FD Algorithm Information

Why is now the time for seismic modeling to play a larger role in seismic acquisition, interpretation, and reservoir characterization?

Because:

1. The cost has recently dropped significantly--by more than 20x!
2. Seismic objectives are becoming more subtle
3. Interpreters are more skilled and have better tools to look at subtle features
4. New acquisition hardware provides for significant better data opportunities
5. The potential has recently been proven with several examples  

Recent significant reduction of cost:

In the recent past, modeling a seismic survey with acoustic finite difference method was about as expensive as acquiring the data. However, costs are now coming down dramatically as a result of these changes:

1. A new algorithm significantly reduces the cost over older methods. The cost reduction is 20x.
2. Computer costs have continued to come down and computer memory capacity has increased. This cost reduction is about 4x over the last three years.

Industry changes that motivate the need for modeling:

1. Carl Regone at BP made a dramatic demonstration with wide azimuth acquisition technology for how seismic modeling can have a significant impact on a seismic program.
2. Seismic data is being used to address more subtle geologic features where careful acquisition and interpretation are crucial to success.
3. Recent hardware capabilities with land and marine acquisition provide more options that can significantly improve data quality.
4. The skill of interpreters and their tools are getting better.

No-Compromise Seismic Modeling increases the value of seismic data by 20-50% because it makes acquisition more effective and interpretation more reliable.