Integrating multimedia documents and time‐evolving 3D city models for web visualization and navigation

Abstract

AbstractMany geographic features such as 3D city models, real‐time sensor data and multimedia documents (photo, audio, video, etc.) are nowadays available for describing urban areas. These heterogeneous geographic features are multidimensional (spatial, thematic and temporal), can have multiple representations (text, iconography, etc.) and can be modeled using diverse formats. Browsing and crossing these features can help us to analyze and understand the past and present and plan the future evolution of cities. Furthermore, doing so in a web context allows us to share and enrich them in a collective way. In this article we propose a new generic model (GenLinkable) for integrating such features. We also propose the Gen4DCity‐Doc model which specifies GenLinkable to integrate multimedia documents and time‐evolving 3D city models for web visualization and navigation. Gen4DCity‐Doc extends previous research results by integrating new resources describing cities (multimedia documents). Gen4DCity‐Doc is implemented in a web prototype based on a four‐tier architecture using and enhancing open source software and standards. Finally, we also demonstrate that these models open up new navigation possibilities in 3D city models and in multimedia documents through a 3D web interface, which is a current challenge, especially to help researchers in urban history.