Integrating VR, GIS and agent based model to simulate regional residential demand changes

Urban dynamic modeling has been identified as one of the most complicated processes in geo-simulation. New theories and applications are expected to facilitate understanding urban dynamics and complexities. In this paper, we present a tightly integrated system applied in this context, by coupling the newly developed modeling techniques in geo-simulation: agent-based modeling (ABM) and an advanced framework in computer science: VR-GIS integrated platform. The result system has demonstrated with some practical advantages: 1) the urban dynamic model is more operational and realistic through running in real-world based 3D environment; 2) it provides a testing platform for model calibration, validation, and drawing conclusions; 3) due to the richness in representation and interaction, it is desirable for communication and decision-making support in urban planning.