Anisotropy and Computer Mapping--A Numerical Solution for Complex Situations

YARUS, JEFFREY M., Marathon Oil Company, Littleton, CO, and GRIGORY KUSHNIR, GeoGraphix, Littleton, CO

Geologic data usually contains information about the heterogeneities of geological surfaces. For example, surfaces that have a preferred direction of correlation (structural planes) are anisotropic. Anisotropy can be easily recognized, but difficult to include in computer-modeling techniques. There are two common methods of including this information in computer-modeling programs. The first method involves building sequences of physical processes in one dimension (cross sections), and the second is to include information about these physical processes in a two-dimensional (computer contouring) sense.

Realization of the first method can be difficult, particularly where there is limited knowledge about the actual physical processes that occurred over time. In such cases, the second approach may be warranted. This paper presents the results of an automated mapping procedure that is designed to include information about the heterogeneities of geologic surfaces. In particular, data that are highly anisotropic will be used as an example. Kriging and nonkriging methods are discussed and results using theoretical and real surfaces are given.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #91004 © 1991 AAPG Annual Convention Dallas, Texas, April 7-10, 1991 (2009)