Dynamic 3D maps for mobile tourism applications

Abstract

In this chapter we describe how interactive three-dimensional maps can be implemented on mobile devices, and how they can be exploited by tourism applications. Technical problems like transmitting and displaying larger amount of data of 3D maps will be likely smoothed out in the near future with the third generation of wireless communication networks (UMTS, W-LAN) and other technical innovations. Besides these technical issues one main question remains: How can we benefit from 3D maps? Within the project TellMaris, we started to develop 3D maps for boat tourists. These maps will help the boat tourists find their way around in unknown harbours and inform them of attractions and upcoming events. This chapter gives a summary of our experiences in developing 3D maps on mobile devices and present the results from a prototype evaluation conducted in two phases. The research was carried out as part of the EU-Project TellMaris (IST 2000-28249). © 2005 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.