ONE VIEWER TO PUBLISH 3D SUBSURFACE MODELS OF ANY MODELLING ORIGIN

The classic two dimensional surveying of the lithological subsurface with its physical, chemical and hydraulic properties is being replaced by three dimensional (3D) modelling. In order to be able to use 3D models specific software is required that is normally restricted to the respective modelling system. What is needed to replace thematic geological maps by 3D models is software that allows access to the model that is independed of the modelling process. It must also be easy to use and affordable for end users.

The SubsurfaceViewer program has been developed especially for this purpose. It allows visualisation and analysis of geological layer- and voxel models of different data structure and includes the exploration data (maps, cross sections, borehole data etc). The user is presented with a classic map and a 3D view, where any number of combinations of the particular model is displayed. At the same time the SubsurfaceViewer offers a one dimensional vertical view as a synthetic borehole as well as a vertical cross section view. The data structure is based on XML and linked ASCII-files and allows the hybrid usage of layers, volume and voxel models (tin, grid, 3D-grid,).

Two major Geological surveys have started to use the SubsurfaceViewer: The British Geological Survey (BGS) provide particular models to external users. The Geological Survey of the Netherlands (TNO) publish their nationwide litho-stratigraphic subsurface model with stochastic 3D voxel models by using the SubsurfaceViewer.