A review of 3D spatial data models for surface and subsurface integration of spatial objects.

Abstract

Three dimensional (3D) spatial data models have been known as a geographic information system platform for representing the dimensionality of spatial objects with respect to the real world. They can be used to mimmick the real-world objects above the ground, on the ground and underground. A 3D spatial data model that can integrate surface and subsurface elements will have a significant impact on engineering, spatial and urban planning, and the built environment. Such an impact includes good infrastructure development, proper planning, result-oriented installation of utilities, location-specific excavation of existing utilities, and cost-effective economy resulting from minimal damage of infrastructures. This article explores and documents the state-of-the-art with respect to 3D spatial data models specifically for the integration of surface and subsurface objects based on a thorough review of the literature in academic articles, technical reports, and web-based materials. To better understand the scope, this paper reviews the different 3D spatial modelling approach for surface spatial objects, subsurface spatial objects, and with keen focus on surface and subsurface spatial objects integration. The Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) has played an important role in data integration and has a core space in 3D spatial data model evolution. One of the recent data models for such task is CityJSON due to its simplicity in data storage, visualization, manipulation, and data update compared to CityGML. The parameters influencing the choice of models can be attributed to the availability of data structure, applicability, exchange format and relevance. Based on the range of 3D spatial data model reviewed, a unified model is expedient for integration of surface and subsurface spatial objects.