Spatially Enabled Digital Twin Framework for the Field Design Process of Oil and Gas Projects

Spatially Enabled Digital Twin Framework for the Field Design Process of Oil and Gas Projects

The field design phase is considered paramount in any oil and gas (O & G) project. However, during the field design phase, many projects still use traditional 2D plans to depict design information. Traditional 2D plans often fall short in effectively conveying design information due to limited visualisation, increased chance of errors, and inadequate workflows for stakeholder approvals. Consequently, land survey data model (LSDM) that store spatial data of infrastructure design inherit these constraints. Spatial digital twins (DTs), which combine digital twin concepts with spatial computing offer a virtual representation of real-world entities and processes in a 3D/4D environment, enhance visualisation, and accordingly, improve decision-making processes. However, digital twin developments are still relatively new in the scientific community, and consequently, existing DT frameworks need to be developed that accommodate land survey data models (LSDMs) to facilitate wider industry adoption, particularly in the context of the field design process of O & G projects. The aim of the study was to develop a spatially enabled digital twin framework for the field design process of O & G projects based on LSDM. To accomplish this aim, a widely accepted design science framework was utilised which was carried out through four stages: the foundation stage, design and development stage, demonstration stage, and evaluation stage. In the foundation stage, a literature review was conducted to explore the research problem and develop a conceptual framework that encompasses key components including data, standards, field design, users, and application. Following this, in the design and development stage, the system architecture of the framework, use case diagram, and sequence diagram were presented to illustrate the technical dimension of the framework. Further, a prototype was developed and successfully demonstrated through a case study approach in an area that lies on lot 2RP108045 and falls under the petroleum lease 229 under the Department of Resources, Queensland, Australia. The prototype was successfully able to visualise 2D and 3D spatial data and associated LSDM attribute information. The prototype was evaluated using the parameters stated by ISO/IEC 25010 and indicates its success within the defined study scope. This study provides a contribution towards Industrial Revolution 4.0, resulting in enhanced decision-making processes within the O & G industry and more effective management of energy resources.

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