Immersive visualization of 3D subsurface ground model developed from sparse boreholes using virtual reality (VR)

Analytics and visualization of multi-dimensional and complex geo-data, such as three-dimensional (3D) subsurface ground models, is critical for development of underground space and design and construction of underground structures (e.g., tunnels, dams, and slopes) in engineering practices. Although complicated 3D subsurface ground models now can be developed from site investigation data (e.g., boreholes) which is often sparse in practice, it remains a great challenge to visualize a 3D subsurface ground model with sophisticated stratigraphic variations by conventional two-dimensional (2D) geological cross-sections. Virtual reality (VR) technology, which has an attractive capability of constructing a virtual environment that links to the physical world, has been rapidly developed and applied to visualization in various disciplines recently. Leveraging on the rapid development of VR, this study proposes a framework for immersive visualization of 3D subsurface ground models in geo-applications using VR technology. The 3D subsurface model is first developed from limited borehole data in a data-driven manner. Then, a VR system is developed using related software and hardware devices currently available in the markets for immersive visualization and interaction with the developed 3D subsurface ground model. The results demonstrate that VR visualization of the 3D subsurface ground model in an immersive environment has great potential in revolutionizing the geo-practices from 2D cross-sections to a 3D immersive virtual environment in digital era, particularly for the emerging digital twins.