WYATT, KAY DAUTENHAHN, SUSAN K. TOWE, J. E. LAYTON, S. B. WYATT, D. H. VON SEGGERN, and C. A. BROCKMEIER, Phillips Petroluem Company, Bartlesville, OK

ABSTRACT: Ergonomics in 3-D Depth Migration

Clearly, the most difficult part of any 3-D depth migration is the construction of the required 3-D depth model. In an effort to simplify the model building process, we have utilized advanced visualization techniques and simple user interfaces. The user may view well data, seismic data, and the geological model in true 3-D representation and manipulate it in real time (i.e., rotate, translate, light, etc.). Simple user interfaces are provided such as "paint" style user interface which allows the user to draw complex geological shapes on the seismic section, thus eliminating the traditional "horizon" approach. The painted shapes are then automatically assembled into 3-D objects. The user can also "reach inside" the display and reshape the 3-D objects which make up the geological model, much as a child shapes modeling clay. The utilization of such techniques provides for greater success in ensuring that 3-D depth migrations are performed quickly and accurately.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90987©1993 AAPG Annual Convention, New Orleans, Louisiana, April 25-28, 1993.