This is a project developed at the Brown University Department of Computer Science under the supervision of professor of computer science Steve Reiss.

Overview:

The purpose of this program is to help Geology students to better visualize in three dimensions geologic processes such as sedimentar layering, folding, faulting, and erosion.

When rock layers form from sedimentary deposits, these layers form as level horizontal beds. These layers are then often deformed from tectonic activity. By studying the deformation exhibited by these rock beds, geologists can determine what tectonic events occurred and their relative order. Visualizing simple deformations of these originally level layers is not difficult. However, visualizing the effects in three dimensions of many deformations of these layers is not a trivial task.

This project is a teaching tool for geology students. It allows students to create a model of a section of land by creating sedimentary beds and allowing them to see the effects of geologic processes. This model is three dimensional and can be easily manipulated using the mouse. The steps made in creating a model will are exactly reversible, so once a model is built, students are able to test their knowledge by guessing the reverse and seeing if they are correct.

Questions should be directed to Matt Smith at mts@netspace.org