Gaussian Ray Optimized Volumetric Evaluation Rendering (GROVER) for Visualization of Advanced Oil Recovery--Physical Optics Corporation, 20600 Gramercy Place, Suite 103, Torrance, CA 90501-1821; (310) 320-3088
Dr. Stephen Kupiec, Principal Investigator
Mr. Gordon Drew, Business Official
DOE Grant No. DE-FG03-98ER82639
Amount: $75,000

The past decade has seen an explosion in the use of 3-dimensional and "4-dimensional" (time series) seismic imaging for advanced oil extraction planning and analysis. However, exploitation of the resulting data requires interactive high speed volumetric rendering and stereo display for interpretation of the seismic data. Current visualization techniques employ polygon-based rendering tools and isocontours, which lose gradient information and introduce artifacts. This project will develop a volumetric rendering system for the visualization of seismic information. The approach combines Gaussian beam tracing with wavelet decomposition of the volumetric data to massively accelerate volumetric rendering. The mathematical framework for a Gaussian beam wavelet-based rendering system will be developed, as will preliminary rendering programs. Stereo rendering will be integrated into an autostereoscopic display that includes depth cues.

Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: Improving the analysis of 3-dimensional seismic imaging should improve oil extraction. Other applications include medical imaging, scientific visualization, and simulation of clouds and fire.