GIS4930 - Surfaces - TINs & DIMs

 

Comparison of elevation contours derived from a Triangulated Irregular Network (TIN) and a Digital Elevation Model (DEM) 

In this lab we explored how terrain is modeled and visualized in ArcGIS Pro using both TINs and DEMs. We used a TIN as the ground surface in a Local Scene, applied vertical exaggeration, and draped imagery to highlight relief with scene lighting. From a DEM we derived slope and aspect, reclassified elevation/slope/aspect, and combined them into a ski-run suitability map (weights: 40% elevation, 35% slope, 25% aspect). We then compared contours from the TIN to contours from a Spline-based DEM at the same interval: DEM contours appeared smoother, while TIN contours showed more faceting along triangle edges. Overall, the exercise showed how data model choice affects downstream products and interpretation, and why unit settings (Z-factor), exaggeration, and lighting matter for clear 3D communication.