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A CGDI-based 3D Tool for Interactive Visualization and Analysis of GML Data
Capitalizing on the growth of the Canadian Geospatial Data Infrastructure (CGDI), this project will produce a more intuitive way to explore, analyze, and understand complex geospatial phenomena. The project will develop a tool, GSN 3D Explorer, to visualize and analyze Geography Markup Language (GML) data in three dimensions. GML is an Extensible Markup Language (XML)-based encoding standard for geographic information.
GSN 3D Explorer will be the first CGDI client software that can simultaneously access three major data streams: vectors in GML format, images from Web Map Services, and digital elevation models (DEMs) from Web Coverage Services, and then integrate these diverse data layers to create three-dimensional images for visualization and analysis.
Desktop GIS power with only a browser and Internet access
To date, technical barriers have limited the number and quality of web-based 3D visualization and analysis tools on the market. In fact, no currently available commercial tools can integrate GML data with other types of data such as images and digital elevation models. This project will develop a CGDI standards-conformant 3D tool to make GML data more useable. With GSN 3D Explorer, users will be able to explore, visualize, and analyze CGDI data online and on the fly from different types of CGDI services (e.g., Web Map Services, Web Feature Services) at one time. In fact, users can chain this interoperable tool with other CGDI tools or services to bring the power of desktop GIS to web clients.
The advent of GSN 3D Explorer will expand the capabilities of the CGDI. For one, users can integrate or assemble the tool with other CGDI tools or services to meet a variety of needs, bringing two-dimensional maps, diagrams, and charts alive in three dimensions. The tool will also play a key role in bridging applications that require integrating data and services. In addition, GSN 3D Explorer will make the CGDI's geospatial data more useable, which will expand the CGDI's scope, utility, and appeal.
Improved decision making stands to benefit all Canadians
Potential users of GSN 3D Explorer include the Department of National Defence and other government agencies, emergency response organizations, oil and gas companies, and telecommunications firms. GML-enabled interactive 3D visualization offers these and other organizations an intuitive way to access CGDI datasets and to respond to emergencies, manage disasters, analyze scenarios, and assess risks. All Canadians stand to benefit from the improved decision making that such capabilities will afford.
Primary Partner:
GeoTango International Corp.
Toronto,
Ontario;
Partners: Defence Research and Development Canada, Natural Resources Canada-Earth Sciences Sector
Funding From GeoConnections: $194,532.00 ( 38.5 %)
Estimated Inception Date: April, 2004
Estimated Completion Date: March, 2005