Topo Graph

Project Overview

For this project, I was tasked with creating 3D models and toposurfaces for a 4.33-acre residential land site in Reidsville, NC. Using Revit, SketchUp, and Fusion 360, I developed a detailed representation of the terrain based on survey data from a CADD file and a provided topo map. The goal was to generate accurate site models with proper topographical features and material applications.

Tools & Software

• Revit: Used to import the CADD file, create toposurfaces, apply materials, and render multiple perspectives.

• SketchUp: Utilized to generate a topographic model from a PDF topo map, employing the Sandbox extension for contouring.

• Fusion 360: Explored for the possibility of creating an alternative terrain model from the available data.

Process & Methodology

1. Revit (Toposurface Creation)

• Imported the CADD survey file into Revit.

• Created toposurfaces representing land elevation and water features such as a creek.

• Applied relevant materials to differentiate land and water.

• Generated rendered images from NE, SE, NW, and SW perspectives for visualization.

2. SketchUp (Topo Map Modeling)

• Imported the PDF topo map into SketchUp.

• Defined property lines and contour elevations.

• Used the Sandbox extension to create a realistic toposurface.

• Exported 2 to 4 isometric views for documentation.

Challenges & Solutions

• Data Import Issues: The CADD file had minor inconsistencies in elevation data. Adjustments were made in Revit to ensure accurate toposurface generation.

• SketchUp Contour Accuracy: The manual creation of contour lines required careful alignment with the PDF map. The Sandbox extension helped refine the model.

• Fusion 360 Limitations: Since Fusion 360 is not primarily designed for terrain modeling, alternative workflows were explored but deemed less efficient than Revit and SketchUp.

Final Deliverables

• 3D terrain model of the site in Revit

• 3D terrain model of the site in SketchUp

• Rendered views from NE, SE, NW, and SW perspectives in Revit

• Isometric views exported from SketchUp

• Exploratory findings on using Fusion 360 for topographical modeling

  Conclusion

This project allowed me to deepen my expertise in terrain modeling using Revit and SketchUp while evaluating the feasibility of Fusion 360 for similar tasks. Through precise modeling techniques and rendering, I was able to create an accurate digital representation of the site, aiding in architectural planning and land analysis.

Skills Demonstrated:

• Site modeling and terrain analysis

• Software proficiency in Revit, SketchUp, and Fusion 360

• Data interpretation and CADD integration