Zmapping make 250 km² photogrammetric model of Leeds, York 
and Nottingham
London, 04 May 2004

Zmapping has produced one of the largest photogrammetric models in the world. It covers a total of 265 km² of Leeds, York and Nottingham. 

The work was carried out for Blue Sky International – Getmapping’s master offline reseller – and is being used by the University of Leeds for noise and pollution modelling studies. 

With this model the University can carry out studies that would otherwise be impossible. This type testing has no impact whatsoever on the current environment, so scientists are free to simulate a range of high-risk scenarios. Furthermore, it is possible to carry out tests that encompass huge geographical spaces. 

Read more about photogrammetry (includes images from the project).

Integrated digital 3D models pave the way for planning success
London, 30 April 2004

Visualisation of proposed developments is traditionally done by a mix of physical modelmaking and artists’ images. Now Zmapping Ltd have realised that using photogrammetric technology is the best way to integrate the present with the future.

Photogrammetry – the method of deriving maps, including height information, from aerial photographs – has till now been predominantly used only for large scale mapping, such as the OS Landline Maps, and in the mining industry. Gradually, the construction industry is waking up to the advantages this technology can bring them.

London-based Zmapping Ltd is pioneering its use in planning and architecture processes. This specialist company produces 3D models of the existing built environment, made to terrain and exact geographic co-ordinates. The models are ready for integration with proposed buildings and developments.

“Planning laws place an obligation on clients, architects and planners to ensure that proposed buildings and developments fit into the existing environment,” says Gerd Opheim, director of Zmapping.

“Integrating 3D models of proposed developments with replicas of the existing surroundings will become the new standard for architectural and planning projects and public consultation,” she continues.

“It gives the client more control. Once the existing built environment has been modelled, you are free to remove buildings and add new ones. You can chop and change anything and as many times as you want. This means you can see for yourself what impact your building is going to have on the local environment – before it’s built.

As photogrammetry generates accurate dimensions, there is no guesswork or estimates involved, the way it may be with orthodox model making. 

“To give you a hands-on example,” continues Opheim, “on the roof of the National Gallery here in London there is an air vent measuring 1.9 x 1.75 metres at 529905.95 easting and 180557.95 northing. It is at 28.95 metres above sea level. This air vent is visible on Zmapping’s 3D model with exactly the same dimensional and positional information.”

With this type of model, architects are free to carry out strategic views studies and other visual impact assessments directly from the comfort of their own seat. Being interactive, views can be taken from any height and angle.

Scientists are also finding use for digital 3D models.

Zmapping recently completed a model for the University of Leeds, which is being used for environmental research. It covers more than 250 km² of Leeds, York and Nottingham. The model is one of the largest in the world.

Opheim believes the general public will benefit from the use of interactive models in public consultation. She predicts that architects and planners will in future be expected to release visual information over the internet. 

“Someone who can ‘fly’ or ‘walk’ through a proposed site will get a much more realistic impression of what it will look and feel like, than if they look at a pretty picture or a physical model,” she says.

Digital 3D models are used in places as diverse as Pool in Cornwall, Swindon, Bristol, Helsinki and New York. But they are not just for the large cities. 

“Anywhere there is some sort of planning activity they can be used; from a small site to an entire city, anywhere in the world – it makes no difference,” she adds.
The key strength, however, lies in its versatility. 

“Once you have a digital 3D model, what you can do with it is pretty much limited by your own imagination.

END