The Inverse-Distance Table-Based modeling method is another version of the Inverse-Distance algorithm, in which a voxel node value is assigned based on the weighted average of neighboring data points, and the value of each data point is weighted according the inverse of its distance from the voxel node, taken to a power. The greater the value of the exponent, the less influence distant control points will have on the assignment of the voxel node value. For more information about Inverse-Distance algorithm, see Inverse-Distance Gridding.
The Inverse-Distance Table-Based method works a lot like the Anisotropic method in that it searches for control points in sectors around the voxel. However, instead of being hard-wired to using a single point in each 90-degree sector around the voxel, this method allows you to define specific search zones in a "Sector Table". You can also define the minimum number of points to be used from each sector and the exponent. Points that lie within the search sector(s) will be used in interpolation, and those that do not, will not.
- Advantages: If you know specific directional trends in your data, you can force the program to interpolate the solid model using only points in these trend directions (and maybe more importantly) ignoring points that aren't in the known trend direction.
- Disadvantages: You will be applying a strong bias to the modeling by having the program ignore specific data points. Be careful.
Menu Options
- Sector Table: Click here to select the name of the Sector Table that contains your search sector declaration(s). This table will declare the inclination range, the direction range, and maximum distance for each sector to be searched for data points.
- Minimum Points: Use this setting to define the minimum number of control points to be used in each of the defined sectors for node interpolation.
- Distance Multiplier: Use this to change the weight of the control points located in the defined sector(s). If you leave this set to "1" (default), then the normal inverse-distance equation will apply. If you set this to "2", then the control point distances from each voxel will be double (they'll have less influence). If you set this to "0.5" then the control points will affect the voxel as if they were twice as close.
- Weighting Exponent: This will be the exponent used in the inverse-distance equation. (Default = 2; the greater the exponent's value, the less influence distant control points will have on a voxel's value.)
The value to be assigned to nodes for which no control points fall within the search sectors will be defined by the Undefined Node Values setting at the bottom of the Solid Modeling Options window.
Back to Solid Modeling Method Summary
RockWare home page