Data-driven simulation, dimensional accuracy and realism in a landscape visualization tool

Computer-based landscape simulation tools are used for assessing the visual impact of land-use decisions. Many systems rely on the artistic manipulation of two-dimensional scanned photographic or videotape images. The specific manipulation of an image is often not directly driven by data describing the proposed landscape modification. Also, it is difficult to move from a modified two-dimensional image to a three-dimensional real world design. This paper discusses how issues of data-driven simulation and dimensional accuracy are addressed in the Vantage Point landscape visualization tool. We describe features of the tool that contribute to image realism. We also propose how a tool with Vantage Point's capabilities would be useful for research in visual quality management and psychophysics.