Geological and hydrological visualization models for Digital Earth representation

• Earthquakes, groundwater wells, and geothermal energy are examined.
• Integration of multiple visualization techniques into KML.
• Efficient memory use of KML data structures.
• The models are interactive and open access.
• The models can be used on any modern computer system and smartphone devices.

This paper presents techniques and interactive models for multi-dimensional analyses and geospatial visualization in virtual globes based on three application examples: (1) earthquakes around the world, (2) groundwater well levels in Texas, and (3) geothermal subsurface heat indexes in Texas.While studies are known that represent multi-dimensional geospatial data points, we develop and suggest multi-dimensional models for virtual globes using KML and KMZ (compressed KML files) with a complete and static time series data set. The benefit of this approach for the user is the ability to view and analyze time-based correlations interactively over the entire time span in one instance, which is not possible with animated (dynamic) models.The methods embedded in our models include: (a) depth layered cueing within subsurface Earth visualization for a better orientation when maneuvering below the ground, (b) a technique with Ternary Visual Shape Logic (TVSL) as a quick indicator of change over time, and (c) different visual representations of multiple dimensions for the addressed case study examples. The models can be applied to a variety of problems in different disciplines, especially to support decision-making processes.

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