3D Physical Map Generation Using Topographic Data
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Two-dimensional maps, particularly those used in tactical military operations, face challenges due to limited map-reading skills among local resources and reliance on outdated geographic information system (GIS) data, leading to inefficiencies and potential catastrophic failures, as they are not durable and fail to accurately depict current terrain features.
Innovation Solution
A computing device generates three-dimensional (3D) physical maps using topographic data and map area data, enabling 3D printing to produce durable, accurate, and up-to-date maps that depict terrain features, incorporating digital surface model data, digital elevation model data, and real-time imagery for improved readability and accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If two-dimensional paper maps are used for tactical operations, then map distribution is simple and quick, but readability and accuracy are insufficient for users with limited map-reading skills
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms traditional two-dimensional paper maps into three-dimensional physical maps that replicate actual terrain elevation and topography. This dimensional transformation allows users to visually perceive terrain features intuitively without requiring advanced map-reading skills, directly resolving the contradiction between readability and format complexity.
2Measurement precision
If historical GIS data is used for map creation, then data availability is high, but terrain accuracy is outdated and does not reflect current conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by collecting and processing current topographic data through aerial photography, LiDAR, or satellite imaging before map production. This advance data collection ensures terrain accuracy reflects current conditions rather than historical data, eliminating the need to choose between outdated accuracy and time-consuming updates.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical surveying methods with modern remote sensing technologies such as LiDAR and satellite imaging. This substitution dramatically reduces data collection time while significantly improving terrain measurement precision, resolving the contradiction between accuracy and time loss.
3Reliability
If traditional paper maps are used in field operations, then distribution is easy, but durability is poor and maps are not resistant to environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite materials in 3D map production, combining photorealistic surface materials with structurally sound base materials that can withstand environmental conditions. This composite approach enhances durability while maintaining the relative simplicity of physical map distribution, resolving the contradiction between reliability and production complexity.
4Measurement precision
If 3D physical maps are generated using current topographic data and additive manufacturing, then terrain accuracy and readability are improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates automated data processing and self-adjusting manufacturing parameters that reduce manual intervention in the 3D map production process. The additive manufacturing process automatically translates digital topographic data into physical terrain features, simplifying production while maintaining high terrain accuracy, thus resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and ease of manufacture.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of generating a three-dimensional physical map using different data sources includes receiving, at a computing device, topographic data, e.g., digital surface model data and/or digital elevation model data, for a geographic area and also receiving map area data, e.g., coordinates, scaling, and/or resolution data, for a subset area of the geographic area. The computing device generates map data, such as computer-readable three-dimensional (3D) printer data, based on the topographic data and the map area data, which can be used by a 3D printer or other additive manufacturing process to generate a three-dimensional physical map that depicts the topographic features of the subset area.