Transparent Cube and Rods for 3D Exploration Network Modeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Scientists, particularly geologists and students, face challenges in creating intuitive and affordable tridimensional modeling tools for representing exploration networks and subsurface volumes due to geographical isolation and limited access to advanced technologies, which are often expensive and non-intuitive.
Innovation Solution
A tridimensional modeling apparatus comprising a transparent hollow cube with perforations and indicia for marking polar coordinates, combined with flexible, thermoplastic rods that can be colored and inserted at specific angles to represent exploration channels or wells, providing a visual representation of exploration networks within a volume.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If expensive computer software is used for tridimensional geological modeling, then modeling precision and functionality are improved, but cost and accessibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a physical copy/model of the subsurface volume using a transparent cube and rods, replacing the need for expensive software while maintaining modeling functionality. The physical model replicates the three-dimensional representation that software would provide, making it accessible without computational resources.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses inexpensive, simple materials like transparent plastic cubes and rods to create a functional modeling tool. These basic objects can be easily manufactured and distributed, providing affordable access to tridimensional modeling capabilities without requiring expensive software licenses or hardware.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex software tools are used for exploration network representation, then modeling capability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The physical model allows users to directly manipulate and visualize exploration networks through tangible objects. The cube and rods self-explain spatial relationships and drilling orientations through their physical arrangement, eliminating the need to learn complex software interfaces while maintaining full modeling capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The transparent rods can be colored or marked to represent different exploration channels, well types, or geological features. This visual differentiation enhances the model's versatility while maintaining intuitive operation, as users can easily distinguish between different elements through color rather than complex software menus.
3Quantity of substance
If traditional drilling training methods are used, then educational completeness is improved, but visualization understanding deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional paper-based drilling plans to a true three-dimensional physical model. Students can visually perceive drilling orientations, angles, and wellbore trajectories in three dimensions, making abstract concepts concrete and easily understandable while retaining complete training content.
Solution Approach 2:
The transparent cube and rods serve as an intermediary between abstract drilling data and student understanding. The physical model mediates the translation of numerical drilling parameters into visual spatial relationships, making it easier for students to grasp complex subsurface geometries without losing technical accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A tridimensional modeling apparatus, system and kit is for representing an exploration network. The apparatus, system and kit include a transparent hollow cube with six plane surfaces for representing an enclosed volume, a plurality of perforations on at least two of the six plane surfaces and indicia around each opening for marking polar coordinates and orientation. The apparatus, system and kit further include a plurality of transparent rods for representing exploration channels. The plurality of perforations on the cube are arranged for receiving rods for tridimensional modeling of the exploration network and each rod is inserted into an opening with an angle and a depth, thereby resulting in a visual representation of the exploration network within the represented volume.