solutions to the problem of reversing seismic fault movements are formulated using a model based on elasticity theory , and using finite element and boundary element methods for generating a solution . the solution involves defining slip vectors from known formations in the fault and applying a space constraint restriction to traction values on the fault surface . the method may be applied in either 2d or 3d applications . the method is computationally fast enough to allow interactive fault reversal , and permits experimentation with various unfaulting scenarios so that a geologically acceptable solution is provided .