Process-Mimicking Reservoir Modeling

Abstract

Process-mimicking modeling methods approximate sedimentary dynamics to generate numerical descriptions of reservoir architecture and the spatial distribution of petrophysical properties. By incorporating stratigraphic rules that relate to the underlying geologic processes, process-mimicking methods offer improved representation of depositional heterogeneity, compared to conventional reservoir modeling approaches. The use of stratigraphic rules in reservoir modeling allows for expanded integration of stratigraphic information and the efficiency of modeling inputs that are intuitive to both modelers and stratigraphers. Stratigraphic rules such as element stacking patterns, depofacies and lithofacies trends and heterogeneity are available from detailed outcrop and shallow seismic studies. The improved reservoir modeling workflow is demonstrated for a deepwater lobe reservoir. The steps include: (1) Inference of stratigraphic rules from outcrop and shallow seismic. (2) Stratigraphic rules are encoded into numerical rules for element geometries, depo- and lithofacies trends, compensation of lobes and healing of depositional relief with appropriate onlap relations to previously deposited lobe elements. (3) Simulation of multiple realizations with conditioning and stratigraphic rules using a surface-based lobe model. (4) Model summarization to explore the salient model features and the impact of stratigraphic rules. The resulting models demonstrate in significant improvement in integration of stratigraphic concepts through the improved integration of stratigraphic and reservoir modeling expertise. This assists in aligning geologic studies and modeling decisions to address reservoir development decision making.

AAPG Datapages/Search and Discovery Article #90216 ©2015 AAPG Annual Convention and Exhibition, Denver, CO., May 31 - June 3, 2015