Elaboration of 3D virtual models applied to the disasters risk prevention related to natural phenomena

Abstract

This study presents the guidelines, technical-conceptual framework, stages and results of a research focused on the structuring of a systematic procedure for the elaboration of models, supporting the growing perception about natural disasters. The construction of the model was based on previous studies on risk and disaster situations carried out by the technical team of the Geological Institute in the municipality of Mauá (SP). From these studies it was possible to elaborate a virtual 3D model, with emphasis on landslides processes that occur in the municipality. The development of the research was guided by Brazilian and international recommendations regarding Risk and Disaster Management. The procedure was structured so that they could be reproduced and adapted into high school-level teaching materials. At first, the application was initially envisioned for priority use in school units of municipalities that present significant situations of risks associated with dangerous geodynamic phenomena, such as landslides. The model was developed using the SketchUP program, by Trimble Navigation, which has a free online version and allows both the representation of the factors associated with the occurrence of landslides and the visualization of the 3D model with variable zoom levels. Usually, this program is used to elaborate sketches of 3D environments, with simple editing and navigation tools, thus being widely used for the elaboration of 3D models. New approaches, and the reproduction of this study in other geographical areas and for different natural processes will improve the procedure and expand the scope of the models to increase the perception of disasters.