3-D modelling with geoscientific information systems: the problem

Abstract

All 3-D modelling systems must have the following capabilities to import data and partial analyses from other systems: to hold them in true 3-D coordinates; to allow modifications and additions to be made; to hold and display information about the internal composition of the geo-objects (not just their boundary surfaces); to treat features such as faults as events which are liable to influence, and be influenced by, the adjacent geo-objects; to be able to deal with the time dimension; to support mathematical modelling; to visually satisfy the user; to cope with large scale differences and large ranges of detail and certainty in the same model; and to allow the model and its derived reports to be stored in major generally accessible databases. -from Author