Lanzhou invents first 3D topographic map in China

A mapping information center in Lanzhou Military Region, in Northwest China’s Gansu province, recently invented the first 3D topographic map in China – the Lanzhou downtown 3D topographic map, Lanzhou Evening News reported on Feb 24.

A scientific research group led by Wang Mingxiao, director of the mapping information center, adopted advanced 3D printing technology concerning topographic maps, and took more than one year to achieve its goals.

A commander in the military region said that the 3D map can provide an accurate and reliable basis for military terrain analysis, commanding and decision-making, and for the forces to carry out tasks.

The new technology was approved by an expert committee of the military region headquarters, and praised by Wang Jiayao, who is an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering.

The research group also received an award in military science and technological innovation in 2012.

Edited by Niva Whyman