Simulation of river processes and tectonic movements

The computer-controlled sandtable is developed by the researchers of the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Pécs. It is used to reproduce hydrologic, tectonic and geomorphologic processes. The sand table is equipped with multiple electric engines which enable tilting along its longitudinal and transversal axes and compartments for vertical movements and 4 push-blades for lateral movement. Digital picture information is collected by 8 digital overhead cameras, 3 infrared and 2 time-lapse cameras. As the images overlap, 3D information is extracted for the generation of terrain models and quantification of dimensions and process rates.

Small-scale physical models are widely used for the simulation of large-scale natural processes in the fields of hydrology, geology, geomorphology, river mechanics and floodplain development. The invention is a 4 x 2.3 meter sandtable with a maximum payload of 2,500 kg. The table can be tilted at any arbitrary angle between a maximum angle of ±7.5 degrees, and along the secondary axis at a maximum angle of ±10 degrees. All movements are performed by computer-controlled electric engines.

Keywords: geoinformatics, geomorphology, hydrology, geological modelling, digitalizing