AI Seismic Interpretation for Accurate Subsurface Structure Mapping

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing seismic data interpretation methods struggle to accurately identify and locate subsurface structures such as horizons, faults, and geobodies, which are crucial for hydrocarbon trap identification and reservoir characterization, limiting the accuracy of subsurface modeling and resource extraction operations.

Innovation Solution

A system and method utilizing a framework like PETREL and OCEAN, integrated with DELFI cognitive exploration and production environment, employs machine learning and AI to enhance seismic data interpretation, enabling accurate modeling and simulation of geologic environments, including meshless techniques and computational frameworks for improved subsurface characterization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional seismic data interpretation methods are used, then the process is simpler and requires less computational resources, but the accuracy of identifying and locating subsurface structures is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of subsurface structure identificationVSAvoidcomplexity of interpretation system
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical/manual seismic interpretation methods with an automated computer-based system that uses machine learning algorithms and artificial intelligence to analyze seismic data, identify subsurface structures, and generate geological models automatically

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces trained machine learning models and AI algorithms as intermediaries between raw seismic data and geological interpretation, enabling the system to automatically recognize patterns and features that would be difficult for traditional methods to detect

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If traditional seismic interpretation methods are used, then the system is easier to operate, but the productivity and efficiency of subsurface modeling is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveefficiency of subsurface modelingVSAvoidease of system operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables the seismic interpretation system to perform automated analysis, model generation, and feature identification without requiring extensive manual intervention, allowing the system to serve itself in processing and interpreting seismic data

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs pre-trained machine learning models and algorithms that have been prepared in advance to rapidly process seismic data, enabling quick generation of subsurface models and reducing overall processing time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If traditional interpretation methods are used, then less computational resources are required, but the accuracy of reservoir characterization is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of reservoir characterizationVSAvoidcomputational resources required
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the interpretation process by changing from deterministic algorithms to probabilistic machine learning models, allowing the system to handle uncertainty in seismic data and provide more reliable reservoir characterization through statistical analysis

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP3811119B1Seismic data interpretation system
Publication Date: 2026.02.18 SERVICES PETROLIERS SCHLUMBERGER SA
  • EP3811119B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3811119B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3811119B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A method can include accessing a trained machine model as trained to analyze digital seismic data of a region with respect to a structural feature of a geologic region; analyzing at least a portion of the digital seismic data using the trained machine model to generate results; and outputting the results as indicators of spatial locations of the structural feature of the geologic region.