Definition

The gsml:Joint concept is not mentionned in the GeosciML v4.1 specifications but is clearly identified in the UML model as part of the Geologic Structure Details.

A gsml:Joint is defined as a:

Fracture across which there is no displacement at the scale of interest.

gsml:Joint is as a specialization of a gsml:Fracture defined which is defined as:

Fractures are cracks in the earth surface. If there is no displacement it is a joint. If there is displacement and you are in the brittle zone it is a fault. In the ductile zone, a fracture with displacement with fracture is called a shear.

For which geotech concept do we want to use gsml:Joint?

gsml:Joint is identified to realize the geotech concept called DiscreteDiscontinuity.

How representations / geometries should be handled for gsml:Joint?

As gsml:DiscreteDiscontinuity is proposed as a specialization of gsml:GeologicStructure which it itself a specialization of a GeologicFeature it intherits its capacity to be associated to (multiple) gsml:MappedFeature where each one are intended to be possible representation of the concept

Geotechnical properties

A GeotechUnit being a GeologicUnit, it inherits of its properties.

Additionnal properties specific to the Geotech Unit includes: