Seismic method of mapping horizontal fractures in the earth
US4280200A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | May 21, 1979 |
| Grant date | Jul 21, 1981 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 21, 1999 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01V1/30
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A seismic method for mapping horizontal fractures in the earth resulting from the application of fluid pressure, at a selected point, at a selected depth, in the earth, comprising the steps of creating a seismic wave in the earth over the expected position of the fracture, and detecting the seismic waves reflected upwardly at a reflecting interface, at or near the fracture, at each of a plurality of seismic sensors, in at least one radial array. The received signals are recorded for each of two conditions: a first case, when the fracture is pressurized, and filled with fluid, and the roof of the fracture is separated from the base of the fracture; and a second case when the fracture is depressurized, and the roof of the fracture rests on the base. Some sensors will show a different character of reflection signal in the two cases. For these sensors the points of reflection are within the outer perimeter of the fracture. For the other sensors, which show relatively no change in character of reflection signal, the points of reflection are outside of the outer perimeter of the fracture. The process is repeated for both compressional and shear seismic sources, and the electrical signals…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.