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Virtual Reality: A Tool for Cartographic Visualization


JA Quaye-Ballard

Abstract



Visualization methods in the analysis of geographical datasets are based on static models, which restrict the visual analysis capabilities. The use of virtual reality, which is a three-dimensional (3D) perspective, gives the user the ability to change viewpoints and models dynamically overcomes the static limitations of two-dimensional (2D) views. Based on this, the paper highlights the importance, characteristic and classification of Virtual Reality as a tool in data visualization. The paper also outlines real life applications of Virtual Reality as a means of visualization. The distinction between Virtual Reality and Cartography is also presented. This paper also attempts to outline the Virtual Reality Modelling Language (VRML), which is a scene description language for developing Virtual Reality.

Keywords:Visualization, Virtual reality, Virtual Reality Modelling Language (VRML), Cartography

Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 28 (1) 2008 pp. 136-145

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eISSN: 0855-0395