Web visualization of geo-spatial data using SVG and VRML/X3D

Data visualization is an important technique that helps in understanding and analysis of complex data. Most of current-web-based geo-spatial data visualization products use two-dimensional visualization. A tool that uses the combination of two-and three-dimensional visualization can provide extra spatial dimension as well as flexible usability. Current Web technologies: scalable vector graphics (SVG), virtual reality modeling language (VRML), and extensible 3D (X3D) provide a necessary foundation for such a tool. In this paper, we present a general framework for effective integration and Web-based presentation of complex heterogeneous spatial-temporal data sets. This framework facilitates interpretation, exploration and analysis of large volume of data with significant geo-spatial and temporal characteristics. Advantages of this approach include improved visualization of geo-spatial and temporal raw data; better navigation and selection of data; and intuitive user interface. A Web-based road traffic visualization system illustrates this approach using the Twin Cities road traffic data.