What is a 3D shadow simulation?
A shadow simulation lets you analyse how buildings cast shadows throughout the day and year. The application calculates the sun’s position in real time and projects shadows onto buildings, roads, water and public spaces.
The technology combines:
- 3D buildings
- Real-time sun position
- Digital twins
- WebGL rendering
- 3D BAG data
- PDOK aerial imagery
- Three.js
✓ Sun positions by date and time
✓ Interactive 3D visualisation
✓ Suitable for urban planning and architecture
✓ Digital twin technology
Analyse shadows cast by buildings
See how tall buildings affect sunlight and sun exposure in Dutch cities. Analyse shadows around homes, public spaces, parks and infrastructure.
Real-time sun simulation
The application uses astronomical calculations of the sun’s position to simulate shadows accurately. Explore different times, seasons and sun positions in an interactive 3D environment.
- Sunrise and sunset
- Seasonal effects
- Daily movement of shadows
- Sun exposure of buildings
- Effects of tall buildings
Digital twins for urban analysis
Digital twins make it possible to analyse cities digitally. Shadow simulations help municipalities, architects and urban planners better understand the impact of construction projects.
The technology supports:
- Urban planning studies
- Architectural visualisation
- Sustainable design
- Liveability assessments
- Smart city applications
Applications of shadow analysis
- New construction projects
- High-rise building analysis
- Sunlight studies
- Public space design
- Sustainability and energy
- Solar panel analysis
- Virtual city models
- 3D GIS visualisation
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a shadow simulation work?
The application calculates the position of the sun in real time and projects shadows onto 3D buildings and terrain models.
Can I simulate different times?
Yes. You can analyse different times, days and seasons to study shadow patterns.
Does the application use real 3D buildings?
Yes. The viewer uses real 3D buildings and geospatial data from the Netherlands.
Who can benefit from shadow analysis?
Shadow analysis is useful for municipalities, architects, property developers, urban planners and researchers.
Start the 3D Shadow Simulation
Discover how buildings affect sunlight and shadows in the Netherlands with interactive 3D simulations.