Methods of analysis in structural geology parallel in many ways other fields of design. For example, geologists are interested in describing quantitatively the 3-D form and history of deformed rocks and structures. Because of the complexities of natural systems, conventional methods for such endeavors require massive computer support and are generally beyond most investigators. This project seeks to examine the theoretical basis and practical implementation of Bezier tools for structural geology. Such tools have the potential of revolutionizing this field because of their computational economy, i.e., structures can be described in simpler terms than can conventional techniques. Practical implementation of these tools has been slow, however, and has thus not reached the large pool of potential users, save for scientists employed by well-heeled industrial concerns. This proposal seeks to examine the utility of Bezier tools for structural geology and to bring these methods to the mainstream through the development of public domain software.
