Overview
QGIS-RRIM is a QGIS plugin that implements the Red Relief Image Map (RRIM) technique proposed by Chiba, Kaneta, and Suzuki, providing a streamlined workflow for high-resolution geomorphological and morphostructural analysis using digital elevation models (DEMs).
The plugin automates the generation, normalization, and visualization of terrain derivatives required to produce RRIM outputs directly within QGIS.
RRIM Method
- Slope
- Differential openness
RRIM is a visualization method that enhances subtle topographic features by combining slope in red tones with differential openness in grayscale.
This combination improves the interpretation of:
- Lineaments and structural controls
- Micro-topography
- Erosional and depositional features
- Subtle geomorphological patterns
Dependency
This plugin requires the Relief Visualization Toolbox (RVT) plugin. Differential openness is computed using RVT algorithms, which are not natively implemented in QGIS-RRIM.
Tools
RRIM Generator (v2.1)
Generates the required layers from a DEM:
- Slope layer
- Differential openness layer via RVT
Features:
- Automatic preprocessing workflow
- Optional normalization of outputs
- Optional direct RRIM RGB generation
RRIM RGB Composer
Creates a final georeferenced RRIM RGB GeoTIFF from precomputed inputs.
Features:
- Combines slope and openness layers
- User-defined normalization ranges
- Full control over visualization parameters
- Export-ready output for GIS workflows
Workflow Summary
- Input DEM
- Generate slope and differential openness
- Normalize layers if needed
- Compose RRIM RGB
- Export GeoTIFF
Requirements
- Minimum QGIS version: 3.28
- Integrated Processing provider support
- Compatible with LiDAR-derived and other DEM-based workflows
Applications
- Geomorphological mapping
- Morphostructural analysis
- Structural interpretation
- High-resolution topographic analysis
- Remote sensing and terrain visualization workflows
Release
The latest public release is available through the GitHub release page for v2.1.0, which expands the plugin from the original base-layer workflow into a more complete RRIM processing package for QGIS.
Citation
If the plugin is used in academic or technical work, the project recommends citing both the original RRIM method and the 2026 software implementation published in the QGIS Plugin Repository.
Original method:
Chiba, T., Kaneta, S., and Suzuki, Y. (2008). Red relief image map: New visualization method for three dimensional data. ISPRS Journal of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing, 62(2), 107-116.
Software implementation:
Zavaleta, J. (2026). QGIS-RRIM: Generate RRIM terrain layers and compose RRIM RGB outputs in QGIS. QGIS Plugin Repository. MIT License.
Notes
- Designed for geomorphology, structural geology, and remote sensing applications
- Optimized for integration into QGIS-based workflows
- Suitable for both regional and high-resolution terrain analysis