Aesthetic 3D-Index

By means of a volumetric GIS we can even quantitatively characterise the structure of landscape units regarding the 3rd dimension. The quotient of the planimetric surface area and the real surface area is a measure to describe the roughness of a landscape. It is vital to use DEM data, that considers all landscape elements with a z-value (like the modified surface models above). The 3D index represents the structure of a landscape corresponding to the graphical illustration of it.

We finally state that areas, which are well structured have a lower index (< 0,95) than poorly structured landscapes (0.95 and higher). The 3D index changes with the increment of forests and buildings. Many isolated forests with a high edge effect depress the index, extended compact forest areas increase the index.

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PF = Planimetric Area
GF = Surface Area
GV = Relief Volume
3D-Index = PF/GF


Abb. 5.33: Relief im Norden des Untersuchungsgebietes.
PF = 2031 ha, GF = 2117 ha, GV = 1,96 km3,
3D-index = 0,96

Abb. 5.34: Relief im Süden des Untersuchungsgebiet.
PF = 2348 ha, GF = 2533 ha, GV = 1,61 km3,
3D-Index = 0,93

 
Abb. 5.35: Relief von strukturarmen Flächen.
PF = 664 ha, GF = 675 ha, GV = 0,24 km3,
3D-Index = 0,98

Abb. 5.36: Relief von strukturreichen Flächen.
PF = 1748 ha, GF = 1950 ha, GV = 1,60 km3,
3D-Index = 0,90