Online Visualization of Streaming Data

Abstract

The integration of streaming data into web mapping applications in combination with contextual information is currently drawing attention in geospatial research. This article discusses how to communicate streaming data in the form of a live mapping dashboard. We created our own prototypical online dashboard visualization for this purpose, tailored to be used in different contexts and roles, and discuss the advantages of the approach. The live mapping dashboard uses modern visualization techniques, including dynamic clustering and self-updating symbology. We validated our approach in the context of a use case in the field of forest-based supply value chains. We present the data flow from the data collection to harmonization, right up to the presentation of real-time data. The prototype is evaluated in continuously performed field tests. Keywords:live mapping dashboard, streaming data, real-time data IndroductionNowadays, real-time data are indispensable. Globally, there are a vast number of dynamic and stationary sensors. These sensors provide different kinds of information. For example, there are weather stations that send live information about temperature, humidity and air pressure, and traffic sensors that measure weight in motion or speed, and which count the vehicles that pass. There are also many dynamic sensors, built into all kinds of devices, such as smartphones, and forms of transport (planes, buses, trains, trucks …), which send the current position in combination with contextual information. The generic term for this kind of information is "real-time GIS data", defined as "a continuous stream of events flowing from sensors where each event represents the latest state of the sensor" (Gorton, 2014).

Role-Tailored Map Dashboards—A New Approach for Enhancing the Forest-based Supply Chain

“…), different strategies for presenting dynamic information are used. These include for example (1) dynamic and zoom-depending clustering of points, (2) spiral spreading of overlapping points, (3) pulsing points, (4) different transparency, color and size values, and (5) dynamic charts (for more details see [65]). Especially the dynamic chart symbols that are used for showing information about the log pile storage locations are developed for this prototype (cf.…”

“…The monitoring apps are rather visualization tools that have some additional map elements (e.g., address search, layer selection, filtering of truck drivers on the map and overview map). dynamic charts (for more details see [65]). Especially the dynamic chart symbols that are used for showing information about the log pile storage locations are developed for this prototype (cf.…”