Three-Dimensional Implicit Stratigraphic Model Building From Remote Sensing Data on Tetrahedral Meshes: Theory and Application to a Regional Model of La Popa Basin, NE Mexico

Abstract

Remote sensing data provide significant information to constrain the geometry of geological structures at depth. However, the use of intraformational geomorphologic features such as flatirons and incised valleys often calls for tedious user interaction during 3-D model building. We propose a new method to generate 3-D models of stratigraphic formations, based primarily on remote sensing images and digital elevation models. This method is based on interpretations of the main relief markers and interpolation of a stratigraphic property on a tetahedral mesh covering the domain of study. The tetrahedral mesh provides a convenient way to integrate available data during the interpolation while accounting for discontinuities such as faults. Interpretive expert input may be provided through constrained interactive editing on arbitrary cross-sections, and additional surface or subsurface data may also be integrated in the modeling. We demonstrate this global workflow on a structurally complex basin in the Sierra Madre Oriental, Northeastern Mexico.