Stratigraphic Basin Modeling Using Facies Log Correlation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stratigraphic forward modeling programs for sedimentary basin formation lack accuracy due to the lack of integration of experimental data from wells, leading to discrepancies in correlating simulated sediment layers with facies logs from actual wells.
Innovation Solution
A method that incorporates facies logs from wells into a stratigraphic forward modeling program, determining environmental factors, and adjusting sediment layer thickness and simulation parameters to align with actual sedimentary conditions, using environmental factor logs and correlations to enhance simulation accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If stratigraphic forward modeling programs simulate sedimentary basin formation without integrating experimental well data, then the modeling process remains simple and fast, but the accuracy and reliability of the simulation results deteriorate due to great discrepancy with actual well data
Solution Approach 1:
The method performs preliminary actions by restoring facies logs to initial states and pre-determining sediment layer thicknesses before running the forward modeling simulation. This preparation ensures that experimental well data is ready for integration, allowing the simulation to achieve high accuracy without adding excessive complexity during the actual modeling process
Solution Approach 2:
The method implements feedback by using restored facies logs from actual wells to validate and adjust the forward modeling simulation results. The simulation is corrected based on discrepancies identified when comparing with experimental data, creating an iterative process that continuously improves accuracy
2Measurement precision
If facies logs are directly correlated with simulated time layers without restoration to initial state, then the correlation process is simple, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to effects of erosion, compaction, and faulting
Solution Approach 1:
The method performs preliminary restoration of facies logs to their initial states before correlation, reversing the effects of erosion, compaction, and faulting. This preliminary action ensures that the logs accurately represent the original depositional sequence, enabling precise correlation with simulated time layers
Solution Approach 2:
The restoration process segments the complex effects of diagenesis into distinct components (erosion, compaction, faulting) that can be individually addressed and reversed, allowing systematic restoration of the facies log to its initial state
3Manufacturing precision
If sediment layer thicknesses are determined without considering restored facies logs, then the modeling process is simpler, but the manufacturing precision deteriorates due to inability to establish accurate correspondence between facies layers and time layers
Solution Approach 1:
The method uses feedback from restored facies logs to determine sediment layer thicknesses. The thickness determination process incorporates information from the restored logs, creating a feedback loop that ensures accurate correspondence between simulated sediment layers and actual facies layers
Solution Approach 2:
The restored facies log serves as an intermediary between the forward modeling simulation and the actual well data. It mediates the thickness determination process by providing a restored reference that accounts for diagenetic effects, enabling accurate thickness determination
Data Source
AI summary
A method for modelling the formation of a sedimentary basin using a stratigraphic forward modelling program is disclosed, wherein the stratigraphic forward modelling program simulates the superposition of successive layers of sediments, each layer of sediments corresponding to a determined period of time, the method comprising: a. Receiving a facies log comprising a succession of layers of different facies, b. determining environmental conditions associated to at least some of the facies of the facies log to infer an environmental factor log, c. determining from the facies log a number of layer of sediments and a thickness of each layer of sediments to be simulated by the stratigraphic forward modelling program for modelling the facies log, and d. determining, from the environmental factor log, environmental parameters associated to the layers of sediments to be simulated by the stratigraphic forward modeling program such that the superposition of the simulated layers or sediments corresponds to the facies logs.