Time Machine Documentation
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  • Introduction
    • Introduction
    • Getting Started
  • Main Window
  • Paleo-coordinates calculation
  • Plate Tectonic Models
  • Time-dependent Atlas
  • Cross-database Search
  • Team
  • Changelog
    • Version 1.1.0(2025-04-23)
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  • The Goals of Time Machine
  • Key Features
  • Data Source and Credit
  • Data Updates and Accuracy:
  • Disclaimer
  1. Introduction

Introduction

NextGetting Started

Last updated 5 days ago

What is Time Machine?

Time Machine offers an integrated platform for the visualization and analysis of plate tectonic models, raster data, online databases, and analytical tools. It enables users to access online plate reconstruction models, time-sequenced paleogeographic atlases, and a variety of paleogeographic databases and tools. Time Machine organizes these datasets coherently across both spatial and temporal dimensions, supporting the visualisation and manipulation of plate tectonic reconstructions and associated data through geological time. The platform is available on the web, Windows, macOS, and Linux. Users can choose to access Time Machine via a web browser or download native installers for enhanced performance.

The Goals of Time Machine

  • to integrate and visualise plate tectonic reconstructions, raster datasets, and paleogeographic information in a unified, time-aware platform

  • to provide seamless access to online plate models, time-series atlases, and domain-specific databases

  • to support real-time interaction, analysis, and annotation within spatial-temporal contexts across geological time

  • to enable researchers to create, explore, and share high-quality paleogeographic reconstructions directly through web and desktop environments

Key Features

  • 🚀 ​​Real-time plate reconstruction​​ with GPU-accelerated rasterization for rapid plate ID assignment

  • 🌐 ​​Web-based 3D visualization​​ of global plate models and paleogeographic maps across geological timescales

  • 📊 ​​Spatiotemporal framework​​ managing both spatial features and temporal attributes

  • 🔍 ​​Cross-database integration​​ of paleontological, stratigraphic, and geochemical datasets (PBDB, Macrostrat, etc.)

  • 📈 ​​Dynamic evolution charts​​ for quantitative analysis of paleoclimate, topography, and environmental changes

  • ☁️ ​​Cloud-based project system​​ ensuring reproducible research with version-controlled workflows

Data Source and Credit

Time Machine's data repository is comprised entirely of publicly accessible datasets, with a portion of this data having obtained explicit consent from the respective data owners for its use. Our commitment to data transparency and collaboration is paramount, ensuring that users have access to a rich and ethically sourced database.

Data Updates and Accuracy:

Our dataset is up-to-date as of December 2023. While we endeavor to maintain the highest level of accuracy, we can only ensure the precision of the original data obtained up until this date. Users are encouraged to verify the data independently, especially for research or applications where data accuracy is critical.

Disclaimer

Time Machine is committed to providing a platform that offers publicly accessible data or data that has been made available with the consent of the data owners. While we strive to ensure the quality and integrity of the data presented, we do not assume direct responsibility for the usage or absolute accuracy of the data. Users are encouraged to independently verify the data's validity for their specific needs.

Time Machine assumes responsibility only for safeguarding the privacy and security of the data uploaded by users to the platform that is not designated for public access. We are committed to protecting such data from unauthorized access and disclosure.

It is the user's responsibility to adhere to applicable laws and regulations when using data from the Time Machine platform. Users should be aware of and respect the intellectual property rights and privacy considerations associated with the datasets.

Time Machine disclaims all liability for any harm, loss, or damage that may occur directly or indirectly as a result of using the platform, including but not limited to data inaccuracies or data misuse. By using the platform, users acknowledge and accept this limitation of responsibility.


If you have any questions, please contact us at johncheng0115@gmail.com