Project Description:

This project aims to develop a virtual Arctic simulation integrating digital elevation models (DEM) with 3D artistry in Unreal Engine. The goal is to create an interactive ecosystem model that can be used for education, conservation planning, and public engagement.

Create a high-quality 3D visualization of an area of interest to Oceans North. Building off existing topographical maps, combined with available datasets, we will allow both the landscape terrain and underwater seabed to be visualized.

Following the format of the existing Oceans North map project, we will visualize a 3D display of the northern landscape, based on existing map data, imported and visualized in Unreal as a landscape. The map will be displayed from a bird’s eye view, zooming into the landscape to display specific key features from a first-person perspective when the user activates a map area.

Running on Unreal, we can display text and image dialogues, display 3D models or video. This would be the most conceptually like the existing touch screen podium displays, upgraded to modern 3D technology. 

Skill Set Needed for Project

·        Experience with Unreal landscapes

·        UI development experience

·        Sequencer and Render Queue experience for creating video.

·        Character controller experience to add dynamic movement

·        Basic programming experience to facilitate data processing of GIS data into Unreal topography tools. 

Students will gain experience in environmental simulation, 3D modeling, integrating GIS data into Unreal Engine, and working on real-world conservation projects.

Outcomes:

·        Gain experience working with Unreal Terrains.

·        Learn about processes for importing and processing mapping data.

·        Deep dive into texturing Ice and Snow

·        Explore PCG techniques

·        Use the Niagara particle system to create snow, clouds, and other weather effects.

Deliverables:

·        Proof of concept of GIS data to Unreal Engine terrain.

·        Artistic texturing and manipulation to help the world be as aesthetically interesting as possible

·        Demonstration of potential features including UI elements with multimedia.

·        An interactive demo that allows a user to explore the landscape.

·        A curated demo that “flies” the user between specific sites on the landscape using Sequencer.

·        Video elements rendered from the project to support Oceans North specific objectives.

·        A guide for future projects including best practices, recommendations and troubleshooting.