November 21, 2012 -- A 3D model created from high resolution aerial photography is supporting investigations into the implications of an increasing population of electric vehicles. Created by Bluesky and supplied to Virtual NewcastleGateshead (VNG), the highly accurate 3D terrain and building data is being used in a study financed by the European Regional Development Fund as part of a North Sea Region Electric Mobility Network. The research project will explore the strategic use of 3D modelling and simulation to support electric mobility and VNG will utilise geographical analysis and agent based modelling to simulate the behaviour of users of electric vehicles.   

“As electric cars become increasingly a part of our interactive built environment, city planners need to consider the additional needs of their users and understand how this will impact on the urban environment,” commented Richard Kotter, Senior Lecturer in Economic Geography and NSR E-mobility project co-ordinator at Northumbria University. Prof Ruth Dalton, Director of VNG at Northumbria University, added: “By creating a virtual model of a vibrant and growing metropolis such as Newcastle Gateshead we can simulate different scenarios and explore options for e-Mobility policy development throughout the North Sea Region.”

Virtual NewcastleGateshead (VNG) is a strategic collaboration between Newcastle City Council, Gateshead Council and Northumbria University. Using Bluesky supplied 3D terrain and building data VNG has already created a 3D computer model of the central areas of Newcastle upon Tyne and Gateshead for the purpose of urban planning, education and research / consultancy. VNG aims to provide a financially viable platform for built environment professional practitioners to help shape the city’s future physical form that is responsive to its needs and functions, and allows them to look forward.

The additional data supplied by Bluesky covers 75 kilometres squared including a traffic corridor to Newcastle airport and North Tyneside, including the port, with additional areas to the North East of Newcastle as well as Team Valley industrial estate and the village community of Bill Quay to the east of Gateshead.

“VNG is an excellent example of what can be achieved through a university’s engagement with regional authorities and trusted suppliers such as Bluesky,” added Prof David Greenwood, Associate Dean for Research and Innovation, “where a shared vision can be used to create and apply knowledge for the benefit of individuals, communities and the economy.”

Bluesky’s bespoke building models are created from the most up to date, high-resolution, stereo aerial photography. They are created to the client’s specification and can include road detail and an underlying Digital Terrain Map (DTM) to place the urban representation in its true world context. The standard Bluesky 3D city model can also be enhanced with the addition of vertical, oblique or ground photography to deliver additional detail and real world visual impact.

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