Forget stand-alone renderings, city-scale 3-D simulations are the future

Today, city planning is not that much different than playing SimCity. Increasingly, high-tech simulators are helping to build the cities of tomorrow.

One of those simulators is CityEngine, a software that creates full 3-D models of cities around the world, according to Mic.

One of those simulators is CityEngine, a software that creates full 3-D models of cities around the world, according to Mic.

The program combines geographical information and a myriad of data points, including zoning laws and the location of water pipes, allowing urban planners and architects to build simulations of new structures.

“When architects present a new development, they usually just show that one building,” Dominik Tarolli, director of global business development of 3-D and geodesign at Esri, told Mic. “Usually, a building is not by itself. It always has a context. CityEngine has the ability to create that surrounding context so you can really understand that building.”

The technology also allows citizens to more fully understand what is happening in their communities.

“We just surpassed the point where more than 50% of people live in cities,” Tarolli said. “We have to figure out how we can make those cities even more pleasant, how we can increase the quality of life. I think with today’s technology, that’s not rocket science anymore.” [Mic] –Christopher Cameron