Depth-Domain Elastic Model Determination for Seismic Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional seismic data processing methods, such as AVO inversion, require time-consuming transformations between the time and depth domains, and struggle with illumination effects in complex geological settings, leading to inefficiencies and inaccuracies in determining elastic models for subsurface geologic regions.
Innovation Solution
The technique involves determining an elastic model directly in the depth domain using impulse responses and reflection amplitude images from pre-stack seismic data, without intermediate domain transformations, and refining the model by comparing synthetic and actual images to account for complex geology and acquisition geometry effects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If conventional AVO inversion methods are used, then elastic models can be determined, but time-consuming transformations between time and depth domains are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional approach by performing seismic inversion directly in the depth domain rather than transforming from time domain to depth domain. This depth-domain inversion approach eliminates the need for time-depth transformations while still producing accurate elastic models, thereby reducing processing time and improving efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions the inversion process from the time domain to the depth domain, utilizing a different dimensional perspective. This dimensional change allows direct inversion in the depth domain, avoiding the computationally intensive time-depth transformations required by conventional methods.
2Measurement precision
If conventional methods are used, then elastic models can be determined, but illumination effects in complex geological settings cause inaccuracies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs local quality by using depth-dependent illumination correction factors that are specifically tailored to each depth level and geological setting. These local correction factors account for variations in illumination effects at different depths, allowing for accurate elastic model determination in complex geological settings where conventional uniform correction methods fail.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms through iterative inversion processes where the elastic model is repeatedly refined by comparing predicted and actual seismic data. This feedback loop allows the system to automatically adjust and correct for illumination effects, progressively improving the accuracy of the elastic model in complex geological environments.
3Device complexity
If time-domain based inversion is used, then elastic properties can be derived, but domain transformations add complexity and computational burden
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional workflow by performing inversion directly in the depth domain rather than transforming from time domain to depth domain. This approach eliminates the need for complex time-depth transformations and reduces computational burden while maintaining the ability to derive accurate elastic properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and eliminates the time-domain transformation step from the conventional inversion workflow. By formulating the inversion problem directly in the depth domain, the method removes the computationally intensive transformation operation, thereby simplifying the overall processing methodology and reducing computational time.
Data Source
AI summary
A technique includes determining at least one impulse response of a modeling and migration of at least one point scatterer in a target structure and based at least in part on the impulse response(s) and a reflection amplitude image, determining a model for at least part of the target structure.