Extreme GIS applications for 3D visualization aimed to geological and mining modeling

Abstract

Geological investigations aimed at mining prospecting are based on geological maps, fi eld surveys and on underground data (geophysical survey, boreholes and/or mining tunnels). In mining activity (both raw material and energy supplies), it is important to defi ne geologic features, such as geometries, volumes, mineral contents but also surface and subsurface evolution due to excavation and other mining facilities, such as tunnels, plants and other buildings and roads. There are many commercial software able to represent such features in 2D, but a few very expensive products able to show all these characteristics in 3D. Considering the world of free open source or packages at acceptable costs, it is also impossible to find something fi tting these needs. The problem is that: i) usually 3D geological models are based on few data if compared with the extension of the study area so available geological data are scattered and a major interpretation is often necessary and 3D visualization allows to help geological interpretation where data are scarce; ii) mining plan are often produced using cad, with very precise dimension and localization of the object and no need of interpretation. These characteristics are on the opposite side of the 3D modeling: the fi rst is the end-member where interpretation is maximized (close to a “pictorial” – geometrically correct – representation), the other is the end member where “a project must be followed” and subjective interpretation should be minimal. This paper shows how it is possible to use common GIS software to solve these kind of problems, with good results and huge possibility of development.