Forest modelling and visualisation – state of the art and perspectives

Abstract

Abstract The paper provides a detailed overview on forest models from various perspectives. The presented classification scheme of forest models uses concept, object, space and time as variables to place models in specific categories and thus provides an integrated approach for model categorisation. A short description of individual categories with the examples of models helps to understand their nature. In total 34 forest models were classified according to the created scheme. Forest visualisation has also an important place in forest modelling. Here it is described from the point of different visualisations methods and used technologies. Inputs that are necessary for the models but are often not available and need to be derived using specialised tools – various forms of data generators are presented too. Important perspectives and challenges of further development of forest models and visualisation technologies were specified as well.