3D System Helps Geologists to Develop Interpretations and Test Hypotheses

LAST YEAR, the British Geological Survey (BGS) installed a Virtalis StereoWorks visualisation system at its Keyworth HQ. Following the success of that system, an almost identical one has been installed at BGS, Edinburgh, enabling geologists based there to explore their geological data in full stereo 3D.

Dr. Martin Smith, head of Station, BGS, Edinburgh, explained: ”Geologists naturally think in 3D, but until now they have had to translate their ideas onto a 2D record. This 2D record, in the form of a map, was then re-interpreted into 3D by other geologists. With this tool the need to move from 3D to 2D and back again is negated. We have experience of visualisation with the oil and gas industry, but what has impressed me about the Virtalis system is how it encourages teamwork. A project team can work together to construct a 3D model, interact with the data and interpret them as a group. I believe this could become a great training tool for young geologists, as, with a 3D model, it quickly becomes apparent what aspects require more survey work. When planning or analysing a field survey, we can use the system to assimilate material from various sources. For example, aerial photographs can be draped onto a digital terrain model and radar, satellite imagery, digital bore holes, mine plans and any previous geological data can be overlaid, giving us the most complete picture possible.”

Bill Hatton, programme manager, Information Systems Development, said: “Following on from the success of the first system at Keyworth, I fully expect this investment to have the same impact for our stakeholders in the northern part of the UK. BGS has many opportunities that the Virtalis system could be a valuable part of, such as the 3D Characterisation of Coast, Continental Shelf Margins and UK onshore programmes.”

Andrew Connell, Virtalis’ technical director, explained: “This StereoWorks configuration consists of a single large screen onto which stereoscopic images are rear projected by a Christie Mirage S+4K projector, which is capable of extremely high resolution and brightness. We integrated all of the room’s functions into a control system operated by a wireless touch panel, so that light, sound and other inputs can be controlled by a single button press. Additionally, to provide enhanced communication between remote locations, both systems have been provided with access grid video conferencing functions. The theatre will seat 18 people, but, as it also features a wireless IS-900 tracking system from Intersense, two to three people will be able to interact immersively with their models.”

BGS Edinburgh’s geologists are currently employed on several projects in Northern England and Scotland both onshore and offshore, including the Northwest Highlands Geopark, the Firth of Forth, Hadrian’s Wall, the Lake District and Snowdonia. They are using various software packages to help them develop their 3D models, including GoCad, ArcScene and Fledermaus. Virtalis has also helped develop a software application to aid interpretation of geology within the Assynt area and the North Pennines Geopark. Using the tracking system, a geologist is consequently able to immerse himself in the geology and landscape and explore the data virtually.

Dr. Stuart Clarke, a survey geologist at BGS and responsible for the development of many of the 3D models, commented: “The reaction to the Virtalis system has been very positive. Now groups of between five and seven geologists can work on the pre-survey planning together, as well as the post survey analysis. The 3D element doesn’t just interest geologists. It makes our data available to visitors and external clients by bringing them to life. Being able to represent in 3D what already exists could help tear down the barriers between specialists and non specialists.”

British Geological Survey Web Site: www.bgs.ac.uk

British Geological Survey Parliamentary and Press Officer: Hilary Heason
Telephone Number: 0115 936 3497
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Hi-Res image downloads:
 SubsurfBritain1 (156.04 KB)  and  SubsurfBritain2 (168.42 KB)
Images show the area near the Summer Isles of NW Scotland, looking to Loch Broom in the distance.  The Geologists are looking at the 3D model of the Fjord coastline showing the juxtaposition of shallow marine banks (pinks) and the adjacent deep water troughs (blues) - a marine landscape shaped by glaciers.

 SubsurfBritain3 (178.32 KB)
A 3D model of subsurface Britain constructed from the 1:625000 scale geological map, drilling and deep geophysical investigations.  It represents 10 layers, from Moho (depth 30km) up to the base of the superficial Quaternary deposits (depth a few metres).

All images reproduced courtesy of British Geological Survey (Ref: IPR/74-43CW)

STOP PRESS - NOTICE OF EVENT

The next Virtalis Academic/R&D Roadshow will take place at BGS Edinburgh on Thursday 27th April - further details on our <events page>.  If you want to attend or want further details, please email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it