A practical note on pre-digital 3D visualization methods still useful for concept checks and communication.
Physical models give a fast, visual check of orebody geometry and its relationship to host structure. They often show spatial conflicts that are hard to notice on 2D plans and sections. The value is in geometry, not detail [1].
Model types used in exploration and mine drilling
1) Plate models (glass / celluloid / plastic sheets)
Purpose: show drillhole traces and interpreted outlines by level or by selected horizontal planes.
Typical build:
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Rectangular base with four corner posts.
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Multiple clear plates mounted at the correct relative elevations.
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Drillhole sections and outlines painted on each plate.
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Plates slide into position so the full stack can be viewed together.
Practical notes:
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Keep the frame open on all sides for viewing and measurement.
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A working height around ~42 in improves visibility from all sides.
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These models take time to construct and are relatively expensive.
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Use when multiple levels and complex geometry need comparison in one view.
2) Rod models
Purpose: represent drillholes as vertical “sticks” positioned on a scaled plan.
Typical build (square pattern drilling, vertical holes):
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Drillholes laid out to scale on a rectangular base.
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Final drillhole log transferred onto steel or wood rods.
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Rods set upright in the base at the drill collar locations.
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Strings can be tied along footwall and hanging-wall contacts to outline the orebody.
Common dimensions and scales (example from legacy practice):
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Hollow steel tubes around 3/16 in diameter.
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Plan scale around 50 ft per 1 in.
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Vertical scale around 25 ft per 1 in.
Practical notes:
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Works best when holes are vertical and on a regular grid.
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The view is largely unobstructed, which helps discussions at the bench.
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Use colour coding only for what you need to separate (ore, dykes, key lithologies).
3) Solid models (orebody “blocks”)
Purpose: represent a single lens or simple mass where a continuous 3D volume is easier than many discrete sections.
Typical build:
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The orebody volume is constructed from drillhole sections and plans.
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Colours differentiate ore, intrusive dykes, and other key units.
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The model is fixed to a base at the correct dip and orientation.
Practical notes:
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Best when the orebody is simple enough to model as one dominant volume.
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Less suited to multiple stacked lenses or rapidly changing contacts.
Cross-section mine models (section-slice models)
Purpose: examine cross-sections that can be removed and reviewed individually.
Typical build:
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Mine model built at about 50 ft per 1 in scale.
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Slots cut across the model at regular intervals along strike.
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Removable slides fit into each slot.
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Drilling-derived interpretation is drawn on each slide.
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Slides can be lifted out for close inspection and revision.
Example spacing (legacy practice):
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Section intervals around 200 ft along the orebody.
Where these models still help today
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Early-stage geometry checks.
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Communicating orebody shape to drill crews and planners.
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Reconciling conflicting intersections before committing to a new fence.
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Teaching new loggers how contacts connect in 3D.
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→ Information in this article is for general reference only. For specific drilling projects and drilling bits, please consult qualified professionals. Thank you.
Source
【1】Cumming, J. D. (1956). Diamond drill handbook. (2nd ed.). Smit.
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