An interoperable web-based application for 3d city modelling and analysis

This study presents a web-based application developed for the efficient management of large 3D city models (3DCMs) which are challenging in terms of browsers’ memory limits and network traffic management. The application offers functionalities such as 3D tiling, web-based visualization, 3DCM generation from 2D data, and 3D spatial analysis. It complies with international standards and utilizes open-source software components. The application includes a 3D tiling tool that implements the OGC 3D Tiles Standard, allowing users to partition their 3DCMs into optimized tiles for storage, transmission, and rendering. A web-based procedural modeling tool enables users to generate 3DCMs from 2D building footprint data without the need for complex modeling languages. A 3D spatial analysis component empowers users to perform comprehensive spatial analyses within the web-based environment. Leveraging modern web technologies facilitates precise and efficient spatial computations. To provide standardized visualization, the application features a viewer and client application built using HTML5 and WebGL technologies. This viewer adheres closely to the 3D Tiles Standard, enabling immersive navigation and interaction with 3DCMs. By combining these components, this web-based application handles the management of large 3DCMs, offering enhanced visualization, analysis, and model generation capabilities. It represents a milestone in web-based 3D city model management, prioritizing international standards and open-source principles.