Contour Map 2D

About Contour Map 2D tool

This tool is used to create elevation / contour maps for the provided data. The user needs to provide data in x, y, z format, where x, y are the northern and eastern coordinates and z is the elevation. Once all points are provided the tool will use radial basis function (RBF) interpolation to create the isolines/contours and map.
In case an ags is provided, the user can select to create the one of the following or all contour maps:

  • Existing ground elevation map
  • Water level map
  • Rock level map
Create 2D and 3D isolines for any geotechnical data. Visualize and understand elevation patterns for your project. This tool works with with AGS 3.0, 4.0 or 4.1 file formats or excel file formats.

This tool creates contour maps by using the radial basis function (RBF) interpolation. The interpolation can be performed using one of the following methods:
  • Linear
  • Cubic
  • thin plate
Linear interpolation can be used when linear trends are expected among the data. The interpolation is less smooth compared to other methods and may not capture complex nonlinearities. However, this method is the most efficient in terms of computational effort.

Cubic interpolation is smoother compare to the linear and less smooth that the thin plate method. It can capture moderate nonlinearities.

Thin plate interpolation provides a very smooth interpolation while allowing for flexibility in capturing complex shapes. It is well-suited for capturing both global and local variations in the data.

The optimal choice of interpolation depends on the specific characteristics of geotechnical data and the goals of interpolation. Interpolation and extrapolation among points should always be performed with caution and results should be used with engineering judgement.

References

  1. Hardy, Rolland (March 1971). "Multiquadric equations of topography and other irregular surfaces". Journal of Geophysical Research. 76 (8): 1905–1915