Archiving digital 3D modelled geological data : the BGS approach [abstract only]

Three-dimensional geological modelling packages are becoming increasingly used as a tool for the purposes of geological interpretation and as a result it is also becoming increasingly important to ensure that the resulting digital models are appropriately archived and documented. As part of the Digital Geoscience Spatial Model (DGSM) project two systems were developed to facilitate the archiving of 3D modelled geological data. The aim of this being to ensure that the data is archived with appropriate metadata to secure its preservation and also to allow other modellers to make appropriate use of these models. The Geological Large Object Store (GLOS) has been developed in order to hold modelled data in its native software format. The GLOS is a hierarchical file system which has a loading application built using Java which allows the user to load a model directly into the GLOS from any local drive. The model is then available to other users to download via a web-based application. In contrast the Geological Spatial Framework (GSF) holds individual modelled stratigraphic surfaces which have been exported from a model as software independent x,y,z point data. The individual surfaces can be attributed with stratigraphical, lithological and chronostratigraphical information which can then be downloaded from the GSF along with the point data. The GSF is held as a series of relational database tables using ORACLE 10g. The data can be downloaded via a web-based application which allows it to be provided to the user in a number of formats appropriate for use in other applications. This data independence facilitates interoperability with other systems and also ensures that the data remains useable as new software becomes available in the future. These two systems used together allow the archiving of 3D modelled geological data in a centralised system which is accessible to users wanting to make use of this modelled data. It facilitates the sharing of data as widely as possible whilst ensuring it is managed centrally and used appropriately