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Modelling & Analysis

Commands for 3D modelling, volumetric analysis, well log visualization, discrete element simulation, voxel model operations, and measurement tools. These commands appear in the Modelling ribbon tab and context-sensitive tabs (Log, 2D Log, Voxel Model, Discrete Element Model).

Measurement Tools​

Measure 3D​

Ribbon button: Measure 3D Tooltip Measure 3D distance between two points in space.

What it does Measures the straight-line 3D distance between two clicked points. The measurement spans through 3D space (not constrained to surfaces) and reports the direct Euclidean distance. Results typically show distance in model units (metres), and may include XYZ component distances. The measurement is stored as an annotation object.

When to use it

  • Measuring direct distances between features
  • Calculating separation between points in 3D space
  • Determining true thickness of geological units (perpendicular to bedding)
  • Measuring spatial relationships between objects
  • Quality control of model dimensions

Notes

3D vs Surface Distance

3D measurement gives the straight-line distance through space, which may pass through solid objects. For distance along surfaces, use path measurement tools. For horizontal distance ignoring elevation, use Measure Horizontal.

Measurements are typically displayed as lines with distance labels. Multiple measurements can be placed to document various distances across the model.

Measure Horizontal​

Ribbon button: Measure Horizontal Tooltip Measure horizontal (map) distance ignoring elevation differences.

What it does Measures the horizontal (map view) distance between two clicked points, ignoring any elevation (Z) difference. The measurement projects both points to a horizontal plane and calculates the distance in that plane. Equivalent to map distance or plan view distance. Useful for measuring lateral extents or horizontal separations.

When to use it

  • Measuring lateral extent of features
  • Calculating horizontal distances on maps
  • Determining strike length of geological features
  • Measuring outcrop width or lateral dimensions
  • Map-scale distance measurements

Notes Horizontal distance is always less than or equal to 3D distance (equal only when points are at the same elevation). For georeferenced models, horizontal distance typically corresponds to map distance in the coordinate system's horizontal units (metres, feet).

Measure Vertical​

Ribbon button: Measure Vertical Tooltip Measure vertical distance (elevation difference) between points.

What it does Measures the vertical distance (elevation difference) between two clicked points, ignoring any horizontal separation. Calculates the difference in Z-coordinates only. Positive values indicate the second point is higher than the first; negative values indicate lower. Useful for measuring stratigraphic thickness, cliff heights, or elevation changes.

When to use it

  • Measuring stratigraphic thickness (vertical distance between horizons)
  • Calculating cliff or escarpment heights
  • Determining elevation differences between features
  • Measuring apparent thickness in vertical sections
  • Relief or topographic difference measurements

Notes

True vs Apparent Thickness

Vertical measurement gives apparent thickness (perpendicular to horizontal), not necessarily true thickness (perpendicular to bedding). For dipping beds, use 3D measurement perpendicular to bedding to get true thickness.

For non-georeferenced models, "vertical" refers to the model's Z-axis direction, which may not correspond to true gravity-aligned vertical.

Measure Multi 3D​

Ribbon button: Measure Multi 3D Tooltip Measure cumulative distance along a multi-segment 3D path.

What it does Measures cumulative distance along a path defined by multiple clicked points. Each click adds a segment, and the total path distance is calculated as the sum of all segment lengths. Useful for measuring distances along irregular paths, traverse lengths, or cumulative distances along features. Double-click or press Enter to finish the measurement.

When to use it

  • Measuring path lengths along irregular routes
  • Calculating traverse distances for field work planning
  • Measuring cumulative distance along features (faults, contacts, roads)
  • Determining perimeter or boundary lengths
  • Complex distance measurements requiring multiple waypoints

Notes Multi-segment measurements display intermediate segment lengths and cumulative total. Segments follow straight lines between points - for accurate path measurements along curved surfaces, place points closely along the curve. The measurement tool typically shows progressive totals as you add segments.

Well Log Visualization​

Edit Deviation​

Ribbon button: Edit Deviation Tooltip Edit well deviation trajectory by moving deviation survey points.

What it does Activates well deviation editing mode, allowing you to modify the 3D trajectory of deviated (non-vertical) wells by moving deviation survey points. Deviation surveys define the well path through 3D space with measured depth, inclination, and azimuth at survey stations. Moving these control points reshapes the well trajectory, updating the interpolated path between surveys.

When to use it

  • Correcting well deviation trajectories based on new survey data
  • Adjusting well paths to match observed well positions
  • Refining deviated well geometry for accurate subsurface positioning
  • Quality control of well path interpolation
  • Updating well trajectories after recalibration

Notes

Deviation Surveys

Well deviation is defined by survey points with measured depth (distance along wellbore), inclination (angle from vertical), and azimuth (compass direction). The 3D trajectory is interpolated between surveys using minimum curvature or other methods.

Moving deviation points affects the well path between adjacent surveys. Large moves may create unrealistic curvatures - adjust gradually. See also: Extend Deviation.

Extend Deviation​

Ribbon button: Extend Deviation Tooltip Extend well trajectory beyond last deviation survey point.

What it does Extends the well deviation trajectory beyond the last measured survey point by extrapolating the well path using the trajectory trend at the last survey. The extension projects the well in the direction and inclination defined by the final survey segment. Useful for visualizing projected well paths or extending wells to model boundaries.

When to use it

  • Projecting planned well trajectories beyond current drilling depth
  • Extending wells to intersect target horizons or boundaries
  • Visualizing proposed well extensions
  • Completing well paths for cross-section displays
  • Forward projection of deviated wells

Notes

Extrapolation Uncertainty

Extended well paths are projections based on the final survey segment's trend. Actual wells may deviate from projections due to steering corrections or geological conditions. Extended portions are uncertain and should be clearly distinguished from surveyed portions.

Extension distance may be specified explicitly or extended to intersect specified surfaces (horizons, faults, model boundaries).

Set Dip Domain​

Ribbon button: Set Dip Domain Tooltip Assign geological dip domain to well log for structural corrections.

What it does Assigns a dip domain (structural domain with characteristic bedding orientation) to the well log. Dip domains are regions with consistent structural orientation (e.g., fold limbs, fault blocks). Assigning the well to its appropriate dip domain allows structural corrections to be applied when projecting log data to surfaces or correlating between wells.

When to use it

  • Structural correlation of wells in folded or faulted terrains
  • Applying structural corrections to well log data
  • Projecting well data onto surfaces considering bedding orientation
  • Cross-section construction with structural control
  • Correlating wells across structural boundaries

Notes Dip domains are typically defined separately (via structural interpretation) before being assigned to wells. Multiple dip domains may exist in an area (e.g., separate fold limbs, fault blocks). Assigning wells to correct domains ensures structural correlation honours geological structure rather than simple elevation correlation.

Facies/Grain Size/Carbonate Defaults​

Ribbon buttons: (Dropdown menus) Tooltip Set default facies, grain size, or carbonate classifications for log units.

What it does Dropdown menus to select default classification values for well log units:

  • Facies Combo: Select default lithofacies or sedimentary facies (e.g., sandstone, shale, carbonate)
  • Grain Size Combo: Select default grain size classification (clay, silt, sand, gravel, etc.)
  • Carbonate Combo: Select default carbonate classification (mudstone, wackestone, packstone, grainstone, etc.)

Selected defaults are applied to newly created log intervals or used as templates for log digitization.

When to use it

  • Setting up classification schemes before log digitization
  • Defining default lithologies for batch log entry
  • Standardizing log classification across multiple wells
  • Pre-selecting common facies for efficient log interpretation

Notes

Classification Standards

Grain size classifications typically follow Wentworth scale (clay < 0.004mm, silt 0.004-0.0625mm, sand 0.0625-2mm, gravel >2mm). Carbonate classifications follow Dunham or Folk schemes. Ensure consistency across wells.

Defaults apply to new log intervals only - existing log intervals retain their assigned classifications unless explicitly changed.

2D Log Correlation​

Digitise Profile​

Ribbon button: Digitise Profile Tooltip Digitise stratigraphic profile by defining unit boundaries.

What it does Activates 2D log profile digitization mode for creating stratigraphic columns or well logs in 2D view. Click to define boundaries between stratigraphic units (bedding contacts, formation boundaries). Each boundary divides the log into intervals that can be assigned lithologies, facies, or attributes. Builds up the stratigraphic column incrementally.

When to use it

  • Creating stratigraphic columns from field measurements or well data
  • Digitising log profiles for correlation panels
  • Building 2D stratigraphic sections
  • Entering measured section data
  • Log correlation studies

Notes Units are defined by their bounding contacts (top and base). After digitizing boundaries, units can be assigned attributes (lithology, thickness, facies, grain size, etc.). Digitization typically proceeds from base to top or top to base in stratigraphic order.

Add New Unit​

Ribbon button: Add New Tooltip Insert new stratigraphic unit into existing log profile.

What it does Inserts a new stratigraphic unit (interval) into an existing 2D log profile at a specified position. The existing log is split at the insertion point, and the new unit is inserted between the split portions. This allows adding detail to existing logs without complete redigitization.

When to use it

  • Adding newly identified units to existing logs
  • Increasing stratigraphic resolution by subdividing units
  • Inserting additional detail after initial log creation
  • Correcting logs by adding missed units
  • Refining log correlation with additional detail

Notes The insertion point determines where the new unit appears. Adjacent units are adjusted (shortened) to accommodate the new unit. Specify the new unit's thickness or position boundaries when inserting.

Split Unit​

Ribbon button: Split Unit Tooltip Divide stratigraphic unit into two separate units.

What it does Splits a selected stratigraphic unit into two units at a specified position within the unit. The original unit is divided, creating two thinner units with a new boundary at the split point. Each resulting unit can be assigned separate attributes. Useful for subdividing lithologically mixed units or increasing stratigraphic resolution.

When to use it

  • Subdividing heterogeneous units into distinct subunits
  • Increasing stratigraphic detail in specific intervals
  • Separating mixed lithologies into discrete units
  • Refining correlation by splitting correlatable subunits
  • Breaking coarse units into finer resolution

Notes

Unit Attributes

After splitting, both resulting units initially inherit the original unit's attributes. Modify attributes separately for each new unit as needed to reflect lithological differences.

The split position can typically be specified as depth/elevation or proportionally within the unit. Consider whether the split represents a real boundary (bedding contact) or is just for convenience.

Sample Point (TVT Mode)​

Ribbon button: Sample Point Tooltip Place correlation sample point in Time-Vertical-Thickness (TVT) mode.

What it does In Time-Vertical-Thickness (TVT) correlation mode, places a sample point on a log at a specific stratigraphic position. Sample points mark correlation horizons or datums used for aligning logs in correlation panels. TVT mode uses chronostratigraphic (time) correlation rather than simple elevation correlation, honouring unconformities and stratigraphic architecture.

When to use it

  • Chronostratigraphic correlation of well logs
  • Marking correlation horizons in TVT panels
  • Wheeler diagram construction
  • Sequence stratigraphic correlation
  • Correlating across unconformities

Notes

TVT Correlation

Time-Vertical-Thickness (TVT) correlation displays logs in stratigraphic (time) space rather than geographic space, accounting for unconformities and stratigraphic architecture. Sample points define chronostratigraphic tie lines between wells.

TVT mode requires stratigraphic framework definition (surfaces, unconformities, sequence boundaries). Sample points should represent isochronous horizons (same geological time) for valid correlation.

Zoom In/Out (2D Log)​

Ribbon buttons: Zoom In, Zoom Out Tooltip Zoom in or out on 2D log display for detail or overview.

What it does Adjusts zoom level of 2D log displays:

  • Zoom In: Increases magnification, showing finer detail of stratigraphic intervals
  • Zoom Out: Decreases magnification, showing broader stratigraphic overview

Zooming helps navigate between detailed examination of specific intervals and overview of entire stratigraphic columns or correlation panels.

When to use it

  • Examining fine-scale stratigraphic detail (cm-scale bedding)
  • Viewing entire stratigraphic columns in one view
  • Navigating between different scales during correlation
  • Focusing on specific intervals of interest
  • Presentation of logs at appropriate scales

Notes Zoom typically centres on cursor position or current view centre. Zoom levels may be constrained to maintain readable text and symbols. For correlation panels with multiple logs, zooming typically affects all logs simultaneously to maintain consistent scale for correlation.

Reset View (2D Log)​

Ribbon button: Reset View Tooltip Reset 2D log view to default zoom and position.

What it does Resets the 2D log view to default zoom level and position, typically framing the entire stratigraphic column or correlation panel in the view. Returns to the overview view after zooming into details. Useful for recentring after navigation or restoring standard view scales.

When to use it

  • Returning to overview after detailed examination
  • Recentring after panning or zooming
  • Restoring default view scale for presentations
  • Quick navigation to full log view

Notes Reset view typically frames the entire vertical extent of logs plus some margin. Horizontal extent depends on number of logs in correlation panels. This is a quick way to "zoom extents" for log displays.

Discrete Element Model (DEM) Simulation​

Start/Stop Simulation​

Ribbon button: Start/Stop Tooltip Toggle discrete element model simulation on/off.

What it does Starts or stops the discrete element model (DEM) simulation. DEM simulations model the behaviour of granular materials (particles, blocks, fragments) by computing forces, collisions, and movements of individual discrete elements. Starting the simulation advances the model through time as elements interact; stopping pauses the simulation at the current state.

When to use it

  • Running DEM simulations of granular materials
  • Simulating rock avalanches, debris flows, or fragmentation
  • Modeling particulate or block behaviour
  • Testing mechanical behaviour of discrete systems
  • Pausing simulations to inspect intermediate states

Notes

DEM Applications

DEM is used for granular material behavior (sand, gravel, rock fragments), block mechanics (jointed rock masses), and fragmentation processes. Simulations can be computationally intensive for large numbers of elements.

Simulation parameters (timestep, damping, contact properties) should be set before starting. Long simulations may benefit from checkpoint saves at intervals. See also: History Player controls.

History Player Controls​

Ribbon buttons: Start, Step Back, Play, Step Forward, End Tooltip Navigate through saved DEM simulation history.

What it does Controls for navigating through saved discrete element simulation history:

  • Start (Button1): Jump to beginning of simulation history (initial state)
  • Step Back (Button2): Step backward one timestep in history
  • Play (Button3): Play through history continuously (animation)
  • Step Forward (Button4): Step forward one timestep in history
  • End (Button5): Jump to end of simulation history (final state)

These controls allow reviewing simulation evolution without re-running the simulation.

When to use it

  • Reviewing simulation evolution step-by-step
  • Creating animations of DEM processes
  • Identifying critical events or stages in simulation
  • Comparing different timesteps
  • Presenting simulation results

Notes History playback requires saved simulation states at intervals during the simulation run. Playback speed (for Play mode) is typically adjustable. Use step controls for detailed examination of specific events; use Play for overview animations. Stepping allows frame-by-frame analysis of collision events, failure initiation, or other dynamic processes.

Voxel Model Operations​

Select Voxel​

Ribbon button: Select Tooltip Select voxels for classification or editing.

What it does Activates voxel selection mode for volumetric models. Click on voxels in 3D view or use brush/region selection tools to select voxel cells within the voxel model. Selected voxels can be assigned attributes, deleted, or extracted. This is the primary tool for interactive voxel model editing and classification.

When to use it

  • Selecting voxel regions for attribute assignment
  • Isolating specific voxel volumes for extraction
  • Manual classification of voxel models
  • Quality control by selecting and examining specific voxels
  • Preparing voxel selections for operations

Notes

Voxel vs Surface Selection

Voxel selection operates on volumetric grid cells, not surface elements. Selection includes all voxels within the selection region, including interior (not just surface) voxels.

Selection tools may include brush selection (spherical region), box selection, polygon selection, or attribute-based selection (select all voxels with specific attribute values). Selected voxels are typically highlighted with distinct colouring.

Flood Fill​

Ribbon button: Fill Tooltip Flood-fill voxels with attribute values based on connectivity.

What it does Applies flood-fill algorithm to voxel models, similar to paint bucket tools in image editors. Click on a voxel, and all connected voxels with the same attribute value are selected or assigned a new attribute value. Connectivity can be face-connected (6-connected), edge-connected (18-connected), or corner-connected (26-connected). Useful for rapid classification of connected voxel regions.

When to use it

  • Rapidly classifying connected voxel volumes
  • Filling interior regions of voxel models
  • Automatic segmentation based on attribute similarity
  • Removing or isolating connected components
  • Efficient bulk classification of uniform regions

Notes Flood fill propagates through connected voxels with matching attribute values (or within a tolerance for continuous attributes). The fill stops at boundaries where attribute values differ significantly. For large voxel models, flood fill can be much faster than manual selection of large regions. Undo is available if flood fill propagates unintentionally.

Box Clip​

Ribbon button: Box Tooltip Clip voxel model to rectangular box region.

What it does Clips the voxel model by defining a 3D rectangular box. Voxels outside the box are hidden, deleted, or set to no-data (depending on settings). Voxels inside the box are retained. This allows extracting or visualizing specific rectangular regions of interest from larger voxel models, reducing clutter and focusing on relevant volumes.

When to use it

  • Extracting rectangular subvolumes from large voxel models
  • Focusing visualization on specific regions
  • Removing edge effects or artifact regions
  • Preparing subsets for export or analysis
  • Reducing memory usage by clipping to region of interest

Notes

Data Modification

Clipping may permanently modify the voxel model (deleting clipped voxels) depending on settings. Ensure critical data is backed up before destructive clipping. Use hide/show functionality for non-destructive clipping if available.

Box orientation is typically aligned with voxel grid axes (I, J, K directions). For arbitrary-oriented clipping, use other clipping tools or rotate the voxel model first.

Radial Clip​

Ribbon button: Radial Tooltip Clip voxel model to cylindrical or spherical region.

What it does Clips the voxel model by defining a radial (cylindrical or spherical) region. Voxels outside the specified radius from a centre point are hidden or removed. For cylindrical clipping, radius is measured perpendicular to a vertical axis; for spherical clipping, radius is measured in all directions. Useful for extracting circular or radial regions of interest.

When to use it

  • Extracting circular regions (e.g., around boreholes, injection points)
  • Isolating radial zones for analysis
  • Removing peripheral data far from features of interest
  • Creating radial cross-sections
  • Focusing on central regions of radially symmetric features

Notes Radial clipping requires specification of centre point and radius. For cylindrical clipping, also specify axis direction (typically vertical). Radial clipping is useful for borehole-centred analysis, studying features radiating from points (e.g., diffusion, impact craters), or isolating central regions of datasets.

Related Commands & Workflows​

Well Log Workflows:

  • Log digitization: Digitise Profile → Assign Facies/Grain Size → Add/Split Units for refinement
  • Log correlation: Set Dip Domain → Place Sample Points (TVT) → Correlate across wells
  • Deviated wells: Edit Deviation for quality control → Extend Deviation for projection

DEM Simulation:

  • Setup: Define elements, set contact properties, specify initial conditions
  • Run: Start Simulation → Monitor → Stop at desired state
  • Analysis: Use History Player to review evolution → Identify critical events

Voxel Model Editing:

  • Selection: Select Voxels (brush, box, polygon) → Classify or Modify
  • Bulk editing: Flood Fill for connected regions → Assign attributes
  • Extraction: Clip (Box or Radial) → Extract region of interest → Export

Measurement Best Practices:

  • Use Measure 3D for true distance/thickness perpendicular to features
  • Use Measure Horizontal for map distances, lateral extents
  • Use Measure Vertical for stratigraphic thickness in sub-horizontal strata
  • Use Measure Multi 3D for path lengths and cumulative distances

Performance Considerations:

  • DEM simulations with many elements (>10,000) can be computationally intensive
  • Voxel models with high resolution (>500³ cells) may require substantial memory
  • Flood fill on very large voxel models may take time to propagate through millions of voxels
  • Save checkpoints during long simulations to avoid losing work

Coordinate Systems:

  • Measurements report distances in model units (typically metres for georeferenced models)
  • Well logs use measured depth (along wellbore) and true vertical depth (TVD)
  • Voxel models have IJK grid coordinates plus XYZ world coordinates
  • Ensure consistent coordinate systems when correlating logs or measuring distances

Stratigraphic Correlation Principles:

  • Use chronostratigraphic (time) correlation, not simple elevation correlation in structured terrains
  • TVT mode honours stratigraphic architecture, unconformities, and structural deformation
  • Sample points should represent isochronous surfaces for valid correlation
  • Dip domains account for structural variations between wells

Zoom Out​

Ribbon button: Zoom Out Tooltip Decrease magnification to see more of the view.

What it does Decreases the zoom level in the current view (2D log, chart, or other view context), showing more content at reduced size. Complements Zoom In for view navigation.

When to use it

  • Seeing overall context in 2D log correlation
  • Viewing entire well log sections
  • Navigating charts or plots
  • Getting overview before zooming to details

Notes Zoom controls are context-specific - behavior depends on active view (2D log, chart, stereonet, map, etc.). Most views also support zoom-to-fit for framing all content.

Correlate Logs​

Ribbon button: Correlate Logs Tooltip Correlate stratigraphic units between well logs.

What it does Initiates well log correlation workflow allowing identification and connection of equivalent stratigraphic units (beds, formations, marker horizons) across multiple wells. Creates correlation lines connecting time-equivalent or lithologically similar units, building a stratigraphic framework for the study area.

When to use it

  • Subsurface stratigraphic correlation
  • Building chronostratigraphic frameworks
  • Identifying marker beds across wells
  • Constructing cross-sections
  • Establishing depositional sequence boundaries
  • Basin analysis and reservoir characterization

Notes

Correlation Methods

Well log correlation uses multiple approaches:

  • Lithostratigraphic: Match lithology patterns (sand, shale, coal)
  • Biostratigraphic: Use fossil zones or markers
  • Chronostratigraphic: Time-equivalent surfaces (flooding surfaces, sequence boundaries)
  • Electrofacies: Match wireline log signatures (gamma ray, resistivity patterns)

Correlations should honour geological principles (Walther's Law, lateral continuity, etc.) and be consistent with depositional environment interpretations.

Workflow:

  1. Display wells in 2D log correlation window
  2. Identify correlatable units or markers in each well
  3. Draw correlation lines connecting equivalent units
  4. Validate correlations against geological models
  5. Refine as needed based on additional data

Correlations establish the stratigraphic architecture used for mapping, cross-sections, and 3D modelling. Quality depends on log quality, well spacing, and geological complexity (faulting, facies changes, unconformities).

When to use it (expanded):

  • Creating Wheeler diagrams (time-space plots)
  • Facies analysis and paleoenvironmental reconstruction
  • Identifying unconformities or sequence boundaries
  • Thickness mapping between correlations
  • Dip calculation from correlated surfaces

Ribbon button: Link Log Unit Tooltip Link stratigraphic unit to connected wells or interpretations.

What it does Establishes explicit links between a stratigraphic unit in one well log and corresponding units in other wells or 3D interpretations. These links formalize correlations, allowing propagation of attributes, thickness calculations, and integration with 3D geological models.

When to use it

  • Formalizing manual correlations
  • Propagating unit properties across wells
  • Integrating well data with 3D surfaces
  • Building consistent stratigraphic frameworks
  • Enabling automated thickness or attribute calculations
  • Cross-well querying and analysis

Notes Linked units share identity, allowing:

  • Attribute propagation: Facies, formation names, ages transfer across linked units
  • Thickness mapping: Calculate isopach maps between linked tops/bases
  • 3D integration: Link well picks to interpreted horizons/surfaces
  • Database queries: Select all instances of a unit across wells
  • Consistency checking: Ensure correlation logic is valid

Workflow:

  1. Identify units to link (same formation/bed across wells)
  2. Use Link Log Unit to establish connection
  3. Assign shared attributes (formation name, age, facies code)
  4. Verify links create geologically reasonable framework
  5. Use linked units for mapping, modelling, or analysis

Links can be one-to-one (unit A in well 1 = unit B in well 2) or one-to-many (splitting/merging units). Complex stratigraphic relationships (unconformities, onlap, pinchouts) may require special handling.

Best practices:

  • Link from well-defined units to less certain ones
  • Document correlation rationale (what features/logs used for correlation)
  • Review links for geological consistency (no crossing correlations, honour faults)
  • Update links if new data changes interpretations
  • Use consistent naming conventions for linked units

Linked units form the backbone of integrated subsurface models, enabling consistent interpretations from wells to 3D geological frameworks.

Start Stop​

See Start Stop in Experimental Features documentation for simulation control toggle.