3D Visualization in the Seismitarium

Abstract

The Seismitarium software and conCAVE visualization screen provide an inexpensive immersive environment for exploring and analyzing 3D data in their spatially correct and true 3D locations. Developed initially for oil and gas exploration, the patent-pending visualization system was recognized for its innovation by technical publications outside the oil patch.Seismitarium software extracts data in the shape of a silo, then projects them on the complex surface of the hybrid conCAVE screen, producing unique distinctive views of geologic features.Combined with traditional planar perspective views, event picking, and surface generation, the Seismitarium becomes an extension to the interpreter's tool chest, improving his accuracy and efficiency.Several well-bore viewing options are incorporated in the software. The well track can be used as the navigation flight path for the silo, immersing the user in the surrounding seismic volume as he flies up and down the well. 3D perspective views with data rendered along the wellpath (like a probe) are also provided.The cylinder portion of the screen is a natural place for viewing well-derived non-seismic images. Any data, such as FMI logs, representing cylindrical views of the borehole can be portrayed in true spatially correct relationships on the ConCAVE walls.No immersive system is successful unless it includes the ability to switch quickly to non-immersive flat displays. The Seismitarium achieves this in several ways -with the perspective view enhanced depth-cueing component, the flat screen pulldown option, the paddle, planar mode, and combinations of the four.