Qasco is excited to provide 3D Fly-Throughs as an additional service to our customers. New technology, based on current 3D games technology, allows the physical environment to be represented in the form of a spatially accurate 3D computer simulation model.

Instead of being limited to predetermined paths, small sites, and simple models, this product allows users to move anywhere in a complex 3D model in real time.

How are 3D models and real-time visualisation systems used?

The 3D model is beneficial for analysing development potential assessment, community consultation, and visualisation of the existing and proposed built environment. This enables all stakeholders in a project to have the opportunity to consider the real impacts of the project assessed with respect to its surrounding built environment. Real-time visualisation systems remove the uncertainty of interpretation of two-dimensional drawings, and offer increased functionality compared to solid scale models.

How is the 3D model built?

The 3D model is built according to a rigorous and spatially-accurate process:

> A digital orthophoto and a digital terrain model (DTM) are generated from aerial photography
   >> Accuracy of model is a function of the scale of photography from which the 3D data is collected
> Building shapes and other features are captured using photogrammetry
   >> This process maintains the real-world coordinates of the spatial data
> Surface model is created by draping ortho over wire frame
> 3D models of existing structures are built in CAD and exported to the simulation environment
> Significant vegetation and building facades are inserted

What can I do with a 3D simulation model?

> Move to any X, Y, Z location in model space in real time
> View the simulation model in any direction
> Set the time and date and create shadow diagrams in 3D
> Use scalable solids to establish how the size and location of proposed structures would affect surrounding features by overshadowing, obstructing line-of-sight views and water flows, etc.
> Peform 'screen dumps' to produce image stills for inclusion in reports and presentations
> Produce pre-set animations in AVI format for displays
> Review multiple design options - model is interactive

Other products that the digital imaging department specialise in include: