Unstructured Grid Data Extraction via Curved Path Interpolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current property extraction toolkits for structured grids and geologic models lack flexibility in extracting data from unstructured grids, particularly in complex 3D models like seismic data, where they often rely on straight-line paths and fail to account for curvature and intersection complexities.
Innovation Solution
A method for extracting data on an unstructured grid by defining a path of interest that can have curvature, using interpolation and nearest neighbor algorithms to extract property values at specific points, including nodes, faces, or cells, and providing visualization of the extracted data, which can vary over time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If straight-line path extraction is used in structured grids, then extraction simplicity is improved, but accuracy in representing complex 3D relationships deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curved paths instead of straight lines to extract data through 3D models. The system allows definition of paths with curvature that follow the actual geometry of wells or other features, enabling accurate representation of complex 3D relationships while maintaining ease of operation through automated path following and data extraction along these curved trajectories.
2Adaptability or versatility
If arbitrary input points are extracted in structured grids, then extraction flexibility is improved, but handling of intersection complexities deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary path definition system that mediates between arbitrary input points and the structured grid. The path acts as an intermediary that automatically handles intersection complexities by following defined trajectories through the grid, allowing flexible extraction at arbitrary points while the system automatically manages the complexity of intersections with grid cells and features.
3Productivity
If cell values are extracted only at input points, then extraction speed is improved, but data granularity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous data extraction along the entire path rather than only at discrete input points. The system continuously samples data as the path traverses through the 3D model, maintaining extraction speed by using efficient path traversal algorithms while simultaneously improving data granularity by capturing values at all intersection points and along the continuous path trajectory.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a system and method for obtaining data corresponding to a property of interest on an unstructured grid. An exemplary method comprises defining a path of interest at least a portion of which goes through the unstructured grid. The exemplary method also comprises extracting data corresponding to the property of interest on the unstructured grid where the path of interest and the unstructured grid overlap.