Project Overview
Tesoro Corporation, in collaboration with Savage, engaged Austin Visuals 3D Animation Studio to develop a 3D animation showcasing their Vancouver Energy Terminal project. This state-of-the-art terminal, located at the Port of Vancouver, Washington, was designed to facilitate the safe and efficient transfer of North American crude oil from rail to ships for transport to West Coast refineries. The animation aimed to visually communicate the terminal’s construction, operations, and benefits to investors, analysts, and stakeholders during Tesoro’s Analyst Meeting.
The Challenge
The project presented several challenges:
- Communicating Technical Processes: The animation needed to simplify the intricate process of transferring crude oil, from train unloading to ship loading, while maintaining technical accuracy.
- Highlighting Key Benefits: Tesoro wanted to emphasize the operational, financial, and environmental advantages of the terminal in a clear and compelling manner.
- Targeting Multiple Audiences: The animation had to resonate with diverse groups, including investors, employees, government officials, and community members.
- Short Format: With a limited runtime of 1-2 minutes, the animation needed to deliver its message concisely and impactfully.
The Solution
Austin Visuals developed a visually engaging 3D animation tailored to Tesoro’s goals:
1. Detailed Visual Narration
The animation visually illustrated the journey of crude oil through the terminal:
- Train Arrival and Unloading: Showcased the train navigating the loop track, unloading crude oil via gravity drains, and transferring it to storage tanks.
- Ship Loading and Departure: Highlighted the state-of-the-art transfer system and the role of tug-assisted docking and Columbia River Pilots in ensuring safe transport.
2. Realistic and Engaging Graphics
The animation featured high-quality renderings of:
- Terminal facilities, including the rail unloading facility, storage tanks, and pipelines.
- Dockside operations, emphasizing the connection between infrastructure and crude oil flow.
- Infographics to present economic and environmental benefits, making complex data more digestible.
3. Emphasis on Benefits
The animation underscored the terminal’s advantages:
- Economic Impact: $2 billion injected into the economy over 15 years, with 1,000 annual jobs created.
- Energy Security: Support for U.S. energy independence by utilizing North American crude oil.
- Environmental Value: Less carbon-intensive crude oil and reduced dependence on foreign sources.
4. Seamless Storytelling
Austin Visuals integrated a narrative voiceover and text overlays to guide viewers through the animation, ensuring the story flowed logically and captured attention.
Results
The final 3D animation successfully communicated the Vancouver Energy Terminal’s significance to Tesoro’s stakeholders. It was presented at the Analyst Meeting and received positive feedback for its clarity, engaging visuals, and ability to convey complex information effectively. The animation also became a valuable asset for broader marketing and communications efforts, enhancing Tesoro’s reputation as a forward-thinking energy company.
Why Tesoro Chose Austin Visuals
Tesoro selected Austin Visuals for their expertise in industrial and technical animations, as well as their ability to deliver visually engaging content within tight deadlines. The collaborative process, attention to detail, and creative solutions provided by Austin Visuals ensured the animation aligned perfectly with Tesoro’s objectives and messaging.
Our Clients include:
Our Work samples:
Conclusion
Austin Visuals delivered a high-quality 3D animation that highlighted the Vancouver Energy Terminal’s operational and economic benefits, helping Tesoro effectively communicate their vision to stakeholders.
Ready to bring your project to life with custom 3D animations? Contact Austin Visuals at [email protected] or +1-512-591-8024 to discuss your next animation project!
