Elastic Wave Attenuation Estimation Using CT Image Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for estimating elastic-wave-related properties of rock formations, such as maximum inverse quality factor Q−1, are limited by the need for complex laboratory experiments due to the complex pore geometry of natural rock, and there is a desire for quicker, more economic methods to analyze fluid transport properties in subsurface rock formations.
Innovation Solution
A method using computer tomographic (CT) images to segment rock samples into pixels representing pore space and rock grains, determining bulk and shear moduli for mobile and immobile fluids, and calculating elastic-wave-related properties from these moduli, allowing for real-time estimation during drilling operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional laboratory experiments are used to measure elastic-wave attenuation, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital copy of the rock formation's pore structure using CT imaging, allowing virtual experimentation without physical laboratory tests. The CT scan generates a three-dimensional model that can be analyzed computationally to determine elastic-wave attenuation properties, eliminating the need for time-consuming physical experiments while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical laboratory experimentation with computational analysis. Instead of physically measuring wave attenuation in the lab, the system uses CT images to create digital models and performs simulations to calculate attenuation properties, substituting mechanical measurement processes with computer-based analysis.
2Measurement precision
If traditional laboratory experiments are used to measure elastic-wave attenuation, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses CT imaging to create a digital copy of the rock formation's internal structure, replacing complex physical measurement apparatus with a imaging system. The three-dimensional digital model allows analysis of pore geometry and fluid distribution without requiring complex laboratory equipment, simplifying the overall system while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes mechanical measurement systems with computational algorithms. The system processes CT images through image processing and numerical simulation to calculate attenuation properties, replacing complex mechanical experiment setups with computer-based analysis tools.
3Productivity
If CT imaging is used to analyze rock formations, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary image processing and segmentation to prepare detailed three-dimensional models of pore structures before conducting attenuation calculations. By pre-processing the CT images to accurately identify pore spaces, rock matrix, and fluid distributions, the system ensures that subsequent calculations based on these models achieve both speed and precision in property estimation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses computational simulations based on CT images to determine elastic-wave-related properties. The system employs numerical methods to calculate how elastic waves would propagate through the modeled pore structure, providing accurate attenuation values without requiring physical wave measurements, thus maintaining precision while improving productivity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables rapid and economic estimation of elastic-wave-related properties, reducing the need for laboratory experiments and providing accurate data on rock formations during drilling, improving seismic imaging and hydrocarbon reservoir identification.
Implementation Method 1
devices for generating CT images of samples such as drill cuttings have become available. Such CT image generating devices (CT scanners) typically produce three-dimensional gray scale images of the samples analyzed in the scanner.
Implementation Method 2
Seismic (or elastic) waves attenuate as they propagate through rock formations in the Earth's the subsurface. Attenuation means that the amplitude (of stress or deformation) of such waves decreases as the wave travels a certain distance through the rock formations.
Implementation Method 3
The image is segmented into pixels each representing pore space or rock grain.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for estimating at least one elastic-wave-related property of a porous material from a sample thereof includes making a three dimensional tomographic image of the sample of the material. The image is segmented into pixels each representing pore space or rock grain. Bulk modulus and shear modulus of the porous material are determined from the segmented image at a frequency corresponding to mobile fluid. Bulk modulus and shear modulus of the porous material are determined from the segmented image at a frequency corresponding to immobile fluid. The at least one elastic-wave-related property is determined from the mobile fluid and immobile fluid moduli. The method includes at least one of storing and displaying the at least one elastic-wave-related property so determined.