My work in simulation ignited a long-standing fascination with Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The need to create a “God’s Eye View” of simulations led me into the world of maps, spatial data, and the underlying technologies that bring them to life. GIS, with its power to handle large volumes of geospatial data, has proven to be an invaluable tool throughout my career.
In the closed environment of simulation labs, where direct internet access was often restricted, I learned to become self-sufficient in providing map data. This involved sourcing satellite and map imagery from government sources and mastering tools like GDAL to transform this raw data into usable tile formats. Setting up Geoserver instances allowed me to deliver this map data effectively within the simulation environment.
GIS extends beyond just visualizing maps. I’ve used libraries like Java Topology Suite and Proj4j to perform complex spatial calculations. A prime example was in the rail industry, where I translated track coordinates and defined geofence volumes, ensuring the safe operation of trains.
The power of GIS lies in its ability to reveal patterns and connections that might be hidden in raw data. By combining spatial data with other information, like sensor readings or simulation output, we can gain deeper insights into complex systems. Whether it’s optimizing logistics networks, monitoring infrastructure, or planning urban development, GIS has become an essential tool across diverse industries.