Computer simulation of geologic strata: A teaching tool

Computer-assisted instruction material helps geology students understand the dependent relationship between changing sedimentary conditions and the rock record. Students can specify various sedimentary conditions and then observe the resulting changes in a graphic printout of the stratigraphic column. The program assists in lending insight into this important geologic principle, but it also may serve more advanced students. The statistical output allows the student to compare the synthesized data with actual field measurements. The program can provide the type and amount of data which statistical studies of rock stratification find difficult to gather.The simulation of the Flysch environment is based on a number of simple assumptions. The assumptions may not exactly capture the extremely complex ties between sedimentation parameters and the rock record. However they do preserve the basic relationships which govern the depositional model. The program provides a framework from which more sophisticated simulation studies may be formulated.Included along with program listing and sample run are a set of exercises which are designed to be used in conjunction with program FLYSCH.     

Special Feature: Interactive Graphics Teleconferencing

Interactive graphic displays of layouts or design plans, already in widespread use as design aids, can be even more effective when used in conjunction with teleconferencing.     

TOPES: timeshared office planning and engineering system

A computer-aided interactive graphics system that addresses the sequence of steps in planning and designing office space has been developed for Bell System planning engineers. TOPES (telephone office planning and engineering system) is currently in use for planning and engineering Bell System equipment buildings. It is used for tasks ranging from graphics editing and interactive graphics teleconferencing to creating drawings files capable of supplying equipment engineering data, equipment inventories and other planning information.