Article Details

Abstract

Addressing common challenges in geological experimental teaching such as spatiotemporal limitations, high costs, and safety risks, this paper presents the design and implementation of a Unity3D-based virtual simulation training system for landforms and terrain. Using 3ds Max as the primary modeling tool and Unity3D as the integrated development platform, the system constructs an immersive virtual teaching environment that combines 3D visualization, interactive operations, and dynamic process simulation. The platform achieves high-fidelity 3D simulations of more than ten representative landform types, including aeolian, karst, glacial, loess, fluvial, volcanic, and permafrost landforms, and dynamically models critical geological hazards such as landslides and debris flows. Application results demonstrate that the system effectively extends the spatiotemporal boundaries of experimental teaching through intuitive and vivid visualizations, overcoming many limitations of traditional instruction. As a valuable complement to physical experiments and field practices, the system holds significant potential for enhancing teaching effectiveness and improving the quality of geological talent development.

Keywords

Unity3D; virtual simulation; landforms and terrain; geological education; system design

References

1. [1] Li Zhenyu, Zhou Wenfeng Design of Virtual Police Station Simulation Training System Based on VRML [J]. Laboratory Research and Exploration, 2020, 39 (7): 106-111
2. [2] Xiao Fan, Zheng Wenjun Digital Rock and Mineral Hand Specimen 3D Interactive Virtual Internship System and Teaching Application [J]. China Geological Education, 2023, 32 (3): 104-109
3. [3] Zhang Guodong Application of drone photogrammetry and ground 3D laser scanning in the investigation of geological hazards caused by a highway collapse in Ebian County [J]. Sichuan Geological Journal, 2024, 44 (1): 158-161
4. [4] Yang Zhihao, Guo Yonggang Research and development of GIS based debris flow disaster risk warning system in southeastern Tibet [J]. Agriculture and Technology, 2024, 44 (6): 91-96
5. [5] Zhang Xiaoyuan, Chen Bin Implementation of Immersive Tactile Interaction Technology Based on Virtual Reality in Field Geological Internship [J]. Modern Electronic Technology, 2022, 45 (14): 1-4
6. [6] Pan Zhijun, Meng Chuanfei, Wang Ying A coal mine internship training system based on virtual simulation technology [J]. China Mining, 2017, 26 (9): 153-155
7. [7] Fan Guanghui, Wang Ping, Feng Dejun, etc Development of VSD platform for ecological fence farming based on Unity3D [J]. Computer Simulation, 2024, 41 (1): 494-501
8. [8] Wei Xiao, Liu Xiong, Sun Yunchuan, etc Development of Coal Mine Disaster Emergency Training System Based on VR Technology [J]. China Coal, 2025, 51 (7): 189-198
9. [9] Duan Maomao, Chen Ziqian Application of Unity 3D Virtual Simulation Technology in Computer Practice Teaching [J]. Microcomputer Applications, 2025, 41 (5): 314-316
10. [10] Chen Xin, Chen Zhaoqi, Ma Lina, etc Design of Smart Greenhouse Science Popularization System Based on Virtual Reality [J]. Journal of Agricultural Machinery, 2021, 52 (S1): 402-409

About the authors

Li Yi (1983-), male, Han ethnicity, from Shawan, Sichuan, is an engineer with a bachelor's degree. His research interests include the development of surveying and mapping geographic information systems, photogrammetry, and map making.