Earth Model Selection via Spatial Correlation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current resistivity logging technologies face challenges in accurately selecting a formation model from multiple generated models, often resulting in geologically unrealistic 2D resistivity images due to the lack of consideration for spatial correlations between models, leading to reduced confidence in modeling results.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that generate multiple earth models based on measurements and project them onto a well path, selecting the model with the strongest spatial correlation to improve geological accuracy, using techniques such as discrete cross-correlation to determine the optimal model.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple earth models are generated from resistivity logging measurements, then the completeness of formation model coverage is improved, but the difficulty of selecting the geologically accurate model increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodel selection accuracyVSAvoidmodel selection complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback by using spatial correlation analysis between adjacent models to evaluate and select the most geologically accurate model. The correlation metrics provide feedback on model consistency with surrounding formations, enabling systematic selection from multiple generated models rather than arbitrary choice.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces spatial correlation analysis as an intermediary mechanism between model generation and model selection. This intermediary process quantifies the geological plausibility of each model by comparing it with adjacent models, serving as a mediator that bridges the gap between having multiple models and selecting the best one.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If spatial correlation analysis is applied between adjacent earth models, then the geological plausibility of selected models is improved, but the computational processing time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegeological accuracyVSAvoidprocessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies partial action by performing spatial correlation analysis on key parameters and selected model pairs rather than exhaustively analyzing all possible model combinations. This selective approach maintains geological accuracy while reducing unnecessary computational overhead.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Productivity

If traditional point-by-point inversion is used, then the processing speed is maintained, but the ability to capture formation heterogeneity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinversion speedVSAvoidformation heterogeneity detection
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple point-by-point inversion results into adjacent earth models that can be spatially correlated. By combining individual model outputs into a sequence of adjacent models representing different interpretation scenarios, the method captures formation heterogeneity while maintaining the efficiency of point-by-point processing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS11194072B2Generating an earth model from spatial correlations of equivalent earth models
Publication Date: 2021.12.07 HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES INC
  • US11194072B2 patent drawing
  • US11194072B2 patent drawing
  • US11194072B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A logging system includes an electromagnetic logging tool that collects at least one measurement of a subterranean formation at a borehole. The logging system also includes a processing system that generates a plurality of earth models of the subterranean formation based on the at least one measurement of the subterranean formation. The processing system projects at least one second earth model upon a well path of the borehole, and selects a model of the plurality of models based on a spatial correlation between at least one parameter of the selected model and a corresponding at least one parameter of the at least one second earth model.