Seismic Sweep Parameter Adaptation for Geological Variations

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional seismic data acquisition systems face delays due to data transmission and real-time analysis, and are affected by local geological conditions, leading to suboptimal signal quality.

Innovation Solution

The system incrementally adapts sweep parameters based on local geological conditions by analyzing reflected seismic waves using a computer-implemented method, including frequency sweeps and integral transforms, to optimize signal-to-noise ratios and compensate for subsurface variations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional fixed sweep parameters are used for seismic data acquisition, then the system is simple to operate, but the signal-to-noise ratio deteriorates due to local geological variations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal-to-noise ratioVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic adaptation of sweep parameters by continuously analyzing recorded seismic signals and adjusting frequency, duration, and amplitude parameters in real-time based on local geological conditions, transforming the static parameter system into a dynamic one that responds to subsurface variations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system establishes a feedback loop where recorded seismic signals are analyzed to determine local geological conditions, and this information feeds back to automatically adjust sweep parameters for subsequent acquisitions, creating a closed-loop control system that optimizes signal quality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Reliability

If real-time analysis and parameter adjustment are implemented, then the signal quality improves, but acquisition delays increase due to data transmission and processing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal qualityVSAvoidacquisition delay
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary analysis of recorded signals to predict optimal sweep parameters before the next acquisition, allowing parameters to be pre-configured and reducing wait time during field operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements efficient processing algorithms that rapidly analyze seismic signals and determine parameter adjustments, rushing through the analysis phase to minimize delays while maintaining analysis accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #21Skipping (Rushing through)

3Measurement precision

If spatially-adaptive parameter selection is implemented, then measurement precision improves for local geology, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegeological condition detection precisionVSAvoidparameter adaptation system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by tailoring sweep parameters to specific local geological conditions rather than using uniform parameters across the entire survey area, allowing each acquisition location to have optimized parameters based on its unique subsurface characteristics

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes multiple sweep parameters including frequency range, sweep duration, and amplitude based on analyzed geological conditions, transforming a single-parameter system into a multi-parameter adaptation system that responds to different subsurface conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS11366241B2Spatially adaptive vibrator sweep parameter selection during seismic data acquisition
Publication Date: 2022.06.21 SAUDI ARABIAN OIL CO
  • US11366241B2 patent drawing
  • US11366241B2 patent drawing
  • US11366241B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A computer-implemented method includes the following. A frequency sweep using sweep parameters is emitted from a vibratory seismic source into geological layers. The sweep parameters include frequencies and modulation parameters for seismic waves. Signals are received from one or more sensors. The signals include seismic data acquisition information, including values identifying energy reflected back from boundaries where rock properties change. A determination is made regarding which of the reflected seismic waves are attenuated. The determination uses an integral transform and a thresholding algorithm for image segmentation. Optimum sweep parameters are determined based on the reflected seismic values that are attenuated and updated to compensate for local geology effects. The emitting, receiving, determining attenuation, determining optimum parameters, and updating are repeated until the received signals are determined to be satisfactory.