GSI3D (Geological surveying and investigation in three dimensions) is a methodology and associated software tool for 3D geological modelling which enables you to quickly and intuitively construct 3D solid models of the subsurface for a wide range of applications.
The methodology and software is being developed jointly by the BGS and INSIGHT GmbH and is being applied by the BGS, where it is the modelling tool of choice. It is now available on general release as part of the GSI3D Research Consortium.
Join the GSI3D Research Consortium
The GSI3D consortium is an open consortium, based on corporate or individual membership that enables GSI3D to be used and deployed by geological surveys, government agencies, universities, not-for-profit organisations, commercial companies, individuals and students.
GSI3D is now available on general release as part
of the GSI3D Research Consortium.
As a subscriber to the consortium you will gain access to the software and documentation and also to the community provided by the consortium.
Why investigate in 3D?
The 3D investigation and characterisation of the Earth's sub-surface is the prime objective of any geological survey. So far the strategic deliverables and products of such surveys have been 2-dimensional geological maps and in Britain best practice has been to present the distribution of geological units only at the land surface and at rockhead.
With advances in computing power and technology and the availability of increasingly precise Digital Terrain Models (DTM) it is now possible to envisage a new survey concept and a totally new survey product: the systematic 3-D geological model.
GSI3D models 'look right'
GSI3D utilizes a Digital Terrain Model, surface geological linework and downhole borehole data to enable the geologist to construct cross sections by correlating boreholes and the outcrops to produce a geological fence diagram.
Mathematical interpolation between the nodes along the drawn sections and the limits of the units produces a solid model comprising a stack of triangulated objects each corresponding to one of the geological units present.
Geologists draw their sections based on facts such as borehole logs correlated by intuition — the shape 'looks right' to a geologist.
This 'looks right' element pulls on the geologists' wealth of understanding of earth processes, examination of exposures and theoretical knowledge gathered over a career in geology.
3D models and animations
| Uncovering the Geological Map |
Building a 3D Geological Model |
Thurrock area 3D geological model (East London) |
 |
 |
 |
| Click image to view a short animation (2MB Flash) | Click image for more information on how to build a 3D model. | Click image to install
the viewer. Download user manual |
| Thurrock model: Download the file (39MB) and double click the shortcut on your desktop. Please read the terms and conditions before installing the software. | ||
Contact
For queries about the modelling method or you are interested in more information about our modelling capabilities contact enquiries@bgs.ac.uk.
