Marine Seismic Imaging via Real-Time Full-Waveform Inversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for constructing subsurface images during offshore marine seismic data acquisition are hindered by significant time delays due to data transmission and processing, making it difficult to achieve near-real-time imaging and high-resolution velocity field determination.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the acquisition of marine seismic data, real-time transfer to a programmable computer, and application of acoustic 3-D full-waveform inversion to generate a high-resolution 3-D velocity field, followed by migration to produce an image of the earth's subsurface in near-real time, allowing for timely image generation during data acquisition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional data transmission and processing methods are used for marine seismic data, then complete and accurate subsurface imaging is achieved, but significant time delays occur making near-real-time imaging impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the seismic data processing workflow into distinct modular stages: data acquisition, quality control, preprocessing (deconvolution, noise removal), velocity analysis, and imaging. This segmentation allows parallel processing of different data streams and enables incremental imaging at each stage, reducing overall processing time while maintaining imaging quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary velocity analysis and preprocessing operations on seismic data immediately after acquisition, before complete data collection is finalized. This preliminary action enables near-real-time imaging by preparing data in advance for subsequent imaging operations, rather than waiting for complete dataset accumulation.
2Measurement precision
If high-resolution velocity field determination is pursued through detailed processing, then imaging accuracy improves, but processing time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial velocity analysis by focusing computational resources on determining velocity fields for specific depth ranges or geological targets of interest, rather than computing complete high-resolution velocity fields for the entire subsurface. This selective approach maintains sufficient velocity resolution for imaging purposes while dramatically reducing processing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts processing parameters such as velocity model complexity, inversion resolution, and imaging algorithms based on data quality, depth, and target characteristics. This adaptive parameter adjustment optimizes the balance between velocity field resolution and processing speed, applying high-resolution methods only where necessary.
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
Enables the construction of high-quality subsurface images and determination of high-resolution velocity fields in near-real time, facilitating immediate data correction and optimization of subsequent data acquisition, reducing costs associated with delays in offshore operations.
Implementation Method 1
a seismic signal is generated on or near the earth's surface and then travels downward into the subsurface of the earth
Implementation Method 2
Seismic energy sources are used to generate the seismic signal which, after propagating into the earth, is at least partially reflected by subsurface seismic reflectors
Implementation Method 3
The reflected seismic energy is detected by seismic sensors (also called seismic receivers) at or near the surface of the earth, in an overlying body of water, or at known depths in boreholes
Data Source
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AI summary
Marine seismic data are acquired, using a seismic vessel. The acquired marine seismic data are transferred in near-real time to a programmable computer. The programmable computer is used to perform the following. An acoustic 3-D full-waveform inversion is applied to the transferred marine seismic data, generating a high-resolution 3-D velocity field in near-real time. The velocity field is used to apply migration to the transferred marine seismic data, generating an image of the earth's subsurface in near-real time.