Automated MEM Parameter Estimation from Ultrasonic Image Logs

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Mechanical earth models (MEMs) for well design rely heavily on manual interpretations of logging data, leading to variability and inaccuracy in estimating in-situ stresses and rock mechanical properties, particularly for determining the maximum horizontal stress, which affects wellbore stability and hydraulic fracturing success.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that utilize ultrasonic and resistivity image logs, combined with mechanical caliper logs, to automatically estimate borehole geometry and subsequently derive MEM parameters, such as in-situ stresses and rock mechanical properties, using image log interpretation engines and simulation engines on processors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual interpretation of logging data is used to determine MEM parameters, then expert knowledge can be applied, but the results vary greatly between users and lack consistency

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconsistency of MEM parameter estimationVSAvoidmanual interpretation process

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical interpretation process with an automated image processing and analysis system. The system uses computer algorithms to automatically interpret wellbore images, extract geometric features, and calculate MEM parameters, eliminating the variability inherent in manual expert interpretation while maintaining the analytical capabilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service by allowing the computational algorithm to automatically process the logging data and generate MEM parameters without requiring continuous expert intervention. The automated workflow includes image acquisition, processing, feature extraction, and parameter calculation, all performed by the system itself.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If automated image log interpretation is implemented, then consistency and productivity improve, but accuracy may be reduced compared to expert manual interpretation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespeed of MEM parameter estimationVSAvoidaccuracy of MEM parameter estimation

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-processing the image logs to enhance quality, correct distortions, and standardize the data before analysis. This includes calibration procedures and parameter optimization that prepare the data for accurate automated interpretation, ensuring both speed and precision are achieved.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the automated interpretation results are validated and refined through iterative optimization. The algorithm adjusts its parameters based on the quality of results obtained, continuously improving accuracy while maintaining automated processing speed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

3Measurement precision

If comprehensive borehole geometry analysis is performed, then MEM parameter accuracy improves, but the complexity of the system increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of borehole geometry estimationVSAvoidcomplexity of image log interpretation system

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the complex analysis task into distinct modules: image acquisition, pre-processing, feature extraction, geometric parameter calculation, and MEM parameter estimation. Each module handles a specific aspect of the analysis, making the overall complex system manageable and maintainable while achieving comprehensive borehole geometry analysis.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS20240329272A1Method and system for mechanical earth model parameter estimation

Publication Date: 2024.10.03 SAUDI ARABIAN OIL CO

AI summary

A method for obtaining mechanical earth model (MEM) parameters, the method involving obtaining an ultrasonic image log for a borehole, based on the ultrasonic image log, obtaining an estimate of a borehole geometry for an entire circumference of the borehole in an interval of the ultrasonic image log, and estimating the MEM parameters using the estimate of the borehole geometry.