This week only had one assigned chapter, number 7, which was focused on 3D web scenes. The objectives include being able to understand web scenes, knowing how and what scene laters are, learning the Scene Viewer tool, understanding 3D in different scenarios, and creating feature layers with z-values enabled. The purpose of 3D in WebGIS is to bring extra dimension to the map. This is especially useful for urban planning, architectural design, storytelling, filmmaking, and more industries. What interested me about this was how broad the uses of this software are, it feels like every chapter I learn a new way this could be used. The two types of 3D images are cartographic and photorealistic which can be used depending on your purpose for the map. Feature layers can be added over top of web scenes and can be configured to show a 3D image. This was super interesting and the book gave the examples of using 3D symbols to show a park bench, rock, or a streetlight. This chapter also discusses VR, XR, and the metaverse. These features bring location to users and allows them to interact and discover. These features are relatively newer technology developments and continue to be used by more people every single day. All these features are integrated into the WebGIS systems which is super cool! It also explains how 3D mapping is being used in urban planning and BIM. The tutorials of this chapter show how to create web scenes and 3D web apps. This includes creating a 3D map of the country and adding 3D object signals into a park. This chapter really opened my eyes to how creative you can be with WebGIS.
An example of a project that could be done utilizing the 3D web scenes would be to create a VR experience of the dorm rooms at Ohio Wesleyan. This would be using a photorealistic map with specific 3D symbols to showcase the desk, chairs, beds, and dressers that come with the different rooms. This could be helpful for incoming freshman attending the campus to view what their dorms would look like instead of relying on the set up dorms at orientation. New features could additionally be added that let you take specific measurements to know if your personal furniture would fit, however I am unsure how I would make that possible with my limited knowledge.