While much of Envision's work is essentially 3D, mapping nevertheless plays an important part in our range of services, usually complementing 3D work

Click on any of the images on the left to see a larger version and a description.

understanding topography

One of the traditional uses of maps is simply as an aid to understanding the shape and content of the world around us. Some of Envision's mapping output continues that tradition, using a number of techniques. We often use simulated lighting of the land surface (hill shading) or graduated colours to represent altitude (hypsometric tints). Sometimes we add these features to published digital mapping such as that supplied by Ordnance Survey.

The purpose of mapping of this type it to enable our clients to understand and explain to others the topographic context for their schemes, perhaps as an aid to site selection or to finding a route through an area.

thematic mapping

Envision has considerable experience with GIS (Geographical Information Systems) and increasingly uses the analytical facilities of GIS to help clients analyse enviromental and other constraints and the interactions between them as part of a site selection or routeing process.

visibility

Visibility is often an important consideration in environmental assessment. Envision had developed its own visibility analysis software to carry out a number of types of analysis. Straightforward tests of visibility can be carried out and can optionally include the effect of intervening land use features such as forestry. Visibility and cutoff radii can be applied to limit the extent of analyses. In addition to simple visibility, analyses can be carried out showing where objects will be seen backclothed or against the sky. The presence of areas of dead ground and its depth can also be determined relative to any viewpoint or group of viewpoints.

Cumulative visibility mapping is also increasingly a requirement, particularly with reference to wind energy developments. Envision has developed a variety of techniques to show the combined visibility of two or more developments.