3D Gravity and Magnetic Modeling

for Oasis montaj™

User's Guide

www.geosoft.com
www.nga.com
The software described in this manual is furnished under license and may only be used
or copied in accordance with the terms of the license.
Manual release date: 3/28/2006.
Written by Tom Popowski, Gerry Connard, and Rowland French. Please send
comments or questions to [email protected].
Copyright © Northwest Geophysical Associates, Inc. 2004, 2005, 2006. All
rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a
retrieval system or transmitted, in any form, or by any means, electronic,
mechanical, photo-copying, reading, or otherwise, without prior consent from
NGA.
Program Copyright© Northwest Geophysical Associates, Inc. 2004, 2005,
2006. All rights reserved.
GM-SYS is a registered trademark of Northwest Geophysical Associates, Inc.
GMSYS-3D is a trademark of Northwest Geophysical Associates, Inc.
Geosoft and Oasis montaj are registered trademarks of Geosoft Inc. GEOSOFT
and Oasis are trademarks of Geosoft Inc.
Windows®, and Windows NT™ are either registered trademarks or trademarks
of Microsoft Corporation.

Northwest Geophysical Associates, Inc.

P.O. Box 1063, Corvallis, Oregon 97339-1063
Phone: +1 (541) 757-7231 FAX: +1 (541) 757-7331

Web Site: www.nga.com Email: [email protected]

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc 1:08 AM; 3/28/2006

 GMSYS-3D
User’s Guide
Release 1.3
March 20, 2006

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION TO GMSYS-3D ..............................................................................3

RELEASE 1.2.................................................................................................................4

INSTALLATION............................................................................................................5

3D MODELS ...................................................................................................................6

BUILDING MODELS ....................................................................................................7

1. Consistancy with the “index” grid 7
2. Grid expansion and “fill” 7
3. Periodic Grids and Edge Effects 8
4. Observed and Calculated Data Plane 8
5. Regional Removal and DC Offset 8
6. Magnetic properties require micro-cgs units 9
7. Inversion constraints 9

GMSYS-3D MENU.......................................................................................................10
Model Definition submenu 10
Grid Editing submenu 12
Display submenu 14
2D Cross Sections submenu 16
Grid Preparation 17
Manual FFT Preparation submenu 17
Calculate submenu 18

GMSYS-3D TOOLBAR ...............................................................................................22

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc
DEMO MODELS..........................................................................................................23
Salt 23
Death Valley 24

REFERENCES..............................................................................................................25

APPENDIX A MODEL FILE (*.g3d) FORMAT........................................................1

APPENDIX B NEW FEATURES IN VERSION 1.2...................................................1

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc
INTRODUCTION TO GMSYS-3D

GMSYS-3D is a 3D gravity and magnetic modeling package for surface-oriented

models. A model is defined by a number of stacked surface grids with density-,
susceptibility-, and remanent magnetization-distributions specified for the layer
below each surface.
Calculations are performed in the wave number domain and are based on Dr. Bill
Pearson’s implementation of R. L. Parker’s algorithm (1972). The program is
designed to run within Oasis montaj, making available all of the familiar grid
manipulation and display routines in addtion to application-specific routines.
The GMSYS-3D menu, gmsys-3d.omn, provides to access GMSYS-3D functions.
A GMSYS-3D Toolbar also allows quick access to some of the more commonly
used functions. Models are defined by specifying the grids that define the
surfaces, and the layer properties. “Model definitions” are saved in a *.g3d file.
The model definition can be edited through GMS3MDEF.GX, which is accessed
through the Edit Model menu item. Grid editing functions, grid preparation
routines, model display routines, and forward and inverse calculations also are
provided through the menu structure. You can also make use of many additional
Oasis GX routines for grid manipulation and grid display.
GMSYS-3D requires Geosoft's MAGMAP 2D-FFT system to operate.
GMSYS-3D utilizes some of the newest functionality in Oasis montaj,
particularly in the 3D visualization routines, so some features will not work
correctly if you are running an older version of Oasis montaj. For more
information on the 3D display operations, Geosoft has a technical note, Working
with 3D Views in Oasis montaj,
(http://www.geosoft.com/resources/technotes/pdf/3DViewsOasismontaj.pdf)
which is useful for understanding the 3D visualization tools.
This User’s Guide provides an overview of the GMSYS-3D approach to 3D
gravity and magnetic modeling and the GMSYS and the menu structure. Help
files for all the dialogs provide detailed information on the parameters used for
each procedure. Companion Tutorials step the user through most of the functions
of GMSYS-3D. New users are strongly encouraged to work through the
Tutorials.

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page 3
RELEASE 1.3
Release 1.3 adds the capability to convert a GMSYS-3D model to a Geosoft 3D
voxel grid and the capability to calculate the gravity response from a 3D voxel
grid.
The new “Model Explorer” tool is a “tree-structure” summary of the current
model that is similar to the Oasis “Project Explorer” tool. It remains visible for
reference while using all of the other GX’s. If any of the model parameters are
changed by other GX’s, the Model Explorer is automatically updated.
The Time-to-Depth conversion allows the user to build a model in time and then
use velocities to convert to a depth model.
A new backup scheme has been incorporated into the inversion process. Users
may choose between the old method (a single step undo), an automatic naming
scheme to save each step in the inversion process, or explicitly choose a name for
each backup grid. Users may also “checkpoint” (i.e., make a complete copy of
the model in a separate directory) a model with one click from the inversion
dialogs.
A new function allows users to resample a model to half-size (i.e., double the grid
cell size) and save it to a new model name. Calculations with the half-size model
will be four times as fast as with the original model. A similar new function will
create an “expanded” model that is fully “prepped” for the FFT. An expanded
model speeds up the calculation process.
The GMSYS-3D help is now integrated with the Oasis montaj help system. This
integration allows hyperlinks with other help topics.
A new “Auto DC-shift” button will automatically adjust the DC-shift of the
calculated gravity and magnetics grids to force the mean error to zero.
All of the text strings now support UNICODE

The Release Notes and APPENDIX B list the new features added since release
1.2.

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page 4
INSTALLATION
GMSYS-3D is distributed and installed with Oasis montaj™. To run
GMSYS-3D, open Oasis and load the menu gmsys-3d.omn (GX | Load menu…).
If you received updated software directly from Northwest Geophysical
Associates, follow the instructions provided with that release.
GMSYS-3D requires the following Oasis montaj licenses:
10105 montaj™ MAGMAP Filtering
10523 montaj plus™ Modeling 3D
You can view your licensed products using File / License / View License…
GMSYS-3D version 1.3 requires Oasis montaj™ version 6.3 or above.
The GMSYS-3D toolbar, providing some of the more commonly used
functionality, will load automatically with the menu. By default, the tool bar
appears on the left edge of the Oasis window but the user may drag it to other
locations. You may toggle any toolbar off or on by selecting the Tools button in
the Project Explorer and right-clicking the toolbar name.

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page 5
3D MODELS
3D models are defined by a number of surface grids with a density distribution
(and/or susceptibility & remanent magnetization distribution) assigned to each
layer. Layer density may be specified using either a constant density, a vertical
density-depth profile relative to a “reference surface”, or a laterally-varying
density distribution defined by a grid. Layer susceptibility may be specified using
either a constant susceptibility and remanent magnetization, or a laterally-varying
susceptibility distribution. Figure 1 illustrates a three layer model where the
parameters “DEN_#” are constant densities for each layer and “SURF_#” are
filenames for grids defining those surfaces. Model parameters are edited using
Model Definition | Edit Model from the GMSYS-3D menu and are saved in a
model definition file (*.g3d).

Figure 1: Model Example

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page 6
BUILDING MODELS
As indicated above, models consist of layers defined by a stack of horizon grids
and parameters assigned to each layer. The grids may be created outside of
GMSYS-3D, imported from another application (e.g. seismic interpretation
software), or built "from scratch" using the tools within Oasis (e.g.
NGAGEDIT.GX, GMS3FGRD.GX) or some other application. Because
GMSYS-3D uses frequency-domain (i.e., FFT-based) calculation routines, the
grids need to be specially prepared to be compatible with FFTs.

1. Consistency with the “index” grid

All grids in the model must be consistent with respect to:
• Grid size (number of rows and columns)
• Cell size and units
• No dummies in the grid
• Grid origin
• No crossing surfaces
GMSYS-3D provides a function Model Definition | Check Model
(GMS3CHECK.GX) to check a model for all of these problems and adjust grids
to eliminate crossing surfaces. Another function “Make Grids Coincident”
(NGAGRDMCH.GX) is provided to force a grid to match an “index” grid.
GMS3FGRD.GX may be used to build a new, flat grid that matches the
parameters of the "index" grid for the currently loaded model. The standard grid
preparation routines (GMS3XPND, GRIDFILL, or NGAPFILL) will fill in the
dummies during normal grid preparation steps. However, users should be aware
that this happens to all of the grids in the model and that unwanted artifacts may
be introduced in critical areas of their models.

2. Grid expansion and “fill”

All the grids must be expanded in size and “filled” so that they are “periodic” to
eliminate edge effects. The amount of expansion required depends on the shape
of the model horizons near the edges of the original grid. The final, expanded
dimensions of the grid must also be “good FFT” dimensions. If you use %’s to
specify expansion amounts, all of the routines described below and the Oasis
automatic routines expand to “good FFT” dimensions.
The user has two options with regard to the “expand and fill” preparation. The
simplest is to use the “Setup Automatic FFT Preparation” option
(GMS3XPND.GX). With this option, all grids are expanded inside the
calculation routine each time it runs and then “masked” back to the original size at

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page 7
the end of the calculation. This option is easier to use but gives the user less
control and requires significantly more computation time with larger grids. The
second option is to prepare each grid separately before building the model using
the procedures in the Manual FFT Preparation submenu. This option allows more
control and saves time during the calculations.

3. Periodic Grids and Edge Effects

Periodic grids “wrap” seamlessly left-to-right and top to bottom. This can also be
visualized by placing copies of the grid on all 4 sides, and continuing the process,
so the periodic grid of grids continues to infinity. When the grid is “filled
periodically” a smooth interpolation is used to wrap the grid from one edge of the
“real data”, off the edge of the expanded grid, and back from the opposite side of
the expanded grid, to the “real data” on the other side. The analogous process
wraps the top and bottom edges and corners of the grid.
Calculations are carried out on the artificial array of adjacent, repeating grids.
Hence, you must expand the grids sufficiently so that at the edge of the “real data”
the gravity and/or magnetics are not unduely influenced by the geology in the
adjacent, repeated grid.
The grid filling is in fact a geologic interpretation. If you have a deep basin on
one edge of the survey area, the gravity on the edge will be affected by the
extension of the basin, beyond the survey area. The basin could truncate abruptly,
or could continue for a considerable distance. You, as an interpretor, must make a
judgement on how you want to continue it. To continue the basin for longer
distances, increase the size (percent expansion) of the expanded grid. For smaller
grids of smaller areas, expansions of 100% or more are not unreasonable.
You have the option of saving intermediate expanded and filled grids and viewing
them to assure that the extrapolated geology is reasonable. By “manually”
expanding and filling the grids, you have much more control of these edge effects.

4. Observed and Calculated Data Plane

The response of the model is calculated on a flat plane. If your observed data are
not on a flat plane, you need to upward continue your observed data grids to the
“ZREF” elevation. Previous versions required that ZREF be chosen to be above
the top of the topography. GMSYS-3D provides a “draped to level” continuation
function Model Definition | Upward Continue Observed Grid (GMS3VUP.GX).
Version 1.3 can calculate gravity at any level within the model (as long as it is
constant, i.e., flat). The model check routine (GMS3CHECK.GX) still reports
ZREF below the top of the topography as error

5. Regional Removal and DC Offset

In general we recommend removing any regional field before loading the
observed data grid into GMSYS-3D. If the regional was removed by using an

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page 8
Oasis filter, you should include the same filter control file (*.con) as an “inline
filter” in the GMSYS-3D forward calculations (GMS3GRAVF.GX and
GMS3MAGF.GX).
GMSYS-3D allows you to remove a “DC-shift” (bulk shift) from the calculated
response in the forward calculations and inversion. The DC-shift is critical to the
inversion process.

6. Magnetic properties require micro-cgs units

Note that the susceptibility and remanent magnetization need to be input in
micro-cgs units. In the future, input in SI and cgs units will be supported. When
modeling vertical-sided simple magnetic bodies (e.g., vertical prisms), users may
see small oscillations at the Nyquist frequency superimposed on the calculated
magnetic anomalies in the areas with low gradients in the calculated field.
Although this “noise” is an artifact of the frequency-domain calculation
technique, the amplitude is relatively small (~.01 nT) and typically does not
appear when modeling real-world geology.

7. Inversion constraints
GMSYS-3D allows the use of “constraints” grids to constrain or restrict some of
the inversion options. A “constraints” grid is a grid that matches the “index” grid
for the model and contains values between 0 and 1. Where the value of a grid
node in the constraints grid is set to 0, the corresponding location in the grid being
inverted will remain unchanged. Where the value of a grid node in the constraints
grid is set to 1, the corresponding location in the grid being inverted is totally
unconstrained. If the value in the constraints grid is greater than 0 and less than 1,
it acts as a weighting factor to slow down the amount of movement during
inversion. There are four tools for creating a constraints grid in the Grid Editing
menu.
For example, if you are inverting on depth to basement in an area surrounded by
outcropping basement, you might build a constraints grid that is set to 0 in the
areas of basement outcrop and 1 in the center of the basin. The transition from 0
to 1 would determine how sharply the edges of the basin could drop off.

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page 9
 GMSYS-3D MENU
This section of the User’s Guide introduces the reader to each menu item
available in the GMSYS-3D menu. In Oasis montaj most menu items invoke a
GX, which is a routine to perform a given function. More complete descriptions
of the parameters and operations of each GX are included in the Help for that GX.
GXs may also be invoked from the GX menu or from the GX tool on the standard
Oasis toolbar.

Model Definition submenu

Menu item, Model definition | Upward Continue Observed Grid to Flat –
GMS3VUP.GX
The GMS3VUP GX upward continues a data grid from a “draped” surface to a
level surface.
Menu item, Model definition | Upward Continue Observed Grid to Draped –
GMS3VUPD.GX
The GMS3VUP GX upward continues a data grid from a “level” surface to a
draped surface.
Menu item, Model definition | Show Current Model – GMS3SHOW.GX
The GMS3SHOW GX displays a summary of the current model in an information
box.
Menu item, Model definition | Model Explorer
– GMS3XTOOL.GX
The GMS3XTOOL GX loads a “tree-structure”
summary of the current model that is similar to the
Oasis “Project Explorer” tool. It remains visible for
reference while using all of the other GX’s. If any of
the model parameters are changed by other GX’s, the
Model Explorer is automaticly updated.
Menu item, Model definition | New Model –
GMS3NEW.GX
The GMS3NEW GX clears the previous model from
memory, prompts the user for a new model file
(*.g3d), asks for new display parameters, and then
runs GMS3MDEF (Edit Model). The grids that you
plan to use for the new model should be in the
working directory prior to running the New Model

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page 10
 procedure. The model can be edited later using the Edit Model procedure to
insert or remove surfaces.
Menu item, Model definition | Open Model – GMS3OPEN.GX
The GMS3OPEN GX clears the previous model from memory, prompts the user
for an existing model file (*.g3d), retrieves that model, and then runs
GMS3MDEF (Edit Model)..
Menu item Model definition | Edit Model – GMS3MDEF.GX
The GMS3MDEF GX opens a dialog box for entering the grids and properties
that define a model. This “model definition” may be saved in a file (*.g3d).
Whether or not the model is saved it will remain in the OASIS workspace as
system parameters until a new model is opened.
GMS3MDEF also reads the “index grid” parameters (grid size, cell size, origin,
etc.) and stores them with the model. The index grid may be any one of the grids
in the model and is used to define the grid parameters and grid location, which
will be required for the other grids. You may specify gravity or magnetic DC-
Shifts to be added to the respective model response grids.
If “Auto Check Model” is selected, GMS3CHECK.GX (see below) will be run
automatically each time the model editing dialog is closed.
Menu item, Model definition | Check Model – GMS3CHECK.GX
The GMS3CHECK GX checks all the grids used in the model definition for
consistency with the index grid, with the option of running NGAGRDMCH.GX
to correct the non-conforming grids, then rechecks the model after any
adjustments have been made. Any time you change or add grids within a model,
you should re-run the check. If “Auto Check Model” is selected, the check is run
at the end of Edit Model.
Parameters checked in GMS3CHECK are as follows:
• Grid size (number of rows and columns)
• Cell size and units
• Grid Origin
• Presence of dummies in the grid
• Crossing surfaces
• Rotation
• KX (internal grid orientation)

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page 11
 If GMS3CHECK detects crossed surfaces, you will be offered the option to adjust
the upper or lower grid. If crossed surfaces are detected and fixed, GMS3CHECK
runs again until no crossed surfaces are detected.
Menu item, Model definition | Close Model – GMS3CLOSE.GX
The GMS3CLOSE GX saves changes to the current model and clears the model
parameters in the workspace.
Menu item, Model definition | Copy Model – GMS3XHALF.GX
The GMS3XHALF GX duplicates of all the files required for the current model at
half scale (i.e., 2X the original grid spacing), preferably in a new subdirectory.
This is to ensure that file names common to both models will be protected from
modifications of the other model. This proves useful in creating faster-calculating
versions of large models.
Menu item, Model definition | Copy Model – GMS3MDUP.GX
The GMS3MDUP GX creates a duplicate of the current model in another
directory including all grids. This differs from the “Save As…” option in the Edit
Model dialog, which merely saves a new .g3d file with pointers to the old grids.
Menu item, Model definition | Copy Model – GMS32VOX.GX
The GMS32VOX GX creates a 3D density or susceptibility grid (geosoft-voxel)
from the current GMSYS-3D model. The resulting 3D grid can be displayed and
manipulated using the standard Oasis GX’s in the “Voxel” menu.
-- end of Model Definition submenu--

Menu Item, New Constant Grid - GMS3FGRD.GX

The GMS3FGRD GX creates a new grid with a constant value (e.g., a horizontal
plane or a constant density). The resulting grid is based on the index grid and is
compatible with the current 3D model.

Grid Editing submenu

These routines allow you to create or modify the values in an existing grid.
Menu item Grid Editing | Path Edit – NGAGEDIT.GX
The NGAGEDIT GX allows you to change the value of a grid along a digitized
path. The user must specify the amount of change, the width at which the change
rolls off to zero, and the roll-off method. For roll-off method, you may choose
from one of six tool shapes, shown below, or select a "constant" value to fill the
area.

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page 12
 Gaussian cosine tent

left wedge right wedge square

You may use a polygon file to clip the effective area of the Path Edit function.
Clipping options are "none," "existing polygon," or "digitize polygon."
We recommend that you have the grid displayed in the current map prior to
initiating this procedure.
NGAGEDIT allows a single undo level; simply re-run the GX and select the
"Undo" button.
Menu item Grid Editing | Polygon Area Edit – NGAPOLYSM.GX
The NGAPOLYSM GX replaces the area inside an existing polygon by
calculating a 0- to 3rd-order polynomial surface, a minimum curvature surface or
by applying an expression. The polynomial surface may be based on all points or
edge points only. Selecting “All” will utilize all points within the polygon. The
minimum curvature surface is calculated to fit to the area surrounding the
polygon. The expression can be any valid Geosoft expression involving up to six
grids or a Geosoft expression file.
Menu item Grid Editing | Minimum Curvature Fill – USGS_GRIDPLUG.GX
Fills dummy values in a grid by using polynomial or local median initialization
followed by minimum curvature iterations. This is the GX released by the USGS
in Phillips and others, 2003.
Menu item Grid Editing | Digitize Polygon – POLYDEF.GX
The standard Oasis POLYDEF GX allows you to digitize a polygon for use in the
"Path Edit" or "Polygon Area Edit" functions.

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page 13
Menu item Grid Editing | Draw Polygon Location – POLYDRAW.GX
The standard Oasis POLYDRAW GX draws an existing polygon file on the
current map.
Menu item Grid Editing | Constraints from Wells – NGAWCONS.GX
The NGAWCONS GX applies the standard edit tool shapes (see
NGAGEDIT.GX) to spot locations defined by a database (e.g., well locations) to
edit a “constraints” grid.
Menu item Grid Editing | Constraints from Lines – NGASCONS.GX
The NGASCONS GX applies the standard edit tool shapes (see NGAGEDIT.GX)
along a selected line in a database (e.g., seismic line shotpoints) to edit a
“constraints” grid.
-- end of Grid Editing submenu--

Display submenu
There are three customized routines for display of GMSYS-3D models in the
“Display” submenu. Four standard Oasis routines are also included without
modification in the GMSYS-3D | Display menu:
Menu item Display | Create a Color Zone File for the Model –
GMS3ZONE.GX
The GMS3ZONE GX creates a color zone file encompassing all the structure
grids in the model.
Menu item Display | Display Model as 3D stack – GMS3DISPLAY.GX
The GMS3ZONE GX creates a 3D visualization of all structure grids plus an
optional observed data grid in the open model on a new map. If the map is
created and already open, this GX allows you to add additional grids to the 3D
visualization. Close an existing map before running the GX to recreate it.
Menu item Display | Display Single Grid to 3D View – GRIDIMG3D.GX
The GRIDIMG3D GX plots a single grid as a new drawing plane in a 3D View.
The grid may be placed in any orientation. Use this function to place a cross-
section (e.g., seismic image, GM-SYS profile, etc.) into your 3D model.
Menu item Display | Display a Generic 3D Stack – V3DIMG.GX
The standard Oasis GX, V3DIMG, creates a 3D display of a grid on the current
map, or on a new map, and opens the Geosoft 3D viewing tool. Additional
grids/surfaces can be added to the 3D display.

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page 14
Menu item Display | Display Structure Grids as 2D maps – GMS3SMAPS.GX
The GMS3SMAPS GX creates 2D displays of all structure grids in the open
model on separate maps in one step.
Menu item Display | Display Mag Anomaly Grids as 2D maps –
GMS3MAGMAPS.GX
The GMS3MAGMAPS GX creates 2D displays of the calculated, observed, and
error magnetic anomaly grids from the open model on separate maps in one step.
The maps will be created at ~1/3 the size of the OASIS window and placed along
the left side of the OASIS window.
Menu item Display | Display Grav Anomaly Grids as 2D maps –
GMS3GRVMAPS.GX
The GMS3GRVMAPS GX creates 2D displays of the calculated, observed, and
error gravity anomaly grids from the open model on separate maps in one step.
The maps will be created at ~1/3 the size of the OASIS window and placed along
the left side of the OASIS window.
Menu item Display | Display a Single Grid – GRIDIMG1.GX
The standard Oasis GX, GRIDIMG1, creates a 2D display of any grid on the
current map or on a new map.
Menu item Display | Register Current Map – GMS3REGMAP.GX
The GMS3REGMAP GX links a color method and map to one of the anomaly
grids in the GMSYS-3D model.
This GX is designed to be called from other GXs which presumably have altered
a grid and want the changes to be reflected in an associated map, but may be
called interactively as well.
Menu item Display | Rezone Current Map – GMS3REZONE.GX
The GMS3REZONE GX rezones a Map after an underlying grid has been altered.
This GX searches the given map for an Aggregate containing the given grid, and
creates a new ITR for the Aggregate based on the grid, color table and zoning
method.
This GX is designed to be called from other GXs which presumably have altered
a grid and want the changes to be reflected in an associated map, but may be
called interactively as well.
Menu item Display | Show Error Grid Statistics – GMS3ERREDB.GX
When used interactively, the GMS3ERREDB GX opens the statistics database
created following the calculation process. Note that if the database has been

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page 15
 minimumized it will make it the active database, but will not restore it to the
window.
-- end of Display submenu--

2D Cross Sections submenu

The 2D cross section routines provide tools for creating and modifying cross
section slices through your model. They also provide a means of extracting and
editing GM-SYS Profile (2 D) models from your 3D model.
Menu item 2D Cross Sections | 2D Density Cross Section Slice –
GMS3CX.GX
The GMS3CX GX draws a vertical slice
through a 3D model with density or
susceptibility displayed as a color grid
on a map. Calculated and observed
anomaly profiles may be displayed over
the section. You may also elect to
display a color bar along side your cross section. Cursor position is displayed as
model X, Y, and Z-coordinates at the bottom, right of the Oasis montaj window.
Menu item 2D Cross Sections | Change Cross Section VE – XYSCALE.GX
The standard Oasis GX, XYSCALE, allows user to change the X and Y scales of
a view on the current map.
Menu item 2D Cross Sections | Extract 2D GMSYS Model – GMS3PROF.GX
The GMS3PROF GX loads the open 3D model horizon and data grids into the
GMS3PROF dialog to make extracting GM-SYS 2D models from the 3D model
more convenient. Currently the routine allows the extraction of 15 sub-surface
horizons plus topography.
Menu item 2D Cross Sections | Open Existing 2D GMSYS Model – GMS.GX
The GMS GX prompts for an existing 2D GM-SYS model and launches GM-SYS
Profile with that model.
-- end of 2D Modeling submenu--

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page 16
 Grid Preparation
Proper grid preparation is necessary to get accurate results, extending to the edge
of your data.
Required grid preparations include:
1. Upward (or downward) continuing the observed gravity (and/or magnetic)
grid to a constant elevation
2. Expanding all grids to “good FFT” numbers
3. Filling the expanded grids to be periodic
4. Prior to the final display, the grids should be masked back to their original
boundaries.
If “Input Grids are Pre-Expanded?” is set to "NO" in the “Forward Calculation"
dialogue box, items 2-4 above are done automatically in the calculation routine,
using parameters set in the “Setup Automatic FFT Preparation” menu item.
Otherwise, you must expand them manually, via the "Manual FFT Preparation"
submenu. For a more complete discussion of grid expansion see the section
Building Models on page 7.
Menu item Setup Automatic FFT Preparation – GMS3XPND.GX
The GMS3XPND GX is used to set the parameters for the GMSYS-3D’s internal
FFT grid preparation. Using the automatic preparation you are allowed to change
the size (percent expansion) and the shape of the expanded grid. Other fixed
parameters are listed in the help for GMS3XPND.
This GX is also available through the “Calculate” menu.

Manual FFT Preparation submenu

Menu item Manual FFT Preparation | Make Grids Coincident -
NGAGRDMCH.GX
The NGAGRDMCH GX forces an input grid to match an index grid in size, cell
spacing, projection, X0, and Y0. If the grids do not match the input grid will be
regridded with the proper parameters.
Menu item Manual FFT Preparation | Expand Grid… - GRIDXPND.GX
The standard Oasis GX, GRIDXPND, will expand a grid and fill it with dummies.
To be sure that you expand it to “good FFT” dimensions, use the menu item
“Minimum % to Expand Grid” rather than specifying “ --X”, “…--Y”.

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page 17
Menu item Manual FFT Preparation | Fill Grid… - GRIDFILL.GX
The standard Oasis GX, GRIDFILL, will fill expanded grids to be periodic. Note
that the default parameters that appear in this dialog are different than the defaults
used in the “Automatic FFT Preparation” (GMS3XPND.GX) described above.
Menu item Manual FFT Preparation | NGA Fill Grid… - NGAPFILL.GX
The NGAPFILL GX will fill holes (i.e. replace dummy values) in grids which
have been previously expanded periodically. Dummies will be replaced using a
function with minimum of variation in the filled area.
Additional information is available in the help file for NGAPFILL.
Menu item Manual FFT Preparation | Mask Grid… - GRIDBOOL.GX
The GRIDBOOL GX can be used to mask the resultant expanded grids back to
the size of the original grid. This standard Oasis routine has not been customized
(yet) for more convenient use with GMSYS-3D.
-- end of Manual FFT Preparation submenu--

Calculate submenu
The calculation routines allow forward and inverse calculations from the currently
defined model. The simplest inversion is the “structural” inversion which allows
grid points on a single geologic horizon (a structure grid) to move up or down to
minimize the misfit between the observed data and the calculated model response.
One structural grid, the “Inversion Surface”, must be selected to be “free” for the
inversion.
Inversions can also be performed allowing lateral changes in the density or
susceptibility within a given layer. Those routines require that the density and/or
susceptibility of the layer be defined by a grid, although the initial starting grid
may be a constant (uniform) grid. The edit model dialogs allow the insertion of
density or susceptibility grids; however the grid must be created prior to entering
the “Edit Model” dialog.
A database (<modelname>_stats.gdb) is created and statistics of the error grid are
added after each coaculation. This database is automatically opened and
appended with each calculation.
An “inline” filter may optionally be applied to the calculated data grids. This
provides a means of removing high frequency calculation artifacts near the
Nyquist frequency. Filter control files can be created using the FFT2CON GX
from the Magmap routines.

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page 18
Menu item Calculate | Setup Automatic FFT Preparation – GMS3XPND.GX
The GMS3XPND GX is used to set the parameters for the GMSYS-3D’s internal
FFT grid preparation. Using the automatic preparation you are allowed to change
the size (percent expansion) and the shape of the expanded grid. Other fixed
parameters are listed in the help for GMS3XPND.
This option is also available in the Main menu.
Menu item, Calculate | Forward Gravity Calculation – GMS3GRAVF.GX
The GMS3GRAVF GX performs a forward gravity calculation of the model
currently in memory. You may specify an “inline filter” that will be applied to
the calculated result. Filters can be created using the FFT2CON GX from the
MAGMAP Oasis module.
Menu item, Calculate | Forward Gravity Calc. - Voxel – NGAGLAYER.GX
The NGAGLAYER GX performs a forward gravity calculation of a Geosoft 3D
voxel grid. The result is calculated at aconstant elevation and placed in a grid that
matches the X and Y dimensions of the Geosoft voxel. Note that the calculation
level can be within the voxel.
Menu item, Calculate | Gravity Structural Inversion – GMS3SI.GX
The GMS3SI GX performs structural inversion based on the gravity mis-fit on a
selected horizon. Inversion only adjusts the selected horizon. Inversion updates
the calculated response and error grids to reflect the structural changes.
Note: inversion modifies the grid in the model but offers several options for
saving each step in the inversion process.
Menu item, Calculate | Single Density Inversion – GMS3RHOI.GX
The GMS3RHOI GX calculates the constant density for a single layer that
minimizes the average error.
Menu item, Calculate | Lateral Density Inversion – GMS3DI.GX
The GMS3DI GX calculates the density distribution in a single-layer lateral
density grid that minimizes the average error. Note: inversion modifies the grid
in the model but offers several options for saving each step in the inversion
process.

Menu item, Calculate | Forward Mag Calculation – GMS3MAGF.GX

The GMS3MAGF GX performs a forward magnetic calculation of the model
currently in memory. You may specify an “inline filter” that will be applied to
the calculated result. Filters can be created using the FFT2CON GX from the
MAGMAP Oasis module.

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page 19
Menu item, Calculate | Magnetic Structural Inverse – GMS3MAGINV.GX
The GMS3MAGINV GX performs structural inversion based on the magnetic
mis-fit on a selected horizon. Inversion only adjusts the selected horizon.
Inversion updates the calculated response and error grids to reflect the structural
changes. Note: inversion modifies the grid in the model but offers several options
for saving each step in the inversion process.

Menu item, Calculate | Magnetic Susceptibility Inversion –

GMS3SUSCINV.GX
The GMS3SUSCINV GX performs susceptibility inversion based on the
magnetic mis-fit on a selected horizon. Inversion updates the calculated response
and error grids to reflect the changes. GMS3SUSCINV ignores any existing
lateral susceptibility grid in its calculations.
Note: inversion modifies the grid in the model but offers several options for
saving each step in the inversion process.
Menu item, Calculate | Magnetic 1-Step Suscept Inversion – GMS3OSSI.GX
The GMS3OSSI GX uses an alternative approach to perform susceptibility
inversion. This GX applies the Oasis MAGMAP Apparent Susceptibility Filter
(SUSC) to arrive at the lateral susceptibility variation, rather then utilizing the
normal inversion routines of GMSYS-3D. This is a somewhat faster process than
the “normal” GMSYS-3D routines which are used by the GMS3USCINV GX
(Menu item, “Calculate | Magnetic Susceptibility Inversion”).
The apparent susceptibility filter is in fact a compound filter that performs a
reduction to the pole, downward continuation to the source depth, correction for
the geometric effect of a vertical square ended prism, and division by the total
magnetic field to yield susceptibility. Using this approach we assume that there is
no remanent magnetization and that the magnetic response is caused by a
collection of vertical, square-ended prisms of infinite depth extent.
GMS3OSSI applies the apparent susceptibility filter to the magnetic error grid
and adds the result to the existing lateral susceptibility distribution grid. This is a
faster process than the “normal” GMSYS-3D routines and can be run multiple
times to improve the fit.
For more information see the Geosoft Help for FFT2CON SUSC.
Note: inversion modifies the susceptibility grid in the model and does a simple
one-level backup, which can be undone with the undo command. Back up grids
manually before running multiple inversions if you want to retain the original
horizon.

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page 20
Menu item Calculate | Calculate Gravity Gradients – GMS3GGRAD.GX
The GMS3GGRAD.GX calculates any one of the six standard gravity gradient
components. The user chooses the desired component from a dropdown list and
supplies the name of the observed, calculated, and error grids.
Menu item Calculate | Show Error Grid Statistics – GMS3ERREDB.GX
The GMS3ERREDB GX writes a new entry in a database, recording the error
statistics of the gravity error grid. This GX will be called following recalculation
of the error grid, providing an ongoing record of changes during the modeling
process.

-- end of Calculate submenu--

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page 21
GMSYS-3D TOOLBAR
The GMSYS-3D toolbar provides an alternate means of accessing many of the
more commonly used procedures. All the procedures are available from the
GMSYS-3D menu and the discussion below refers you to the appropriate pages of
this User’s Guide. “Fly-over” help is available for each tool when you leave the
cursor over the tool for a few seconds.

New Model (page 10)

Open Model (page 11)
Check Model (page 11)
Edit Model (page 11)
Show Model Explorer (page 10)

New Constant Grid (page 12)

Edit Layer; shortcut into Edit Model (page 11)
Path Edit (page 12)
Polygon Area Edit (page 13)

Extract 2D Density Profile (page 16)

Build GM-SYS (Profile) Model (page 16)

Gravity Forward Calc (page 19)

Gravity Structural Inverse (page 19)
Magnetic Forward Calc (page 19)

Display Model as a 3D Stack (page 14)

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page 22
DEMO MODELS
Two demo models are included with this distribution: Salt and Death Valley.
These models are installed as subdirectories under Program Files\Geosoft\
Oasis montaj\ data\gmsys-3d. We recommend that you copy these subdirectories
into a separate “working directory” prior to opening and manipulating the models.
Thus, you will maintain the clean original copy.

Salt
Salt is a demonstration model that represents a simple offshore salt dome. The
model consists of six grids. The files are installed in the salt_model subdirectory.
The Salt and Salt2 models are used in the GMSYS-3D Tutorial.

Grid Name Contents

sealevel.grd flat surface at elevation=0,

bathy.grd bathymetric surface,

top_salt.grd top of salt body,

bottom_salt.grd base of salt body,

basement.grd basement surface,

salt_obsgrav.grd observed gravity.

density4a.zon for mapping the density to colors

basement_dike.ply the center of a basement dike to be

added to the model

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page 23
Death Valley
Death Valley covers a small area in southern Nevada. The data were provided by
the USGS and were taken from OFR-00-189. The installation puts this model
into the d_valley subdirectory.
Just open the “dv_demo” workspace to see the 3D model. The grids in the initial
model are:

Grid Name Contents

topo_m_1.grd Topography

c1_m_1.grd 1st subsurface horizon

c2_m_1.grd 2nd subsurface horizon

c3_m_1.grd 3rd subsurface horizon

Basement_m_1.grd Top of basement

gravity_m_1s.grd Observed Bouguer gravity

dv_calc1.grd Calculated model response

dv_err1.grd Calculated error

The model used a Bouguer density of 2.67, ZREF= 2315 meters, and half-space
bottom = -13,000 meters. The layer densities from top to bottom are 2.00, 2.10,
2.30, 2.42, and 2.65 gm/cc.
After calculating the response of the model, thereby refreshing dv_calc1.grd, we
performed a structural inversion on the basement horizon, using a “Regional
Offset” of 0.0 mGals. (This assumes that you used a “DC-shift” of 18 in the first
screen of the “Model Definition”.) Adjusting the Regional Offset moves the
average level of the layer being inverted up or down. The resulting basement grid
is in Basement_inv_1.grd, the resulting calculated response of the model is in
dv_calc2.grd, and the resulting error is in dv_err2.grd.
Note that inversion modifies the grid in the model and does a simple one-level
backup, which can be undone with the undo command. Back up grids manually
before running multiple inversions if you want to retain the original horizon.

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page 24
 REFERENCES

Blakely, R.J., 1995, Potential Theory in Gravity & Magnetic Applications: Cambridge
University Press, pp.441.
Blakely, R.J., Langenheim, V. E., and Ponce, D.A., 2000, Summary of Geophysical
Investigations of the Death Valley Regional Water-Flow Modeling Project,
Nevada and California. U.S.Geological Survey Open-File Report 00-189
Parker, R.L., 1972, The rapid calculation of potential anomalies: Geophysical Journal of
the Royal Astronomical Society, v.42:315-334.
Phillips, J.D., Duval, J.S., and Saltus, R.W., 2003, Geosoft eXecutables (GX’s)
developed by the U.S. Geological Survey, version 1.0, with a viewgraph tutorial
on GX development. U.S.Geological Survey Open-File Report 03-010

Northwest Geophysical Associates, Inc.

P.O. Box 1063, Corvallis, OR 97339-1063
Phone: +1 (541) 757-7231
fax: +1 (541) 757-7331
email: [email protected]
web: www.nga.com

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page 25
 APPENDIX A
MODEL FILE (*.g3d) FORMAT

As GMSYS-3D is developed, new model parameters are added and some become
obsolete. In order to “update” a model’s parameters to the current specification,
you may run GMSPREEN GX immediately after opening a model with a new
release.
Model defining parameters for Release 1.2 include:
NOTES:
1. # represents an integer number
2. [GOBS|GCALC|MISFIT|#] means a number of one of GOBS, etc
3. Indexed parameters like DDRHO[#] are zero based. However, The zero
element as it shows up in the Parameter block is DDRHO, not DDRHO[0]. In
the GX, you can use either form.

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page A-1

NGA_3MODEL
NGA_3MODEL CONVERT ............. Conversion factor; input unit to Km
NGA_3MODEL GDCSHIFT ............ Constant to add to calculated gravity response
NGA_3MODEL DEN_0 ................... Constant Layer Density for background (Air)
NGA_3MODEL DX ......................... Grid Spacing in X
NGA_3MODEL DY ......................... Grid Spacing in Y
NGA_3MODEL GRAVBG ............... Background Gravity (calculated)
NGA_3MODEL HUNITS ................. Units (horizontal)
NGA_3MODEL KX ......................... Grid Orientation
NGA_3MODEL M2H ....................... Conversion factor to km (horizontal)
NGA_3MODEL M2V ....................... Conversion factor to km (vertical)
NGA_3MODEL NAME .................... Model File name
NGA_3MODEL NLAYERS ............. Number of Layers
NGA_3MODEL NUMDENS ............ Number of sublayers in DD relationship
NGA_3MODEL NX ......................... Number of grid columns
NGA_3MODEL NY ......................... Number of grid rows
NGA_3MODEL PREEXPANDED ... 0 if not expanded; 1 if expanded
NGA_3MODEL RECALC ................ 0 if not needed; 1 if needed
NGA_3MODEL ROT ....................... Grid Rotation
NGA_3MODEL VUNITS ................. Units (vertical; should be same as horizontal)
NGA_3MODEL X0 .......................... Grid Origin
NGA_3MODEL Y0 .......................... Grid Origin
NGA_3MODEL ZBOTTOM ............. Elevation of bottom of halfspace (Z+ up)

NGA_3MODEL GZREF .................. Elevation of Gravity Obs/Calc.

NGA_3MODEL DDOFF_[#] ............ Offset for DD sublayer #
NGA_3MODEL DDRHO_[#] .......... Density for DD sublayer #
NGA_3MODEL DEN_# .................. Constant density for layer #
NGA_3MODEL DEN_APP_# ........ "Apparent" density for layer # ( last VDD
sublayer density )
NGA_3MODEL DEN_#[#] ............... ( obsolete )
NGA_3MODEL DENSRCNAME_# Source of density info for layer # (text)
NGA_3MODEL DENSRC_# .......... Source of density info for layer # (list alias
integer)
NGA_3MODEL SUSCSRC_# ....... Source of susc. info for layer #

NGA_3MODEL MZREF .................. Elevation of Magnetics Obs/Calc.

NGA_3MODEL MDCSHIFT ............ Constant to add to calculated Mag response
NGA_3MODEL EFIELD .................. Earth's Field Strength (cgs)
NGA_3MODEL EINC ...................... Earth's Field Inclination
NGA_3MODEL EDEC .................... Earth's Field Declination
NGA_3MODEL BSUSC_# ............. Susceptibility of Layer # (cgs)
NGA_3MODEL BRMAG_# ............ Magnitude of Remanent Mag. (cgs)
NGA_3MODEL BINC_# .................. Inclination of Remanent Mag.
NGA_3MODEL BDEC_# ................ Declination of Remanent Mag.

NGA_3MODEL DCSHIFT ............... ( obsolete )

NGA_3MODEL DENDIFF ............... ( obsolete )
NGA_3MODEL IDENSITY .............. ( obsolete )
NGA_3MODEL NSURF .................. (obsolete) Number of Layers
NGA_3MODEL ZREF ..................... ( obsolete )
NGA_3MODEL DENGRID_# ......... ( obsolete )
NGA_3MODEL DENGRID# ........... ( a bug )

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page A-2

 NGA_3MODEL NDEN_# ............... ( obsolete )
NGA_3MODEL THK_#[#] ............... ( obsolete )

NGA_3MODEL
NGA_3MODEL EDITDA ................ Decimal Year of last gms3mdef.gx run
NGA_3MODEL EDITHR ................ Decimal Hour of last gms3mdef.gx run

NGA_E3GRID – filenames:
NGA_E3GRID DDREFSUR .......... Reference surface for DD relationship
NGA_E3GRID GOBS .................... Observed Gravity
NGA_E3GRID GCALC .................. Calculated Gravity
NGA_E3GRID GERR .................... Error in Gravity
NGA_E3GRID MOBS .................... Observed Magnetics
NGA_E3GRID MCALC .................. Calculated Magnetics
NGA_E3GRID MERR .................... Error in Magnetics
NGA_E3GRID IDX ........................ Index grid
NGA_E3GRID MISFIT .................. (repl by GERR)
NGA_E3GRID SURF_# ................ Surface grid for layer #
NGA_E3GRID DENGRID_# .......... Lateral density grid for layer #
NGA_E3GRID SUSCGRID_# ....... Lateral susc. grid for layer #

NGA_E3GRID DENSITY ............... ( obsolete )

NGA_E3GRID IGOBS ................... ( obsolete )
NGA_E3GRID PARTIAL ............... ( to be obsolete )
NGA_E3GRID Z1 .......................... ( to be obsolete )
NGA_E3GRID Z2 .......................... ( to be obsolete )

NGA_3DISPLAY – display parameters

NGA_3DISPLAY GWSDIR ............... The Geosoft Workspace directory
NGA_3DISPLAY 3DGMETHOD ....... Color method for gravity anomaly grids in
3DMAPNAME
NGA_3DISPLAY 3DGTBL ................ Color table for gravity anomaly grids in
3DMAPNAME
NGA_3DISPLAY 3DMAPNAME ....... Map containing 3D model
NGA_3DISPLAY 3DVXG .................. VE used in 3DMAPNAME
NGA_3DISPLAY 3DZONE ................ Color zone file for structure grids in
3DMAPNAME
NGA_3DISPLAY CTBL_ANOM_DEF Default color table for 2D anomaly maps
NGA_3DISPLAY CTBL_ERR_DEF .. Default color table for 2D error maps
NGA_3DISPLAY CTBL_STRUCT_DEF Default color table for 2D structure maps
NGA_3DISPLAY ZONE_ANOM_DEF Default color zone file for 2D anomaly maps
NGA_3DISPLAY ZONE_ERR_DEF . Default color zone file for 2D error maps
NGA_3DISPLAY ZONE_STRUCT_DEF Default color zone file for 2D structure
maps
NGA_3DISPLAY CTBL_[GOBS|GCALC|GERR] Color tables used for gravity
anomaly maps
NGA_3DISPLAY MAP_[GOBS|GCALC|GERR] Maps containing gravity
anomalies
NGA_3DISPLAY ZONE_[GOBS|GCALC|GERR] Color zone file for gravity
anomaly maps

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page A-3

NGA_3DISPLAY CTBL_[MOBS|MCALC|MERR] Color tables used for magnetic
anomaly maps
NGA_3DISPLAY MAP_[MOBS|MCALC|MERR] Maps containing magnetic
anomalies
NGA_3DISPLAY ZONE_[MOBS|MCALC|MERR] Color zone file for magnetic
anomaly maps
NGA_3DISPLAY CTBL_# ................ Color tables used for structure maps ( not
implimented )
NGA_3DISPLAY MAP_# ................. Maps containing structure grids "
NGA_3DISPLAY ZONE_# ............... Color zone file for structure maps "

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page A-4

 APPENDIX B
NEW FEATURES IN VERSION 1.3

Release 1.3 adds:

• Capability to write a GMSYS-3D model to a Geosoft voxel.

• Capability to calculate the gravity response of a Geosoft density voxel.
• Time-to-depth conversion: build a model in time, then use velocities to convert to
a depth model.
• “Seismic” tab for time models.
• “Velocity” tab for layer parameters.
• DDTab – rewritten
ASCII file import is more robust
fixed several bugs in the dialog.
• Backing up inversion target grid.
• Resample model to half-size and write to a new model name.
• Include up to 15 horizons from 3D model to GM-SYS Profile models.
• Integrated GX help with Oasis montaj.
• “Auto” DC-shift button added for Gravity and Magnetic calculations.
• Better UNICODE handling
• 3D Model Explorer; displays information about the current model in a modeless
dialog.
• Upward continue the observed grid to a draped surface.

In addition there are a number of improvements to existing features:

• The Density/Depth dialog has been completely rewritten. ASCII file import is
more robust and several bugs were fixed in the dialog.
• DDTab parameters weren’t correctly written to the model file.
• Fixed loop that caused reasonable density values to cause errors.
• Error grid name is not required to run calculations.
• Improved “Undo” functionality for inversion.
• Improved “redraw” code so maps are only redrawn when changed.
• Dialogs don’t lose information when you switch tabs.
• Building a constraints grid from a well database doesn’t fail when the first well is
off the map.
• New grids should always have their projection set to match the model.
Improved checking to prevent calculations starting when required grids were missing.

GMSYS-3D_Guide.doc Page B-1