Tangible GIS for Real-Time Human Interaction with Landscape Models
Abstract
New technologies that combine the flexibility of digital landscape representation with 3D physical scale models are changing users' interaction with geospatial data. This study investigated the coupling of open source GRASS Geographic Information System (GIS) with the Illuminated Clay system to explore the possible development of a Tangible Geospatial Modeling system that allows users to interact with landscape analysis and simulations using a flexible physical model. In this system, the laser scans a model surface that can be modified by hand, and the effects of any modifications on a selected terrain parameter (e.g., slope, slow) is then projected on the surface in near-real-time. The coupling of GIS with the Illuminated Clay system provides the tools needed for georeferenced data management and processing, the integration of data from various sources, and pre-processing for the tangible environment. To demonstrate the system's functionality, it is applied to a situation in which terrain modifications are performed to prevent local flooding in a small watershed. The coupling options investigated allow users to build scalable systems ranging from simple, low-cost options to sophisticated geospatial modeling environments with real-time responses to landscape modifications. Physically tangible environments have the potential to fundamentally change users' interactions with digital landscape models by making them more accessible and easier to understand.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA440492
Entities
People
- C. Ratti
- H. Mitasova
- L. Mitas
Organizations
- North Carolina State University