ViBe (Virtual Berlin) - Immersive Interactive 3D Urban Data Visualization - Immersive interactive 3D urban data visualization

The project investigates the possibility of visualizing open source data in a 3D interactive virtual environment. We propose a new tool, 'ViBe'. We programmed 'ViBe' using Unity for its compatibility with HTC VIVE glasses for virtual reality (VR). ViBe offers an abstract visualization of open source data in a 3D interactive environment. The ViBe environment entails three main topics a) inhabitants, b) environmental factors, and c) land-use; acting as representatives of parameters for cities and urban design. Berlin serves as a case study. The data sets used are divided according to Berlin's twelve administrative districts. The user immerses into the virtual environment where they can choose, using the HTC Vive controllers, which district (or Berlin as a whole) they want information for and which topics they want to be visualized, and they can also teleport back and forth between the different districts. The goal of this project is to represent different urban parameters an abstract simulation where we correlate the corresponding data sets. By experiencing the city through visualized data, ViBe aims to provide the user with a clearer perspective onto the city and the relationship between its urban parameters. ViBe is designed for adults and kids, urban planners, politicians and real estate developers alike

VR-visualization of High-dimensional Urban Data

The project aims to investigate the possibility of VR in a combination of visualizing high-dimensional urban data. Our study proposes a data-based tool for urban planners, architects, and researchers to 3D visualize and experience an urban quarter. Users have a possibility to choose a specific part of a city according to urban data input like "buildings, streets, and landscapes". This data-based tool is based on an algorithm to translate data from Shapefiles (.sh) in a form of a virtual cube model. The tool can be scaled and hence applied globally. The goal of the study is to improve understanding of the connection and analysis of high-dimensional urban data beyond a two-dimensional static graph or three-dimensional image. Professionals may find an optimized condition between urban data through abstract simulation. By implementing this tool in the early design process, researchers have an opportunity to develop a new vision for extending and optimizing urban materials