Method for morphologic analysis of seismic objects

#This invention relates generally to the field of geophysical prospecting and, more particularly, to seismic data interpretation. Specifically, the invention is a method for analyzing the morphology of seismic objects extracted from a three-dimensional (3D) seismic data volume.

#In the oil and gas industry, seismic prospecting techniques commonly are used to aid in the search for and evaluation of subterranean hydrocarbon deposits. A seismic prospecting operation consists of three separate stages: data acquisition, data processing, and data interpretation, and success of the operation depends on satisfactory completion of all three stages.

#In the data acquisition stage, a seismic source is used to generate an acoustic impulse known as a “seismic signal” that propagates into the earth and is at least partially reflected by subsurface seismic reflectors (i.e., interfaces between underground formations having different acoustic impedances). The reflected signals (known as “seismic reflections”) are detected and recorded by an array of seismic receivers located at or near the surface of the earth, in an overlying body of water, or at known depths in boreholes. The seismic energy recorded by each seismic receiver is known as a “seismic data trace.”

#FIGS. 1A and 1B are flow charts illustrating the primary steps of two embodiments of the present invention.

#FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate, respectively, seismic objects extracted from a 3D seismic data volume using a multi-threshold seed detection and an interactive tree interface linked to the extracted seismic objects.

#FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate the measurement of 2D geometric parameters for area (FIG. 3A) and perimeter (FIG. 3B) for a plan view (i.e., map view) projection of a 3D seismic object.

#The invention will be described in connection with its preferred embodiments. However, to the extent that the following detailed description is specific to a particular embodiment or a particular use of the invention, this is intended to be illustrative only, and is not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. On the contrary, it is intended to cover all alternatives, modifications, and equivalents that are included within the spirit and scope of the invention, as defined by the appended claims.

#Three-dimensional (3D) seismic surveys contain abundant information about subsurface stratigraphy. One aspect of seismic data interpretation which is often overlooked is the morphology (i.e., the shape and structure) of seismic objects which can be extracted from 3D seismic data volumes. The morphology of these seismic objects carries information about their origins and properties. The present invention is a method for analyzing and classifying a wide range of geometries of seismic objects extracted from 3D seismic amplitude, impedance, or attribute cubes. The results of these analyses can be used to assess reservoir quality for hydrocarbon exploration and to populate the extracted seismic objects with the properties necessary to model reservoir behavior during hydrocarbon production.

#Preferably, the inventive method is practiced using a suitably programmed digital computer. Persons skilled in the art of computer-aided seismic data processing and interpretation could easily develop computer software for practicing the inventive method based on the teachings set forth herein. Preferably, the computer software should be capable of automatically extracting seismic objects from a 3D seismic data volume and processing the extracted seismic objects based on user-specified input conditions.