Approaches to visualizing and interpreting geoscientific data

Abstract

3D Visualization of the subsurface of the earth is a relatively new but already proven technology for enhanced understanding and presentation of large datasets thus enabling rapid decision making. This is the story of one company?s efforts to understand and implement these tools. BHP first became involved in 3D visualization in the mid 1990?s through a research initiative that recognized this technology as having great potential to maximize our business. Several years of concerted effort raised our level of knowledge, as we became involved in university and industry consortia. Various types of visualization technologies, for example, `CAVES', `HIVES' `REALITY CENTERS' amongst others were trialled. A prototype interactive workbench was built which allowed our geoscientists to view a 3D image of seismic volumes and to interact with the displays. Collaboration rooms were built in our Melbourne and Houston offices. The very positive feedback received from the users of these rooms has led us to our current situation of having `Smart Workrooms' for most resource teams and a `Visualization Room' available for larger teams or for when 3D immersion environments are required. These rooms are already having a powerful impact on the way we do business.