Interactive 3D Visualization and Dissemination of UAV-SfM Models for
Virtual Outcrop Geology
Abstract
The potential of high resolution 3D datasets is being increasingly
realized in an expanding number of geoscience applications. However,
sharing of these datasets and interpretations requires end-users to have
specialty software programs and high-end processing computers. Although
user-friendly technological advances, such as uninhabited aerial
vehicles (UAVs or drones) and structure-from-motion (SfM)
photogrammetry, provide geoscientists with tools to easily collect,
process, and analyze 3D models at multiple scales, dissemination of
results to the general public commonly revert to conventional 2D
formats, such as (static) 2D maps, figures, and rigid animations/videos.
To facilitate dissemination of complete 3D datasets and interpretations
to a wider audience, we review three modern platforms that enable
visualization, sharing, and publishing of various 3D formats. We
demonstrate the capabilities and limitations of each visualization
platform by presenting a 3D digital outcrop model (DOM) of an extensive
exposure of fluvial channel belt deposits in a 1 km2 area of Dinosaur
Provincial Park (Alberta, Canada) generated from UAV-SfM photogrammetry.
Each visualization platform provides intuitive controls and
accessibility on standard desktop computers through web-based browsers
(e.g., Sketchfab and potree) or a standalone executable file developed
through videogame engines, such as Unity or Unreal Engine. Proprietary
viewers allow straightforward sharing of 3D models, but limit size,
detail, and resolution and also have restricted means for accommodating
interpretations. Open-source platforms afford more functionality,
facilitate additional 3D datasets, and can provide customized
visualization experiences for end-users, but may require more advanced
coding experience. Visualization platforms examined within this study
offer access to large 3D datasets without the need for specialized
software and advanced computing hardware. Further development and use of
such platforms has potential to enhance student education and improve
scientific communication through unique customizable experiences that
allow for democratization of high resolution 3D datasets.