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3D Physical
Models from GIS and Engineering Data
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Spatial
Resources employs rapid prototyping technology developed by Z Corp. utilizing 3D printer technology to create full color models
directly from digital data. The printer accepts data from CAD or GIS systems to produce fast, accurate, attractive and affordable
full color, 3D physical scale models.
Professionals
in fields such as architecture, civil engineering, construction, environment, facility and plant
design, mining, petroleum, pipelines, real estate development, transportation, and utilities have discovered
that from concept development through project completion - visualizing, learning, and communicating in 3D provides tremendous
benefits. The use of physical models to explore concepts and communicate their vision to clients and stakeholders has become
an invaluable tool. Many have found hand-made model-making techniques to be constraining for two reasons: the time required
to make the model is too lengthy, and the process required to extract the necessary data from the computer file for the model
makers takes valuable time away from the design team. Z Corp.'s rapid prototyping technology is the perfect answer that
did not exist before.
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 GIS is an excellent application for 3D color printing since it is used to communicate information and
help an organization make better decisions. Accurate communication of GIS is a critical part of the decision-making process.
A 3D physical model of a GIS map communicates much more information than a flat screen image or paper printout. The physical
models allow people to communicate clearly and reach consensus on an idea more efficiently. 3D models are ideal for: Internal
Communication, Education, Visualization of virtual solutions, Mission planning for homeland security, Terrain visualization
and analysis, Battlefield simulation, Watershed visualization and analysis, Oil and gas field visualization, Base realignment
and closure, Hydrologic visualization.
In a recent application, a firm was working on a full redesign of
a hospital and its surrounding buildings. Accurate 3D models of the design concepts were necessary in order to communicate
the plans for the project and win the business. Traditionally, the firm created models using large format printed 2D images
pasted onto cut and raised foam board to communicate the topographical surface. The models were extremely time consuming to
produce. In this case, the schedule was too tight to allow for the traditional modeling process.
The firm contracted use of the Z Corp. 3D Printer,
capable of creating full color models directly from digital data. The printer accepts data from CAD, representing the buildings,
and GIS data, representing topographical images. They had contracted to have several models of the proposed plans produced.
The firm was able to combine the CAD and GIS data, and produce several color 3D models of the project in 48 hours. They were
able to present complex build proposals to the client, and provide a 3D model of each design. These models were used as a
tool to better explain the scope and concept of the project as well as being a great "leave
behind" marketing tool. The models played an integral role in receiving a significant amount
of work on the project. 3D modeling services and 3D Printing technology allowed multiple full-color models to be presented
to the client at the proposal stage - without any internal resources, significant delays, or large costs. It capitalized on
internal 2D drawing, 3D modeling, GIS, and animation content to create a very accurate and fully colored model in days not
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For more information about rapid-prototype models, contact Spatial Resources: |
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Spatial Resources, LLC, PO Box 3623, Centennial, CO 80161; Phone: 720-934-2482; Fax: 303-721-9042
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