Virtual representation of terrain through the web with VRML-Web3D and graphic libraries

摘要

This paper is focused on the analysis of virtual representation of terrain through the web, and shows the steps to follow in order to put into practice a virtual interactive terrain visualization system. The recent developments of three-dimensional visualization systems can be naturally applied to terrain visualization targeted to the web, driving to a higher interaction level. Traditionally it has been implemented with 2D systems due to the huge data volume involved, but nowadays several possible technologies allow to achieve a 3D representation; two of them are analyzed in depth: VRML as an exponent of Web3D technology, and open source three-dimensional graphic libraries. Their fundamental characteristics are considered, and their methodologies, pros and cons are illustrated by means of the development of some practical applications for terrain visualization, taking special attention in the implementation of the interaction facilities.