Flexible Mixed Reality and Situated Simulation as Emerging Forms of Geovisualization

Abstract

This article reports on the applied research behind a geospatial mobile augmented reality system that can run in situ simulations of dynamic spatial phenomena. The authors summarize previous work that has led to a critical convergence of enabling technologies and identify new forms of geovisualization facilitated by these technologies. The article introduces situated simulation as a new form of augmented situated geovisual analysis, using two versions of a prototype system called A Touch of Rain. This system allows users to run augmented precipitation simulations in real space, in which virtual rain falls on and interacts with real landscapes and buildings, and thus to perform augmented geovisual analysis. This method opens up new opportunities to link geospatial data, models, and everyday spaces. The authors conclude by discussing implications and opportunities for GIScience.