Visualizing Plasma Physics Simulations in Immersive Environments
Title:
Visualizing Plasma Physics Simulations in Immersive Environments
Authors:
Nuno Verdelho Trindade, Óscar Amaro, David Brás, Daniel Gonçalves, João Madeiras Pereira, Alfredo Ferreira
Year:
2024
Conference:
19th International Joint Conference on Computer Vision, Imaging and Computer Graphics Theory and Applications - Volume 1 GRAPP, HUCAPP and IVAPP: IVAPP, 645-652, 2024 , Rome, Italy, ISBN 978-989-758-679-8; ISSN 2184-4321, DOI: 10.5220/0012357100003660
Publisher:
SciTePress
URL:
https://visigrapp.scitevents.org/?y=2024
Abstract:
Plasma physics simulations create complex datasets for which researchers need state-of-the-art visualization tools to gain insights. These datasets are 3D in nature but are commonly depicted and analyzed using 2D idioms displayed on 2D screens. These offer limited understandability in a domain where spatial awareness is key. Virtual reality (VR) can be used as an alternative to conventional means for analyzing such datasets. This study presents PlasmaVR, a proof-of-concept VR tool for visualizing datasets resulting from plasma physics simulations. It enables immersive multidimensional data visualization of particles, scalar, and vector fields. The study includes user evaluation with domain experts where PlasmaVR was employed to assess the possible benefits of immersive environments in plasma physics visualization. Participants manifested a high level of engagement when using the prototype, considering it more enjoyable than conventional means. The participant’s perception of the usef ulness of VR in plasma simulations also increased after experiencing the prototype.
Keywords:
virtual reality, immersive visualization, scientific visualization, plasma physics, data analysis