Visualization based on virtual reality (VR) has gained increasingly wider recognition among transportation engineers and researchers because of advances in computer and VR technologies. The benefits of applying VR in transportation are well documented. However, many technical and financial issues hinder wide acceptance of this new technology in highway engineering design. Therefore, the concept of a custom-built, lightweight visualization system aimed at enhancing highway geometric design processes is developed. Capable of supporting the construction of a three-dimensional (3-D) road surface with accurate geometry and providing vehicle-based navigation with controlled driver perspectives, the visualization system is created by applying open-source VR modeling technology with proven key techniques. A systematic approach was taken to integrate data, create 3-D modules, and implement the visualization system as numerous case studies by using real-world data. The successful implementation proves the design concept, shows great potential for supporting the engineering design process, and opens new opportunities for further development.
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