The model codes used are Ellipsis and Underworld; both use a Lagrangian particle-in-cell finite element scheme. The results are visualized as animations. This project aimed to tune input parameters in crustal dynamics models by determination of the "geological reasonableness" of the results. This built on the work of Boschetti and Moresi who proposed that experienced geologists subjectively evaluate batches of models, applying rankings that are used in a genetic algorithm.

To incorporate this approach within the paradigm of distributed computation, Nimrod/OI (Nimrod Optimization Interactive) applies appropriate optimization algorithms, distributing the computations via Nimrod/G and presenting batches of results for ranking via a web browser. Results are available here.

L. Moresi, F. Dufour and H.-B. Muhlhaus, A Lagrangian integration point finite element method for large deformation modeling of viscoelastic geomaterials, Journal of Computational Physics, 184 (2003), 476–497.

D. May, C.Heine, L. Moresi and D. Müller, Shedding light on the real world with Underworld, Fall Meeting of the AGU, (2005).

F. Boschetti and L. Moresi, Interactive inversion in geosciences, Geophysics, 66 (2001), 1226–1234.

Moresi, L., May, D., Peachey, T., Enticott, C., Abramson, D. and Robinson, T., Capturing Intuition through Interactive Inverse Methods: Examples drawn from Mechanical Non-Linearities in Structural Geology, Eos, Transactions of the AGU, 85 (47) (2004), Fall Meeting Supplement.