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Research & development

The department’s scientific and research activities are focused on general issues of geoinformatics, building and application of geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing data processing, thematic and digital cartography, 3D printing, eye-tracking and spatial analysis and modeling of phenomena from the field of physical and human geography.

Main research topics

Spatial analysis in GIS

Analysis in human geography

We are examining disparities between urban and rural areas, utilizing multicriteria analysis to assess territorial potential and plan the development of urban structures. We work with statistical data, from identifying sociodemographic trends to assessing quality of life and conducting epidemiological analyses. Aggregation and disaggregation of data play an important role in our analyses, allowing us to better understand the distribution of spatial phenomena.

Spatial patterns

We explore spatial interactions between people and their environment. Using spatial statistics, we uncover relationships and dependencies in data capturing various geographic phenomena. For instance, we analyze data from mobile operators to determine the accessibility of services and areas, aiming to understand mobility and behavior in space. These insights enable us to better comprehend the character and dynamics of geographic phenomena and processes in the field of human geography.

Digital cartography

Thematic cartography

The Department of Geoinformatics is engaged in the study of appropriate methods for the visualization of geospatial data. In the field of cartographic processing, it sets trends, both in the production of stand-alone thematic maps and in the field of atlas production. The research includes the development of software tools and procedures to automate and refine map production.

Web cartography

The Department of Geoinformatics develops interactive web maps following the latest trends in web applications and dashboards. We work with software tools from dominant players on the market and also develop our own solutions based on open-source technologies.

Eye-tracking

Cognitive research in the Department of Geoinformatics allows to analyze the quality of map production when users read maps. Not only thanks to eye-tracking technology for tracking eye movements, we can evaluate the suitability of map composition, chosen representation methods, software tools and graphic processing. We are a leader in the field of eye-tracking research and are engaged in the development of tools to make cognitive analysis more efficient.

Typhlocartography

The development of tactile maps for the blind has been ongoing at the Department of Geoinformatics since 2008. We are currently working on the design and technical solution of interactive typhlomaps that can be connected to mobile devices, which will allow people with severe visual impairment to explore the world around us. In addition to tyflomaps, we also create 3D models of buildings with audio descriptions for use in educational institutions for the blind.

3D printing and 3D vizualisation

3D modelling

We can capture the landscape in the form of a digital 3D model in various scales and timeframes. At the Department of Geoinformatics, we thus map both the current form of urban development and reconstruct historical forms of cultural heritage sites, such as the no longer existing Olomouc Synagogue, Bouzov Castle before its reconstruction, or the transformation of Václavské návrší in Olomouc.

Geospatial 3D printing

At the Department of Geoinformatics we have a fully equipped 3DGLORY laboratory with various 3D technologies. We deal with modelling of landscape relief, cities, architecturally significant buildings, historical complexes, as well as production of tactile maps. Our 3D printers have the ability to create multi-coloured models of large dimensions and combine different materials.

Augmented and virtual reality

As part of our research into advanced technologies, we create virtual worlds implemented in the form of virtual and augmented reality. Projected simulations present current and real sceneries and allow to model the shape of geospatial space based on actual measured data.

Gamification

In the Department of Geoinformatics, we are developing worlds with gamification features that enhance the attractiveness of the presented geospatial data and can be used for teaching or presenting advanced topics to the public. We develop simulation games that motivate users to participate and learn about aspects of the world around us.