PUBLISHING OF INTEGRATED SUBSURFACE MODELS

The classic 2-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 and often expensive software is required, which is usually 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 independent of the modelling process. It must also be easy to use and of lowest possible charge.

The SubsurfaceViewer program has been developed especially for this purpose. It allows visualisation and analysis of geological layer- and voxel models of different data structures and origin and includes the data used to construct the respective model (maps, cross sections, borehole data etc). The user is shown a classical map and a 3-dimensional view, where any number of combinations of the particular model are 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,).

This presentation will showcase the methodological and technical aspects of the Subsurface Viewer using real world examples from the UK and the Netherlands.