3D Printing Topographic Data: An Introduction and Technique

Abstract

This paper documents ongoing research into the application of 3D printing processes to GIS data. As 3D printing becomes more accessible to a broad audience, its application to GIS data is being investigated by industry, academia and amateur Makers. This paper will outline a technique for converting contour lines into a digital, printable 3D models using ArcGIS and Rhino software; other methods will also be briefly discussed. The end goal of this research is to develop a set of easy-to-follow guidelines for replicating this process in the context of an academic library, drawing on the author’s own experiences.