Analysis of Cartographic Symbols as Visual Support in Interactive VR Geovisualizations

Abstract. Game engines and head-mounted displays (HMD) can create interactive virtual reality (VR) cartographies. Many VR geovisualizations try to depict places as close to reality as possible. The scaling is 1:1 for most VR geovisualizations. If VR geovisualizations are too close to reality or complex, users can navigate through them better, but the amount of detail makes it more challenging to target information. With the help of cartographic elements, a more targeted focus can again be acquired. The focus and style of VR cartography depend on the topic. The topics selected were "Floods and heavy rainfall events", "Noise propagation analysis", and "Lighting simulation". These are three topic examples in which 3D city models are used. CityGML models and fictitious 3D objects were used. Different rendering techniques and point signatures were implemented for each of the themes. All three topics were implemented in an application as a serious game. With the help of an interactive interface and motion controllers, users can change and navigate all three themes. Solution-oriented objects can be placed on all three topics as an additional interactive element. These options allow users to learn targeted information through various presentation options and implement solutions.