Purpose

The Contours tools are used to create, display, edit, analyse, and manage contour data within an Artisan project. Contours represent changes in ground elevation and are fundamental to terrain modelling, grading design, earthworks analysis, and construction documentation.

Standard Workflow

1. Prepare Terrain Data

Before generating or editing contours:

• Open the project drawing.
• Confirm survey data has been imported correctly.
• Verify spot levels, breaklines, and terrain information are accurate.
• Ensure terrain-related data is organised on the correct layers.
• Confirm contour intervals required for the project.

2. Generate Contours

To create contour lines from terrain data:

1. Select the contour generation tool.
2. Choose the terrain surface or source data.
3. Define contour intervals and display settings.
4. Generate the contour network.
5. Review contour appearance and elevation labelling.
6. Confirm contours accurately represent the terrain surface.

3. Display and Style Contours

For clear drawing presentation:

1. Apply the appropriate contour style.
2. Differentiate between major and minor contours.
3. Set line types, colours, and weights in accordance with project standards.
4. Apply contour labels where required.
5. Check readability across the drawing.

4. Edit Contours

When terrain data or design levels change:

1. Select the contour editing function.
2. Modify the underlying terrain model or contour settings.
3. Regenerate contours where necessary.
4. Review contour continuity and smoothness.
5. Verify contour elevations remain accurate.

5. Analyse Terrain Using Contours

Review contour information to:

• Identify high and low points.
• Assess site gradients.
• Check drainage patterns.
• Review earthform design.
• Identify potential grading conflicts.
• Validate accessibility and slope requirements.

6. Label Contours

For construction and design documentation:

1. Add contour labels at appropriate intervals.
2. Ensure labels remain legible and correctly orientated.
3. Avoid overlapping text and drawing elements.
4. Maintain consistency throughout the drawing set.
5. Verify all major contours are clearly identified.

7. Review Proposed Grading

Where contours represent design proposals:

• Check contour spacing for grading consistency.
• Confirm slope transitions are achievable.
• Validate drainage routes and falls.
• Ensure compliance with design requirements.
• Review interfaces with adjacent surfaces and structures.

8. Generate Drawing Outputs

For project documentation:

1. Produce contour plans.
2. Create grading drawings.
3. Generate terrain presentation plans if required.
4. Review plotted outputs.
5. Verify contour visibility at intended drawing scales.

9. Validate and Save

Before issuing information:

• Confirm contour elevations are correct.
• Verify contour intervals match project requirements.
• Check contour labels.
• Review terrain model coordination.
• Validate grading design outputs.
• Save the drawing and update project records.

Recommended Standard Practice

1. Validate survey and terrain data.
2. Generate contour lines from the terrain model.
3. Apply contour styles and labels.
4. Review contours for terrain accuracy.
5. Analyse grading and drainage implications.
6. Update contours following design changes.
7. Produce contour plans and grading outputs.
8. Complete quality assurance checks.
9. Save and issue documentation.

Typical Contour Tasks

Quality Control Checklist

Before completing work:

✅ Terrain model verified
✅ Survey information checked
✅ Correct contour interval applied
✅ Major and minor contours styled appropriately
✅ Contour labels reviewed
✅ Grading intent validated
✅ Drainage patterns assessed
✅ Drawing output checked at plotting scale
✅ Project documentation updated
✅ Drawing saved successfully

Outcome

Following the Contours workflow ensures that elevation information is presented accurately and consistently throughout the project lifecycle. Proper contour management supports terrain analysis, grading design, drainage assessment, earthworks planning, and the production of high-quality construction and landscape documentation.