Towards a Multifunctional Virtual City Model

Background

City models worldwide are offering examples of what is now possible to achieve with today’s technology, but the choice of options available, in terms of computer platforms, data capture, service providers etc. can be daunting to those starting out in this field. Indeed, several cities around the world have now more than one city model, supporting the argument (Bourdakis, 2008) that not one single type of 3D digital model can be suitable for the wide range of applications demanded from them. Even in cities without a city model to date, many parts of the city will have been modeled to support new projects or development proposals, resulting in a jig-saw of 3D models using incompatible computer platforms and diverse scales (Horne, 2009). This can be one of the main economic drivers for the creation of one definitive, regularly updated, multi-functional city model, aimed to be used by multiple stakeholders and sustained over time. Urban planning departments in particular are realizing that many benefits and efficiencies can be gained in using 3D city models to assess the visual impact of proposed developments on surrounding areas. Such models, if used within the development planning process, can also extend participation opportunities for members of the public (Coors & Ewald, 2005; Hudson-Smith, Evans, & Batty, 2005). Hence the concept of multiple 3D city models existing for a single real life city, each with separate desired applications, has been challenged by the possibility of creating one single city model to reduce the risk of incompatibility between different models and to simplify management and update requirements.