3D Mapping

Module 11 – 3D Mapping

For this week’s assignment we were introduced to 3D mapping thru an ESRI training course online. On that course, we learned some new key terms like 3D Features, Extrusion, and Triangulated irregular Network (TIN) among others. We were also introduced ESRI Arc Scene and Arc Globe. Our lab instructions reinforced what we had learned from the online training course and we also learned how to export to KMZ/KML file for uses on Google Earth.

3D Features - Is a representation of a three-dimensional, real-world object in a map or scene, with elevation values (z-values) stored within the feature's geometry.

Extrusion - Is the method of projecting features in a two-dimensional data source, into a three-dimensional representation.

Triangulated irregular network - A vector data structure that partitions geographic space into contiguous, non-overlapping triangles. The vertices of each triangle are sample data points with x-, y-, and z-values.

For our lab exercise, we were asked to convert 2D building layers to a 3D features. The information is of buildings in the Boston, Massachusetts area. The shapefile and the Boston.tif file are from Mass.gov/Mass GIS. The files contain information on building polygon layers and elevation data, to help create a 3D representation of the buildings.

After working thru the lab and creating 3D representations of buildings in the Boston area, we were asked to export our work as and KMZ/KML file which you can be opened in Google Earth.

I enjoyed this week’s assignment very much. I liked being able to create 3D features and I also learned it takes lot of information to come together to be able to create a 3D features.  I have used KMZ/KML files for my job with the city.  I have only done it in 2D it has come in very handy.  In addition, I have been able to send the utilities department files showing the approximant location of the sewer manholes and hydrants, and updated city limits so they can use it in Google Earth.