Visualization of geologic geospatial datasets through X3D in the frame of WebGIS

摘要

3D geo spatial data have become the normal. However, to view the data, usually expert software is required, which have up to now hindered the wide spread use of 3D scenes for the display of geological data. The internet real time 3D rendering framework X3D is assessed regarding its suitability for building a geological GIS on the internet. Especially important for geological data, 3D rendering enhances the intuitive grasp of the data and enables the user to interactively explore it. It is often necessary to find a solution to distribute this data to a wide range of interested parties, experts and non-experts alike. According to the nature of 3D data, the best technique to display geo-data, the modeling of objects and unresolved issues have to be taken into consideration. The internet is the apparent tool for the public distribution and visualization of 3D data and it was found that through the open ISO-standardized format X3D it offers a multitude of possibilities. A 3D geological interactive map was created with these prerequisites to identify challenges and possibilities through this process. It was found that the use of lead to satisfactory results, that could probably not have been achieved with another technology.