Page Comparison

Material options

(image)	METHOD	MATERIAL	COST ($/sf)	TIME: file prep	TIME: fab	TIME: assembly	TIME: total	GREEN QUOTIENT
	Horizontal laser-cut topo (offset method)	4ply museum board	$9.51	6	2.5	10	18.5
	Horizontal laser-cut topo (offset method)	2ply museum board	$4.97	6	2.5	15?	23.5
	Horizontal laser-cut topo (offset method)	crescent board	$9.51	6	2.5	10	18.5

File preparation

1. Generate topography lines at a vertical distance that matches the thickness of your modeling material.
   1. Create pockets for buildings.
      Image RemovedIf your base file contains contours at a different resolution, use the RhinoTerrain plugin (available in the Software folder on Goliath) to make a 3D mesh from the given contours.
      
      Image Added
      
      
   2. Use the Contour command to create appropriately spaced contour lines from the new 3D mesh.
      
      
2. Draw pieces for the sides of the model.
    
   Image Removed
   Image Added
   
   
3. Split the contours into two rhino layers, A and B (alternating every other level). Make a copy of all the contours next to the originals.
   1. In the first group, move layer A into your CUT layer and B into your ETCH layer. 
   2. In the second group, move layer A into your ETCH layer and B into your CUT layer.
      
      
      
      
4. Add any etching/hatching for roads, etc. to both groups.
   
   

Making the model

1. Laser cut the two sets of contours and side pieces.
2. To assemble the model, you'll glue up the pieces alternating between one set and the other.

Related articles