--> Applications of Virtual and Augmented Reality in the Petroleum Geosciences

AAPG ACE 2018

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Applications of Virtual and Augmented Reality in the Petroleum Geosciences

Abstract

The geological sciences are the ideal candidate for the application of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR). Digital data collection techniques such as laser scanning, digital photogrammetry and the increasing use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or Small Unmanned Aircraft (SUA) technology allow us to collect large datasets efficiently and affordably. This linked with the recent resurgence in VR and AR technologies make these 3D digital datasets even more valuable, particularly in the petroleum industry.

The challenges associated with previous virtual fieldtrips are numerous, inability to include extremely high resolution information (such as being able to see and measure grains size) and lack of comprehension of scale have frequently been discussed as limitations. Using VR removes the comprehension of scale limitation, as the models are scaled correctly and appear true size. Resolution is still a limitation, but improving graphics cards, HMD (Head Mounted Display) screen resolution, and data collection approaches such as structure from motion are allowing ever increasing resolution in models. A key limitation is the length of time a person can comfortably remain in VR, and this length of time is dependent on many factors including the person themselves, but fundamental to a comfortable experience is that the models look and behave in as close to a realistic manner as possible. This requires great care and consideration at both the programming and model preparation stages

These limitations they do not diminish the usefulness of the virtual field trip as a way of improving geological understanding. The real power of the virtual fieldtrip comes from when it is combined with non-virtual trips to the same location. The VR experience allows the geologist to familiarise themselves with the outcrops before going into the field thereby maximising the usefulness of the real field time. Additionally the virtual field trip may be used as a post-fieldtrip tool to help re-emphasise and revisit the learning outcomes from the field trip.

Augmenting digital outcrop models with further information not accessible in the field area is one way in which the virtual fieldtrip can have an advantage over traditional field studies. Users can look at cross sections, borehole data, thin sections and even CT imaging in the context of the outcrop which cannot be done easily in reality, improving the comprehension of the virtual models.