Conveying Complex Geologic and Subsurface Concepts Through the Use - PowerPoint PPT Presentation

Conveying Complex Geologic and Subsurface Concepts Through the Use of 3D Modeling and Visualization Software Brian A. Congiu RE3 Conference Atlantic City, NJ November 13, 2012

Outline • What is 3D Visualization? • What Do We use It For? • Why Do We Use It? • How Are We Applying It? • Project Examples December 4, 2012 2

What is 3D Visualization? Three-dimensional representation of objects, settings, & scenarios • Physical models • Computer modeling software • 3D printing Used in many industries Widely used in oil, gas, & mining Limited environmental applications – emerging Modeling site conditions & understanding subsurface characteristics  Technology advancing – becoming more cost effective & feasible October 17, 2011 3

What Do We Use It For? Creating 3D representations of sites - computer models Common application: Conceptual Site Model Development  Golder: strong emphasis on CSM work  Development of good CSM  Saves time & $$$  Recent Focus: Bringing the CSM into 3D How? Integration of typical environmental site data into 3D space Faster – Easier – Cost Efficient – High Visual Impact December 4, 2012 4

site maps regional references well locations borehole logs utilities cross-sections topography structural contours as-built drawings fractures/faults site mapping Hydrogeology Chemistry 3D Model hydro testing CSM sampling results water levels/contours tables/graphs regional references contours GW modeling cross-sections maps/ logs , testing results, cross-sections , surface/DH historical maps, photos, aerial images, sanborn maps, records, past operations 5

Why Are We Using It? Tradition al 3D Model Traditional CSM CSM CSM December 4, 2012 6

Traditional 2D representations  3D Models

How Are We Applying It? 1. Data Repository • Compile , store & view various data together in central location • Import/export data between software • Integrate new data over time 2. Visualization, Analysis, & Interpretation • To view , understand , interpret various data types • Perform analyses: interpolation, geostats, queries • Make informed interpretations: freedom to manipulate 3. Field Verification & Decision-Making • Model (to scale) created in real-world coordinate system • Plan borings & investigations, identify data gaps 4. Communication • Effectively convey site setting & quickly illustrate complex concepts • Frequently used in presentations to clients & regulators December 4, 2012 8

How Are We Applying It? Deliverables Variety of project types • Presentations • large & small • Videos • simple  complex • Figures • 3D PDF Employ multiple types of software: “Many tools in the tool belt” • Geologic modeling • Chemistry modeling • GIS CADD • Fracture modeling • GW modeling • 3D design December 4, 2012 9

Project Examples

Large Industrial Site CSM Background: 400 borings, large site, complex geology & groundwater model Problem: Compile, view, interpret large datasets & GW model for CSM Approach: Used 3D model to manage/display data & construct CSM December 4, 2012 Project Video

Hydro Investigation Background: Investigate hydro stratigraphy & local GW flow Problem: Boring placement & hydro unit targets Approach: Modeled geology & hydro data; used drill hole designer & cross- section tools December 4, 2012 Project Video

MIP Investigation Background: Former industrial site - solvents in groundwater Delineated plume via MIP (Membrane Interface Probe) Investigation Problem: Use MIP data to understand contamination & geology Approach: 3D interpolation of MIP data (EC & ECD) & iso-shell creation Visualize zones of impacts & low permeability December 4, 2012 Project Video

Excavation Volumes Background: Industrial site: proposed excavation Problem: Determine volume of clean/contaminated material Approach: Modeled geology & excavation (created space-filling model), used soil chemistry --queries & volume calculations December 4, 2012 Project Video

Summary • Combination of software tools to build 3D models • Useful application for environmental work • Powerful for visualization, analysis, & communication • Increases productivity, time savings, cost savings • Well received both internally & externally • Golder is expanding its use to more projects & exploring new applications December 4, 2012 15

Thank You! For more information: Golder Associates Booth #11 TV presentation of more 3D examples Acknowledgements Florin Gheorghiu, Michael Borda, Bill Decker, Lisa Congiu, Andrew Madison, Teresa Lewis, Charlie Lawrence Questions? December 4, 2012 16