3-D Structural Interpretation: Earth, Mind, and Machine

Three-dimensional geologic interpretation of surface and subsurface data requires integration and application of both geologic knowledge and spatial cognitive skills. Much surface geologic mapping still employs pen and paper techniques, but subsurface interpretation is usually accomplished using sophisticated visualization software. In both cases, successful interpreters use mental models that bridge internal and external forms of 3-D visualization to construct 3-D geologic interpretations. This AAPG Memoir 111 sets out to understand more about the convergence of geology, 3-D thinking, and software, which collectively provide the basis for truly effective interpretation strategies. It should appeal to all geologic interpreters, and especially those who investigate and teach interpretation skills.
Subsurface Structural Interpretation: The Significance of 3-D Structural Frameworks
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Published:January 01, 2016
Abstract
Accurate three-dimensional (3-D) models of the deformed subsurface are foundational to successful oil and gas exploration and development, and modeling 3-D structural complexity in the subsurface requires specific skills and software. The gold standard in modern structural interpretation is the structural framework: an air-tight network of intersecting fault and horizon surfaces that completely describes the 3-D structural geometry of a given area, field, or prospect. The complete geometry of faulted reservoirs, petroleum traps, basin margins, and other deformed regions are more likely to be accurately captured in a structural framework because their construction workflow promotes sculpting mental models into...
- accuracy
- applications
- deformation
- errors
- faults
- geometry
- geophysical methods
- geophysical profiles
- geophysical surveys
- interpretation
- mapping
- natural gas
- petroleum
- petroleum exploration
- reservoir rocks
- seismic methods
- seismic profiles
- spatial data
- surveys
- three-dimensional models
- two-and-a-half-dimensional models
- two-dimensional models