Using Three-Dimensional Visualization Technology for the Detection of Buried Pipelines in Unstable Areas

Abstract

The process of construction of pipeline systems, the companies have to install pipes through regions with complex geology and morphology. These regions can present aspects of geological and geotechnical risks, which can compromise the structural integrity of the pipes, by movement of the solids and interaction between soil and pipe. It was created a system capable of evaluate this regions based on digitalized data of aerial photographs (orthophotos), coordinates of control instruments and on ground topography. The system consists of threedimensional environment (3D) using techniques on virtual reality (VR) was developed, to support the analysis of existing problems. The system is completely geo-referenced, which permits define adequate solutions for the projects as well as avoiding problems for some specific areas. In addition, the system permits interaction with specialists, enabling them to indicate directly on the 3D images, the risk aspects for further evaluation in situ and for taking adequate decisions.

Index Terms - geo-referenced, orthophotos, pipeline systems, three-dimensional.