A Semi-Automatic Approach in GIS for 3D Modeling and Visualization of Utility Networks: Application for Sewer & Stormwater networks

¹ Dep. of Topographic Eng., Faculty of Civil Engineering, Tishreen University, Lattakia, Syria.
² Dep. of Topographical Eng., Faculty of Civil Engineering, AlBaath University, Homs, Syria.
³ Civil Engineering and Geo-Environment Laboratory (LGCgE), Lille University, France.

^* Corresponding author : fadi.chaaban@tishreen.edu.sy

Abstract

This paper presents a semi-automatic methodology proposed for 3D modeling of utility networks in GIS environment. The ModelBuilder in ArcGIS (ESRI) software is used for implementing this methodology, by developing two tools to automate the construction processes of 3D networks. The first presents a tool to create a 3D Manhole layer from points layer, and the second is a tool to create a 3D pipe layer. For both tools, a work algorithm has been built, in addition to designing user interfaces elements. These tools are stored in a Toolbox called “3D Manhole & Pipe.tbx”. The two previous tools were tested and applied to spatial data for a proposed residential area. The final 3D model of the residential area includes the sewage and stormwater networks, as well as other spatial data such as buildings, parks, roads, etc. This model is able to spot the intersection points in the network, visually or using the 3D analysis available in the software, allowing us to identify problems to be processed and resolved before starting a project, leading consequently to time and cost savings, effort and money. The proposed methodology is an easy and an effective way to build 3D network models (sewer, water..etc), and the developed tools allow the implementation of a set of necessary processes needed to build 3D networks.