Algorithm for generating dem based on cone

Digital elevation model (DEM) has a variety of applications in GIS and CAD. It is the basic model for generating three-dimensional terrain feature. Generally speaking, there are two methods for building DEM. One is based upon the digital terrain model of discrete points, and is characterized by fast speed and low precision. The other is based upon triangular digital terrain model, and slow speed and high precision are the features of the method. Combining the advantages of the two methods, an algorithm for generating DEM with discrete points is presented in this paper. When interpolating elevation, this method can create a triangle which includes interpolating point and the elevation of the interpolating point can be obtained from the traingle. The method has the advantage of fast speed, high precision and less memory.