Spatial Interaction for the Post-Processing of 3D CFD Datasets

Abstract

Virtual Reality visualizations are often used for the evaluation of three-dimensional datasets generated by Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) simulations. Several different tracked devices, such as pointers or data gloves, have been employed for spatial interactive post-processing and navigation. However, users utilizing these devices often achieve inaccurate results performing interactive slicing of datasets, a common technique during the assessment of CFD datasets. In our approach, we propose spatial interaction using tablets, which more closely resemble cutting planes, for planar surface extraction in VR environments. In contrast to traditional tracked devices, inside-out tracking of the environment can be achieved using the rear camera of the tablet, helping to make expensive external tracking systems expendable. A user study among novice and expert VR users supports the notion that tablets can be a fast and accurate alternative to traditional spatial input devices in VR environments.