Seismic Event Location Using Known Source Events
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current seismic data processing methods face challenges in accurately locating seismic events and updating velocity models in real-time during hydraulic fracturing operations, leading to inefficiencies in understanding subsurface structures and fracturing processes.
Innovation Solution
The method involves using known source events, such as perforation shots, to determine the location of seismic events through relative locators and update velocity models by calculating and minimizing differences in travel times, allowing for near-real-time processing and improved subsurface imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional seismic data processing methods are used to locate seismic events and update velocity models, then processing can be performed, but accuracy is reduced due to velocity model errors and real-time processing efficiency is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by using known source events (perforation shots with precisely known locations) to pre-determine and update velocity models before processing microseismic events. This preliminary velocity model update reduces errors in subsequent location calculations, improving accuracy without compromising real-time processing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces known source events as an intermediary element between the seismic network and microseismic events. These known sources serve as reference points that mediate the location process, enabling more accurate velocity model updates and event location determination while maintaining processing efficiency.
2Productivity
If conventional seismic data processing methods are used, then processing can be performed, but efficiency is reduced due to inability to process data in near-real-time during hydraulic fracturing operations
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary velocity model updates using known source events before microseismic event location is required. This preliminary action enables near-real-time processing during hydraulic fracturing operations while maintaining high location accuracy through iterative model refinement.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements feedback by continuously updating the velocity model using picked arrival times from known source events and comparing them with calculated travel times. This feedback loop refines the velocity model iteratively, improving both processing efficiency and location accuracy in near-real-time during fracturing operations.
3Ease of operation
If velocity model errors are present in conventional processing, then processing can proceed, but location accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Known source events serve as intermediary reference points that enable velocity model updates without complicating the overall processing workflow. These intermediaries provide a straightforward method to reduce velocity model errors while maintaining processing simplicity through systematic arrival time comparisons.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically updating its own velocity model using the known source events and their precisely known locations. This self-updating mechanism reduces velocity model errors without requiring external intervention or complex processing changes, maintaining ease of operation while improving accuracy.
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 enhances the accuracy and efficiency of seismic data processing by reducing dependence on velocity model errors and enabling real-time location determination and model updates, leading to better understanding and control of hydraulic fracturing operations.
Implementation Method 1
calculating a plurality of calculated travel times corresponding to the plurality of known source events based on respective known locations of the plurality of known source events and a velocity model
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of using known source locations in seismic data processing are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method of locating a seismic event includes receiving location information for a plurality of known source events proximate the seismic event, and determining an estimated location of the seismic event using a relative locator constrained by the location information for the plurality of known source events.