Geological Age Model Generation via Patch-Link Relationships
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional seismic interpretation methods are time-consuming and inefficient in extracting and linking large numbers of seismic horizons from datasets, particularly due to lateral heterogeneity and structural complexity, which hinders the generation of accurate geological age models.
Innovation Solution
An automated method that abstracts seismic data into a limited number of patches, defines patch-links based on spatial-temporal relationships, and generates a geological age model by solving for the relative age of each patch using these links, allowing for the incorporation of a priori constraints and geological principles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If conventional seismic interpretation methods are used to extract and link large numbers of seismic horizons, then comprehensive geological coverage is achieved, but the process becomes time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the continuous seismic horizon extraction problem into discrete patch-based units. By dividing the subsurface into overlapping patches and processing them independently with automated algorithms, the system can efficiently handle large numbers of horizons without proportionally increasing processing time. This segmentation enables parallel processing and reduces the computational burden of traditional continuous horizon tracking methods.
2Measurement precision
If lateral heterogeneity and structural complexity are fully accounted for in horizon extraction, then interpretation accuracy is improved, but data complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by allowing each patch to have its own optimized extraction parameters and characteristics. The system adapts to local geological conditions within each patch while maintaining overall consistency through the linking mechanism. This enables accurate handling of lateral heterogeneity and structural complexity without requiring a single complex model for the entire dataset, thereby managing data complexity more effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The patch-linking mechanism serves as an intermediary that connects locally extracted horizons into a coherent regional model. This intermediary layer reconciles local variations in horizon geometry and timing while maintaining geological consistency across patch boundaries, effectively managing the complexity introduced by lateral heterogeneity and structural features.
3Productivity
If a limited number of patches are used to abstract seismic data, then data complexity is reduced and processing efficiency is improved, but the ability to capture detailed subsurface features may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested structure where multiple overlapping patches are contained within a larger regional framework. Each patch captures detailed local features independently, while the nesting of these patches within the broader model preserves regional context and continuity. This nested approach allows efficient processing of individual patches while maintaining comprehensive subsurface feature representation through the hierarchical structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-defining patch boundaries and overlap regions before horizon extraction. This preliminary structuring enables efficient automated processing while ensuring that all significant subsurface features are captured within at least one patch. The pre-planned patch configuration optimizes both processing efficiency and feature coverage without requiring post-processing adjustments.
Data Source
AI summary
In contrast to existing methods wherein derived horizons are interpreted in isolation, the disclosure provides a process that does not interpret patches themselves but determines the relationships between patches, in order to associate and link patches to derive a holistic geological interpretation. Predefined patches, such as from a pre-interpreted suite, are received as inputs to determine the relationships and derive an interpretation for a complete volume. In one aspect the disclosure provides an automated method of generating a geological age model for a subterranean area. In one example, the automated method includes: (1) abstracting seismic data of a subsurface into a limited number of patches, (2) abstracting the patches by defining patch-links between the patches, and (3) generating a geological age model of the subsurface by solving for the relative geological age of each of the patches using the patch-links.