Multi-refractor imaging with stacked refraction convolution section.

Multi-refractor imaging is a technique for constructing a single two dimensional image of a number of refractors, through stacking multiple convolved and cross correlated reversed shot records. The method is most effective with high fold data, which have been obtained with roll-along acquisition programs, because the stacking process significantly improves the signal-to-noise ratios. The major advantage of the method is that all of the data can be stacked to maximize the signal-to-noise ratios prior to the measurement of any traveltimes. However, the signal-to-noise ratios can be further increased if only those traces are used which have arrivals from the same refractor, and if the correct reciprocal times or traces are employed. A field case study shows that the multi-refractor imaging can produce a cross section similar to the familiar reflection cross section, but with substantially higher signal-to-noise ratios for the equivalent interfaces.