Conceptual Model Overhaul

One of GMS's greatest strengths traditionally has been the conceptual model approach.  This approach makes it possible to build a conceptual model in the GMS Map Module using GIS feature objects (points, arcs, and polygons).  The conceptual model defines the boundary conditions, sources/sinks, and material property zones for a model.  The model data can then be automatically discretized to the model grid or mesh.  The conceptual model approach makes it possible to deal with large complex models in a simple and efficient manner.

Conceptual Model Objects

In previous versions of GMS, conceptual models were created using a set of coverages where each coverage contains a set of feature object data.  The user could use as many coverages as desired and each coverage had a unique type (MODFLOW Source/Sink, MODFLOW Layer Attributes, etc.).  When the conceptual model data were converted to a MODFLOW model, it was sometimes difficult to indicate which coverages should be mapped to the grid.  With version 5.0 of GMS, we introduce a new "Conceptual Model Object".  A conceptual model object is stored in the Data Tree in the Map Module and is linked to a specific ground water model (MODFLOW, FEMWATER, etc.).  Each conceptual model object represents an instance of a conceptual model and coverages are organized under conceptual model objects.  Thus, all coverages associated with a MODFLOW conceptual model automatically inherit MODFLOW properties.  This not only makes it possible to have multiple conceptual models in memory at one time, but it simplifies the management of coverages and feature objects and it makes it easier to convert a conceptual model from one type to another (ex., MODFLOW --> FEMWATER).

Custom Coverage Types

Another enhancement related to the conceptual model overhaul is a new method for defining coverage types.  With previous versions of GMS, users would select from a list of pre-defined coverage types and all properties associated with the coverage were determined by the coverage type.  With version 5.0, the user has complete freedom in determining what set of properties are associated with a particular coverage.  When a new coverage is created, the Coverage Properties dialog appears.  The user can then parse through the list of available properties and toggle on the desired set of properties.  As before, the user can create as many coverages as desired to define a conceptual model.  However, each coverage can have any combination of properties.  If desired, the user can still choose from a set of pre-defined mix of properties similar to the types supported in previous versions of GMS.

Feature Object Property Table

Another major enhancement associated with conceptual model objects is the new Feature Object Property Dialog.  In previous versions of GMS, the properties associated with a selected point, arc, or polygon were edited using a dialog that was unique to both the feature object type and the coverage type.  This resulting in a myriad of different dialogs presented to the user.  In version 5.0, all feature object properties are edited using a single spreadsheet.  This makes it possible to cut and paste feature object data using the clipboard and it makes it easier to edit entire columns of data at once.  Filters at the top of the dialog control what type of objects are displayed.