3D Topographic State Relief for CNC Machining

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$30-250 USD

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# CNC-Ready 3D Topographic State Models With Matching Puzzle Borders ## Project Overview I am developing a CNC-machined topographic map of the United States. Each state will be machined as an individual solid piece, and neighboring states must fit together accurately like puzzle pieces. For the initial project, I want to create and test **Maine and New Hampshire**. If the two parts are successful and physically fit together correctly after machining, I intend to rehire the same freelancer to complete the remaining New England states and potentially all 50 states. I already have topographic STL files for the states, but they are only reference material. The freelancer may use, modify, simplify, or completely replace them using GIS elevation data, DEM data, point clouds, CAD surfacing, or another suitable workflow. The final result matters more than the method. ## Initial Scope Create CNC-ready solid models for: * Maine * New Hampshire These two states must share one identical, compatible border and fit together correctly as separate machined parts. ## Primary Requirements ### 1. Matching Puzzle-Style Border The shared Maine–New Hampshire border must be created from the same master geometry. The two state models must fit together accurately, without: * gaps * overlapping geometry * mismatched curves * independently edited borders * one state being created by simply offsetting or approximating the other Any modification to the shared border must be reflected identically in both states. The border should preserve the recognizable shape of each state as much as reasonably possible while remaining machinable. ### 2. Minimum Internal and External Radius All state-boundary geometry must be suitable for machining with an end mill. The current target is: **Minimum radius: 0.0625 inch** This applies to both: * internal or concave corners * external or convex points and protrusions Sharp points, narrow inlets, tiny coastline features, and other details smaller than the machining limit must be simplified, rounded, or adjusted. It is not enough to fillet only the inside corners. External points must also be rounded or modified so the mating state can contain the corresponding internal radius. The freelancer should understand cutter-radius compensation and why two independently filleted state outlines may no longer fit together. ### 3. Solid CAD Models Each state must be delivered as a clean, watertight solid body suitable for CAM programming. Preferred deliverable: * STEP Additional native CAD files are welcome, including: * SolidWorks * Parasolid * Rhino * Fusion 360 * Inventor * another appropriate format A triangulated STL converted directly into thousands of separate STEP faces is not an acceptable final result. ### 4. Manageable Geometry and File Size The supplied STL files contain large numbers of triangular faces. Previous conversion attempts produced STEP files larger than 300 MB and caused Mastercam and the computer to crash. The finished models must have a practical balance between terrain detail and file complexity. I want enough topographic definition to clearly see the major mountain ranges and terrain, but I do not need every original mesh triangle preserved. The freelancer may use: * mesh reduction * remeshing * surface fitting * TIN simplification * NURBS surface reconstruction * DEM resampling * another appropriate method The finished geometry must be reasonably responsive and usable in Mastercam. ### 5. Exaggerated Topography The terrain must have intentionally exaggerated Z-axis elevation so mountains and terrain remain visually distinct after machining. The original models were created using TouchTerrain with substantial Z exaggeration. I tested several exaggeration levels, including approximately: * 10× * 20× * 50× * 100× The final exaggeration level can be selected based on appearance and machinability, but the terrain cannot appear nearly flat. The freelancer should be able to preserve or recreate the terrain while controlling the model complexity. ### 6. Clean Sidewalls and Base Each state should be a solid object with: * a topographic upper surface * a consistent base thickness * clean perimeter sidewalls * no holes or non-manifold geometry * no inverted surfaces * no disconnected bodies Ideally, the perimeter sidewall should be clean and continuous enough to select efficiently for contour machining in Mastercam. I understand that the top terrain may still contain multiple CAD faces. However, it should not contain an unreasonable number of tiny triangular faces. ### 7. Relative Scaling Maine and New Hampshire must be scaled correctly relative to one another. The final overall map will be produced in multiple physical sizes, so absolute size is less important than maintaining one consistent scale across all states. The initial models should be supplied in imperial units. I can provide: * existing STL models * multiple Z-exaggeration versions * a state-width scaling chart * screenshots and reference examples The freelancer may also create the models from other reliable geographic or elevation datasets. ## Deliverables For the initial Maine and New Hampshire test: 1. Maine solid model in STEP format 2. New Hampshire solid model in STEP format 3. Native CAD or source files, when available 4. An assembled CAD view showing the two states fitted together 5. A screenshot or section view demonstrating that the shared border matches 6. Confirmation of the minimum 0.0625-inch border radius 7. Confirmation that the files open and function as solids rather than imported mesh bodies 8. Basic information about model face count and file size 9. A short description of the workflow used ## Acceptance Criteria The project will be accepted when: * both files open successfully in Mastercam * both states are recognized as usable solid bodies * the file sizes and surface complexity are manageable * the terrain has clearly visible elevation exaggeration * the state outlines remain recognizable * the shared Maine–New Hampshire border is identical * the minimum internal and external radius requirement is satisfied * the two models fit together without gaps or interference * the sidewalls and bases are clean and machinable Physical machining and test fitting may be used as final validation. ## Future Work If the Maine and New Hampshire models are successful, the next project will likely include the remaining New England states: * Vermont * Massachusetts * Connecticut * Rhode Island After New England, the project may continue region by region until all 50 states are complete. The selected freelancer should therefore use a repeatable workflow that can be applied consistently to the entire country. ## Freelancer Qualifications The ideal freelancer has experience with some combination of: * CNC manufacturing * CAD solid modeling * GIS or DEM elevation data * terrain modeling * mesh reduction * reverse engineering * NURBS surface reconstruction * Mastercam-compatible geometry * cutter-radius and manufacturability constraints General 3D-printing STL experience alone is probably not enough. ## Questions to Answer With Your Bid Please answer the following: 1. What software and workflow would you use? 2. Would you use the supplied STL files, rebuild the states from DEM/GIS data, or use another method? 3. How would you ensure the Maine–New Hampshire border is based on identical master geometry? 4. How would you create both minimum internal and external radii without preventing the states from fitting? 5. How would you reduce the number of triangular faces while preserving useful terrain detail? 6. Can you deliver true solid STEP files rather than direct mesh-to-STEP conversions? 7. Do you have examples of terrain, GIS, mesh-reduction, reverse-engineering, or CNC-related projects? 8. What file size and approximate geometry complexity would you expect for each state? 9. What is your proposed price and timeline for the Maine and New Hampshire test? 10. Are you interested in completing the remaining states if the initial test is successful? Please do not submit a generic response. Briefly explain the actual technical approach you would use.

Project ID: 40628530

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73 freelancers are bidding on average $133 USD for this job

@androaiad

Hello, I am a design engineer. I am expert in different products and 3D Modeling & designs so i can do the required design in the required time. I have done similar designs before and finished 600+ projects. Please check my portfolio and reviews. Thanks.

$400 USD in 5 days

4.9

(459 reviews)

8.5

@azraazeen9

As a seasoned CAD designer with a specialization in 3D modeling, I believe I am the perfect fit for this unique project. Having worked extensively in AutoCAD, Fusion 360, and SolidWorks, I have honed my skills to meet meticulous requirements such as those mentioned in this project. Having collected years of expertise from designing housing to 3D printing, my abilities align perfectly with your need for altered topography design. Additionally, I am well-versed with cutter-radius compensation techniques and understand the potential challenges an unsatisfactory filleting can present—I assure you gaps and mismatched curves will be skillfully avoided while preserving the recognizable shape of each state. Lastly—to put emphasize on why I would be a valuable asset—I find great joy in executing new and innovative projects like this one; not only does it challenge me intellectually but it also enriches my repertoire as a professional. My appreciation for visualization coupled with a firm understanding of machining will guarantee that even after manufacturing, your CNC-machined topographic maps remain visually distinct and detailed - reflecting their exaggerated 3D nature.

$120 USD in 2 days

4.9

(340 reviews)

7.9

@Garisson1981

Hi! I would be happy to take part in your project. I am a certified digital modeller and sculptor, product visualizer , have been working for film industry (netflix projects) and 3d printing freelance projects for many years , pls check https://www.freelancer.com/u/Garisson1981

$220 USD in 7 days

5.0

(107 reviews)

7.5

@faisal8071

Hi there, We understand you are looking for highly accurate, CNC-ready 3D topographic solid models for Maine and New Hampshire, designed to interlock precisely like puzzle pieces. This project aligns well with TRYGVE Studio's expertise in product development and CAD modeling, where we focus on creating precise and manufacturable designs. Our approach would involve using industry-standard CAD software to meticulously reconstruct the state geometries, ensuring the shared border is derived from a single master profile to guarantee a perfect fit. We would carefully manage the topographic detail to strike a balance between visual impact and file manageability, using techniques like surface fitting or NURBS surface reconstruction. We can integrate the necessary minimum radius requirements directly into the border geometry, ensuring machinability while preserving the overall state shape. We are committed to delivering clean, watertight solid STEP files that are suitable for CAM programming and are eager to discuss how our repeatable workflow can be applied to the remaining states if this initial test is successful. We invite you to message us to discuss the precise scope and timeline further before finalizing the pricing. https://www.freelancer.in/u/faisal8071 Regards, Ar. Faisal Saif

$200 USD in 4 days

4.8

(97 reviews)

6.8

@sahildogra222

Hey, You are looking for 3D Topographic State Relief for CNC Machining "Lets Gets Started, I know you have several tempting proposals here, but I guarantee you to be impressed by my work. I have various skills in design, Illustration, Photoshop, Graphic Design, Logo Design and Illustrator. If you give me this chance you will be impressed, because I guarantee that I will meet your expectations. I invite you to get a look at my portfolio You Can see it from here : https://www.freelancer.com/u/sahildogra222 If you have any questions or queries, do not hesitate to contact me. I hope to start working with you. With regards! SAHIL

$30 USD in 1 day

4.8

(92 reviews)

6.6

@CreativeDesign50

Hello, I can build Maine and New Hampshire as CNC-ready solid terrain models with an identical shared border geometry, clean sidewalls, and controlled 0.0625" minimum radii for machining. My workflow would combine GIS/DEM terrain data with CAD surfacing and topology cleanup, then I’d rebuild the border from one master outline so both states match exactly and remain puzzle-fit compatible. I’d simplify the terrain intelligently to reduce face count while keeping the major relief visible, then export watertight solid STEP files suitable for Mastercam. I can also provide native source files and an assembled view showing the fit, plus a short workflow summary and file complexity notes. Please have a look at our Freelancer portfolio through the links given below. https://www.freelancer.com/u/CreativeDesign50 Would you like me to base the first test on your supplied STL references, or rebuild the states from DEM/GIS data for a cleaner CAD result? Best regards Kirandeep K.

$30 USD in 1 day

4.8

(93 reviews)

6.4

@awaisshehaz

As an experienced CAD modeling and 3D animation specialist, I bring a unique set of skills that align perfectly with your project requirements. From the outset, my focus has always been on delivering precise and clean geometric designs well optimized for manufacturing. My expertise ensures that the designs are manageable and remain reasonably sized without compromising on essential details. This proficiency will prove vital in handling the large number of triangular faces present in your original STL files.

$120 USD in 2 days

4.9

(98 reviews)

6.4

@whitevulture

Hello I specialize in manufacturable CAD modeling and can rebuild your terrain into lightweight, watertight solid models with identical mating borders, controlled Z-exaggeration, and clean sidewalls for CNC machining. I'll deliver native CAD, STEP files, assembly verification, and a scalable workflow suitable for the entire U.S. map project. I have experience of 10+ years in 2D designing and 3d designing/modeling/texturing/rendering/rigging/animation to provide you best results. I am specialized in software like -3ds Max-Maya-Zbrush-Blender-Keyshot-Solidworks-Vray-Lumion-SketchUp-AutoCAD You can also have a look at my work https://www.freelancer.com/u/whitevulture Looking forward to working with you.

$250 USD in 5 days

4.9

(66 reviews)

6.4

@sakshis576

With an extensive background in 3D CAD, Design, and Modelling, I'm confident that I can tackle your CNC Topographic State project with precision and excellence. As an experienced professional, I have a firm grasp of several programs--SolidWorks, Rhino, Fusion 360--that you mentioned as being preferable. This familiarity saves time as it ensures seamless file compatibility from start to finish. With an understanding of the challenges raised with large-scale files and complications that come with filleting, my experience will serve you well.

$39 USD in 1 day

4.8

(63 reviews)

6.3

@Farooq3D

With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the 3D printing process, I am confident that I can efficiently produce high-quality, print-ready models of your desired US states. I am well-versed in various software and have a strong command in slicing programs such as Cura, Prusa Slicer and Simplify3D which will be immensely valuable in ensuring the manageability of your geometry and file size. This will help restrict unnecessary reduction attempts while still providing you with the necessary level of detail for the terrain. My work has always aimed to achieve maximal print efficiency without sacrificing quality. As an experienced 3D print model designer, I understand the importance of creating watertight, clean solid bodies - all meeting your need for CNC programming. My history with filament types - PLA, ABS, PETG and TPU will be useful to select a material that best suits your project. In collaborative projects like this, I've found that constant feedback is crucial; therefore, I am ready to work closely with you during the design process sharing prototypes for feedback and refining them according to your needs. So if you're seeking quality, expertise, good communication and timely delivery then please consider choosing me for this significant project!

$50 USD in 1 day

4.9

(55 reviews)

5.7

@humartist101

Hi there, I have the expertise to create CNC-ready STEP models for Maine and New Hampshire using DEM/GIS data with a clean CAD workflow. I will build both states from shared master border geometry, apply the 0.0625" minimum radius, optimize terrain for Mastercam, and deliver true solid STEP files with manageable complexity. I can also continue with all 50 states. I have experience in 3D modeling using 3ds Max, Blender, Maya, and Revit. I can create product models, jewelry designs, or any custom 3D work with high-quality results. You can view my previous work here: https://www.freelancer.com/portfolio-items/10401693-3d-costume-hoodie-render https://www.freelancer.com/portfolio-items/10388215-3d-product-models (All Types of 3D Products & Prototypes) Thanks & Regards, Humayo.

$60 USD in 3 days

4.8

(71 reviews)

5.8

@jetjamsllc

Hello, I’m Ben Jackson from Jetjams Technologies. Your project is very interesting, and we have experience with CAD, CNC-ready models, mesh optimization, and manufacturable geometry. Our approach: * Rebuild or optimize from your STL files or DEM/GIS data (whichever gives the best result) * Create one master border so Maine and New Hampshire fit perfectly * Apply the required 0.0625” internal and external radii while maintaining compatibility * Deliver clean, watertight STEP solid models (not mesh-to-STEP conversions) * Reduce geometry while preserving clear topographic detail * Verify compatibility with Mastercam and provide assembly screenshots * Use a repeatable workflow for all 50 states We are happy to answer all technical questions and can share relevant work samples during discussion. Estimated Timeline: 10–15 days for the Maine & New Hampshire test. Yes, we would be excited to continue with the remaining states after a successful test. We are so much grateful to serve you and look forward to working with you. Thank you! Ben Jackson Jetjams Technologies

$250 USD in 7 days

4.9

(11 reviews)

5.3

@TheDesignBloke

Hello, I've reviewed your project and understand you're looking for CNC-ready topographic state models with matching puzzle borders, clean solids, controlled terrain detail, and accurate machining geometry. I have experience with CAD modeling, mesh optimization, reverse engineering, and manufacturing-focused 3D workflows. I can rebuild terrain geometry using suitable CAD methods, maintain shared border master geometry, apply cutter-radius considerations, and deliver usable STEP solids. I can create a repeatable workflow for future states while balancing terrain accuracy, file size, and Mastercam compatibility. Could you confirm the preferred CAD platform for the final native files and whether the existing STL models include the desired Z-axis exaggeration? Best Regards, Muskan

$30 USD in 1 day

5.0

(16 reviews)

5.0

@mahadhasan012

Hi, I see you are looking for a 3D/CAD designer to create CNC-ready individual state topographic pieces that fit together accurately like puzzle components. We have 8+ years of experience in 3D modeling, CAD design, and manufacturing-ready files. To ensure precise assembly after machining, I would suggest creating a controlled edge-matching system with accurate borders, tolerances, and test-fit validation for Maine and New Hampshire before scaling to all states. We are available to start right away and can deliver before your timeline. Let's discuss the details. Portfolio: https://www.freelancer.com/u/mahadhasan012 Thanks, PIXORA STUDIO

$30 USD in 1 day

4.9

(29 reviews)

5.1

@M2Safwat

Hi, I’m a Mechanical Design & Production Engineer with experience in SolidWorks, reverse engineering, and CNC-ready CAD. I can deliver optimized solid STEP models with shared master borders, machinable radii, and reduced geometry for smooth Mastercam performance. Feel free to open chat and discuss the project.

$100 USD in 7 days

5.0

(15 reviews)

4.6

@DesmondTwoTwo

⚡ LET'S NOT OVERCOMPLICATE THIS. I have just developed a CNC-ready topographic model for a previous client using GIS elevation data. You want models of Maine and New Hampshire that fit together like a puzzle, without any gaps or overlaps. I’ll ensure the shared border is identical and maintain the necessary 0.0625-inch radius for machining. The geometry will be simplified yet detailed enough to highlight terrain features. I’ll keep everything clear and simple, making the process easy from your side. MESSAGE ME, WORST CASE YOU GET FREE ADVICE. Regards, Stefan.

$150 USD in 14 days

5.0

(4 reviews)

4.6

@mzdesmag

Hello sir, Did go through your job description and glad to share that I have enormous experience in working with 3D Topographic State Relief for CNC Machining I'm a seasoned programmer and Engineer with quality experience in Flutter, React, Node.JS, SpringBoot, Frontend and Backend Development, Python, Matlab, R studio, C, C++, C#, OpenCV, OpenGL, Tesseract OCR, google vision, Statisticaal programming/R progamming data analysis Computing for Data Analysis Time Series & Econometric, Machine learning, AI, Deep learning, Matlab and Mathematica, 3D modeling, CAD/CAM,AutoCAD, 2D, Architectural Engineering, SolidWorks, Unity 3D, PCB, Electronics, Arduino, Automation, Embedded and Firmware , IOT, Electrical/Mechanical Engineering I am a TOP Rated Freelancer, and you can check my reviews here as well: https://www.freelancer.com/u/mzdesmag. Looking forward to potentially working together on this project. Thanks and Best regards, Adekunle.

$30 USD in 1 day

4.5

(19 reviews)

5.3

@ssumitkumar7800

Drawing from my extensive experience in 3D CAD and design, I assure you that my proficiency in AutoCAD, Rhinoceros, and Fusion 360 (to name a few) will enable me to meet and exceed your expectations.

$36 USD in 1 day

4.3

(24 reviews)

5.3

@ShahzaibxArt

I can engineer and deliver clean, Mastercam-ready solid STEP models for Maine and New Hampshire featuring a shared master puzzle border, 0.0625 ′′ cutter-radius compensation, controlled Z-axis terrain exaggeration, and lightweight file sizes to prevent CAM crashes. Technical Approach & Workflow: Source & Modeling: Rebuilding smooth NURBS topography from GIS/DEM data and reference STLs to eliminate heavy, unmanageable triangle meshes. Shared Border: Extracting a single master curve for the Maine–New Hampshire border to guarantee an identical, gap-free fit. Machinability: Offsetting and filleting all internal and external boundary corners to a minimum 0.0625 ′′ radius for seamless end-mill clearing. True Solids: Delivering clean, watertight solid bodies exported to .step format with continuous perimeter sidewalls. Price: $150 USD Timeline: 4 days Deliverables: Watertight solid STEP files for both states, native source files, an assembled fit-check view, and workflow confirmation. Ready to build the exact, machinable foundation for your multi-state map project!

$150 USD in 4 days

5.0

(15 reviews)

4.3

@polygon23

Hi There My Self Sharon K and I am a highly enthusiast 3D artist building projects using Blender and Autodesk Maya. I've been freelancing since 2 years and I've done several related projects for multiple clients. I am highly adaptable and is consistent across my work. Thanks.

$90 USD in 2 days