Petroleum Development Oman, a joint venture between the government of Oman, Shell, Total and Partex, is to use technology from UK-based Z+F UK and VRcontext of Belgium to ensure that its 3D CAD asset models are aligned with current ‘as-is’ plant data. Current plant data captured by on-site laser scan surveys is processed with Z&F’s LFM Server prior to integration with VRcontext’s ‘Walkinside’ virtual reality 3D model.
On-site laser scan surveys generate massive datasets that need to be reconciled with 3D CAD from engineering contractors. The Walkinside-LFM Server is used to blend ‘point cloud’ data with the 3D CAD model and highlight ‘clashes’ of proposed plant revamps. Pipes can then be re-routed around obstacles. Saving of ‘tens of millions’ of dollars are claimed in project execution by preventing or minimizing unnecessary rework, on-site reassembly, and by avoiding associated plant shut-downs and lost revenues from asset operation.
The Walkinside-LFM Server lets engineers adjust the displayed resolution of the 3D point-cloud in real time to optimize data integration. New 3D CAD models can be generated from the point clouds using Z&F’s LFM Modeler and used as the starting point of new projects. The new CAD models support PDO’s transition from 2D to 3D design. Walkinside allows multiple stakeholders to work from the same time-stamped reference model that will evolve throughout the life time of the facility. More from www.zf-uk.com and www.vrcontext.com.
This article originally appeared in Oil IT Journal 2010 Issue # 12.
For more information or to comment on this topic email here.