Fault-Side Stratigraphic Framework for Accurate Subsurface Modeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seismic data interpretation and modeling techniques face challenges in accurately imaging and modeling subsurface regions near faults due to issues like fault shadows and inconsistencies in fault models, leading to inefficiencies and delays in field operations.
Innovation Solution
A subsurface stratigraphic framework that generates local horizon models and computes two-dimensional stratigraphy directly on fault sides, using seismic data and fault models to improve fault representation and reduce computational demands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional seismic data interpretation techniques are used to image subsurface regions near faults, then the overall imaging process can be completed, but the accuracy and reliability of the imaging is reduced due to fault shadows and inconsistencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the subsurface region into distinct zones: a first subsurface region on one side of the fault and a second subsurface region on the other side. Separate horizon models are created for each region, allowing independent modeling that accounts for fault-related imaging artifacts in each zone rather than attempting to model the entire region uniformly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different modeling approaches to different regions based on their proximity to and relationship with the fault. Local horizon models are created specifically for regions near the fault, while other regions are modeled separately. This allows each region to be modeled with appropriate detail and methodology, improving overall accuracy without being constrained by fault-related artifacts in distant regions.
2Measurement precision
If comprehensive subsurface modeling is performed to improve accuracy, then better fault representation is achieved, but computational resources and time requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the modeling process into distinct steps: creating separate horizon models for the first and second subsurface regions, then combining these with the fault model to generate the final integrated model. This segmentation allows computational resources to be allocated efficiently to each region rather than attempting to process the entire subsurface volume uniformly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional three-dimensional volumetric modeling to a two-dimensional stratigraphic framework that maps horizons and faults in a simplified dimensional space. This dimensional reduction maintains essential geological relationships while significantly reducing computational complexity and resource requirements.
3Manufacturing precision
If detailed horizon modeling is performed near faults, then stratigraphic accuracy is improved, but the complexity of the modeling process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the horizon modeling process into separate operations for the first and second subsurface regions, with each region having its own local horizon model. This segmentation simplifies the overall process by allowing independent, standardized modeling operations in each region rather than requiring complex integrated processing across the entire fault zone.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a fault model as an intermediary element that connects and integrates the separate horizon models of the first and second subsurface regions. This intermediary fault model provides a structured framework for combining the regional models, reducing the complexity of direct integration while maintaining stratigraphic accuracy at the fault interface.
Data Source
AI summary
A method can include accessing data for a subsurface region that includes horizons that extend to a fault, where the data includes at least seismic data; selecting a portion of the data that is within a distance range of the fault; creating local horizon models for the horizons using at least the portion of the data; generating on-fault horizon data using the local horizon models and a fault model of the fault; computing two-dimensional stratigraphy for a side of the fault based on at least a portion of the on-fault horizon data; and performing a simulation of one or more physical phenomena for the subsurface region using at least the fault model of the fault and the two-dimensional stratigraphy for the side of the fault.