Wellbore Seismic Profiling for Geomechanical Property Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional seismic imaging techniques face challenges in accurately analyzing geomechanical properties of subterranean rock formations due to limitations in signal resolution, noise interference, and the need for precise data acquisition in complex subsurface structures.
Innovation Solution
A seismic profiling system that utilizes an array of seismic sources and sensors deployed within wellbores to generate and detect seismic waves, providing high-resolution, time-lapse imaging and real-time data analysis to construct detailed seismic velocity models, which help identify geomechanical properties and fracture networks within subterranean rock formations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional seismic imaging techniques are used, then data acquisition is simpler, but measurement precision of geomechanical properties deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the seismic measurement process by deploying multiple independent seismic sources and sensors within wellbores, allowing each component to contribute to the overall measurement precision while maintaining manageable individual complexities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from surface-based 2D seismic imaging to 3D/4D imaging by placing sources and sensors in the subsurface wellbores, adding spatial dimensions and time-lapse capability to improve measurement precision of geomechanical properties
2Measurement precision
If high-resolution time-lapse imaging is implemented, then geomechanical property analysis improves, but data acquisition complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-deploying seismic sources and sensors within wellbores before production activities, enabling time-lapse imaging capability to be established in advance for capturing geomechanical property changes
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously acquiring seismic data and updating velocity models in real-time, allowing the imaging system to adapt and improve measurement accuracy through iterative processing of time-lapse data
3Measurement precision
If multiple seismic sources and sensors are deployed in wellbores, then imaging resolution improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The seismic sources and sensors deployed in wellbores serve multiple functions: they act as both measurement devices for geomechanical properties and as tracers for fracture network detection, reducing the need for separate specialized equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies nesting by placing seismic sources and sensors within the existing wellbore infrastructure, utilizing the wellbore as a protective housing and positioning structure, which simplifies deployment compared to independent source-sensor arrays
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
Enhances the accuracy of geomechanical property analysis, improves fracture treatment design, and optimizes reservoir stimulation by providing detailed, real-time data on rock properties and fracture networks, leading to more effective resource extraction and reduced operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
seismic waves are generated by an artificial seismic source at the ground surface, and reflected seismic waves are recorded by geophones
Data Source
AI summary
Some aspects of what is described here relate to seismic data analysis techniques. A seismic excitation is generated in a first directional wellbore section in a subterranean region. A seismic response associated with the seismic excitation is detected in a second directional wellbore section in the subterranean region. Seismic response data based on the seismic response are analyzed to identify geomechanical properties of subterranean rock in a fracture treatment target region in the subterranean region. In some cases, the geomechanical properties include pore pressure, stress, or mechanical properties.