Analysis and control of heat distribution supply chain using three-dimensional virtual scene

Abstract

Control of central heating supply chain is very complex and requires evaluation of a lot of data. Not only the operational and the technical parameters, but also the financial, logistical or investment indicators are monitored. The number of these data can be substantial and their evaluation rather complex. By converting these data into the scene in virtual reality, the situation may become clearer and more suitable for managerial decision making. In a 3D virtual scene a “new world” is created representing the data of the monitored supply chain. The data thus presented may help even those less technically qualified workers to assess and evaluate the situation visualized. This paper describes model situations of heat network operation in a particular town, converted into a virtual scene using modeling language X3D (Extensible 3D). Furthermore, the algorithm describes how to convert the measured and monitored data into a 3D virtual scene. So created virtual world may find use in heat networks operations management in particular, in the analysis of returns, or in evaluation of other economic factors. In the same way a 3D virtual scene can be used in any other area.