Gated Dissimilarity Matrix for Well Correlation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for correlating wells based on lithostratigraphic analysis can lead to erroneous representations of spatial distributions of rock properties and internal heterogeneity of reservoirs.

Innovation Solution

The method involves generating a dissimilarity matrix for wells based on their subsurface configurations and then creating a gated dissimilarity matrix using marker positions within the wells. This allows for accurate correlation between marker positions in different wells.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If lithostratigraphic correlation methods are used to correlate wells, then well correlation can be performed, but erroneous representations of spatial distributions of rock properties and internal heterogeneity of reservoirs occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of well correlationVSAvoidaccuracy of spatial distribution representation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the correlation approach from lithostratigraphic parameter matching to dissimilarity matrix-based quantitative comparison. By changing the fundamental parameters used for correlation (from rock type matching to comprehensive well log dissimilarity metrics), the method achieves more accurate spatial distribution representations while maintaining correlation capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the traditional mechanical lithostratigraphic correlation method with a computational dissimilarity matrix approach. This substitution uses mathematical algorithms to quantify well similarities and differences, replacing subjective geological interpretation with objective computational analysis, thereby eliminating erroneous correlations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If traditional well correlation methods are used, then correlation process can be completed, but marker positions cannot be accurately linked between different wells

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecorrelation processing efficiencyVSAvoidmarker position correlation accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the dissimilarity matrix continuously refines marker position correlations. By iteratively comparing well logs and adjusting marker alignments based on dissimilarity metrics, the system achieves precise marker position linking while maintaining efficient processing through automated feedback-driven optimization

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary dissimilarity matrix construction and well log comparison before finalizing marker correlations. By pre-processing the well data and establishing dissimilarity relationships in advance, the method prepares accurate reference frameworks that enable precise marker position linking during the correlation process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP4127784B1Comparison of wells using a dissimilarity matrix
Publication Date: 2025.02.12 CHEVRON USA INC
  • EP4127784B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4127784B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4127784B1 patent drawingFigure 3A~3B

AI summary

Well information may define subsurface configuration of different wells. Marker information defining marker positions within the wells may be obtained. A dissimilarity matrix for the wells may generated, with the element values of the dissimilarity matrix determined based on comparison of corresponding subsurface configuration of the wells. A gated dissimilarity matrix may be generated from the dissimilarity matrix based on the marker positions within the wells. The elements values of the gated dissimilarity matrix corresponding to one set of marker positions and not corresponding to the other set of marker positions may be changed. Correlation between the wells may be determined based on the gated dissimilarity matrix such that correlation exists between a marker position in one well and a marker position in another well.