Microseismic SET Fracture Skeletonization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional surface seismic reflection techniques are ineffective for monitoring the movement and position of fluid fronts in subsurface fracturing operations due to the physical dimensions of fractures being shorter than detectable limits and low seismic velocity contrasts within formations, which obscures the detection of fractures and faults.
Innovation Solution
The method employs microseismic seismic emission tomography (SET) using an array of sensors to record and process microseismic data, selecting a skeletonization time period, subdividing it into time windows, generating and filtering voxel values, and stacking them to produce a three-dimensional spatial representation of fractures or faults for near-real-time monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional surface seismic reflection techniques are used, then the method is simple and widely applicable, but the physical dimensions of fractures are shorter than detectable limits and low seismic velocity contrasts within formations obscure the detection of fractures and faults
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional seismic approach by using passive microseismic emission tomography instead of active surface seismic reflection. Rather than sending seismic waves into the ground and measuring reflections, the system uses an array of sensors to detect and locate microseismic events emitted by fractures themselves, transforming the detection paradigm from active to passive and enabling visualization of fracture networks that were previously undetectable
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional surface seismic reflection data to three-dimensional fracture network visualization through microseismic event location and tomographic imaging. By processing microseismic event locations, orientations, and magnitudes into 3D spatial representations, the system provides comprehensive fracture network characterization that captures the complex three-dimensional geometry of subsurface fractures
2Measurement precision
If microseismic seismic emission tomography is used to detect fractures, then the detection precision is improved, but the device complexity and data processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a multi-functional sensor array system that simultaneously performs multiple tasks: detecting microseismic events, locating fracture positions, determining fracture orientations, and visualizing fracture networks. The same sensor array and processing system handle all these functions through integrated algorithms, reducing the need for separate specialized equipment and optimizing resource utilization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates simplified three-dimensional visual representations (copies) of complex fracture networks based on processed microseismic data. These visual models serve as accurate but manageable representations that can be easily analyzed and interpreted, transforming complex raw data into intuitive graphical displays that maintain fidelity to the actual fracture geometry while being computationally tractable
3Productivity
If real-time monitoring of fluid front movement is implemented, then the productivity and operational efficiency are improved, but the data acquisition and processing time requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary processing steps that prepare microseismic data for rapid analysis during fracturing operations. By pre-processing sensor data, establishing baseline conditions, and preparing processing algorithms before actual fracturing begins, the system minimizes real-time processing delays and enables faster detection and visualization of fracture growth as it occurs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a feedback loop where microseismic data is continuously collected, processed, and visualized in near-real-time during hydraulic fracturing operations. This feedback mechanism provides immediate information about fracture propagation, allowing operators to monitor fracture growth, adjust injection parameters, and optimize fracturing efficiency dynamically based on actual subsurface conditions
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
This approach enables accurate, near-real-time imaging and monitoring of fracture networks, improving the efficiency and effectiveness of hydraulic fracturing operations by providing a clear representation of fracture growth and location, thereby optimizing hydrocarbon extraction from low-permeability formations like shale.
Implementation Method 1
Seismic energy emitted by fracturing a geologic formation, which is caused by the injection of high pressure fracturing fluid into the formation, is sensed and recorded
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are various embodiments of methods and systems for providing a graphical skeletonization representation of fractures and faults in a subsurface of the earth. According to some embodiments, as fracturing fluid is pumped into a target geologic formation through a well bore, and as the formation fractures or faults in response to the fracturing fluid being pumped under high pressure therein, seismic wavefronts are generated at points of fracture related to movement of a fluid pressure wave induced by fracturing or other fluids moving through the formation, or the extraction of fluids such as gas and/or oil from the formation, which are detected by surface and/or downhole sensors. Data corresponding to signals generated by the surface and/or downhole sensors are recorded and subsequently analyzed to determine in near real-time the locations of the fractures or faults using skeletonization data processing techniques and methods.