Patent ID: 6603313
Filing Date: 2003-08-05
Classification: G01V

Abstract:
A method for surface estimation of a resistivity depth image of a subsurface geologic formation, comprising the steps of:determining the location of and at least one average earth resistivity for the vicinity of the subsurface geologic formation using geological and geophysical data from the vicinity of the subsurface geologic formation; determining dimensions and probing frequency for an electromagnetic source to substantially maximize transmitted vertical and horizontal electric currents at the subsurface geologic formation using the location and the at least one average earth resistivity; activating the electromagnetic source at or near the surface of the earth, approximately centered above the subsurface geologic formation; measuring a plurality of components of electromagnetic response with a receiver array; determining one or more geometrical and electrical parameter constraints, using the geological and geophysical data; and processing the electromagnetic response using the geometrical and electrical parameter constraints to produce the resistivity depth image.