Seismic Profiling System for Fracture Propagation Assessment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current seismic imaging techniques face challenges in accurately assessing fracture propagation and reservoir properties in subterranean regions, particularly in unconventional reservoirs, due to limitations in spatial and temporal resolution, and the ability to monitor changes over time.
Innovation Solution
A seismic profiling system that uses an array of seismic sources and sensors deployed in horizontal wellbores to generate and detect seismic waves, providing high-resolution, time-lapse imaging of fracture networks and reservoir properties, allowing for real-time monitoring and data analysis to inform fracture treatment and production operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional seismic imaging techniques are used, then the system is simple and easy to operate, but the spatial and temporal resolution is insufficient for accurately assessing fracture propagation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the seismic imaging system into multiple independent components: seismic sources deployed in horizontal wellbores, separate sensor arrays, and modular processing units. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for high-resolution measurements while maintaining overall system manageability through standardized interfaces and protocols.
2Reliability
If conventional seismic imaging is used, then the device complexity is low, but the ability to monitor changes over time is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous seismic monitoring by deploying permanent sensor arrays in horizontal wellbores that continuously record seismic events. The system performs real-time data acquisition and processing, enabling continuous monitoring of fracture propagation and reservoir changes over time, transforming discrete measurements into a continuous observational record.
3Measurement precision
If high-resolution time-lapse imaging is implemented, then fracture modeling accuracy improves, but data processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates iterative feedback loops in the data processing pipeline, where initial fracture models are generated, compared against observed seismic data, and refined through multiple cycles of adjustment. This feedback mechanism systematically reduces modeling errors and improves fracture characterization accuracy while automating the complex processing steps.
4Measurement precision
If conventional seismic sources at ground surface are used, then the ease of operation is high, but the resolution for subterranean fracture detection is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions seismic source deployment from the traditional ground surface (2D array) to three-dimensional placement within horizontal wellbores. This dimensional change positions sources and sensors closer to the target fractures, dramatically improving detection resolution while the standardized wellbore deployment methodology maintains operational feasibility.
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
The system enhances the accuracy of fracture modeling and reservoir characterization, improving the efficiency of fracture treatments and resource extraction by providing detailed, real-time data on fracture growth and reservoir properties, leading to optimized well placement and stimulation strategies.
Implementation Method 1
seismic waves are generated by an artificial seismic source at the ground surface, and reflected seismic waves are recorded by geophones
Implementation Method 2
reflected seismic waves are recorded by geophones. Geological information can be derived from the recorded seismic data
Data Source
AI summary
Some aspects of what is described here relate to seismic data analysis techniques. A seismic excitation is generated in a first directional wellbore section in a subterranean region. A seismic response associated with the seismic excitation is detected in a second directional wellbore section in the subterranean region. A fracture treatment target region in the subterranean region is analyzed based on the seismic response. A fracture propagation model is assessed based on the analysis of the fracture treatment target region. In some cases, the fracture propagation model is assessed in real time during a fracture treatment.