Geography has always been a fascinating subject, but it wasn’t until 3D mapping came along that it truly came to life. While the flat, 2D maps have served us well, they don’t give you the full picture. But 3D mapping has helped us step into a whole new world where mountains rise, valleys dip and landscapes are no longer just lines on paper.
3D mapping is rapidly changing how we see our world, with new software and applications constantly pushing the boundaries of our imagination. At Origin Maps, we continue to rely on this marvel of technology to produce intricately designed 3D wooden maps.
In this post, we are going to talk about the magic of 3D maps, showing how they help us understand geography better and carve beautiful memories into wood.
Let’s get cracking!
What Is 3D Mapping?
3D mapping is the process of creating three-dimensional views of your surroundings. When it comes to geography, 3D mapping provides a detailed and realistic view of the Earth's surface. Unlike traditional 2D maps that are flat, 3D maps include elevation data, allowing you to see mountains, valleys, rivers, lakes, roads, and buildings in minute detail.
Let’s say you were exploring the Outback. While a regular 2D map might show you where Alice Springs is, a 3D map would reveal its ridges, valleys, and even the exact rise of Uluru. These extra details can help everyone, including students, researchers, and everyday explorers like you, understand how landscapes are shaped and why certain areas are so unique.
How Does 3D Mapping Works
3D mapping is an umbrella term for different technologies, such as LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), satellite imagery, and drones, which help you collect data. This data helps create a precise Digital Elevation Model (DEM), which, in turn, is processed to generate a 3D model.
3D mapping has many uses, including urban planning, environmental monitoring, disaster planning, geographical research, agriculture, and virtual reality. For example, a geospatial mapping project is helping the Mornington Wildlife Sanctuary map its post-flooding restoration. The project will help wildlife experts understand how the flood occurred and how such unexpected disasters can be prevented in future.
We use 3D mapping to turn digital maps into a piece of art. All our 3D wooden maps offer stunning details, including the landmarks you like. Let’s understand how 3D mapping helps us do that.
How Are 3D Wooden Maps Made
At Origin Maps, we turn a digital 3D map into a 3D wooden model, a precise process that blends art and science. Here’s how the process goes:
Data Collection
It all starts with geographical data obtained with the help of 3D mapping software. We use highly accurate data from different sources. For example, data collected from NASA and other satellites is perfect for large-scale maps like your home country or state. However, local government maps are best for higher-resolution maps like your neighbourhood or farm.
We use this geographical data based on your request. You don’t have to give us all the details, since most of the data is already mapped. We only need to know what you want to include in your map, like a particular location or a building.
Digital Model Creation
Once this geographical data is collected, we process it to create a digital model of your terrain. This is when we focus on finer details, such as locations you want to include (or exclude), rivers, valleys, mountains, buildings, streets, and other landmarks. We adjust the data based on your insight to create a custom map that renders everything just the way you want.
Wooden Map Creation
After the map is ready, we use a laser to carve these details into a piece of wood. This model shows every bump, dip, and rise in the landscape. We source the wood sustainably and often use local hardwoods like Tasmanian Oak or Jarrah for their durability and beautiful grain. Depending on your needs, the laser-cut map will be sanded, painted, and varnished.
Finishing Touches
Before the wooden map is ready to be shipped, we add a few final touches. We can provide you with a frame, protective glass, or mounting hardware based on your needs. We also add labels and markers as specified in your order. The map is then carefully packed and shipped to your address.
Why Wooden 3D Maps Stand Out
You might be wondering, why a 3D wooden map?
While digital 3D maps are readily available, there’s something special about a wooden map. For one, it’s a tangible piece of work. You can run your fingers over the contours of the land, making the geography feel more real as if you’re touching the Earth itself.
Secondly, a 3D wooden map can last long, possibly for generations. You could pass it down as a family heirloom one day. We also design custom 3D wooden maps, which can represent pretty much anything you want.
For instance, you can choose a special place like the part or restaurant where you first proposed, your hometown or property where you grew up, or your first school. The design and details of your map are limited only by your imagination.
Design Your Custom 3D Wooden Map!
3D maps have indeed brought geography to life. They provide a level of detail that their 2D counterparts simply cannot match. That’s why 3D maps are invaluable in education, research, exploration, and art, which is where 3D wooden maps come in. Designed with the help of advanced 3D mapping and laser technology, these maps are a unique way to connect with your homeland or any other special place.
If you want to gift or own a beautiful 3D wooden map of your favourite place, look no further than Origin Maps. We have crafted over 500 maps for clients across Australia, the USA, Canada, New Zealand, the UK, and the EU. You can check out our gallery or contact us to order a custom map.