Indoor3D: a WebGL based open source framework for 3D indoor maps visualization

Abstract

In this paper, we present Indoor3D, an open source framework for 3D indoor maps visualization. It takes advantage of the WebGL technique of modern browsers, so it can work on any platform which supports the WebGL feature, including desktop computers and mobile devices. An extensible data structure is designed to describe the indoor scene. The proper default view is generated automatically according to the principal direction. A priority based algorithm is employed to control the visibility of the texts and icons. This library is well designed and easy to use. Developers can create an indoor map and customize its behaviour with only a few codes. Designers also benefit from this framework since they can change its visual style by providing a new theme. We believe our Indoor3D will be useful in many cases, such as airports, subway stations and shopping malls.