New features have been added to iMOD to better disseminate 3D geomodels from the Alberta Geological Survey (AGS). iMOD is now able to visualize deviated wells, add clipping planes to selectively view geologic units, create 3D cross-sections, incorporate fault planes, and explode 3D models. These new capabilities allow iMOD users to better interact with and analyze the AGS's 3D Geological Framework Model, which covers over 600,000 square kilometers and contains data on over 600,000 points to represent 32 geologic units. Next steps include adding query and additional well visualization functions.

1. New Features in iMOD for the
Dissemination of Geomodels at AGS
Kelsey MacCormack, Paulina Branscombe, Dan Palombi,
Peter Vermeulen, Andrew Beaton, and Kevin Parks
October 31, 2017

2. Overview
Brief Introduction to AER and AGS
Benefit of having a 3D single-source of geologic
truth – 3D Geological Framework Model
Using iMOD to share 3D geomodels
New features added to iMOD
Next steps
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3. AER Overview
hydrocarbon resources over their
entire life cycle. This includes
allocating and conserving water
resources, managing public
lands, and protecting the
environment while providing
economic benefits for all
Albertans.
3
The Alberta Energy Regulator ensures the safe, efficient,
orderly, and environmentally responsible development of

4. Alberta Geological Survey
AGS is responsible for describing the geology and resources in
the province and provides information and knowledge to help
resolve land use, environmental, public health, and safety
issues related to geosciences
4
Carol Crowfoot
Jil MacDonald

5. Manage and
Efficiently Evaluate
Well Data
450,000+ wells
(541,000 Km total
length)
13.5 x
Managing Data to Ensure Transparency
and Effective Integration of Information

6. From 2D Maps to 3D Models
2D Bedrock Geology 3D Geological Framework
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Interactive 3D geological modelTraditional map products

7. 3D Provincial Geological Framework Model
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The model covers 602,825 km2 and contains 32 geologic units
Google Maps Image
Model = 602,825 km2
Total Data Points used
to build the model:
• 620,812

8. 3D Geomodel Construction
All 2.5D surfaces and 3D
geomodels are built using
Petrel (Schlumberger)
8This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed
under CC BY-NC
Petrel License cost
To build models: Base license = ~$65,000,
modules to do additional tasks (Total = ~$140,000)
Model complex structure and parameterize with a
variety of rock, hydrocarbon, or hydrological properties

9. Efficiently Share 3D Models
Duplication of efforts
Potential for inconsistencies
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Efficient use of staff resources
Promotes consistency and
credibility

10. Solution: iMOD – 3D Viewer
Open-source
Allow visualization
of 3D models
Users can import
their own geospatial
data into our models
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11. New Feature – Deviated Wells
Majority of new
wells drilled in
Alberta are
horizontal wells
Properly visualize
the wells within
specific subsurface
geologic units
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12. New Feature – Clipping Planes
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Multiple options for
clipping plane
direction
Clipping plane can
be capped

13. New Feature – Clipping Plane
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Also provides
option to
selectively apply
clipping plane to
specific geologic
units or features
(wells).

14. New Feature – 3D Cross-section
Cross-section can be
drawn in 3D space
Can be visualized
with other 3D objects
Can be clipped (if
desired) by clipping
plane
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15. New Feature - Faults
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-
Ability to add fault
planes in 3D within
the 3D model
Highlights areas of
structural complexity
within the model
area

16. New Feature – Exploded Model
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Model with no separation
Same model - exploded

17. Next Steps
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Coming soon….
Query spatial data by geological
unit or depth
Additional well visualization
capabilities to highlight specific
well segment information

18. Thank You
kelsey.maccormack@aer.ca