Abstract
 3D Visualization Using an Open-Source Ontological Structure Track: New Technology and System Integration Author(s): Barry Bitters This paper describes the conceptual design, development methodology, and potential uses for a recently developed geographic feature ontology--a hierarchical data structure. The first version of this ontology is now available for public review and possible implementation in existing and future software systems. This new system is based on the logical union of more than 170 existing taxonomic structures. This new data structure now allows unambiguous inventorying of natural and cultural landscapes. It also assists in the unambiguous importing of disparate sources of feature data with minimal loss of information. A significant portion of this research effort also involved the creation of a public domain library of generic 3D models--models closely aligned to concepts in the ontology. The availability of the data structure will be discussed. The trials and tribulations encountered during development, potential uses of the data structure, and future developments will also be discussed. Barry Bitters University of West Florida Environmental Studies 11000 University Parkway Pensacola , FL 32514 US Phone: 850 936-1060 Fax: 850 936-1060 E-mail: bbitters@uwf.edu |
|||||
