This is the natural choice for a landform specialist. Landfoam recently acquired a new Thermwood CNC router, with capacity to 64" x 96" x 9", and motion up to 2000 ipm. Over recent months we have made considerable progress in applying the new technology to landforms and other complex shapes.. The router increases the speed and accuracy with which we can produce well defined shapes, especially when .STL or .XYZ files are available (various formats are suitable). In the case of stepped models which are defined by contour lines, we can use .DXF and .DWG contour vectors to develop the toolpaths required to guide the router.
In addition, this CNC router allows us to machine a wider range of materials. Landfoam now mills all sorts of complex shapes out of materials softer than steel. Although our complex shapes have most frequently been used as "site models," CNC milling of .STL files helps them to serve an increasingly broad range of uses - from "fine art sculpture" to "masters" for lost wax casting and other methods.
Another benefit of cutting our product by computer is that we can "drape and cut" secondary information over the relief, after it is cut with a larger cutting tool. This additional detail can take the form of lines which the router engraves with a very fine cutting tool (from .010" diameter) or of broad areas which are "recessed" an appropriate dimension. Engraved lines might represent fine details such as lot lines or sidewalks, while recessed areas might represent roads.
While investigating conventional CNC methods, Landfoam has discovered the following two alternatives which show potential for shapes which are better suited to digital definition than normal landforms. Furthermore, thin-layer "three-dimensional printing" offers the option of printing color simultaneously with shape. Single color lamination machines are currently being produced under license to Landfoam's first patent. 3D Systems, Inc, is currently marketing a 3D printing machine using this technology. Please explore http://www.3dsystems.com/products/multijet/invisionLD/index.asp