f Volume interpretation, a new approach to 3D seismic interpretation

Despite the three-dimensionsl nature of 3D seismic data, the actual interpretation is still performed on 2D sections, mostly on horizontal or vertical slices through the data volume. With the recent developments of 3D visualization hardware and software, seismic data and interpretation results can be displayed and analysed interactively in true 3D perspective. However in most of these new developments the interpretation of the data is still conventional, surface-oriented (horizons, faults, unconformities etc. With the introduction of 3D image processing and 3D volume description techniques within this environment in the Shell Group the interpreter is now able to segment the 3D seismic data volume into bodies of different structural and stratigraphic character. The geometries of these isolated bodies can be visualized and analysed in three dimensions and stored for later use. A field example of a turbidite channel complex shows the added value of this new volume interpretation approach which enhances the speed and quality of 3D seismic interpretation.