Corrected-Depth Stratigraphic Profiles for Unconventional Exploration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hydrocarbon exploration methods struggle to accurately target hydrocarbon deposits in unconventional sources like shale rocks and tight rock formations, as they are complex and expensive, necessitating improved stratigraphic methods for precise targeting.
Innovation Solution
A method for determining stratigraphic correlations between sets of stratigraphic measurements from different lateral wells, using corrected depth parameters and graphic correlation techniques, to construct a stratigraphic composite profile and sedimentary depositional model, enabling targeted hydrocarbon exploration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional hydrocarbon exploration methods are used to target hydrocarbon deposits in unconventional sources, then the exploration can be conducted with existing technology, but the accuracy of targeting is insufficient and the process becomes complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transforming depth measurements from lateral wells through mathematical correction to account for wellbore inclination and azimuth. This involves changing the reference frame from wellbore coordinates to stratigraphic coordinates, enabling accurate correlation of measurements across multiple wells without requiring complex physical intervention in the subsurface
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary computational framework that acts as a mediator between raw wellbore measurements and stratigraphic interpretations. This intermediary system processes depth parameters, applies corrections for wellbore geometry, and generates corrected depth values that enable accurate stratigraphic correlation, thereby resolving the contradiction between measurement accuracy and method complexity
2Measurement precision
If conventional hydrocarbon exploration methods are used to target hydrocarbon deposits in unconventional sources, then the existing technology can be utilized, but the cost of implementation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the exploration system to correct its own depth measurements through mathematical transformations. The method uses the wellbore geometry data and depth measurements already acquired during drilling to automatically compute corrected depths and establish stratigraphic correlations, eliminating the need for additional expensive field operations or external calibration processes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical field operations with computational methods. Instead of requiring additional physical measurements, core sampling, or subsurface intervention to improve targeting accuracy, the invention uses mathematical algorithms to correct depth parameters and establish stratigraphic relationships, thereby reducing exploration costs while maintaining high measurement precision
Data Source
AI summary
A method comprises determining stratigraphic correlations between two or more sets of stratigraphic measurements. Each set of stratigraphic measurements is obtained from a different lateral well in a region.