Natural science

Geologically painted relief of the surroundings of Chambéry (France) 1:50,000, 40 x 56 cm Institut Géographique National IGN, 1960,
Map collection ETH Zurich

Geology

Geologically painted reliefs have a long tradition, since in mountainous regions geology is often very complicated. The three-dimensional models facilitate the understanding of spatial and temporal interrelations of different geological formations. However, besides the edges of the model, it is not possible to give a real 3D image of the substratum; it remains a 2.5D representation. Only if the surface is transparent, underground features can be illustrated. Thus it is possible to, for example, show groundwater flows.

Transparent relief showing groundwater flows in the surroundings of Winterthur (Switzerland),
Naturmuseum Winterthur

Model of the run-of river power station Eglisau

Hydraulic models of the run-of-the-river power station Eglisau (Switzerland) 1:100, used by the Laboratory of Hydraulics, Hydrology and Glaciology of the ETH Zurich

Hydraulic models

Models of water bodies are interesting to study as they contribute much to the understanding of various aspects of hydrology. For example, they help to understand the morphologically dynamic processes of rivers to provide sustainable flood protection. From the models it is possible to gather information about the behaviour of water in case of storm or flood and to understand internal flow features around bridges and piers. These models can also be used to prevent bridge collapses initiated by scour during a flood. The consequences of hydraulic engineering projects on the flowing pattern can also be studied.

Model used by the Laboratory of Hydraulics, Hydrology and Glaciology of the ETH Zurich for studying the morphological dynamics in braided rivers.