Volume interpretation

Shell’s volume interpretation and calibration software, VOICE™ has brought a new dimension to the analysis of multidimensional seismic and associated rock and fluid data. Today’s systems, which combine increasingly powerful computer power with new graphics technology can offer unprecedented structural definition and detail. We can even highlight particular aspects of the data and extract them to show a complex fault or other geohazard enabling us to ‘see through’ or visualise the 3D seismic volumes.

As a result of extensive research and development in both Shell and the industry, it is possible to extract and highlight specific structural and stratigraphic aspects embedded in the seismic attributes. Seismic surveys can now provide complex data on several volumes, including amplitude, discontinuity, velocity and inversion. The interpretation of subsurface volumes also provides engineers with critically important safety information such as the differing pressures surrounding wells at various depths.

Across the world, Shell has developed facilities, including theatre-style virtual-reality centres and smaller collaboration rooms, to enable geoscientists and engineers to work closely together in the interpretation of seismic data. This brings greater efficiencies to scanning and exploring subsurface data for hydrocarbon-related anomalies, developing truly integrated earth models, real-time drilling operations and assessing shallow hazards.