3d Printed Terrain
I started this project with the idea of 3d printing a model of the mountains and valleys around my hometown of Haines, AK. I created a custom Java program to generate a model from a digital elevation file. I used the modeling and animation program Blendr to add a satellite image as a texture map, resulting in an X3D digital model.
I finally used the 3d printing service Shapeways to print out the model in full-color. This service offers a sandstone-like material that’s perfectly suited for these kinds of models.
This program was flexible enough that I was able to create topographic models for many other areas. I chose several areas that are important to me, such as Mt. Rainier, Moab, and Yosemite Valley.
About the hex shape: First, I was inspired by the game pieces from Settlers of Catan. Secondly, I felt that simple square tiles weren't very interesting. The hex pieces end up being more dynamic and interactive.
Click on a picture below for more details.
