Gimbal lock system for seismic sensors

摘要

An apparatus and method for selectively locking the orientation of seismic data sensor capable of detecting data regarding a seismic event. A gimbal orients the sensor into a selected vertical orientation, and a switch operates a clutch to lock the sensor from further movement. A controller can identify a time interval correlating with a seismic event, and the controller operates the switch to lock the sensor before the seismic event begins. After the completion of the seismic event, the switch unlocks the sensor so that the gimbal can permit reorientation of the sensor. The locking mechanism eliminates noise associated with moving gimbal components and is suitable for land based and marine seismic operations.