Simulation and Assessment of Flooding with Desktop Virtual Reality

A system that builds desktop virtual reality models based on topographic maps and its application to tidal dynamics analysis is shown. The virtual reality model allows the user to explore the scene from any possible point of view, also permitting to alter the level of the sea simulating tides and flooding. Flooded and dry areas are visible at each water level, and the flooding pattern can be assessed. The system allows the choice of texture and colors for the elevation model and the creation and edition of routes. The application receives as input a digital elevation model, and builds a virtual reality description using Virtual Reality Modeling Language, which allows good interaction between user and model. A case study is presented with remote sensing data acquired over the USA.