High-Resolution Lithology Model via Dynamic Boundary Curves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mathematical models of geological formations for hydrocarbon production lack accuracy in representing rock fractures and faults, leading to incomplete estimates of producible hydrocarbons and unreliable drilling and production decisions.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method generates a high-resolution lithology model by determining a low-resolution lithology volumetric model, comparing it to high-resolution imaging logs, calculating dynamic boundary curves for moving windows, and using these curves to create a high-resolution model that controls drilling equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a low-resolution lithology volumetric model is used for subsurface formation evaluation, then the computational complexity is reduced and processing speed is improved, but the measurement precision and manufacturing precision of the formation model deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the formation model into multiple resolutions: a low-resolution volumetric model for overall structure and high-resolution imaging logs for detailed lithology boundaries. This allows the system to process data at different levels of detail, reducing overall computational complexity while maintaining high precision where needed through the integration of multiple resolution layers
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by applying high-resolution imaging log data specifically at lithology boundaries and interfaces where precision is critical, while using lower-resolution data in homogeneous zones. This selective application of resolution levels optimizes the balance between measurement precision and processing complexity by concentrating computational resources where they are most needed
2Measurement precision
If high-resolution imaging logs are used to improve lithology model accuracy, then the measurement precision is improved, but the loss of time and computational resources increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by first processing and integrating low-resolution volumetric model data to establish the overall formation structure and lithology distribution. This preliminary framework is then enhanced by selectively integrating high-resolution imaging log data only where needed, rather than processing all high-resolution data from scratch, thereby reducing total processing time while maintaining accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements partial action by selectively applying high-resolution imaging log integration only to specific zones where lithology boundaries require enhanced precision, rather than uniformly processing the entire formation volume at high resolution. This partial application of high-resolution processing reduces computational time and resource loss while maintaining measurement precision where it matters most
3Manufacturing precision
If dynamic boundary curves are calculated for moving windows to enhance lithology model precision, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the device complexity and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing moving windows that dynamically adjust their position and parameters along the wellbore trajectory. The boundary curves are recalculated adaptively as the window moves through different formation zones, allowing the processing system to maintain high precision without requiring static complex models for the entire formation, thereby managing device complexity through adaptive local processing
Data Source
AI summary
Examples of techniques for generating a high-resolution lithology model for subsurface formation evaluation are disclosed. In one example implementation according to aspects of the present disclosure, a computer-implemented method includes determining, by a processing device, a low-resolution lithology volumetric model. The method further includes comparing, by the processing device, the low-resolution lithology volumetric model to a high-resolution imaging log. The method further includes calculating, by the processing device, a dynamic boundary curve for each of a plurality of moving windows. The method further includes generating, by the processing device, the high-resolution lithology model based at least in part on the calculated dynamic boundary curve for each of the plurality of moving windows. The method further includes controlling a drilling operation based at least in part on the high-resolution lithology model.