Tangible Modeling with Open Source GIS / by Anna Petrasova, Brendan Harmon, Vaclav Petras, Helena Mitasova.

Introduction -- System Configuration -- Building physical 3D models -- Basic landscape analysis -- Surface water flow and soil erosion modeling -- Viewshed analysis -- Trail planning -- Solar radiation dynamics -- Wildfire spread simulation -- Coastal modeling. .

This book presents a new type of modeling environment where users interact with geospatial simulations using 3D physical models of studied landscapes. Multiple users can alter the physical model by hand during scanning, thereby providing input for simulation of geophysical processes in this setting. The authors have developed innovative techniques and software that couple this hardware with open source GRASS GIS, making the system instantly applicable to a wide range of modeling and design problems. Since no other literature on this topic is available, this Book fills a gap for this new technology that continues to grow. Tangible Modeling with Open Source GIS will appeal to advanced-level students studying geospatial science, computer science and earth science such as landscape architecture and natural resources. It will also benefit researchers and professionals working in geospatial modeling applications, computer graphics, hazard risk management, hydrology, solar energy, coastal and fluvial flooding, fire spread, landscape, park design and computer games.