Reservoir Simulation Misfit Classification Using CNN Image Analysis

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Solution Overview

Problem

Reservoir simulation models often require time-consuming and error-prone manual adjustments to reduce misfit with field data, which is costly and reliant on engineering expertise.

Innovation Solution

Automated classification of misfit in reservoir simulation models using trained classifiers based on image processing of simulation and field data, allowing for efficient and accurate adjustments to improve model accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If manual adjustments are used to reduce misfit in reservoir simulation models, then model accuracy can be improved, but the process becomes time-consuming and resource-intensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodel accuracyVSAvoidadjustment time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical review and adjustment processes with an automated image processing system. Trained classifiers automatically analyze misfit patterns in simulation results by processing visual representations of data, eliminating the need for manual engineer review and enabling rapid identification and correction of model errors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service through automated classification and adjustment recommendation. The trained classifiers independently identify misfit types and suggest modifications without requiring continuous human intervention, allowing the simulation model to self-correct through automated feedback loops.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If manual review of simulation results is performed, then misfit can be identified, but the process requires expensive engineering expertise and is error-prone

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemisfit identification accuracyVSAvoidexpertise requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent substitutes manual expert review with automated image processing classifiers. These trained models systematically analyze simulation results and identify misfit patterns objectively, eliminating human error and the need for specialized engineering expertise while maintaining or improving identification accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system creates a visual copy or representation of the simulation data that can be processed and analyzed. By converting simulation results into image formats that classifiers can process, the system enables automated analysis that replicates and enhances human expert capabilities without requiring actual experts to perform the review.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Productivity

If automated image processing is used to classify misfit, then processing speed increases, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing speedVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary action by pre-training classifiers on labeled datasets before deployment. This upfront preparation creates ready-to-use models that can rapidly process simulation results without requiring complex real-time decision logic, achieving high processing speed through pre-computed knowledge.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transforms simulation data into image parameters suitable for classification. By converting numerical simulation results into visual representations with specific graphical parameters, the system enables the use of image processing algorithms that operate efficiently on standardized input formats, simplifying the processing pipeline.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS20250378234A1Reservoir simulation method assessment using deep convolutional neural networks
Publication Date: 2025.12.11 SAUDI ARABIAN OIL CO
  • US20250378234A1 patent drawing
  • US20250378234A1 patent drawing
  • US20250378234A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to computer-implemented methods, software, and systems for automatically assessing simulation results obtained from simulation to predict production of a reservoir. Simulation results and observed field data can be obtained based on executing a simulation model for predicting production of a reservoir in a field for a period of time. The observed field data is obtained from the field and for the reservoir in production during the period of time. A type of misfit of the simulation model can be determined when predicting the production. The one or more trained classifiers are trained to classify the type of misfit is based on an image processing of the observed field data and the simulation results. A modification is determined for the simulation model to adjust future simulation results to reduce the misfit of the simulation model. The simulation model is adjusted based on the determined modification.