Grants and Contributions:

Grant or Award spanning more than one fiscal year (2017-2018 to 2018-2019).

Numerical modelling techniques in geotechnical engineering have advanced considerably in recent years asx000D
have methods of obtaining the required input data. A major challenge remains in ensuring optimal viewing ofx000D
three-dimensional data to allow efficient interpretation of results by the expert user and also to facilitatex000D
improved understanding and communication to the client and non-specialist.x000D
This NSERC Engage research will attempt to provide state-of-the-art geovisualization tools for viewing data inx000D
geomechanical modelling codes. In particular, Mixed and Virtual reality hardware (Microsoft HoloLens) andx000D
software will be used to allow interactive viewing of three dimensional mixed reality holographic images ofx000D
numerical modelling input and output data. A range of three-dimensional geotechnical scenarios will bex000D
addressed from the simple holographic viewing of geological structures using stereographic analysis methodsx000D
to improved understanding of block failure kinematics using limit equilibrium wedge analyses. Input boreholex000D
and surface geometry data for more complex three-dimensional slope analysis methods such as the newx000D
Slide3D and RS3 will be interrogated holographically and the results of stages in analyses presented usingx000D
mixed reality time-lapse-video capabilities. Voice activation of holographs will allow the user to step throughx000D
geotechnical analyses to allow major improvements in communication and understanding.x000D
Virtual reality methods will also be explored to allow the user to view model input and output in a virtualx000D
immersive environment. Working with Rocscience software engineers the SFU geovisualisation researchersx000D
will attempt to provide a paradigm shift in geomechanical model presentation with potential major benefits tox000D
the user community.