Seismic Amplitude Inversion Using PP-PS Angle Gathers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seismic data processing techniques are inadequate for complex geological configurations, particularly in leveraging converted seismic wave reflections, leading to inaccurate subsurface imaging.
Innovation Solution
A method involving PP-wave and PS-wave data processing, including imaging processes, convolution operations, and reflectivity operator applications to generate elastic properties, mitigating illumination effects, and optimizing geological models for improved subsurface imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional amplitude inversion techniques are used, then the process is simple and fast, but the accuracy is insufficient for complex geological configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the seismic data processing into distinct wave mode components (PP-wave and PS-wave data), applying separate imaging processes to each type. This segmentation allows complex geological features to be resolved by processing different wave modes independently, thereby improving imaging accuracy without overwhelming complexity in a single unified process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension to the inversion process by incorporating converted wave (PS-wave) reflections alongside traditional direct waves (PP-wave). This dimensional expansion from single-wave-mode to multi-wave-mode processing enables the system to capture additional geological information, resolving complex structures that conventional single-mode techniques cannot image accurately.
2Adaptability or versatility
If converted seismic wave reflections are not leveraged, then the processing is simpler, but the ability to image complex geological environments is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal imaging framework that handles multiple wave modes (PP-waves and PS-waves) within a single integrated inversion system. This multi-functional approach allows the same processing infrastructure to accommodate various geological configurations and wave types, enhancing adaptability to complex environments while managing complexity through unified processing architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses reflectivity operators as intermediary elements that mediate between the seismic data and the geological model. These operators translate the complex interactions of converted waves into a manageable mathematical framework, enabling the system to leverage PS-wave reflections for improved imaging without directly processing the full complexity of wave conversion physics.
3Measurement precision
If illumination effects are not mitigated, then the processing is faster, but bias and distortion in seismic data increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms through iterative inversion processes where the geological model is continuously updated based on the comparison between predicted and actual seismic data. This feedback loop allows the system to progressively reduce illumination effects and bias in the seismic data, improving accuracy through multiple iterations rather than attempting to correct all distortions in a single fast pass.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts inversion parameters and weighting factors to optimize the balance between processing speed and accuracy. By changing parameters such as regularization strengths, weighting of different wave modes, and convergence criteria, the system can adapt to different geological scenarios and data qualities, achieving sufficient accuracy without excessive computational time.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a method comprising: receiving seismic data; generating PP-wave image angle gathers data and PS-wave image angle gathers data using the seismic data; generating PP-wave point spread function (PSF) angle gathers that serve as a first convolution input; generating PS-wave PSF angle gathers that serve as a second convolution input; generating PP-wave synthetic angle gathers data using the first convolution input and a first reflectivity operator, generating PS-wave synthetic angle gathers data using the second convolution input and a second reflectivity operator, generating first output data using the PP-wave angle gathers data and the PP-wave synthetic angle gathers data; generating second output data using the PS-wave image angle gathers data and the PS-wave synthetic angle gathers data; generating optimization data using the first output or the second output together with a parameter of a geological model; and updating, using the optimization data, an elastic property of the geological model.