Automated high-precision alignment of geologic maps with well orientation

Abstract

The 3D reflection seismic interpretation entails the creation of structure maps of subsurface horizons across extensive areas, often spanning tens of thousands of square kilometers within sedimentary basins. To be correlated with well measurements, maps made from 3D reflection seismic are routinely assigned the correct depth at well control points. However, integrating orientation information measured from wells remains a challenge due to the absence of upscaling guidelines. We address the scale-dependent nature of geologic structure and well orientation information in subsurface mapping, particularly focusing on integrating kilometer-scale seismic interpretation with centimeter-scale well-measured dip and azimuth data. Our pioneering methodology streamlines this integration process through three essential steps: first, transforming well dip and azimuth into a gradient representation; second, smoothly extending gradient differences between the map and well within a user-defined radius of influence; and third, constructing an updated horizon map by bicubic spline interpolation to ensure automated and high-precision alignment. In addition, a structure-oriented interpolation technique is introduced to preserve faults and local structures during orientation correction. Application of the methodology to a 3D reflection seismic horizon demonstrates its effectiveness in automating the complex task of tying subsurface maps to well orientation information. This not only reduces the need for manual interventions but also introduces a new perspective on subsurface mapping. It provides a robust framework that enhances the accuracy and reliability of geologic interpretation, offering significant advancements beyond previous efforts in the literature.