The Wireframe Model—Showing 3D Structure with Open Space

This research examines use of the wireframe model for showing three dimensional subsurface structure. Three questions were posed: First, how can subsurface structure be portrayed using a graphics technique dominated by open space? Second, what engineering graphics techniques can be used to show quantitative information? Third, how can the wireframe model be incorporated into existing coursework? To answer these questions, existing mapping for three oil fields was digitized for use in wireframe modeling. Different engineering graphics techniques were tested for gridding, shading and contouring. Wireframe modeling then was introduced into existing exercises in two university-level courses and student outcomes examined. In response to question one, open space in the wireframe can be advantageous for showing major trends while omitting extraneous detail. Graphically, the angular appearance of the wireframe can be softened using a dense gridding algorithm that is subsequently thinned. To address the second question, graphic techniques for shading, contouring, and vectoring were tested for showing quantitative data. Shading is enhanced by using heavy line weights and by constraining the shading by contours. Vectors are effective, but potentially confusing. The third question was answered by integrating a wireframe modeling exercise into existing surveying and estimating courses at Murray State. Integration was into the surveying course was relatively seamless because of student knowledge of basic engineering graphics. Extension of a wireframe modeling exercise into the estimating course was more difficult, but for reasons other than those posed by the graphics component of the assignment involved.