LIP-RM: an attempt at 3D visualization of in situ rock mass structures

Abstract

Mapping of rock mass structure is an important task required in many applications of mining and contracture engineering. This task has to be routinely performed using established techniques developed to provide consistent results under the wide range conditions. In this research, a new methodology was developed to achieve this task by only utilizing the basic measurement instruments which were compass-clinometer and tape meter. The method's logic was based on the alternatives of spatial position of discontinuities that are classified under four types according to the north. In the developed approach, the geometry of discontinuities was evaluated as the linear relationships. Besides, isometric presentation was preferred in developed 3D simulation software, which was named as "linear isometric projection of rock mass". Input data of the developed software were the discontinuity geometric features such as dip, dip direction, and spacing on the rocky outcrop in the form of an information system. The output was a simulation model consisting of the rock mass structure. The new software derived from the developed approaches was tested on an experimental road wall outcrop. Obtained results are very close to the situation observed in the field, and the developed software is userfriendly. In this paper, a description of the numerical model and current capabilities of the software are introduced.

A geometric approach for natural rock blocks in engineering structures

“…In this model, 3D visualizations of the discontinuity planes that use two discontinuity traces on the XY and YZ surfaces have been generated. Detailed explanations can be found in Turanboy et al [24] and Turanboy and Ülker [25]. It is possible to adapt to other axonometric perspective methods for the visual description by using several angle transformations.…”

“…Discontinuities that are perpendicular and parallel to the coordinate axes are ignored in this system, and only the visible traces on free surfaces are considered. More detailed information can be found in Turanboy et al [24] and Turanboy and Ülker [25].…”

“…β angle is clockwise from the discontinuity trace to the Y-axis. More detailed explanations for situations in which only one discontinuity trace on can be a surface are available in Turanboy et al [24] and Turanboy and Ülker [25]. Dip angles, cumulative spacing, the height of the rock mass, intersection points, the upper edges of the sample rock mass (Fig.…”

“…6). The search angle (ϕ) concept was described in detail in Turanboy and Ülker [25]. In addition, hx (the width of the rock mass) is valid for XY surface calculations.…”

“…To better understand the system that is presented here, the second and third applications are illustrated by 3D visual modeling using the linear isometric projection of rock mass code [25]. Figure 13a, b demonstrates the tetrahedron (wedge) that is formed.…”