Development of Java/VRML-based 3D GIS's Framework and Its Prototype Model

Recently, 3D GIS based on 3D geo-processing methodology and Internet environment are emerging issues in GIS fields. To design and implement 3D GIS, the strategic linkage of Java and VRML is first regarded: 3D feature format definition in the passion of conventional GIS including aspatial attributes, 3B feature indexing, 3D analytical operators such as selection, buffering, and Near, Metric operation such as distance measurement and statistical description, and 3D visualization. In 3D feature format definition, the following aspects are implemented: spatial information for 3D primitives extended from 2D primitives, multimedia data, object texture or color of VRML specification. DXF-format GIS layers with additional attributes are converted to 3D feature format and imported into this system. While, 3D analytical operators are realized in the form of 3D buffering with respect to user-defined point, line, polygon, and 3D objects, and 3D Near functions; furthermore, 'Lantern operator' is newly introduced in this 3D GIS. Because this system is implemented by Java applet, any client with Java-enable browser including VRML browser plug-in can utilize the new style of 3D GIS function in the virtual space. Conclusively, we present prototype of WWW-based 3D GIS, and this approach will be contribute to development of core modules on the stage of concept establishment and of real application model in future.