Unstructured Grid Visualization Probe for Occlusion Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3D visualization techniques struggle to effectively render and analyze unstructured grids, particularly in the oil and gas industry, as they often occlude other objects and make it difficult to discern relationships between volumetric and polygonal objects, limiting the understanding of geometric and property relations.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for providing visualizations of unstructured grids using a probe defined by a set of topological elements, including three-dimensional polyhedrons or spheres, that allows for volume rendering within a closed space or defined by a distance from the probe, enabling the visualization of data on the probe's geometry and allowing for movement and modification of the probe to reveal occluded features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If volumetric objects are rendered fully opaque, then the volumetric data is clearly visible, but other objects in the scene are occluded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the volumetric data rendering by introducing multiple rendering modes (opaque, transparent, and contour) that can be applied to different portions or aspects of the volumetric object. This allows selective visibility control where contour rendering highlights specific features while maintaining transparency in other areas, enabling simultaneous visibility of volumetric data and underlying objects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs color and transparency variations to differentiate between volumetric data and other objects. By adjusting transparency levels and applying color coding to contour lines, the system maintains clear visibility of volumetric features while allowing background objects to remain visible through the volumetric rendering.
2Illumination intensity
If traditional cross-sections are used to view 3D volume, then the cross-sectional data is visible, but other objects are partially or completely occluded and 3D relationships are difficult to discern
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enhances traditional 2D cross-sectional views by adding 3D contour lines that wrap around the volumetric object. These contour lines provide depth perception and 3D spatial relationships while maintaining the cross-sectional data visibility. The contour rendering adds a third dimension of information to the cross-section, allowing users to understand both the cross-sectional properties and the 3D spatial context simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces contour lines as an intermediary element between the cross-sectional view and the full 3D volume. These contour lines act as a mediator that connects the 2D cross-section to the 3D spatial context, providing depth cues and spatial relationships without requiring the user to switch between multiple views or sacrifice visibility of other objects.
3Loss of information
If semi-transparent rendering is used, then other objects can be seen through the volume, but it is hard to determine the exact location of semi-transparent data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses color variations and contour line overlays on semi-transparent volumetric rendering to enhance the precision of locating volumetric features. The contour lines are rendered with distinct colors and patterns that make them stand out from the background, allowing users to accurately determine the boundaries and locations of volumetric data even when transparency is applied.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies asymmetric rendering where contour lines and specific features are emphasized with higher opacity or distinct visual characteristics compared to the rest of the volumetric data. This creates visual hierarchy where important boundary information stands out against the semi-transparent background, enabling precise location determination while maintaining overall transparency.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a system and method for providing a visualization of data describing a physical structure. An exemplary method comprises defining an unstructured grid that corresponds to a three-dimensional physical structure, the unstructured grid comprising data representative of a property of interest. The exemplary method also comprises defining a probe as an object that comprises a set of topological elements, at least one of which does not share a common plane. The exemplary method additionally comprises providing a visualization of the unstructured grid data on the geometry defined by the probe.