Seismic Data Processing Accuracy via Multi-Dimensional Similarity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current seismic interpretation methods face challenges in accurately processing and interpreting seismic data to identify subsurface structures, such as horizons and faults, which are crucial for resource extraction, due to limitations in data processing and imaging techniques.

Innovation Solution

A computer-implemented method and system for optimizing seismic data processing, involving the determination of seismic attributes, simulation of geologic environments, and visualization of data to enhance the accuracy of subsurface structure identification, utilizing modules for attribute calculation and visualization, and integration with existing frameworks like PETREL and OCEAN for improved resource extraction models.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional seismic data processing methods are used, then processing speed is maintained, but measurement precision and reliability of subsurface structure identification deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseismic data interpretation accuracyVSAvoiddata processing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments seismic data processing into multiple stages: acquiring seismic data from multiple sources, determining seismic attributes for each data set, simulating geologic environments with different properties, comparing simulated attributes with actual attributes, and identifying subsurface structures based on matches. This segmentation allows complex processing to be broken down into manageable steps that improve accuracy without overwhelming system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary simulation of geologic environments before final interpretation. By simulating expected seismic attributes for various geologic models in advance and comparing them with actual measured attributes, the system prepares reference data that guides the identification process, improving measurement precision while organizing complexity into preparatory and execution phases.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Measurement precision

If advanced seismic processing techniques are implemented, then measurement precision improves, but processing time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesubsurface structure identification accuracyVSAvoiddata processing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies partial action by focusing seismic attribute determination and simulation comparisons on specific geologic features of interest rather than processing entire data sets uniformly. By concentrating computational resources on identifying particular subsurface structures like faults or horizons where precision is most needed, the system achieves high measurement precision for critical features while reducing overall processing time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Reliability

If simple processing methods are used, then processing speed is maintained, but reliability of resource extraction models deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresource extraction model accuracyVSAvoidprocessing efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback loops where simulated seismic attributes from geologic environment models are continuously compared with actual measured attributes from seismic data. This comparison provides feedback that refines the geologic models and improves resource extraction predictions. The feedback mechanism ensures reliability by validating models against actual data while maintaining productivity through automated iterative refinement rather than manual analysis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP2846175B1Seismic survey analysis
Publication Date: 2022.02.23 SERVICES PETROLIERS SCHLUMBERGER SA
  • EP2846175B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2846175B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2846175B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A method can include receiving data sets where each of the data sets corresponds to one of a plurality of individual emitter-detector arrangements; calculating a multi-dimensional similarity metric for one of the data sets; and, based at least in part on the multi-dimensional similarity metric, assessing the one data set.