Geometrical Element Spread Function for Seismic Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional seismic interpretation methods face challenges in accurately determining rock properties of subterranean formations due to ambiguities in seismic-well-tie and loss of resolution caused by 1-D time domain seismic wavelets, especially with varying angles and the presence of multiples and anelastic attenuation in subsurface geology.
Innovation Solution
The method employs a geometrical element spread function to improve horizontal and vertical seismic resolution by creating synthetic seismic data through 2D/3D demigration and reverse time migration, allowing for better representation of seismic imaging at finite angles and tying seismic data to well log data in the depth domain.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If 1-D time domain seismic wavelet is used for seismic interpretation, then the processing is simple and fast, but the resolution is lost and interpretive ambiguities occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 1-D time domain seismic wavelet to 2D/3D depth domain geometrical element spread functions. This dimensional upgrade allows the system to maintain processing efficiency while significantly improving seismic resolution and eliminating interpretive ambiguities by incorporating spatial information in multiple dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameters of seismic imaging by moving from time domain to depth domain, and from 1-D wavelets to 2D/3D spread functions. This parameter transformation enables simultaneous achievement of computational efficiency and high-resolution imaging by adapting the mathematical representation to the physical geometry of subsurface structures.
2Use of energy by moving object
If traditional 1-D time domain seismic wavelet is used, then the method is computationally efficient, but accuracy of rock property determination deteriorates due to multiples and anelastic attenuation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces geometrical element spread functions as an intermediary between the seismic data and rock property determination. These spread functions act as a bridge that accounts for multiples and anelastic attenuation effects, enabling accurate rock property extraction while maintaining computational efficiency through the depth domain framework.
3Ease of operation
If 1-D time domain convolutional model is used, then the processing is straightforward, but the model breaks down for varying angles between well and geologic horizon
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the angle limitation by transitioning to 2D/3D depth domain geometrical element spread functions. This dimensional expansion allows the model to naturally handle varying angles between wells and geologic horizons while maintaining processing simplicity through the unified depth domain framework.
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 enhances the accuracy of rock property determination and hydrocarbon distribution analysis, reducing uncertainties and improving the confidence in well placement and reservoir modeling by generating synthetic images that simulate the response of geometrical elements to elastic waves.
Implementation Method 1
Seismology exploration includes generating seismic waves to map subsurface structures. The seismic waves propagate from one or more sources into the earth and reflect from boundaries between subsurface structures.
Implementation Method 2
The seismic waves propagate from one or more sources into the earth and reflect from boundaries between subsurface structures.
Implementation Method 3
creating one or more synthetic images from the one or more seismic images
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to determining rock properties of subterranean formations and learning the distribution of hydrocarbons in the formations. A geometrical element spread function is disclosed that quantifies distortion of the geology as seen by the geophysicists who process seismic images of the subterranean formations. A method of determining the rock properties using the seismic images and synthetic images is provided. In one example, the method includes: (1) obtaining seismic data from a subterranean formation using a seismic acquisition system, (2) generating one or more seismic images of the subterranean formation using the seismic data, (3) creating one or more synthetic images from the one or more seismic images, and (4) determining rock properties of the subterranean formation based on the one or more seismic images and the one or more synthetic images.