In this paper

an algorithm to rapidly generate adaptive LOD digital terrain model is presented. In the beginning

different methods to generate LOD digital terrain model are investigated. The design of the algorithm is Based on the quad-tree. The most important advantage of the algorithm is its ability to generate terrain model adaptively and quickly. The algorithm can generate various terrain model according to change of the original terrain model

the view direction

the view distance

and the capability of the display device. The algorithm can quickly changes between different LOD terrain models smoothly. The detail description of its design is presented in the paper

Moreover

the key functions of the algorithm are also provided in the paper. At the last part of the paper

two digital terrain model of Xiamen area on different LOD terrain models generated by the algorithm are illustrated

moreover

the time complex analysis for the algorithm is also presented. The theoretical analysis and practical testing show that the algorithm has good adaptive characteristic

and the algorithm can meet the needs of browsing and interacting with huge DTM nearly real-time.