"Michael Parry" wrote in message
...
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/3572562.stm :

:The virtual reality technology takes constantly-updated data
:and translates it into 3D images. The new forecasts will be on
:air from early next year.

:Rain is generated in 3D so that it actually looks like real rain, and
:as clouds sweep over the country, shadows are cast on the ground.

Looks 'nice' but I suspect it will actually make the forecast more
difficult to comprehend. The viewer will need to make some assumption
about the angle of viewing which is not always easy, even in real life.
For example, I always think the view over the bowler's arm in cricket
coverage makes the pitch look about four metres long.
--
Michael Parry
Tony Blair MP Anagram I'm Tory plan B

I'd be very sceptical until I see it - using 3D can sometimes make things
clearer, but can easily make things worse as well.

I think there is plenty of room for improving the current graphics though.

For example, they often show the animation of the rainfall radar as an
"aftercast", but I'd like to see a simulated rainfall radar animation for
the day ahead. This shouldn't be beyond the abilities of the technical team
and would give a good indication of how broken up or solid the rainfall
coverage is going to be. Far better to show that visually than give terse
percentages.

- Michael