Interval velocity posting convention

Insight uses a top-posted interval velocity convention, i.e. an interval velocity sample defines the time that the velocity changes (the top of the interval).

Other software may use a different convention. This can lead to incorrect results when loading interval velocities created elsewhere.

We recommend transferring velocity models between software packages in RMS or Average velocity. Use the Velocity Conversion process to safely convert velocities between different formats.

Background

Interval velocities indicate the velocity applicable over a time (or depth) interval. Because an interval is defined by a start and end time, there is ambiguity in how to interpret an interval velocity at a sample time.

Posting convention

There are three common conventions. Given a TWT and Velocity pair (Tn, V):

  • Top Posted:
    • The velocity is V starting at T.
    • From Tn to T(n+1), the velocity is V.
  • Bottom Posted:
    • The velocity is V ending at T.
    • From T(n-1) to Tn, the velocity is V.
  • Centre Posted:
    • The velocity is V, centred at T.
    • From T(n-½) to T(n+½), the velocity is V.