Trishear modeling of fold bedding data along a topographic profile

This paper describes an algorithm that extends the use of the trishear kinematic model to the commonly encountered case of a set of fold bedding observations along a profile. In a universe of trishear models that can possibly fit the structure, the algorithm searches for the model that minimizes the difference between observed and modeled beds (i.e. best fit model). The robustness and versatility of the algorithm are shown by applying it to a synthetic fold geometry, and to a transect of the Waterpocket monocline in southern Utah. In the first case, the best fit parameters are exactly those used in the synthetic model. In the second case, the best fit model reproduces fairly well the observable features of the monocline.