Fusing Microresistivity and Acoustic Data for Organic Richness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for evaluating organic richness in source rocks lack the necessary spatial resolution and orientation detail, leading to inaccurate assessment of hydrocarbon potential in formations.
Innovation Solution
The method involves obtaining microresistivity images and acoustic logging data, fusing them to generate a fused pseudo-acoustic image, and calculating an organic richness image based on this fusion, which provides higher resolution and orientation information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If standard well logging techniques (density, neutron, gamma ray, acoustic, formation resistivity) are used to assess organic richness, then the operation is easier and less expensive, but the spatial resolution is insufficient to yield meaningful information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by using multiple discrete logging tools (microresistivity imaging tool and acoustic logging tool) that measure different properties at high spatial resolution. The microresistivity tool segments the formation into discrete imaging elements that can be individually analyzed, allowing detailed characterization of organic matter distribution while maintaining operational feasibility through standardized logging procedures.
2Loss of information
If the Passey Δ log R technique is used to determine organic richness from resistivity and porosity logs, then some information about organic richness is obtained, but the spatial resolution is insufficient due to averaging effects at single depth points
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple logging techniques by combining microresistivity imaging data with acoustic logging data. This integration allows the system to capture both electrical properties and acoustic properties at the same high spatial resolution locations, eliminating the averaging effects that occur when using single-depth-point measurements. The fused dataset provides comprehensive organic richness information with detailed spatial distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional point measurements (standard resistivity logs at single depth points) to two-dimensional imaging (microresistivity images showing lateral and vertical distribution). This dimensional change enables visualization of organic matter distribution across the formation rather than just at discrete depth intervals, providing superior spatial resolution and eliminating averaging effects.
3Measurement precision
If high measurement and sample resolution is used to accurately quantify organic richness, then detailed organic matter distribution is obtained, but rock samples must be recovered and laboratory analysis is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physical sample recovery and laboratory analysis with in-situ logging measurements. The microresistivity imaging tool and acoustic logging tool directly measure formation properties at high spatial resolution while remaining in the borehole, eliminating the need for core sampling, sample preparation, and laboratory analysis. This substitution maintains measurement accuracy while dramatically reducing operational complexity.
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
This approach enables more accurate and detailed characterization of organic matter distribution and orientation within source rock formations, improving the assessment of hydrocarbon potential with higher resolution and oriented logging techniques.
Implementation Method 1
Each pixel represents a sampled resistivity value between a pair of buttons
Implementation Method 2
an acoustic logging tool that measures acoustic velocity through the formation
Data Source
AI summary
A method for determining organic richness of a formation is disclosed. The method involves obtaining a microresistivity image of the formation, obtaining acoustic logging data for the formation, fusing the microresistivity image with the acoustic logging data to generate a fused pseudo-acoustic image of the formation, and determining an organic richness image based on the fused pseudo-acoustic image. The difference between the fused pseudo-acoustic image and the microresistivity image indicates organic richness.