3D Target is a new component of MICRODEM. Its purpose is to create a visual simulator that transforms a selection of a 2D map into a 3D model where one can move, settle buildings and fly over the terrain. This application can have many openings:
- civilian experts, like architect, can visualize their buildings in their real environment and see if it fit well in the area. But this software can't be used, in any case to calculate the risk of flooding for buildings.
- common citizens can use the software on the Internet to create maps of the area where they live and for instance observe their house in it.
Description and requirements of 3D Target
This one can be downloaded with the new version of MICRODEM accessible from this site. But you can also use it directly from this page. 3D Target has been developed in Java and displays VRML animations, as a consequence it is totally portable and runnable on every plat form. To run, you have to realise the following steps (don't worry it takes less time than you think):
- You first need a web browser. You can use either Internet Explorer 4.x or more or Netscape from 6.2. You will find them, for free, on those sites.
- Then you have to get a VRML browser. Our independent recommendation is : use Cortona 2.2 from Parallel Graphics (Cortona 3.1 if 2.2 is not available - 2.2 is faster) or CosmoPlayer 2.1 embedded in Internet Explorer or Netscape 4.x. You can download these software, for free, from the sites below. If you download Cortona you also have to get a VRML conterveter (vrml10conv) from VRML1.0 to VRML 2.0.
- You next must be sure that the needed Java component are present on your computer. You have to first install Java 2 Runtime Environment Standard Edition. You will find JRE 1.3.1_03 on Sun Microsystem site. This component, as Java, is free.
- Concerning the installation on a Windows platform, you have to create a files permission policy by launching policytool.exe in the directory \Program Files\JavaSoft\JRE\1.3.1\bin\. You have to click on "add a new policy entry", then on "add permission". Select "All permission" for permission, click on "Ok", then "Done" and finally save the file as ".java.policy" in your profile directory in Documents and Settings.
You will thus be able to run the 3D Target software.
I am very interested in hearing about problems with the program, comments from users have led to many of the improvements, enhancements, and bug fixes.
How to use 3D Target
The software appears as a main window from which you first have to open a file. This file will be exported from MICRODEM as an XYZ ASCII file thanks to the IN/OUT menu. Then a 2D map is created, at this time , you can :
- create the 3D model with the 3D VIEW menu. This model can have different textures that you can choose or only colours in function of the altitude.
- settle buildings or targets on the map with the TARGET menu. You can choose in a list of buildings or create some by yourself. Textures are available but you can also import your own textures. Of course, you can also import your own buildings that you have created with development tools and exported in VRML file.
- fly over the terrain with OVERLY menu.
To test 3D Target, please dowload samples here.
Last Update: 4/6/2002
