Coupling Real-Time 3D Landscape Models with Microclimate Simulations

Abstract

With urban design, it is becoming increasingly important to both visualise spatial changes and quantify the effect of these changes on the local microclimate: the former often for public consultation and the latter to develop landscapes that provide resilience to warmer weather thus reducing the urban heat island effect. It is possible to automatically construct 3D landscape models from vector site plans and height data sources through procedural generation. However, the generation of the inputs for microclimate models remains a time consuming process even though 3D visualisations or site plans may already exist. In this paper, a method to link procedurally generated 3D landscape models to microclimate simulations is demonstrated. Using this method, a case study is presented that allows initial calibration of the model and then several distinct alterations in the base design are tested alongside the variation in weather conditions looking forward to 2080. Finally, graphics card shaders are used to incorporate the temperature data within the interactive 3D procedural models, allowing both real-time manipulation of view point and simulation time.