Teaching Topographic Surface Concepts in Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality Web Environments

Abstract

This paper shows the use of web resources for the creation of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) environments to teaching of topographic surface concepts. The mockups of the topographic surfaces were built with Sketchup software, include graphical representations of level contours, terrain cuts, topographic profiles and embankments. The terrains textures used are satellite photos available by the Digital Globe platform and contribute to improve the visualization of studied concepts. Developed environments enable students to view surfaces in AR ambient, using their webcam devices, such as smartphones, tablets, or notebooks, from a variety of points of view. Each topographic surface mockup has a link to its respective representation in VR, which allows its manipulation and detailed study of each concept. The environments presented in this work can be used in disciplines of Topography, Geography and Descriptive Geometry.