Interaction in virtual world views - linking 3D GIS with VR

To support 3D GIS interaction within YR-environments we propose a multi-vie w approach based on three types of visualization: plan view, model view and world view. The visualization in these views ranges from a conventional ma p, through a partly symbolic and simplified 3D representation to a full imm ersive and photo-realistic 3D display. The views can be used simultaneously or intermittently, and each provides a repertoire of interaction possibili ties that are apt-but not necessarily limited-to that view. We are currentl y developing a 3D GIS&VR system (Karma VI) based on existing GIS and VR tec hnology that uses the three views to support the design, development and pr esentation of large infrastructure plans in The Netherlands. Operational us e of this system showed that the multi-view approach leads to a more sophis ticated understanding of those plans.