Victor DeLeon, USA | ISBN: | Submitted: Jul 15, 1998

Virtual Florida Everglades

This research is based on the design and development of a richly detailed photo-textured virtual environment which will be used to educate the public and promote ecological awareness, especially important for endangered environments such as the Florida wetlands. The product of this research will be a freestanding exhibit where users of all ages will be able to navigate through a three-dimensional real-time simulation of an actual section of the Florida Everglades National Park in South Florida. The research concentrates on several high-end three-dimensional rendering engines which can be used to create the realistic imagery as well as achieving lifelike atmospheric effects combined with ambient 3D audio, animated graphics, and a unique interface and presentation system. The research has taken a three-tiered approach beginning with technological studies, followed by aesthetics research, and finally biological and ecological subject matter experts.

[more information]

[other authors]
Fort Lauderdale Museum of Discovery & Science, Robert Berry

[keywords]
virtual ecology everglades tourism wildlife