Algorithms for extraction of structural models attitudes from 3D outcrop models

Author(s)

Viana, Camila Duelis ; Endlein, Arthur ; da Cruz Campanha, Ginaldo Ademar ; Grohmann, Carlos Henrique

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Computers & Geosciences; v. 90, p. 11-pg., 2016-05-01.

Abstract

The acquisition of geological attitudes on rock cuts using traditional field compass survey can be a time consuming, dangerous, or even impossible task depending on the conditions and location of outcrops. The importance of this type of data in rock-mass classifications and structural geology has led to the development of new techniques, in which the application of photogrammetric 3D digital models has had an increasing use. In this paper we present two algorithms for extraction of attitudes of geological discontinuities from virtual outcrop models: ply2atti and scanline, implemented with the Python programming language. The ply2atti algorithm allows for the virtual sampling of planar discontinuities appearing on the 3D model as individual exposed surfaces, while the scanline algorithm allows the sampling of discontinuities (surfaces and traces) along a virtual scanline. Application to digital models of a simplified test setup and a rock cut demonstrated a good correlation between the surveys undertaken using traditional field compass reading and virtual sampling on 3D digital models. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 13/15862-8 - Structural analysis applied to slope stability in open pit mine: a case study
• Grantee: Ginaldo Ademar da Cruz Campanha
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 09/17675-5 - Digital terrain analysis and remote sensing applied to geomorphometric characterization of landforms
• Grantee: Carlos Henrique Grohmann de Carvalho
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants