The development of computer algorithms for the construction and analysis of photorealistic three-dimensional virtual models of geological outcrops.

摘要

Photorealistic models of geological outcrops have the potential to enhance the teaching of earth sciences by providing scale models in a virtual reality environment. Such models can be viewed on commonly available, low cost computers such as one would find in a university lab or in the student's home. Described here are the mathematical equations and computer algorithms needed to convert a laser point cloud and photographs into a scaled 3D virtual model that closely replicates the natural outcrop. Algorithms are described that eliminate display artifacts such as occluded geometries and pixel smearing. The virtual models are georeferenced to world coordinates. Computer algorithms were developed to allow analysis of the orientation, deformation, and structural features of the outcrop models in a fashion similar to what the student would do in the field. A test site was used to compare field analysis to model derived analysis.