Next Generation 3 D Imaging Models Current models

Next Generation 3 D Imaging Models • Current models have advanced the art (e. g. SEG subsalt) • Next generation 3 D models could also facilitate significant advances • Problems worth working on are of a size and cost not likely to be born by any one organization • Not everything can be done in one model, so sorting out the priorities is critical • Cooperative arrangements should be scoped

What model(s) might test • Structural accuracy – F(v) • Amplitude fidelity – F(v, mig, noise, imaging condition) • Velocity estimation • Noise reduction • Inversion accuracy – Elastic parameters – Lithology, pressure, fluid, dynamics • Cost and time of all above

Key Words from the user community - What I Want in a model! Acquisition Style Deepwater x Wide offset x Multi-azimuth x Borehole x Kinematics Salt(? ) complexity x 3 D complexity x Multiples x Subsalt amplitudes X High frequency x Variable post salt velocity x Anisotropy x Amplitude Stratigraphy x High frequency x Propagation effects x AVO x 4 D x Elastic x

Kinematic focused model

Stratigraphic focused models

Modeling Capabilities Review • Physical • Numerical – Ray Tracing – Wave Equation – Hybrid

Way Forward? • Inventory available models (are the SEG subsalt and over thrust models unique? ) • Convene e_co-operative working group to scope: – Definition of imaging problems to address – Appropriate modeling techniques – Funding and organizational procedures