Automated Formation Top Depth Selection Using Well Logs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current formation top predictions in the oil and gas industry are subjective and prone to errors due to reliance on human expertise, leading to inaccuracies in hydrocarbon exploration and production.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing a computer processor to determine the formation top depth by analyzing well logs from training wells using statistical interpolation methods and correlation scores, optimizing the depth selection process to minimize human error.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual formation top prediction methods are used, then human expertise can be applied to interpret geological data, but subjectivity and errors are introduced into the prediction process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical interpretation process with an automated computer-based system that uses algorithms to analyze well logs and predict formation top depths, eliminating human subjectivity while maintaining predictive capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service automation where the computer processor independently performs data analysis, correlation calculations, and depth predictions without requiring continuous human intervention, while still allowing human oversight when needed
2Measurement precision
If automated computer-based methods are used, then objectivity and precision are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal system that can handle multiple types of well logs (gamma ray, resistivity, sonic) and apply various statistical interpolation methods through a single automated platform, reducing the need for multiple specialized tools while maintaining precision
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameters of the prediction process by using statistical algorithms and correlation scores instead of manual interpretation criteria, enabling precise automated calculations while managing complexity through parameter-based control
3Reliability
If statistical interpolation methods are used, then prediction accuracy is enhanced, but computational requirements and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-processing well log data and establishing correlation frameworks before actual predictions are needed, allowing the statistical interpolation methods to execute more efficiently when predictions are required
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements optimized computational algorithms that skip unnecessary calculation steps and directly compute the most relevant correlation scores and interpolated depths, reducing processing time while maintaining statistical rigor
Data Source
AI summary
A method may include obtaining a request to determine automatically a depth of a formation top for a well in a geological region of interest. The method may include obtaining various well logs regarding the well and various wells in the geological region of interest. The method may include determining various depth values using the various well logs and a statistical interpolation method. The method may further include determining a final depth of the well using the various depth values and a searching method.