GaeaSynergy converts irregularly spaced values into a regular grid. That grid becomes the basis for contours, color fills, calculated surfaces and downstream visualization.
No method is universally best. Compare several reasonable methods and select the result that fits the sampling pattern, expected geology and intended interpretation.
Uses the spatial relationship between surrounding data points to create a locally responsive surface.
Gives nearby observations more influence than distant observations, with method settings controlling the weighting.
Applies a modified distance-weighting approach for interpolating values from neighboring points.
Creates a smooth surface that passes through or near the source values and emphasizes continuous variation.
Represents broad spatial trends and is useful when the regional pattern matters more than local detail.
Assigns the value of the nearest source point, preserving discrete source values without smoothing between them.
Gridding is an interpretation workflow, not just a one-click calculation. GaeaSynergy provides controls for preparing, inspecting and presenting the result.
Automatically assemble map data from available boreholes, wells, samples, cross-sections, laboratory analyses and geotechnical test results.
Edit source datasets and combine compatible information when a surface requires inputs from more than one dataset.
Apply mathematical operations to one dataset or add, subtract, multiply and divide compatible datasets.
Inspect and modify individual node values when documented interpretation or boundary information supports an adjustment.
Remove selected grid areas from display to represent site boundaries, insufficient coverage or zones where interpolation is not appropriate.
Display contour lines, colored contour lines or color-filled zones, and edit individual levels and labels for readable output.
Maps can be created from entered or interpreted data without rebuilding the dataset in a separate mapping program. The selected field, coordinates, units and project context stay central to the workflow.
One interpreted grid can support several outputs.
Keep the source observations visible and document the choices that turn those observations into an interpreted surface.
Choose a meaningful field with consistent coordinates, units, reference elevation and sampling basis.
Check duplicates, outliers, gaps, clustering and the relationship between the data points and site boundary.
Set an extent and node spacing appropriate for the project scale and density of supporting observations.
Run plausible methods and examine how each handles local variation, smoothing and edge behavior.
Compare the grid with source values, edit only with justification and blank unsupported areas.
Set appropriate contour levels, colors and labels, then record the method and assumptions used.
Use the same gridding foundation for different technical questions while choosing inputs and assumptions appropriate to each discipline.
Map ground elevation, depth to bedrock or the elevation of interpreted stratigraphic surfaces.
Contour groundwater elevations and other spatially distributed hydrogeological observations.
Visualize contaminant concentrations or other measured parameters while respecting sampling coverage and qualifiers.
Map selected soil or rock properties and test results across an investigation area.
Create and compare top and bottom surfaces to represent the thickness or geometry of interpreted units.
Map spatial variations in selected geological, mineral, oil-sands or petroleum-related project data.
A visually smooth map can still imply more certainty than the observations support.
| Review question | Why it matters | Recommended check |
|---|---|---|
| Is the source data suitable? | Mixed units, datums or measurement bases can create a misleading surface. | Confirm field meaning, units, coordinate system and reference elevation. |
| Is the grid too fine? | Dense nodes do not add information where source observations are sparse. | Choose spacing based on project scale and observation density. |
| Does the method fit the geology? | Algorithms treat smoothing, local variation and edges differently. | Compare methods and review the result against known conditions. |
| Is extrapolation being displayed? | Contours outside the supported area may appear authoritative. | Use blanking and project boundaries to limit unsupported areas. |
| Are edits traceable? | Manual node changes affect the interpreted surface. | Retain the source data and document the reason for each material adjustment. |
Use the product overview to plan the workflow and the software manual for current commands and method settings.
Review the supported methods, contour presentation and connections to subsurface visualization.
Read the Knowledge Center guideUse the technical chapter for creating datasets, selecting algorithms, editing grids and producing contour maps.
Open the gridding manualSee how contour maps and source locations fit within the GaeaSynergy project map.
Explore Geographic Information SystemUse GaeaSynergy to prepare data, calculate grids, refine surfaces and communicate spatial trends in one connected project environment.
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