Implicit Function Structural Model for Stratigraphy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for modeling sedimentary basins using structural models are limited in accurately representing stratigraphy and curvature variations, often resulting in suboptimal models that can impact geological exploration and resource production.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the receipt of spatially located geophysical data, solving a system of equations with smoothness and weighted curvature minimization criteria to generate multi-dimensional implicit function values, which are then used to create a structural model that accurately characterizes stratigraphy and represents geological features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional structural modeling methods are used to represent sedimentary basin features, then the modeling process is simpler, but the accuracy of stratigraphy and curvature representation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the structural modeling problem from traditional geometric parameter representation to implicit function parameter representation. By defining geological surfaces as level sets of implicit functions F(x,y,z)=C, the model can accurately capture complex stratigraphic geometries and curvature variations while maintaining computational tractability through parameter optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical mesh-based modeling approaches with an implicit function-based mathematical system. This substitution eliminates the need for complex mesh generation and manipulation while achieving higher accuracy in representing stratigraphic surfaces and their curvatures through continuous mathematical functions.
2Productivity
If simple modeling approaches are used, then the computational process is faster, but the ability to handle stratigraphic complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex stratigraphic modeling problem into distinct implicit function representations for different geological surfaces and features. Each stratigraphic layer and structural element is represented by its own implicit function, allowing independent optimization and manipulation while maintaining overall model consistency and computational efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A method can include receiving spatially located geophysical data of a geologic region as acquired by one or more sensors; solving a system of equations for multi-dimensional implicit function values within a multi-dimensional space that represents the geologic region where the system of equations are subject to a smoothness constraint and subject to a weighted curvature minimization criterion at a plurality of spatially located points based on the spatially located geophysical data; and rendering to a display, a structural model of the geologic region based at least in part on the multi-dimensional implicit function values where the structural model characterizes stratigraphy of the geologic region.