Velocity Model Correction via Nucleus Strain Theory
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional seismic processing methods struggle to accurately correct velocity models in areas with complex topography, such as seafloor canyons and seamounts, leading to incomplete representation of velocity changes.
Innovation Solution
The method employs a nucleus strain theory to determine anomalous overburden stress and strain caused by topographic anomalies, calculating a velocity correction factor to generate a corrected velocity model, which accounts for complex surface features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional velocity estimation methods are used, then the processing process remains simple, but the velocity model cannot fully account for velocity changes in complex topography areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the velocity model parameters to account for topographic effects. Specifically, it calculates corrected velocity parameters (v1, v2, v3) that incorporate the effects of surface topography on seismic wave propagation, allowing the velocity model to accurately represent subsurface conditions in complex terrain without fundamentally changing the processing framework
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach by using a corrected velocity model as a mediator between the raw seismic data and the final imaging results. This corrected velocity model serves as a bridge that reconciles the simple conventional processing methodology with the complex reality of topographic-induced velocity variations, enabling accurate imaging without requiring complete redesign of the processing system
2Measurement precision
If velocity corrections are applied to account for topography, then imaging accuracy improves, but computational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating the corrected velocity model parameters (v1, v2, v3) and storing them for use during the seismic processing. This preliminary computation of velocity corrections allows the main imaging process to benefit from accurate velocity information without requiring complex real-time calculations, thereby reducing overall computational energy requirements while maintaining imaging accuracy
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances the accuracy of seismic imaging by effectively accounting for velocity changes related to complex topography, improving the representation of subsurface features and hydrocarbon detection in seismic surveys.
Implementation Method 1
determining an anomalous overburden stress caused by the one or more topographic anomalies
Implementation Method 2
determining an overburden strain caused by the one or more topographic anomalies
Implementation Method 3
using a nucleus of strain theory to determine an anomalous stress propagation in the subsurface region of interest
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of a method for correcting velocity models for complex topographies are disclosed herein. In general, embodiments of the method utilize velocity corrections based on geomechanical effects to correct a velocity model to take into account complex surface topographies. In particular, embodiments of the method use a nucleus strain theory to determine the velocity corrections. Further details and advantages of various embodiments of the method are described in more detail herein.