volumetrisation

Volumetrisation is the process of determining or estimating the volume of physical objects, spatial features, or phenomena using quantitative methods. The term, derived from the French word « volumétrie », has become common in disciplines such as geology, civil engineering, environmental science, and computer graphics. In geology, volumetrisation is applied to assess the size of mineral deposits, reservoirs, and sedimentary formations, often by integrating geophysical survey data with core samples. Civil engineers use volumetrisation techniques to calculate earthworks volumes in construction projects, employing tools such as total stations and laser scanning to create accurate digital terrain models. In environmental studies, volumetrisation helps estimate the volume of reservoirs, wetlands, or ice masses, contributing to water resource management and climate change research. In computer vision and 3D modeling, volumetrisation refers to rendering three-dimensional representations from point clouds or depth maps, where algorithms convert discrete data into volumetric meshes or voxel grids.

Common methods include the use of digital elevation models, photogrammetry, ground-penetrating radar, and LIDAR. Analytical formulas, numerical integration, and dynamic simulation also participate in volumetric assessment, depending on the scale and required precision. Recent advances in machine learning have introduced data-driven approaches that predict volume from limited sensor input, improving speed and reducing cost. The accuracy of volumetrisation is influenced by sensor resolution, data quality, and the algorithms used, making calibration and validation essential. As technology evolves, volumetrisation continues to gain importance, particularly in precision infrastructure planning, natural resource extraction, and environmental monitoring.