Functionalities of geo-virtual environments to visualize urban projects

Abstract

This Master of Science thesis states the taxonomy of functionalities and the visual materials of geo-virtual environments for the visualization of urban projects. The core of this visualization thesis is based on a requirement analysis process using the software approach of Requirement Engineering. It contains two important aspects. The requirement analysis part of the thesis identifies the functionalities that can be used in visual interaction between actors in the planning process. The second aspect of the thesis investigates the use of visual materials in geo-virtual environments to visualize the different planning phases of urban development. The relationship between the urban planning phases and the use of multi-dimensionality, realism and Levels of Detail (LoD) in models has been established here. Through observation, the thesis has analyzed the relationship between the use of visual materials and the human perception to understand them. Moreover, it has stated a process to create 3D base models on the basis of geo-data through widely used GIS software. The thesis elaborates the functionality domains of geo-virtual environments through the introduction of the construction, capabilities, experiencing, controlling, use, exploration and components functionalities. This taxonomy is achieved through the analysis of requirements of specific Dutch municipalities. These functionalities can be used for collaborative design process by the municipalities and facilitate visual interaction with actors like citizens. Based on the requirement analysis, the thesis sheds light on the knowledge-gap with regards to the classification of functionalities and visual materials. It uses scientific methods,