Ray Tracing In Three Dimensions
Pravin M. Shah · Geophysics · 1973
Abstract Special methods for tracing rays through restricted earth models are reported in the literature. For example, Sattlegger (1965) has dealt with a two-dimensional model consisting of a sequence of constant-velocity layers separated by interfaces that may be dipping. More recently, Sorrells et al. (1971) have considered three-dimensional (3D) models with plane interfaces of arbitrary strike and dip and with spherical surfaces of a special kind. In the earlier part of 1970, we were using a more general algorithm which allowed us to trace rays through a 3D model consisting of plane or curved surfaces of arbitrary nature. This algorithm was presented by the author at the 41st Annual SEG convention in November, 1971. A number of inquiries received by us since that time has encouraged us to summarize our results in this brief note.