Innovative Adaptive Multiscale 3D Simulation Platform for the Yellow River Using Sphere Geodesic Octree Grid Techniques

Abstract

Earth system simulation technology is fundamental for ecological protection and high-quality development in the Yellow River Basin. To address the lack of a Yellow River simulation platform, this study proposes an adaptive multiscale true 3D crust simulation platform using the Sphere Geodesic Octree Grid (SGOG). Twelve models in four categories were designed: single fine-scale models, geomorphic zone-based models, and models using both top-down and bottom-up approaches. The models were evaluated based on terrain feature representation and computational efficiency. The results show that single fine-scale models preserve detailed terrain features but are computationally intensive. They are suitable for the precise simulation of surface processes. Top-down and bottom-up models balance terrain detail and efficiency, and are thereby widely applicable. Geomorphic zone-based models provide detailed focal area representation and higher computational efficiency, being more targeted. Various methods offer flexible scale transformations, each with its own strengths, allowing researchers to select a method according to practical application needs. Consequently, this research demonstrates that spherical discrete grids offer reliable support for constructing basin simulation platforms, providing new technological and scientific insights for the Yellow River Basin’s ecological protection and development.