Types of 3-D Data

There are a number of ways in which 3 D data can be collected and held so that it can be use with a computer environment. Below are some examples of different types of 3D data

Figure 1 Digital Terrain Model

A digital grid of data with each cell of the grid holding a number, that number being equal to the height of the ground above sea level.

Figure 2 Digital Surface Model

A digital grid of data with each cell of the grid holding a number, that number being equal to the height of the surface of features on the ground above sea level, e.g. buildings, trees, bridges, cars etc.

Figure 3 Contour Model

A digital series of lines, with each line representing an equal height on the ground above sea level.

Figure 4 3D Block Model

A block model rendered inside a 3D visualisation programme to display buildings and features in 3D.

Figure 5 3D Visualisation model

A more advanced 3D model, with textures added for building sides and aerial photo extracts for ground features.