Adapting Unstructured Mesh Models via Corner Vector Deformation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for adapting geological subsurface models to new representations are inefficient, particularly when dealing with unstructured meshes, as they require recalculating the entire model, which is time-consuming and impractical for small changes, and are not applicable to unstructured models with tetrahedral cells due to the absence of explicit stratigraphic representation.

Innovation Solution

A computer-implemented method that deforms the grid of an initial unstructured mesh model by determining vectors to maximize local stratigraphic time variation, modifying corner coordinates based on distances to reference and target interfaces, and applying smoothing techniques to adjust the model without recalculating the entire mesh, allowing for adaptation to a target representation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the entire mesh model is recalculated to adapt to a new alternative solution, then the model accuracy is improved, but the computation time and efficiency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodel accuracyVSAvoidcomputation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the mesh model into discrete elements (tetrahedral cells with corners) and processes only the necessary portions for adaptation. Instead of recalculating the entire model, it identifies and modifies only the affected regions based on changes in reference interfaces, thereby maintaining accuracy while reducing computation time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary identification of affected mesh elements and corners before actual modification. By pre-processing to determine which parts of the model need adaptation based on interface changes, it avoids unnecessary calculations and focuses computational resources only where needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Productivity

If pillar-based modification methods are used to adapt the model, then the adaptation efficiency is improved, but the applicability to unstructured meshes deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptation efficiencyVSAvoidapplicability to unstructured meshes
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the approach from geometric pillar-based modification to parameter-based corner coordinate modification. By treating mesh corners as parametric entities with coordinates that can be independently adjusted based on interface changes, it achieves both efficiency and universality across different mesh types including unstructured tetrahedral meshes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal adaptation method that works with both structured and unstructured meshes. By defining a corner-based modification approach that operates on the fundamental elements of any mesh type, it achieves multi-functionality and broad applicability while maintaining high adaptation efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Measurement precision

If corner coordinates are modified along vectors that maximize local stratigraphic time variation, then the stratigraphic accuracy is improved, but the computational complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestratigraphic accuracyVSAvoidcomputational complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by determining modification vectors at each corner based on local stratigraphic time variation characteristics. Instead of using a uniform modification approach, it adapts the modification direction and magnitude to local geological conditions, maximizing stratigraphic accuracy while keeping computations localized and manageable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentEP3997489B1A method for adapting an unstructured mesh model of a geological subsurface
Publication Date: 2024.05.15 TOTALENERGIES ONETECH
  • EP3997489B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3997489B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3997489B1 patent drawingFigure 3a

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a method for adapting an unstructured mesh model of a geological subsurface obtained using measurements of said geological subsurface, to match it to a target, said unstructured mesh model comprising a first reference interface and a second reference interface. The method comprises: - for each corner between the first reference interface and the second reference interface: - determining a vector at said corner, said vector is determined to maximize local variation of t, (u,v) being locally constant along said vector; - determining a first distance between said corner and said first reference interface along said vector; - determining a second distance between said corner and said second reference interface along said vector; - determining a third distance between said corner and said first target interface along said vector; - determining a fourth distance between said corner and said second target interface along said vector; - modifying the coordinates for said corner along said vector as a function of the first distance, the second distance, the third distance and the fourth distance