--> Abstract: Applying Human Factors & Design Principles to Geoscience Visualization; #90063 (2007)

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Applying Human Factors & Design Principles to Geoscience Visualization

 

Cole, Mary1, Ann Worrel2 (1) Landmark, Houston, TX (2) Halliburton: Drilling, Evaluation and Digital Solutions, Houston, TX

 

Tools designed for 3-D visualization and interpretation of exploration data are now in widespread use. While our ability to interpret and communicate our understanding of complex fault geometries and depositional systems can be improved by the use of 3-D visualization tools; complex data and large datasets can result in cluttered and confusing images. Applying principles from human factors and graphics design can help us create visualizations that are more interpretable and that better represent the underlying data.

 

A successful visualization is the result of careful attention to numerous details. Color is widely used to display data variations; however care must be taken to choose perceptually linear color scales so that the data are not masked or distorted. Color scales may be chosen to accommodate users with varying degrees of color perception. Lighting effects can bring out subtle features in the data, but may conflict with color representation. Transparency is a useful device for depicting multiple overlapping surfaces but may result in images that are unacceptably complex. Design principles can be used to minimize perceptual clutter, improving the effectiveness of the visualization.

 

When a 3-D visualization tool is used interactively, additional facets of human perception can be exploited. Motion is a very effective tool, as are stereoscopic displays. By better understanding human perception we build visualizations that allow us to interpret and communicate geoscience data more effectively.

 

AAPG Search and Discover Article #90063©2007 AAPG Annual Convention, Long Beach, California