Services within 3D visualisation 

COWI has specialists who use visualisation in their work on construction and civil engineering projects, environmental and natural resource management projects and urban and landscape models.

We create 3D models of such constructions as bridges, roads and buildings, and show how they fit into city and landscape models.

We deploy a number of tools and programs, such as 3DS-Max and Skyline with MicroStation and AutoCad as our platforms. We often use digital height models in conjunction with orthophotos as a basis for 3D visualisation.

Optimal decision-making basis

Using 3D visualisation we create a model and an animated presentation which show how a planned project will look and, notably, the impact it will have on the existing surroundings.

This gives a clearer and more consistent picture not only for the decision-makers but also for those living and working in the area whose daily lives will be affected by the planned project.

Still images or video

3D visualisation involves a variety of methods and caters for a wide range of objectives and visions: for example, still images can be delivered in a range of formats and sizes and are ideally suited for reports and other projects involving print and the internet.

One or more video clips may also prove to be the best solution. A video is of course an attractive way of presenting information and projects.

3D city models and VVP

For town planning or SMV/VVM evaluation we offer the VVP concept (Virtual eValuation of Planning).

VVP was introduced for the first time in Århus Municipality. This tool enables us to compare the volume of a city build with that of existing buildings and to appraise it in terms of proportions and architecture within the designated urban context.

VVP and 3D models are developed using Skyline software which allows users to enter and move around dynamically in the model from their own PC and to appraise the design and structure of new buildings from aerial and other random angles.

Skyline

Skyline's 3D viewer, TerraExplorer, enables the user to fly around freely in a 3D world. This capability can be streamed over the internet in real time. Several professional urban planners and engineers supplement this with Skyline TerraExplorer Pro, a more advanced program which permits the user to edit and annotate the model.

By Gitte Roe Eriksen, cht@cowi.com
Published: 12.04.2006