Creating Atmosphere in 3d Geovisualization – a User Study of Visual Means

Abtract: 3D geovisualization is based on virtual reality technology and are thus capable of introducing aesthetic elements in a scene for instance for commercial applications that are based on geographic information. In this paper visual and aesthetic elements are introduced in a tourist model, representing the downtown area of Aalborg, Denmark. A group of subjects and experts are invited to evaluate the model. The result of the evaluation shows clearly that users react differently on different elements in the model, suggesting that they are powerful means of communication and indicating a relevance in commercial applications. On the other hand they can be imprecise means if they manipulate the whole scene, as in this case where the creation of the same atmosphere is not relevant for all tourist attractions in the represented area.