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Goh Seng Yuen Marcus (4S206) Chan Tuck Ging (4S105) Wong Tuck Wing Ryan (4S231)
 * __Group 5:__**


 * __Overview of project:__**

//Source: http://www.jfkislanders.com/docs/GWevacuation/GWfireevacuation_Page_1.jpg//
 * Overview of current method**

The current method of educating students how to evacuate from the buildings is about showing a 2D map of the school with arrows at to where to head towards, considering the path(s) that the obstacle (fire etc) blocks. This method can be rather unreliable as it is just telling the students the direction to move to when an emergency occurs, and also only telling them that they must move down the stairs at certain places, but the actual visual aid is not there, thus the students may be unable to visualise exactly where they should move, and also unable to visualise exactly which areas is inaccessible due to the obstacle being present.


 * Overview of 3D method

media type="youtube" key="7hmq1u0vk-M" width="425" height="350"** Our project's outcome will be similar to this, but we will not be focusing too much on animation of the students. Instead, simple shapes will represent them. Also, we will be focusing on a path from a particular location of the school, from the start till the end, instead of evacuation from just one location as shown in the video.

This 3D method of educating students on how to evacuate in cases of emergency is believed to be much more effective. As effective education of evacuation would means less lives lost in the case of emergencies, we see a need in this. We would first model the whole of Hwa Chong Institution and simulate a fire at different places, and how students from all around the school should evacuate from the buildings. As such, through this simulation, students can have a better understanding of the procedure. Besides, having such a video, it can be constantly played around the school and leave a deep memory within the student's mind, so they will not panic and know what to do in times of emergency. The end product of this project is a 3D model of Hwa Chong Institution, with a simulation. The effectiveness of this product will be tested on students, by conducting surveys, and also conducting experimental tests (allowing students to watch it and simulate in real life a fire).


 * __Advantages and Disadvantages of using 3D modelling__**


 * Advantages**

3D modelling allows more flexibility, since it offers the ability to change angles or animate images with quicker rendering of the changes. Rendering is also easier. 3D modelling involves automatic calculation and rendering photorealistic effects rather than mentally visualizing or estimating. 3D modelling also allows more accurate photorealism. There is less chance of human errors, in misplacing, overdoing, or forgetting to include a visual effect. A 3D model can also acts as quality control, since using 3D modelling avoids building the real thing with mistakes which cost major amounts of time and money to correct later. Effectiveness is also increased. This is because a 3D model naturally captures more attention as it is more realistic. Thus, information is retained by the viewer for a longer period of time and with greater accuracy. Moreover, 3D modelling offers convenience. For example, 3D animations can be used to re-create an event, which is either too expensive or too dangerous to reproduce, such as aircraft accidents. It also allows scenes which have been altered or which no longer exist to be easily re-created, such as demolished buildings.


 * Disadvantages**

Although 3D modelling brings a large range of benefits, there are still certain drawbacks to the use of 3D modelling. Firstly, the software learning curve has to be taken into account. 3D modelling programs generally have a steep learning curve. This means that 3D modelling is hard to learn, and hard to attain the level of mastery. Moreover, achieving certain photorealistic effects may be difficult. Due to the steep learning curve, creating lifelike models may be difficult, and a lot of practice would be required. Last but not least, costs of 3D modelling software are high, especially for people purchasing the software only for personal use and not purchasing in bulk for the company.


 * Conclusion**

The advantages of 3D modelling clearly outnumber the disadvantages by a landslide. Thus, using 3D modelling will give more benefits.


 * __Timeline__**
 * __Limitations__**

Number of people we can find to carry out our effectiveness test.


 * __Future enhancements:__**

Simulations of fire or other obstacles at other spots can be done so that students can be taught the alternative routes in case the pre-defined one is blocked up.


 * __References:__**

[1] Compared to 2D Methods. Available online at: [] [2] The Ekho Institute. Advantages of Designing with 3D AutoCAD. Available online at: [] [3] Orient InfoSolutions. Advantages of 3d Modeling and Animation. Available online at: [] [4] flatpyramid (2008). 2D versus 3D Modeling Methods. 1-3. Available online at: [] [5] DDA. Bid Farewell to 2D Modeling and Say Hello to 3D Modeling. Available online at: []