GIS data models for coal geology
- West Virginia Geological and Economic Survey, Morgantown, WV (United States)
A variety of spatial data models can be applied to different aspects of coal geology. The simple vector data models found in various Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) programs are sometimes used for routine mapping and some simple analyses. However, more sophisticated applications that maintain the topological relationships between cartographic elements enhance analytical potential. Also, vector data models are best for producing various types of high quality, conventional maps. The raster data model is generally considered best for representing data that varies continuously over a geographic area, such as the thickness of a coal bed. Information is lost when contour lines are threaded through raster grids for display, so volumes and tonnages are more accurately determined by working directly with raster data. Raster models are especially well suited to computationally simple surface-to-surface analysis, or overlay functions. Another data model, triangulated irregular networks (TINs) are superior at portraying visible surfaces because many TIN programs support break fines. Break lines locate sharp breaks in slope such as those generated by bodies of water or ridge crests. TINs also {open_quotes}honor{close_quotes} data points so that a surface generated from a set of points will be forced to pass through those points. TINs or grids generated from TINs, are particularly good at determining the intersections of surfaces such as coal seam outcrops and geologic unit boundaries. No single technique works best for all coal-related applications. The ability to use a variety of data models, and transform from one model to another is essential for obtaining optimum results in a timely manner.
- OSTI ID:
- 525964
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-960664-; TRN: 97:003476-0005
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: 5. conference on the use of computers in the coal industry, Morgantown, WV (United States), 9-12 Jun 1996; Other Information: PBD: 1996; Related Information: Is Part Of Proceedings of the 5th conference on the use of computers in the coal industry; Thompson, S.D.; Grayson, R.L.; Wang, Y.J. [eds.]; PB: 234 p.
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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