Custom Raised Relief Maps

Summit’s core business is designing and producing custom 3D raised-relief thermoformed maps. Our team will work with you to create a stunning 3D custom map of pretty much any location, area, or region, at any scale and vertical relief, within the constraints of our production equipment.

Since 2008, Summit has worked with a variety of customers to produce custom 3D maps for many different applications, including park trail maps, wine/vineyard topographic maps, military installation/planning maps, private property/ranch maps, watershed management maps, seafloor bathymetric charts, and ski area maps. We can apply our proven skills to help you with your new raised-relief map requirement.

Although the initial design/tooling cost for a new map is significant, the recurring map production cost is low. Typically, the design-tooling task requires an investment of $5000 - $13000 for a new 3D map. The cost is largely driven by the size and graphics complexity, and the construction of the thermoform mold. Once thermoform tooling and graphics design is complete, per-map production costs are normally in the range of $30 to $200. And we can optionally mount and frame the maps.

Size Options, Popular Sizes, & Constraints

Summit’s production process allows maps with a 3D size of up to 50” x 35”. Popular sizes include: 20” x 13”, 30” x 20”, 40” x 28” and 50” x 35”. We can work with a wide range of scales within a given format. For example, using a 30” x 20” size format, the scale can be reduced to show an entire state, region or country. Or the scale can be increased to zoom into a particular property or small area of interest. If a size larger than 50” x 35” is needed, Summit can produce the map in separate panels that fit together for display.

Vertical Relief & Exaggeration

Depending on the scale and topography, 3D raised-relief maps normally have some degree of vertical exaggeration to better show the terrain relief. Summit can work with the customer to adjust the vertical exaggeration to the optimum value, providing easy interpretation of the terrain shape.

Graphic Design Options

Summit can take your existing 2D map and convert it to the 3D format (assuming it has an acceptable scale and size). Or, we can create the map graphics from scratch with your input for guidance. If we design the map, you can choose from a variety of approaches and styles:

Satellite/Aerial Imagery: High resolution color aerial imagery is available for much of the US and world. This often makes for a striking base layer for a custom 3D map, particularly when combined with vector graphic overlays showing roads, borders, geo features, and points of interest.

Illustrated Maps with Elevation Color Ramp: Beautiful illustrated maps can be created using elevation color ramps, which nicely complement the 3D shape. Summit can work with you to optimize the color scheme for your application. Custom vector graphics can then be layered on top showing roads, borders, towns, and point/geo features.

Topographic Line Contour Maps: Summit can also design maps using traditional topo contour lines (lines of equal elevation). This approach allows quick reference to determine precise elevation. Often, topo lines are combined with aerial imagery or illustrated map graphics.

Custom Graphic Overlays: Your custom geo data can be incorporated into the design as needed. We can accept geo data in most common GIS formats.

Mounting and Framing Options

We can deliver your custom 3D maps unmounted/unframed (think of a 3D poster) or mounted and framed, ready for wall display or tabletop use. Optionally, we can back the map with fiberglass/foam to provide rigidity to the surface and coat the map for use with dry erase markers.