TOPO (MAP) Machining

[twistedfuse]

Hello,

I was wondering if anyone would be able to help me out. I was curious if anyone would be willing to tell me the process of making a digital map into a cnc file to machine. I built a hobby cnc machine a year ago and am looking for something different, when i sawthe idea i really liked it. I was hoping later to tie it into my astronomy and do some maps of the moon or something. Problem is, im not sure how you would go about turning a map into a machining file. Things like where to get the maps, how to convert them, what programs, what is the output file, a contour dxf or greyscale jpeg??? Can anyone help me out with this one. I was hoping someone could put me on the right path.

If you can help me out in anyway, i would be extremely greatful. Thanks in advance,
Daniel
P.S Joe, i tried emailling you since you were on another thread but your quota is Full!!! LOL.

[slickrick]

I have seen topography maps in 3D. In fact the job I am working on has a 3D dwg for the civil drawing around the main building and central plant.

I do know that there is a pretty cool command in autocad (2007 and up) that is called loft.
It will take a 2d topo map and make it into a 3d wireframe. This is not really as automated as I make it sound, but with a lot of work, what you want could be done.

Hope this helps get you started.
Rick