Seismic Image Processing with Selected-Trace RGT Refinement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Seismic images of geological formations require significant processing time due to their large dimensions and data volume, especially when using iterative methods like those described in [LOMASK2006], hindering efficient chrono-stratigraphic analysis.

Innovation Solution

A method for processing seismic images by selecting an initial subset of seismic traces, including both boundary and non-boundary traces distributed throughout the survey volume, determining seeds and seismic horizon surfaces, and progressively updating the RGT image with additional traces to accelerate computation while maintaining accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If iterative methods are used to process seismic images, then measurement precision is improved, but processing time increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveRGT image accuracyVSAvoidprocessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the seismic image processing into two stages: an initial rapid processing stage using a subset of seismic traces to generate an intermediate RGT image, and a subsequent refinement stage using additional traces to produce the final RGT image. This segmentation allows the system to deliver preliminary results quickly while maintaining the option to refine accuracy later.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary processing by selecting and processing an initial subset of seismic traces to generate an intermediate RGT image before completing the full processing. This preliminary action provides useful information early in the process, enabling users to obtain results without waiting for complete processing of all traces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Manufacturing precision

If all seismic traces are processed, then manufacturing precision is improved, but productivity decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveRGT image accuracyVSAvoidprocessing speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the seismic traces into an initial subset and a subsequent subset, processing them in separate stages. This allows the system to produce an intermediate RGT image from the initial subset at high speed, then progressively refine it using the subsequent subset, thereby achieving both speed and accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies partial action by processing only an initial subset of seismic traces to generate the intermediate RGT image, rather than processing all traces immediately. This partial processing provides sufficient accuracy for initial analysis while significantly reducing processing time and increasing productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentEP4281815B1Method and system for processing seismic images to progressively enhance an RGT image of a geological formation
Publication Date: 2025.08.13 TOTALENERGIES ONETECH
  • EP4281815B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4281815B1 patent drawingFigure 3~5
  • EP4281815B1 patent drawingFigure 6a~6b

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a computer implemented method (30) for processing a seismic image comprising a set of seismic traces extending each along a vertical dimension, said set of seismic traces defining a survey volume in the seismic image, said survey volume having a vertical envelope defined by boundary seismic traces, said method comprising: - (S30) selecting an initial subset of seismic traces among the set of seismic traces; - (S31) determining a plurality of seeds for each of the seismic traces of the initial subset; - (S32) determining a seismic horizon surface for each seed of each seismic trace of the initial subset; - (S33) determining an intermediate relative geological time, RGT, image based on the seismic horizon surfaces determined for the initial subset of seismic traces; - (S34) updating the intermediate RGT image by using additional seismic horizon surfaces, in order to obtain a final RGT image.