Virtual reality visualization for maps of the future

In today's Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Computer-Assisted Maps, user's perceptual interface with a paper map is replaced, in many cases, by the analytical and logical queries of a spatial database that represents the map in a computer form. The analytical results do not give a full account of the information that can be represented since these results do not include the implicit information contained in the map. The visual display representation of the entire map is very important for the user to determine what kind of information is to be extracted and to understand the interrelations among elements of the map. Current visualization techniques (paper maps and their computer replicas) do not take full advantage of the many modalities of human perception in representing the complete possible range of spatial information.; This research investigates the use of virtual reality (VR) in map visualization and reconsiders some of the fundamental concepts of cartography in the context of the VR advances. Our investigation of spatial cognition shows that VR techniques enhance the perception of spatial phenomena in maps. Three-dimensional object visualization and terrain representation are means to increase the level of perception of the real world in maps. Spatial sound techniques used to enhance the perception of real world phenomena and describe cartographic features are considered important additions to the visual representation in a VR map. Dynamic visualization is used to display real world phenomena (like clouds, rain and movement of the cars and rivers) and to attract the map user's attention. Important cartographic elements such as georeferencing, scale and symbolization are reformulated in the context of VR map visualization. User interaction with the VR map environment enhances the feeling of the realistic presence within the surroundings. Intelligent VR map visualization improves the perception of spatial phenomena through visual representation of GIS queries and analysis.; In all, then, this project aims at setting the framework for building an “virtual perceptual reality” for mapping environments. This will allow us to immerse users into the mapped entities in realistic ways using somewhat conventional desktop computers.