Brisbane-based mining software company Runge has teamed with GeoScience Victoria (GSV) to devise an innovative system that allows GSV to create top-quality 3D models.
Three-dimensional geological models are becoming the primary tool for resource explorers looking for new mineral deposits, geothermal energy or groundwater resources.
GSV Director Kathy Hill says the company needed to develop a consistent and systematic environment in which 3D models could be prepared, manipulated, stored, discovered, visualised and delivered.
“The ability to quickly and easily access 3D models is critical,” Hill says.
“These models need to be available to internal and external clients while at the same time protecting sensitive industry data.”
Large amounts of geological data collected by the government and industry are managed by GSV, yet existing systems were not suitable for 3D data.
“Through a competitive tender process, mining software and services company, Runge, provided us with tools to manage 3D model data using their Mining Dynamics software,” Hill says.
“Together we have implemented a 3D model management tool that brings together content-rich, standardised metadata, business processes and native model format transformation.”
Models from industry are received by GSV in a variety of formats, which are then checked and stored.
“Runge developed a customised solution for GeoScience Victoria using Mining Dynamics’ core functionality, which is delivered through a web browser,” Hill says.
The Australian-first collaboration has already attracted interest from companies and government agencies around the world.
Runge Mining Dynamics Manager Glen Kuntz says Runge worked closely with GSV to deliver a solution which can be modified as GSV’s processes mature and change.
“We are pleased to support GeoScience Victoria’s long-term strategy to represent the state’s geology in 3D and to provide users, such as exploration companies, timely and visual access to geosciences information,” Kuntz says.