Spherical Constrained Optimization for Rotational Localization (SCORL)

We developed two versions of the SCORL algorithm (R and Python) to determine paleopositions of key tectonic blocks, particularly when plate motion parameters are known but paleolongitudes and boundary extensions remain uncertain due to observational paleolatitude errors. Unlike conventional approaches, SCORL integrates geometric constraints—including acute-angle triangular relationships between the Baoshan Block and adjacent South Qiangtang and West Australian plates, along with rigid plate motion requirements—within a Monte Carlo optimization framework. This enables determination of optimal paleopositions consistent with both observational uncertainties and geological plausibility.