An Approach for 3D Visualization of Pipelines

Abstract

Utility networks (pipelines and cables) are usually modelled by lines and nodes. The systems used for maintenance of utilities are typically two-dimensional, allowing for creating vertical profiles in limited key places. Since the position is visualized on 2D maps, it is rather difficult to distinguish between cables and pipelines with the same x,y coordinates. Such visualization might be misunderstood by both field workers (maintaining the utilities) and specialists. Therefore the interest in 3D visualization is rapidly increasing.

Generally, visualization of lines in 3D is quite challenging. In most of the cases, the best solution is to replace the lines with tiny cylinders or other 3D shapes. However, substituting simple lines with parametric shapes in the database is time consuming, expensive and economically not justified. This paper presents an approach for utility management, according to which the pipelines and cables are still maintained as lines but while visualising in 3D, the lines are substituted with cylinders created on the fly.

This paper presents the used systems architecture and developed prototype. A final discussion summarises on advantages and disadvantages of the used approach and outlines directions for further research.