The present invention relates to the method of creating topographical models. More particularly, the present invention relates to an improved three-dimensional topographical model made of dense materials which allow a person to touch and to feel the surface he/she is investigating with their own hands. Still more particularly, the present invention relates to a topographical model of accuracy compatible to the accuracy of the three-dimensional computer-generated drawing, for the purpose of physical and visual measuring and easy understanding of the landform in any point of the model by technical and non-technical personnel.
Topographical, three-dimensional models provide a physical representation of the landform.
The models can be created using a copy of the drawings of the terrain as a reference during model construction or by using a three-dimensional modeling program on a computer to generate a model data.
Traditionally, topographical models are made from a high-density foam, plastic foam, acetate, etc. The models must be enclosed to prevent from touching. The purpose of these models is to see the features of terrain but not to touch them.
The most important disadvantages of the physical models are the inability to measure the elevational differences of the terrain in any point of the model and the lack of accuracy.
To show the elevational differences of the terrain, some of the models are created in stair-stepping style. Other models, are created by printing detailed photo-realistic images on the models carved from a high-density foam. These models can provide a physical representation of the terrain, but they are not made for easy visual measuring because of the lack of an elevation reference, and they are not compatible to the accuracy of the three-dimensional computer-generated drawing.
It is the object of the present invention to provide a three-dimensional topographical model of accuracy compatible to the accuracy of computer-generated three-dimensional drawing, which can be used for a scientific purposes.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a three-dimensional topographical model which has a smooth surface and, without being fully covered with paint or any other texture, can be easy visually understood and measurable.
It is still another object of the present invention to provide a three-dimensional topographical model made of dense materials allowing a person to touch and to feel the surface he/she is investigating with their own hands. These models can also be used as a visualization tool for blind and visually impaired persons.
These and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention are accomplished through the use of an improved three-dimensional topographical model. The model is comprised of a plurality of layers made of a combination of veneers of various colors, or a combination of plywoods and veneers or machinable dividers/layers, as required for a designated scale model. Based on the data entered or designed in a computer a three-dimensional surface is created. Based on the three-dimensional surface, a program for a C.N.C machine is generated. Based on this program, the C.N.C. machine cuts/removes the excess material from the block of multi-layered materials. The three-dimensional surface, contour lines, elevations, cross-sections, outlines, and edges are then exposed automatically and are easy to understand and visually measurable.
Objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent in the following written description.
A three-dimensional topographical model embodying features of my invention is described in the accompanying drawings which form a portion of this disclosure and wherein:
A more complete understanding of the invention may be obtained by a reference to the accompanying drawings.
The invention shows the method to create a hi-accuracy topographical scale model for the purpose of science/land development by using multi-layered/laminated or materials that are mounted one on top of another.
The invention is based on and involves the following steps:
The geometry and the data of terrain are measured, collected, and recorded by professionals;
The data is entered into a computer to prepare a contour plan as a hi-accuracy representation of terrain, shown as a series of curved lines where each line has a measured and recorded elevation, set at a fixed vertical contour interval apart, representing lines of equal elevation (
At this stage of the project, the design features of the terrain may be added, as required;
Based on this data, a three-dimensional surface is created (
A block of multi-layered/laminated materials made of a combination of veneers, or plywoods and veneers or machinable dividers/layers, laminated or mounted one on the top of another, is constructed (for example
Based on the three-dimensional surface (
Based on the program, the C.N.C. machine cuts/removes all excess material (
Because of the hi-accuracy data, carefully selected layers kept uniform to each other and color patterns or special dividers to mark the elevation height for a visual reference of the level, and by using highly advanced methods for removing of excessive material, the model becomes highly accurate, and from this point it can be used for the purpose of science.
Selected material and pattern for the scale model: plywood 3-ply thickness 0.0015 m, and veneer thickness 0.0005 m laminated as veneer on plywood on veneer on plywood on veneer (
Number | Date | Country | Kind |
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2,449,633 | Nov 2003 | CA | national |