Challenges
The underlying challenge is the change in geometries compared to the 2D data sets: point data become (poly-)lines, lines become surfaces and polygons become geobodies.
Federalism and geology in Switzerland
The nature of the Swiss Confederation means that the geological scene in Switzerland is very heterogeneous. As a result, very many points of contact exist, each with its corresponding data sources and extremely varied interests.
It is therefore in the interest of thorough and consistent geological 3D models that these interests be harmonised and brought together.


- Geology in Switzerland from the Swiss Geological Survey’s perspective
Modelling
The heterogeneity of the Swiss geological scene results in diverse challenges in the field of geological 3D modelling with regard to the identification of data owners, assessment of the data with regard to quality, age and reliability as well as data transfer from external sources.
Validation
Due to the various data sources, assessment and evaluation criteria have to be defined for data integration.
The overriding aim is to produce geologically, geometrically and kinematically consistent geological 3D models. An appropriate check ensures the necessary quality.
Version management
For every geological 3D model, it must be possible to complete the data set in full. This requires a detailed version and source management process.
Special requirements
Special applications (e.g. geomechanical or geochemical analyses; see image) place very high requirements on geological 3D models. The 3D modelling software used has to be able to fulfil these and cope with defined interfaces. Thorough analyses are subsequently carried out using special software.

- Modelling of fracture networks as an example of a special application.