OPINION 9
continue development of non-linear inversion methods such as genetic algorithms in order to build velocity models for depth imaging. This means increasing ‘mix and match’ techniques (linear and non-linear inversion) and domains (time and depth) to generate methods to solve the problem of depth imaging. This means continuing research into applying genetic algorithms for velocity model building. A project with KACST in Saudi Arabia involves applying velocity modelling techniques in the tau domain, and combining this with the current approach of applying non-linear inversion methods for complicated areas that can reduce the velocity-depth ambiguity and improving depth imaging. Of course, exploration is not limited to seismic
surveys: the use of gravity and magnetic data to constrain velocity models, another example of hybrid methods for velocity model building, is also being explored.
Geologists in demand
Finally, there remains one last challenge on every oil exploration company and seismic service provider’s list – the international skills shortage. While the current economic climate has tempered
concerns, there remains a long term problem. Where is the industry going to find the people to not only
write all these algorithms and equations but also effectively process future data? The oil industry is losing a valuable pool of
expertise due to the cyclical nature of its business which needs to be addressed. These are certainly interesting times in the field of geophysics as new technologies help oil companies explore increasingly challenging frontiers. o
Dr Ron Silva, Group Technical Manager, Spectrum spearheads the company’s seismic technology research from Spectrum’s headquarters in Woking, UK.
www.spectrumasa.com The Spectrum group provides an integrated service to the international seismic industry. The group offers onboard and onshore data processing on data collected from all over the world and in a wide variety of geological conditions. It also offers an extensive multi-client library of strategic projects offering global opportunities to acquire data from all corners of the world.
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