A comprehensive and up-to-date web-based interactive 3D emergency response and visualization system using Cesium Digital Earth: taking landslide disaster as an example

Abstract

As with the fast advances in the technologies of big Earth data and information communication, Web-based 3D GIS system has come a long way from a few years ago. These advances reflect in many aspects of 3D GIS such as higher real-time performance, enhanced interactivity, more realistic 3D visualization effect and improved user interface. This paper aims to present a comprehensive and up-to-date 3D Web GIS for Emergency Response using the current vue.js web application framework and the well-known Cesium API, taking landslide disaster as an example. Building upon recent advances in WebGL technology, we developed a suite of enhanced 3D spatial analysis functions, including interactive route planning, instant text/image/video messaging being incorporated into both 3D WebGL page and mobile GIS applications, and progressive 3D construction and AR visualization using LiDAR and camera over local emergency network or internet. Moreover, professional functions such as landslide susceptibility mapping, landslide monitoring, spatial temporal contingency plan management, landslide information management, personnel and equipment management, and communication are all implemented and integrated in the 3D GIS system. Most of the functions of the system are implemented using open-source projects, which is beneficial to the development of the 3D GIS research community.