3D Map Making
Maps are endlessly fascinating. Whether it is an ancient map of the Mediterranean or a modern map of London, a map gives you the world (or at least a slice of it) in miniature. For instance, a topographic map shows you exactly the elevation and shape of the area you are interested in. But one drawback of topographic maps is that it is often difficult for people (especially children) to translate in their mind the 2D lines they see in to a 3D shape. For this reason, many people like to use 3D maps instead. These maps show the topography as actual bumps and ridges. But there are several aspects to producing such maps.
Other People Are Reading
-
The Reference Map
-
The process of making a 3D model begins with obtaining the map that the 3D map will be based on. There are several possible sources for these maps; such as the United States Geological Survey website, university map rooms and some atlases. Regardless of the source, the map needs to be either saved or scanned into a computer as a JPEG image so it can be printed.
-
Printing
-
With the map image stored on the computer, it is necessary to print it. This is done on thin onion skin paper to facilitate tracing. The printing generally has to be printed on a large commercial printer that can handle large format print jobs. Multiple copies of the map are usually made, since onion skin paper easily tears.
Transferring the Map
-
The most difficult aspect of creating a 3D map model is transferring the map data to the Styrofoam sheets that will make up the model. To do this, the onion-skin paper with the map printed on it is laid over sheets of Styrofoam. The lines of elevation are traced on separate sheets of Styrofoam and then cut out.
Assembly
-
Another delicate part of the process of creating a 3D map is assembling the pieces. The key is keeping things organized. All the pieces for each level are then glued into place and allowed to dry.
Painting
-
The last part of the process of creating a 3D map is to paint it. This requires choosing the colors that best match the color gradations of the original map. Then the colors are meticulously painted on, using the original map as a reference.
-
