3D - 2

What 3d modelling program to use, if i need to model landscapes?

Hi! Im working as a geologist, and im doing Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Screening. I need to model landscape and geology of the ground. Can i do it with microstation or autocad...or are there any specific programs for that kind of modelling?

Public Comments

1. Im qualified in Autocad however theres no programs really suitable for landscaping max's 3d is your best bet. try www.ideaspectrum.com
2. Specific software for geology related mapping would be, for example, Rockworks: http://www.rockware.com/product/overview.php?id=164 Quite expensive, but relatively inexpensive for a company. And MapInfo Professional is used extensively in geographical/geological statistical mapping, obviously. http://www.mapinfo.com/products/applications/mapping-and-analytical-applications/mapinfo-professional ArcGis is another professional option. Inexpensive options for geological mapping software include: Terrain Tools: http://www.softree.com/products/geo.htm GRASS: http://grass.itc.it/intro/general.php More general landscape modeling/rendering software: http://www.geomantics.com/ (Genesis IV) http://www.planetside.co.uk/terragen/ (Terragen, free) http://download.cnet.com/Bryce/3000-6677_4-10696716.html (Bryce 5.5, free, must register at daz website) The list goes on and on - have a look here for an exhaustive list: http://www.3dlinks.com/links.cfm?categoryid=1&subcategoryid=72&CFID=21972408&CFTOKEN=90627058 A list of geo software can be found at: http://www.geologylinks.com/Software.html A list of open source GIS software: http://opensourcegis.org/ Enjoy!