Development and Application of a Three-Dimensional GIS-Based Data and Information Visualization Environment

Abstract

A GIS (geographic information system) based database visualization environment, GIS-based DBVE, was developed for exploration and presentation of the geo-referred data and information, such as data, text, image, audio/video, animation, as well as other multimedia, in a three-dimensional virtual world. The GIS-based DBVE shed light on the potential of applications of computer graphics in both GIS and databases. The system was applied to explore and present various types of geo-referred data and information of the study of population ecology of Formosan landlocked salmon [1]. This innovation has demonstrated to be very useful and effective to present and visualize the geo-referred data and information comparing with the classical GIS and database tools. It could also be used as a CAI (computer-assisted instruction) for promoting applications of computer graphics and environmental education.