Three-Dimensional Geological Maps

Abstract

Conventional methods of numerical mapping (geographical information systems, GIS) are used widely to convert surface and subsurface geological maps into digital two-dimensional (2D) space, which can still be simply identified with a sheet of paper. Digital polygons, polylines and points represent geological information on intersectional surfaces (e.g. the terrain surface), without relief in most cases. This does not seem much different from traditional mapping. In general, conventional digital mapping deals only with the new technology of data acquisition, storage, processing and visualization. As in traditional mapping, the third dimension, which is so important for geologists, still remains hidden to the ordinary reader; one must interpret and penetrate the 2D map to imagine and understand subsurface structures. Should we, however, employ the third dimension, or even the fourth, in digital geological mapping? The computational power of modern hardware gives us the possibility to store, manage and visualize the voluminous and complex data necessary to present the 3D geological space. Recent industrial development presenting new techniques of computer modelling of spatial geological objects and processes can and may be applied in standard geological mapping.