Multiresolution analysis applied to interpretation of seismic reflection data

ABSTRACT We have developed a method of seismic multiresolution analysis based on the discrete wavelet transform. We illustrate the potential use in petroleum exploration of the joint application of multiresolution analysis and seismic attributes for a real case study. Three major reflections at the base of the seismic window are associated with oil-bearing Lower Cretaceous geologic formations. These major reflections seem to be continued towards the left by less clear and lower amplitude reflections. On the strength of multiresolution analysis from the seismic data or from envelope amplitude, instantaneous phase and frequency could not be discarded, the possible continuations as a stratigraphic continuation was suggested in both data sets. Improved resolution at different scales provided by multiresolution analysis of the seismic attributes enabled a finer analysis, and continuity was no longer fully supported. It was possible to distinguish the high amplitude continuous reflections from their continuations. Higher resolution improved discrimination. The joint use of multiresolution and seismic attributes has potential applications in the field of seismic reflection. We use successfully the discrete wavelet transform as an alternative to the continuous wavelet transform.