A Deterministic Evaluation of eismic Fidelity using Velocity Modeling ...

Chapter 6
Interpretation
6.1 Introduction
Improvements I made to enhance the seismic image positively impacted data in several
ways. One of the more significant improvements was providing information that
permitted a higher degree of interpretation accuracy. As a final measure to assess an
increase in fidelity I interpreted the data to determine if more geologic information could
be gleaned. I used coherence to demonstrate an improved migration over the PSTM, data
that were also valuable as an interpretation tool. I compared common image gathers
(CIGs), the fidelity of the seismic sections, and well ties to the seismic for QC. Using all
of the various criteria for improvement I determined that the data generated using well
velocities were better suited for interpretation than those from semblance velocities.
Objectives for the interpretation were to further verify improved fidelity by providing a
more detailed interpretation and to gain new insights into the geologic processes
associated with Vinton Dome. I used two benchmarks to evaluate improvements in
interpretation. One was imaging near the flanks of the dome assessed by higher accuracy
in identifying the truncation of sediments on the flanks of the salt dome. Identification of
small faults was the second benchmark I used in evaluation and well ties were used as a
guide in interpretation.
A more general objective was to gain insights into the geology surrounding Vinton
Dome. Three areas of interest were investigated, salt tectonics, stratigraphy, and
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