Bringing Deltas to Life: 3D-Printed LiDAR Models to Enhance Geospatial Thinking in Geoscience Education
Citation
Singell, C., Doran, A., and McKay, M., 2025, Bringing Deltas to Life: 3D-Printed LiDAR Models to Enhance Geospatial Thinking in Geoscience Education: poster presentation, Geological Society of America Abstracts with Program, Vol. 57, No. 6, 2025, doi: 10.1130/abs/2025AM-10630. [Link]
Singell, Constance1, Doran, Angel2, McKay, Matthew3
(1) Missouri State University, Springfield, MO, USA, (2) Missouri State University, Springfield, MO, USA, (3) Missouri State University, Springfield, MO, USA
Abstract
Geospatial thinking and problem-solving skills are critical for geoscience education. We present a workflow to transform LiDAR elevation data into colorized 3D models that can be 3D printed on consumer-grade printers. Our workflow requires free software (QGIS, Blender, Bambu Studio) to develop and colorize models and access to fused depositional model (FDM) 3D printing capabilities.
To demonstrate this workflow, we employ topobathymetric data from the Mississippi River, Danube River, and Brahmaputra River deltas. The resulting models allow students the hands-on opportunity to explore the differences between river-, wave- and tidal-dominated deltas.
Our demonstration will include physical models and a live-stream of a 3D topographic model printing remotely during the poster session.
Poster
Instruction Manual
Timelapse of Bay of Bengal Print
Last Updated on 24 December 2025 by Angel Doran