Thurmond, John B.¹
(1) University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX

ABSTRACT: From Collection to Utilization: Outcrop Analog Data in a 3D World

The collection of three-dimensional data from outcrops is playing an increasingly important role in reservoir characterization studies. There are a variety of techniques that can be used to acquire three-dimensional data from outcrops, and each should be applied individually or in concert to collect data in specific circumstances. The current suite of emerging methods typically used in outcrop-scale measurement includes traditional surveying, direct GPS measurement, laser scanning (LIDAR), photogrammetry, and photorealistic mapping (texture draped geometry). Depending on the morphology, setting, and particular data needs of a specific outcrop, different methods can be used to acquire data. Case studies of individual outcrops will be shown to illustrate the problems and benefits of several of these methods. 
Once three-dimensional data is collected, utilizing the data can present its own set of challenges. Each collection method produces a different type of data, each of which requires a variety of processing and interpretation methods to utilize effectively. In most cases, there is also the need to integrate data from a variety of sources into a single interpretable data set. Again, case studies provide specific illustrations of effective methods that have been used in various projects to produce reservoir models from a variety of environments, including deep water channel systems, heavily faulted fluvial environments, and carbonate build-ups.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90026©2004 AAPG Annual Meeting, Dallas, Texas, April 18-21, 2004.