Information Management
Information technology in the service of geological research
Map-based information
Information technology in the service of geological research
Map-based information
Almost every piece of information collected during geological investigations can be positioned in space and time. The main display medium of spatially referenced information is the map. Adopting this philosophy the Institute started its GIS activities in the late 1980s. The first automatically coloured map derived from the database presented the first milestone. The second one was one of the most sophisticated GIS analyses: the site selection for the disposal of low- and intermediate-level radioactive wastes executed through complex, multidisciplinary topologic procedures.
Enhancing data value is a strategic goal
The Institutes information strategy is based on enhancing the value of stored data, the major goal being the achievement of the highest level of processing of raw data.
The core of the data system is made up of standard master data sets facilitating most extensive data integration and correlation. The identification system of litho-stratigraphic units is the central item that is related to maps, borehole profiles, observation units as well as to the majority of data needed for screen and cartographic display.
Multisupport technological chain
Different state-of-the-art, industry-standard database management and GIS softwares run on the databases. A complete technological chain was elaborated from digital field data acquisition through establishing topologic and relational data structures up to sophisticated queries and display.
Construction of geological 3D models, a primary issue
The data describing the geological structure of the Earth crust is discontinuous. Interpolation techniques and logical conclusions are therefore needed to fill the voids between discrete data items. Based on the concept of the surface digital terrain model the data of the geological 3D model is provided by subsurface geological maps produced upon deep borehole data and by thickness data of rock assemblages. The geological 3D model is one of the cornerstones of hydrogeological modelling aimed essentially at assessing the characteristics of groundwater flow as the primary transport medium of pollution.
