Acoustic Processing Workflow for Borehole Slowness Interpretation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing acoustic data processing methods in hydrocarbon exploration fail to effectively manage and facilitate downstream workflows, lacking integration and customization for user-defined processing chains.
Innovation Solution
A system and method involving a graphical user interface (GUI) for organizing acoustic processing elements, enabling user-defined workflows, and integrating slowness estimation through measured and modeled waveforms, with a processor-based engine for advanced inversion and quality control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional acoustic data processing methods are used, then processing can be performed with simple tools, but the system lacks integration and cannot effectively facilitate downstream workflows
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the acoustic processing system into discrete, modular processing elements that can be independently selected and arranged. Each processing element handles a specific function (e.g., wave mode separation, slowness calculation, quality control), allowing the system to be customized for different downstream workflows without requiring complete system redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal processing framework that can handle multiple acoustic wave modes (compressional, shear, Stoneley, flexural) and various processing algorithms within a single integrated system. The modular architecture allows the same framework to serve different downstream applications by simply reconfiguring the processing element chain.
2Ease of operation
If fixed processing algorithms are used, then processing is straightforward, but the system lacks customization for user-defined workflows
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic processing chain where the sequence and configuration of processing elements can be adjusted based on user requirements and specific data characteristics. The system transitions from static, fixed algorithms to a flexible architecture where processing workflows can be customized while maintaining ease of operation through standardized interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing framework that sits between raw acoustic data and downstream applications. This framework provides standardized interfaces and common processing functions that simplify user interaction while enabling complex customized workflows through the modular processing elements.
3Measurement precision
If comprehensive acoustic processing is performed, then slowness estimation accuracy improves, but processing time and computational resources increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial processing by allowing users to select only the processing elements necessary for their specific needs. Rather than applying all possible processing algorithms to every dataset, the system enables selective application of processing steps (e.g., skipping certain wave mode separations or quality control checks) to reduce processing time while maintaining adequate accuracy for the application.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary processing steps early in the workflow, such as wave mode separation and initial slowness calculation, so that subsequent processing elements can work with pre-processed data. This reduces the computational burden on later stages and enables parallel processing of multiple data streams.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, article and system are provided for processing and interpreting acoustic data. The method and system includes providing a number of acoustic processing elements, each element being associated with an acoustic mode of a number of acoustic modes of a sonic measurement tool adapted to acquire data representing acoustic measurements in a borehole. In addition the method and system includes providing a user interface to organize a processing chain of the number of acoustic processing elements such that the acoustic processing elements process the acquired data according to a predefined workflow.