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3D Geology

3D geological models provide a key solutions approach for infrastructure, urban and landscape planning. Spatial representation offers many advantages.

3D geological model
3D geology: an innovative technology for optimal planning
© swisstopo

Summary

Geological 3D modeling: a pioneering technology

Complex geological features can be visualized very effectively using 3D models. Scientists, planners and policy makers benefit especially in the following areas of application:

  • Underground planning
  • Energy planning (e.g., the Plan for Deep Geological Repositories)
  • Infrastructure planning (e.g., road and tunnel construction)
  • Underground analysis
  • Natural resources and raw materials management
  • Management of natural hazards


The need for geological 3D models and 3D visualizations will increase sharply in the future. The aim must be to create geological, geometrical and (where possible and meaningful) kinematic consistent 3D geological models of Switzerland, based on (poly)lines, polygons and surfaces (TIN).

3D geological model of the Bern region
3D geological model of the Bern region (1:25 000, basis: GA25 sheet 100 Bern, geologically simplified).

Data

Geological 3D modeling is one of the key technologies for the future understanding of geological features. 3D geological models simplify the comprehension of geological relationships through visualization. This facilitates the communication between specialists and the interested public.

Mont Terri


Fundamentals of Geology

Roland Baumberger Dr. phil. nat., Geologist, CHGEOL
Project Manager 3D-Geology
swisstopo / Swiss Geological Survey
Seftigenstrasse 264
P.O. Box
3084 Wabern
Tel.
+41 58 469 05 75

E-Mail

Roland Baumberger

Dr. phil. nat., Geologist, CHGEOL
Project Manager 3D-Geology
swisstopo / Swiss Geological Survey
Seftigenstrasse 264
P.O. Box
3084 Wabern

GeoMol – A geological 3D model of the Swiss Plateau (© swisstopo)

More information 

3D geological models