A semi-automatic approach for generating geological profiles by integrating multi-source data

Abstract In early geological data analysis, most geological maps were drawn as raster images by hand or with software, and there were disadvantages such as the inability to edit at any time or change the scale with fidelity. Therefore, the use of modern information technology to perform in-depth processing of geological maps with outdated geological data can meet the purpose of repeated use, analysis, and further knowledge discovery. To address this issue, this study proposes a semi-automatic generation approach for generating geological profiles by integrating multi-source data. This approach utilizes the text content of the stratigraphic information layer in the geological report and the corresponding digital elevation model (DEM) data of the study area. It solves the problem of the reuse of outdated data and can reconstruct geological profiles at a low cost in the absence of field measurement data (e.g., drilling data). Finally, we propose two application scenarios, including lithology classification of the stratum and knowledge representation of each stratum object, both of which have sound application effects for further analysis and knowledge discovery. The semi-automatic reconstruction method proposed in this study considers the smooth treatment of geological profiles and topological relations between stratum objects. This method solves the problems of interleaving and morphologic coordination between stratum curves associated with previous methods. The result of the vector geological profile can be used for geographic information systems (GIS) functions such as spatial analysis and attribute queries.