Hydrocarbon Accumulation Prediction via Structural Framework Modeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current simulation models fail to comprehensively interpret the structural patterns and kinematic evolution of hydrocarbon accumulations in subsurface geological areas, particularly in Abu Dhabi, where tectonic and salt-related structural patterns are complex, leading to inaccuracies in predicting fold formations and hydrocarbon trapping mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system that creates a structural framework using dynamic geological and geophysical data, including well data, seismic data, and outcrop analogues, to calculate compressional and tensional forces, model fault patterns, and predict relative fold movement, enabling three-dimensional seismic interpretation and characterization of subsurface deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current simulation models are used to predict hydrocarbon accumulations, then the process is simple and quick, but the accuracy and comprehensiveness of structural pattern interpretation is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The simulation model is divided into multiple independent modules: a structural framework creation module that integrates well data, seismic data, and outcrop analogues; a fold formation calculation module that computes compressional and tensional forces; and a fault pattern modeling module that generates fault patterns based on calculated forces. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently while maintaining overall system accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The model transitions from two-dimensional cross-sectional analysis to three-dimensional seismic interpretation, enabling comprehensive characterization of subsurface deformation in multiple dimensions. This dimensional enhancement allows for more accurate prediction of fold formations and fault patterns that cannot be captured in 2D representations.
2Manufacturing precision
If detailed structural frameworks with multiple data sources are created, then the accuracy of fold formation calculation improves, but the data processing complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The structural framework is created in advance by integrating well data, seismic data, and outcrop analogues before the actual fold formation calculations are performed. This preliminary framework establishment provides a robust foundation that accelerates subsequent simulations and reduces iterative processing time.
Solution Approach 2:
Outcrop analogues are used as simplified representations of complex subsurface structures. By studying and replicating the structural patterns observed in exposed rock formations, the model can predict subsurface fold formations without requiring exhaustive processing of all subsurface data points.
3Loss of information
If comprehensive fault pattern modeling is performed, then the understanding of hydrocarbon trapping mechanisms improves, but the computational resources required increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fault pattern modeling is performed dynamically based on calculated compressional and tensional forces rather than using static, pre-defined fault patterns. This dynamic approach allows the model to adapt fault patterns to the specific structural conditions of each simulation, providing more accurate predictions without requiring exhaustive computational resources for all possible scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for determination of hydrocarbon accumulations in a subsurface geological area are disclosed. The method comprises creating a structural framework of the subsurface geological area, calculation of a mechanical stress, identifying trapping mechanisms, predicting of a relative fold movement, and estimating of the formation of the hydrocarbon accumulations, and determining the location of the hydrocarbon accumulations in the subsurface geological area. The system used for the determination of the hydrocarbon accumulations comprises an input device for inputting a plurality of data, a properties module for creating a structural framework using the inputted plurality of the data, a processor for the calculation of compressional and tensional forces, fault patterns, and a relative fold movement, an estimation module for estimating the formation of hydrocarbon accumulations, a locator module for determining the presence of hydrocarbon accumulations, and a memory comprising at least one of the structural framework and a data.