How to visualize the invisible - Visualization of environmental factors in 3D city models

Research Project, 2013

In a pilot study, the area around Masthuggstorget - Masthamnsgatan is studied with regard to air quality and wind exposure as a result of changed / densified building structure. Based on the plan that exists for new construction in the area, and the current situation regarding emissions from, for example, traffic and port operations, wind simulations and dispersion calculations will be carried out for nitrogen dioxide or particles. For comparison, a today-scenario will also be developed. The calculations are made using a 3D micro-scale model (CFD model) where buildings (current and future), local meteorology and emissions (current and future) for air pollution are included.

The result, both air pollution levels and wind, will be extracted in a fine-scale grid for several vertical levels. These grids will form the basis for 3D visualization through an interpolation between the corresponding grid cells for the adjacent vertical level.

The air pollution visualization will be implemented in Gothenburg's new 3D city model. We will work on how this visualization should be designed for the best clarity and opportunity for interactivity with the model.

In collaboration with Marie Haeger Eugensson and Karin Sjöberg at IVL.