYL™ resin (marketed by SABIC Global Technologies B.V., Riyadh, Saudi Arabia), or another type of polymeric material. A case material may be one or more types of modified PPE resins that may include amorphous blends of polyphenylene ether resin and polystyrene.

[00171 ] Fig. 24 shows the unit 2300 as including one or more thermal coupling features 2370, which may be a series of relatively thin parallel plates that extend a portion of the width of the unit 2300. In the example, of Fig. 24, the unit 2300 includes about 25 parallel plates 2370, which may be made of metal or other suitable highly thermally conductive material. As an example, such plates may be anodized. As an example, the case body 2304 can include a bottom side recess to which the plates 2370 may be inserted and attached. As an example, such plates 2370 may include one or more extensions that extend into the recess of the case body 2304 that includes circuitry (e.g., to provide a heat sink route for transfer of heat energy generated by circuitry, etc.). In such an example, one or more seals (e.g., seal elements, etc.) may be utilized to reduce risk of intrusion of moisture, dust, etc. As an example, the unit 2300 in a closed orientation may be water proof (e.g., to a rating of a meter to several meters of depth in water). [00172] As an example, the layer 2303 associated with the case lid 2302 can be made of or include one or more silicones (e.g., polysiloxane polymers), which may act as a thermal barrier layer (e.g., an insulating layer). As an example, such a layer may act at least in part (e.g., at or near a perimeter portion) as a seal element (e.g., a silicone seal element) for sealing the case lid 2302 and the case body 2304 to protect circuitry from exposure to environmental moisture/water, dust, chemicals, etc. As an example, such a layer can include one or more thermally conductive coils that may be in thermal contact with one or more thermal coupling features 2370 as shown in Fig. 24. For example, the layer 2303 may be a of a silicon heating pad configuration where conductive coils embedded in the silicone can be utilized for transferring heat energy from the case lid 2302, which may be exposed to the sun, to the one or more thermal coupling features 2370 (e.g., a thermal coupler or thermal couplers). In such an example, thermally conductive wires may pass on the hinge side of the case body 2304 to the one or more thermal coupling features 2370 (e.g., a thermal coupler or thermal couplers).

[00173] As an example, a thermal coupler may extend away from a side of a case a distance sufficient to contact earth. For example, a thermal coupler may extend about 1 cm or more. As an example, a thermal coupler may help to physically stabilize a unit in earth. For example, in a windy environment and/or an environment where rain, snow, sleet, hail or other moisture may impact the unit, a thermal coupler may help to physically stabilize a unit, which may include one or more antennas that extend upwardly away from the ground.

[00174] As an example, a thermal coupler or thermal couplers may thermally couple a unit to ground (e.g. , earth), may electrically couple a unit to ground (e.g., earth) and may physically stabilize a unit on the ground (e.g. , on earth).

[00175] As an example, a unit can include features that can provide various mechanisms for heat transfer. For example, consider convection that can be internal convection in a case of a unit (e.g. , via buoyancy), conduction, and radiation. As an example, surface emissivity can limit the amount of heat transfer due to radiation cooling. With 1.0 being perfect (black body) emissivity anodized aluminum is 0.85 and unfinished is 0.05. Heat transfer due to radiation is proportional to the heat sink surface area exposed to its surroundings and to the temperature rise above ambient (in absolute degrees K) raised to the 4th power (Tsink-Tambient) ⁴ . In natural convection on small heat sinks with open fins, and a high benefit from anodization by up to 45%. In general, color of an anodized finish that is not exposed to sunlight may have relatively little impact on emissivity as radiation heat loss can occur at wavelengths higher than visible light. As an example, the one or more thermal coupling features 2370 may be made of anodized aluminum.

[00176] Fig. 25 shows an example plot 2500 of temperatures in degrees C versus time. Included in the plot 2500 are temperatures for a top of a unit (see, e.g., the unit 2300 of Figs. 23 and 24) exposed to the sun, which rises to a peak at about 2:00 PM, which is above the temperature of the hot dry air of the ambient environment, which has a latter peak. Beneath the unit, the ground (earth) is in a shadow of the unit and thus not directly exposed to the sun. As shown, a shallow ground temperature is sufficiently low to establish a thermal gradient with the unit such that the inside of the unit is less than the temperature of the hot-dry air. With longer protrusion(s) (e.g., thermal coupler(s)), a unit may establish an even larger thermal gradient. As mentioned, a unit may be sealed and/or may be fanless. As an example, one or more protrusions (e.g., one or more thermal couplers) may be thermally and/or electrically coupled to ground (earth).

[00177] As an example, a unit such as the unit 1200, the unit 2200, the unit 2300 or another unit may optionally include one or more accelerometers. As an example, a unit may report acceleration, which may include handling history (e.g., shock, vibration, etc.). As an example, a unit may include one or more RFID chips that include identifying information. As an example, a unit may include an RFID chip reader that can read an RFI D chip of a seismic sensor to identify the seismic sensor (e.g., by an ID). As an example, a method can include passing a plurality of seismic sensors by a unit where the unit receives information from each of the sensors (e.g., consider wireless transfer of information via WiFi, BLUETOOTH®, RFID, etc.).

[00178] As an example, a system can provide for multi-threaded, asynchronous data acquisition and processing where such a system can include individual units, which may each be or include, for example, a single board computer (SBC) and circuitry for transmission and/or receipt of data via one or more networks. For example, a unit can include cellular network circuitry for communication from a location of data acquisition to a remote location (e.g., a centralized data processing hub, etc.). [00179] As an example, a system can be Ethernet capable as including Ethernet network interfaces where information can be communicated via the Ethernet network interfaces. As an example, a system can include one or more Ethernet networks.

[00180] As an example, a device can coordinate with and continuously download data from a sensor group on a local network, perform digital signal processing (DSP) tasks on input data and transmits via modem output data to a host, which may then perform operations within a processing flow (e.g., a workflow).

[00181 ] As an example, data acquisition software may be stored in a device associated with a sensor group. As an example, DSP operations can include one or more of BLAS and FFT operations (e.g. , or one or more other types of operations).

[00182] Seismicity of interest in microseismic monitoring (MSM) can be induced, for example, a byproduct of one or more of various types of operations. As an example, associated events can vary in magnitude where a record of such events in time and space can, for example, provide insight into efficacy of a fracturing process and/or impingement on geological formations, such as faults.

[00183] As an example, a device can include circuitry (e.g. , hardware, hardware and software, etc.) that retrieves data from a sensor group on a local network. As an example, in MSM a system may include over a thousand channels. As an example, a multithreaded and asynchronous approach may be implemented where, for example, threads are established for communication with an acquisition device, for example, to retrieve geophone sensor data in real-time (e.g., near realtime as may be associated with local computational delays). As an example, equipment can include a TCP server class (e.g., based on the Boost.Asio C++ library, etc.). As an example, acquisition units can be prompted to create a connection in another thread, and thereafter the TCP server listens for and accepts said connections. As an example, multiple connections can be handled by using a thread pool of acceptor objects. As an example, once a particular connection is established, the appropriate server thread can subsequently interrogate a client device, pulling time records, which may be buffered locally, for example, before handoff to a thread-safe circular buffer.

[00184] As an example, a buffer can be shared between TCP server threads and a second thread group, referred to as frame handlers. As an example, a frame buffer can provide a thread-safe container for packets arriving asynchronously, for example, permitting the TCP server to focus on communication. As an example, a second thread group can retrieve data from the frame buffer, check integrity, perform time ordering, and possibly decompression (e.g. , where data may be previously compressed). As an example, a frame buffer may utilize a boost::circular buffer class, as well as a mutex and condition object, to allow for coordination among various threads.

[00185] After packets are massaged by frame handlers, time windows may written to disk (e.g., hard disk, solid-state disk, etc.), ready for DSP operations. These records may also be written with overlap in time, so as to effectively provide a sliding time window over the data.

[00186] As an example, local DSP operations can include one or more of Eigen-decomposition, matrix multiplication, forward and inverse FFT, etc.

[00187] As an example, BLAS/LAPACK (e.g., numerical linear algebra algorithm library packages, etc.) operations may be provided by the OpenBLAS library, through the Armadillo C++ library interface (a linear algebra library (matrix maths) for the C++ language) and FFTW may be used for FFT operations (single- threaded, built from source).

[00188] As to transmission over GSM, an internal modem can be installed on a unit. As an example, consider a modem such as a SIERRA WIRELESS™ device modem (Richmond, British Columbia, Canada) with a suitable carrier. As an example, a LINUX™ operating system (mark owner, Linus Torvalds) kernel may accommodate GobiNet drivers for an internal modem. As an example, 4G Long- Term Evolution (LTE) communication may be implemented, for example, via a Qualcomm MSM Interface (QMI). As an example, a serial interface may be implemented, for example, where a modem is controlled using WvDial (a utility that helps in making modem-based connections to the Internet) which uses a point-to- point protocol (PPP).

[00189] As an example, one or more BLAS/LAPACK routines can be utilized in a multi-threaded manner.

[00190] As an example, a GIGABYTE™ BRIX™ device (e.g. , consider an INTEL® CELERON™ processor unit) may be implemented for acquisition, processing and transmission. As an example, an ARM-based device may be implemented for acquisition, processing and transmission, which may provide for a relatively low TDP (e.g., about 5 W) and acceptable performance on particularly sized matrixes and arrays. As an example, a fastboot utility may be implemented for OS installation and/or boot/install may be via a port such as via a USB port (e.g., a component operatively coupled to a USB port).

[00191 ] As mentioned, a unit may be utilized for sensing seismicity associated with a stimulation treatment such as, for example, hydraulic fracturing. As an example, one or more fracture length versus time relationships may be provided via a fracture simulator (e.g., consider the MANGROVE® engineered stimulation design package, Schlumberger Limited, Houston, Texas). One or more simulation workflows may include receiving seismicity data from one or more units (e.g. , directly and/or indirectly).

[00192] As an example, a workflow may include simulating fractures. As an example, consider simulating complex fractures in shale reservoirs. As mentioned, fractures may be generated artificially, for example, via hydraulic fracturing.

Hydraulic fracturing may be considered a stimulation treatment that may aim to enhance recovery of one or more resources from a reservoir or reservoirs.

[00193] As an example, a simulation framework may include one or more sets of processor-executable instructions that can model stimulation of a geologic environment, for example, to generate one or more fractures. For example, consider the commercially available MANGROVE® engineered stimulation design package that may be operated in conjunction with a framework such as, for example, the PETREL® framework (e.g., optionally in the OCEAN® framework). The

MANGROVE® package may be operated as a hydraulic fracturing simulator and may be, for example, integrated into one or more seismic-to-simulation workflows (e.g., for conventional and/or unconventional reservoirs). As an example, the MANGROVE® package may be implemented to grid and model complex fractures, which may be used for reservoir simulation.

[00194] As an example, stimulation design functionality may be implemented to predict realistic fracture scenarios. For example, consider functionality that can provide for simulation of nonplanar hydraulic fractures using an unconventional fracture model (UFM) and/or wiremesh model. As an example, a UFM may be implemented as to natural fractures (e.g., a naturally fractured reservoir). [00195] Stimulation design may integrate one or more of geological and geophysical (G&G), petrophysical, geomechanical, and microseismic data.

Stimulation modeling may help to increase productivity and, for example, reduce use of fracturing materials (e.g., fluid, proppant, etc.).

[00196] As an example, a stimulation design package may be implemented as a part of a workflow that aims to optimize well completion designs. As a poorly completed well is not likely to produce at maximum potential, an engineered process based on reservoir characterization may provide better completion designs.

Whether input is G&G data via 3D models, well logs, offset wells, or pilot wells, completion and stimulation designs may be customizable to increase return on investment (ROI) by producing the reservoir more effectively.

[00197] A stimulation design workflow may provide estimates of proppant placement, fracture network dimensions, and reservoir penetration based on properties such as rheology, leakoff pressure, friction performance, permeability, and closure stress.

[00198] As an example, a feedback loop may be implemented to compare simulations to actual results. For example, real-time data, such as that acquired by a hydraulic fracture mapping service (e.g. , consider StimMAP as a stimulation mapping service of Schlumberger Limited, Houston, Texas) may be analyzed and compared to simulated results (e.g., to help to optimize treatments as they are being performed). Such comparisons may help improve well planning and reduce operational risks.

[00199] As an example, a method can include receiving sensor information from a plurality of seismic sensors via a first network; processing the sensor information according to one or more processing parameters to generate processed information; and transmitting the processed information via a second network. In such an example, the first network can be a wireless network that operates according to a first protocol and the second network can be a wireless network that operates according to a second protocol. As an example, the first protocol can be an Internet protocol (IP). As an example, the second protocol can be a cellular network protocol (e.g., code division multiple access (CDMA) protocol, GSM protocol, satellite protocol, etc.). As an example, a cell may exist for a field operation where the cell serves a plurality of patch units that sense microseismic activity associated with the field operation (e.g. , fracturing, etc.).

[00200] As an example, a method can include receiving processing parameter information via a second network that can be a cellular network where the processing parameter information pertains to operation of a patch or patches. For example, a controller associated with a patch of sensors may receive such information via a cellular network interface and acquire, process and/or transmit sensed information (e.g., microseismicity measurements, etc.) based at least in part on receipt of the information via the cellular network interface. As an example, a controller can include a SI M chip or card, for example, with an identifier number (e.g., a phone number). As an example, a centralized data hub can include a SIM chip or card (e.g. , or SIM chips or cards). As an example, the data hub and the controller may be in a cell, as appropriately sized for a field operation (e.g., hydraulic fracturing and acquisition of microseismicity data, etc.).

[00201 ] As an example, processing parameter information can be associated with a stage of a multistage fracturing operation. For example, consider a beamforming algorithm that is adjusted based on a location of the stage. As an example, processing parameter information can be associated with a beamforming algorithm or algorithms. As an example, processing parameter information can be associated with filtering. As an example, processing parameter information can be associated with compression (e.g., lossy and/or lossless).

[00202] As an example, a plurality of seismic sensors can form a sensor patch for sensing microseismicity associated with a fracturing operation.

[00203] As an example, processing can include processing sensor information via a unit that includes a microcontroller that implements a real time operating system (RTOS). As an example, consider the circuitry 1000 of Fig. 10 where a LI NUX™ operating system may be executed to establish a real-time operating system environment where instructions can be executed in the established RTOS environment for purposes of one or more of data acquisition from sensors of a sensor patch, processing of data and/or transmission of data (e.g., raw and/or processed data).

[00204] As an example, a system can include a processor; memory operatively coupled to the processor; a first network interface; a second network interface; and processor-executable instructions stored in the memory to instruct the system to receive sensor information from a plurality of seismic sensors via the first network interface; process the sensor information via the processor according to one or more processing parameters to generate processed information; and transmit the processed information via the second network interface. In such an example, the first network interface can be or include a WiFi interface. WiFi can be a local area wireless computer networking technology that allows electronic devices to connect to a network, for example, using the 2.4 gigahertz (12 cm) UHF and/or 5 gigahertz (6 cm) SHF ISM radio bands. As an example, communication circuitry may employ or operate according to a standard such as, for example, an IEEE 802.1 1 standard, which includes a set of media access control (MAC) and physical layer (PHY) specifications for implementing wireless local area network (WLAN) computer communication, for example, in one or more of the 2.4, 3.6, 5, and 60 GHz frequency bands. As an example, a system may employ encryption to secure communication. As an example, a controller that can acquire, process and/or transmit information associated with a sensor patch may operate as a router where security techniques are implemented, for example, for controller to controller, sensor to controller, controller to sensor and/or one or more other types of communications.

[00205] As an example, a unit can be an access point for a plurality of seismic sensors deployed in a field. As an example, a unit can be a router that can accommodate a plurality of seismic sensors per wireless band (e.g., more than 24 per band, etc.). As an example, a unit can include multiple bands. As an example, a router that is dual band may be able to handle a number of sensors via a 2.4GHz band and a number of sensors via a 5GHz.

[00206] A unit can be a wireless router that performs functions of a router and functions of a wireless access point. Such a unit can receive sensor information from a plurality of sensors via one type of network and transmit such received information, optionally as processed information, via another type of network. As an example, a field sensor (e.g., a seismic sensor) may optionally include circuitry that can access a network via a unit where, for example, the field sensor communicates wirelessly with the unit via a first network (e.g., WiFi) and the unit acts as an access point for communication wirelessly to other equipment via a second network (e.g., GSM). In such an example, the unit may include multiple operational modes where, for example, one mode may be an operational mode associated with real-time data gathering, processing and transmitting during a hydraulic fracturing operation and another mode may be a maintenance mode or set up mode for maintaining or setting up one or more seismic sensors. In such an example, the unit may operate as a pass through router/access point in the maintenance mode or set up mode while in the operational mode, the unit may operate as a high-speed data handling unit, optionally processing data received from one or more of a plurality of seismic sensors during a hydraulic fracturing operation.

[00207] As an example, a unit can optionally include one or more subunits, which may be satellite units, which may be wireless range extenders (e.g. , wireless repeaters or Wi-Fi expanders) that can help boost signals. As an example, in a field deployment, each sensor patch may include a unit that operates according to a selected channel where channels may differ for neighboring sensor patches (e.g., to help to avoid interference between neighboring sensor patches).

[00208] As an example, a second network interface can be or include a GSM interface (e.g., or another type of interface, which may be, for example, a cellular network interface). As an example, a system can include instructions to instruct the system to execute a beamforming algorithm or beamforming algorithms. For example, consider a multistage fracturing operation where each stage is associated with a particular region of a geologic environment and where instructions are issued to various patch units such that the patch units can process sensed microseismicity data locally based at least in part on a region of a stage, for example, with respect to a particular location of a sensor patch and/or particular locations of sensors of the sensor patch. For example, a first patch may be treated as a first array and be "aimed" (e.g., via digital beamforming algorithm) at a region of a stage and a second patch may be treated as a second array and be "aimed" at the region of the stage, etc. In such an example, local "aiming" of individual sensors or groups of sensors in an array may also be performed.

[00209] As an example, a system can include plurality of sensors, for example, arranged in a sensor array, which may be a patch (e.g., a sensor patch). As an example, a system can include one or more batteries that can provide power to one or more sensors, a controller, etc. As an example, a patch may be a system that includes one or more batteries and, for example, one or more electrical energy generators (e.g. , consider wind, solar, water, thermal, etc.). In such an example, a system may be powered via energy such as, for example, energy generated locally.

[00210] As an example, a sensor patch can include a "listening" sensor that may "listen" for microseismic activity and upon detection of activity may wake up various other sensors of the sensor patch, etc. For example, a sensor patch can include a controller that operates in a low energy state (e.g., a low power state) that may be considered a sleep state or a listening state. In such an example, a low level power device or component(s) may perform listening operations such that upon detection of microseismic activity, the low level power device or component(s) issues a signal (e.g., a command, an instruction, etc.) to transition the controller (e.g., and sensors, etc.) to a wake state such that microseismic activity may be sensed, processed, transmitted, etc. As an example, a listening sensor may be a more sensitive sensor (e.g., than other sensors in a sensor patch, etc.) in that small magnitude microseismic activity can be detected.

[00211 ] As an example, a sensor patch may operate in an automatic mode, a semi-automatic mode or a manual mode. For example, an automatic mode can include transitioning from a listening state to an active state and then, after cessation of activity, transitioning back to a listening state. In such an example, patches may be more efficient and less demanding as to user intervention (e.g., turning on/off, etc.). As an example, where a multistage fracture plan is known a priori, stage information may be transmitted to a sensor patch or sensor patches. As an example, a sensor patch or sensor patches may automatically determine via microseismic energy sensing when one stage ends and another stage begins. For example, a delay between sensed events may be an indicator of break between stages. As an example, a sensor patch may automatically update a beamforming algorithm responsive to end of one stage, a break in time of sensing events, commencement of another stage, etc. For example, a table may be stored in memory where a number of stages have corresponding parameter values, for example, as to beamforming for each of the stages. As an example, a controller of a sensor patch system may automatically access and utilize the parameter values on a stage by stage basis. As an example, a multistage fracturing plan can include sensor patch information that may be communicated to controllers of respective sensor patches at one or more times (e.g. , before and/or during execution of the multistage fracturing plan).

[00212] As an example, a sensor patch system may be deployable via a remotely operated vehicle. As an example, one or more components of a sensor patch system may be adjustable via a drone, which may be a land-based, sea-based and/or air-based drone. As an example, a drone may include a payload and, for example, deliver its payload to one or more sites. As an example, consider a battery, a controller, a memory device, etc. where a drone may deliver and, for example, install (e.g. , or assist with installation, etc.) of the battery, the controller, the memory device, etc. As an example, a unit such as the unit 1200 of Fig. 12 may be deployable via a drone (e.g., and optionally retrievable via a drone). As an example, a plurality of sensors of a sensor patch may be deployed along with a base where a unit may be operatively coupled to the base. For example, consider the unit 1200 of Fig. 12 being configured to latch to and unlatch from a base, which may be akin to a docking station. As an example, where units are not to be left in a field during certain times (e.g., night, rain, snow, flood, etc.), the units may be retrievable, optionally via a remotely operated vehicle, which may be a drone.

[00213] As an example, one or more computer-readable storage media can include computer-executable instructions to instruct a computer to: receive sensor information from a plurality of seismic sensors via the first network interface; process the sensor information via the processor according to one or more processing parameters to generate processed information; and transmit the processed information via the second network interface. As an example, the one or more computer-readable storage media can be included in a system such as a system that includes circuitry such as, for example, circuitry of Fig. 10 and/or circuitry of Fig. 12. For example, a processor of the circuitry 1000 of Fig. 10 may execute computer- executable instructions (e.g., processor-executable instructions) that are stored in local memory to perform one or more actions.

[00214] As an example, a method can include, during a hydraulic fracturing operation in a field, receiving at a unit, via a first network, sensor information from a plurality of seismic sensors disposed in the field; during the hydraulic fracturing operation, processing the sensor information at the unit according to one or more processing parameters to generate processed information associated with the hydraulic fracturing operation; and, during the hydraulic fracturing operation, transmitting by the unit, via a second network, the processed information. In such a method, the first network can be a wireless network that operates according to a first protocol and the second network can be a wireless network that operates according to a second protocol. For example, the first protocol can be an Internet protocol (IP) and the second protocol can be a cellular network protocol. The first network may be a WiFi network and the second network may be a GSM network.

[00215] As an example, a method can include receiving processing parameter information via a second network where, for example, the processing parameter information is associated with a stage of a multistage fracturing operation, associated with a beamforming algorithm or associated with one or more processes for detection of a microseismic event (see, e.g., the plots 801 and 810 of Fig. 8).

[00216] As an example, a plurality of seismic sensors can form a sensor patch for sensing microseismicity associated with hydraulic fracturing of a hydraulic fracturing operation.

[00217] As an example, processing sensor information via a unit can include using a microcontroller that implements a real time operating system (RTOS). Such a microcontroller may be referred to as a processor.

[00218] As an example, a unit can include a case; a processor disposed in the case; memory disposed in the case and operatively coupled to the processor; a first network interface operatively coupled to the processor; a second network interface operatively coupled to the processor; and processor-executable instructions stored in the memory to instruct the unit to: receive sensor information from a plurality of seismic sensors via the first network interface, process the sensor information via the processor according to one or more processing parameters to generate processed information, and transmit the processed information via the second network interface. In such a unit, the first network interface can be a WiFi interface. As an example, such an interface can be capable of handling a plurality of sensors, which can have associated IP addresses. As an example, a second network interface can be a GSM interface. As an example, a unit can include instructions to instruct the unit to execute a beamforming algorithm. As an example, a case can be a sealed case rated to a water depth of at least one meter. As an example, a unit can include one or more external antennas that extend upwardly from the unit a distance of several inches (e.g., 5 cm) or more. In such an example, where water may cover a portion of the unit, the antenna or antennas may be at least in part above a level of the water, which can help to assure reception and transmission via wireless circuitry operatively coupled to the antenna or antennas.

[00219] As an example, a unit can include at least one battery. A battery may be a lithium-ion based rechargeable battery. As an example, a unit can include a connector that may be a charge connector. As an example, a unit may include a wireless charge circuit for wireless charging of a battery or batteries.

[00220] As an example, a unit can include a metallic thermal coupler that extends from a bottom side of a case that transfers heat energy from the unit to earth. In such an example, the metallic thermal coupler may be anodized.

[00221 ] As an example, a unit can include a metallic thermal coupler that extends from a bottom side of a case of the unit to transfer heat energy from the unit to earth and the unit can include at least one antenna that includes an extended orientation that extends away from a top side of the case where the metallic thermal coupler physically stabilizes the unit. For example, where an antenna may be exposed to wind or other forces, the metallic thermal coupler can help to physically stabilize the unit by anchoring the unit to earth (e.g., via contact between one or more of metallic spikes, metallic plates, etc. of the metallic thermal coupler and earth). As an example, an antenna can include a retracted orientation (e.g. , for storage, transport, etc.) and an extended orientation. As an example, an antenna may be a telescoping antenna. As an example, an antenna may be mounted via a pivoting joint, which may be sealed to reduce risk of intrusion of water, dust, etc. As an example, an antenna may be deployed to an extended orientation manually, by a machine and/or by a mechanism of a unit (e.g., spring-based, motor-based, etc.). As an example, an antenna may be coated to reduce heating upon exposure to sunlight. For example, an antenna may be coated with a high IR reflectance antenna enamel to help reduce effects of infrared radiation and heat accumulation. As an example, a case may be coated at least in part with such a coating.

[00222] As an example, a unit can include a case lid or top side that includes a thermal insulation layer, which may be, for example, a silicone layer.

[00223] As an example, a system can include a plurality of seismic sensors where each of the seismic sensors includes wireless communication circuitry that operates according to a first network protocol; and a unit that includes a case, a processor disposed in the case, memory disposed in the case and operatively coupled to the processor, wireless communication circuitry that operates according to the first network protocol, wireless communication circuitry that operates according to a second network protocol, and processor-executable instructions stored in the memory to instruct the unit to: receive sensor information from the plurality of seismic sensors according to the first network protocol, process the sensor information via the processor according to one or more processing parameters to generate processed information, and transmit the processed information according to the second network protocol. In such an example, the unit can be a fanless unit that includes a thermal coupler that extends from a bottom side of the case that transfers heat energy from the unit to earth. In such an example, at least one of the one or more processing parameters can include a microseismicity processing parameter associated with detection of a microseismic event.

[00224] As an example, a workflow may be associated with various computer- readable media (CRM) blocks. Such blocks generally include instructions suitable for execution by one or more processors (or cores) to instruct a computing device or system to perform one or more actions. As an example, a single medium may be configured with instructions to allow for, at least in part, performance of various actions of a workflow. As an example, a computer-readable medium (CRM) may be a computer-readable storage medium. As an example, blocks may be provided as instructions, for example, such as the instructions 270 of the system 250 of Fig. 2.

[00225] Fig. 26 shows components of an example of a computing system 2600 and an example of a networked system 2610. The system 2600 includes one or more processors 2602, memory and/or storage components 2604, one or more input and/or output devices 2606 and a bus 2608. In an example embodiment, instructions may be stored in one or more computer-readable media (e.g. , memory/storage components 2604). Such instructions may be read by one or more processors (e.g., the processor(s) 2602) via a communication bus (e.g., the bus 2608), which may be wired or wireless. The one or more processors may execute such instructions to implement (wholly or in part) one or more attributes (e.g., as part of a method). A user may view output from and interact with a process via an I/O device (e.g. , the device 2606). In an example embodiment, a computer-readable medium may be a storage component such as a physical memory storage device, for example, a chip, a chip on a package, a memory card, etc. (e.g., a computer- readable storage medium).

[00226] In an example embodiment, components may be distributed, such as in the network system 2610. The network system 2610 includes components 2622-1 , 2622-2, 2622-3, . . . 2622-N. For example, the components 2622-1 may include the processor(s) 2602 while the component(s) 2622-3 may include memory accessible by the processor(s) 2602. Further, the component(s) 2602-2 may include an I/O device for display and optionally interaction with a method. The network may be or include the Internet, an intranet, a cellular network, a satellite network, etc.

[00227] As an example, a device may be a mobile device that includes one or more network interfaces for communication of information. For example, a mobile device may include a wireless network interface (e.g., operable via IEEE 802.1 1 , ETSI GSM, BLUETOOTH®, satellite, etc.). As an example, a mobile device may include components such as a main processor, memory, a display, display graphics circuitry (e.g., optionally including touch and gesture circuitry), a SIM slot, audio/video circuitry, motion processing circuitry (e.g., accelerometer, gyroscope), wireless LAN circuitry, smart card circuitry, transmitter circuitry, GPS circuitry, and a battery. As an example, a mobile device may be configured as a cell phone, a tablet, etc. As an example, a method may be implemented (e.g. , wholly or in part) using a mobile device. As an example, a system may include one or more mobile devices.

[00228] As an example, a system may be a distributed environment, for example, a so-called "cloud" environment where various devices, components, etc. interact for purposes of data storage, communications, computing, etc. As an example, a device or a system may include one or more components for

communication of information via one or more of the Internet (e.g., where

communication occurs via one or more Internet protocols), a cellular network, a satellite network, etc. As an example, a method may be implemented in a distributed environment (e.g., wholly or in part as a cloud-based service).

[00229] As an example, information may be input from a display (e.g. , consider a touchscreen), output to a display or both. As an example, information may be output to a projector, a laser device, a printer, etc. such that the information may be viewed. As an example, information may be output stereographically or

holographically. As to a printer, consider a 2D or a 3D printer. As an example, a 3D printer may include one or more substances that can be output to construct a 3D object. For example, data may be provided to a 3D printer to construct a 3D representation of a subterranean formation. As an example, layers may be constructed in 3D (e.g. , horizons, etc.), geobodies constructed in 3D, etc. As an example, holes, fractures, etc., may be constructed in 3D (e.g. , as positive structures, as negative structures, etc.).

[00230] Although only a few example embodiments have been described in detail above, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible in the example embodiments. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure as defined in the following claims. In the claims, means-plus-function clauses are intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents, but also equivalent structures. Thus, although a nail and a screw may not be structural equivalents in that a nail employs a cylindrical surface to secure wooden parts together, whereas a screw employs a helical surface, in the environment of fastening wooden parts, a nail and a screw may be equivalent structures. It is the express intention of the applicant not to invoke 35 U.S.C. § 1 12, paragraph 6 for any limitations of any of the claims herein, except for those in which the claim expressly uses the words "means for" together with an associated function.