Sunday, December 1, 2013

Data Collection Results

ArcMap was used to interpolate the surrounding elevations using complex algorithms to estimate values not physically recorded. The two methods of interpolation used were Kriging and Spline. Kriging uses a weighted algorithm dependent upon the distance between two points and their elevation values (Figure 3). Spline interpolation uses an algorithm that minimizes surface curvature and creates a model that passes exactly through each of the input values (ESRI) (Figure 4). Both interpolation methods provide a smooth and continuous representation of the area within each input point
Figure 3: A Kriging interpolation algorithm was used to estimate the elevation values between each recorded input. Kriging uses a weighted distance function to determine how output values are dependent upon the distance of multiple input values.

Figure 4: Spline interpolation estimates output values by altering the shape of a plane to pass exactly through each of the input points.


After interpolating the surrounding elevation values, the surface models were imported into ArcScene to be spatially examined in three dimensions. Both raster images were added to the program and processed to float on a custom surface as described in the previous post. This created a three dimensional model of the Thiaumont study area (Figures 5-6). 
Figure 5: Kriging interpolation of Thiaumont ridge rendered in 3D. 
Figure 6: Spline interpolation rendered in 3D. This method has a more pronounced representation of the surface because the model passes directly through each input value. 

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