Author(s): Matthew O. Ward, Computer Science Department, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA 01609

Source: Computer Graphics, Vol. 26, No. 3, August, 1992 (in "Scientific Visualization: Snapshots from the Field", by Susan Mair).

Abstract: Visualization research at W.P.I. evolved out of a series of interdisciplinary discussions during the summer of 1989. Faculty from the departments of Biology and Biotechnology, and from Chemical, Civil, Electrical, and Mechanical Engineering each identified problem areas in which they felt obtaining a qualitative "feel" for the data and processes with which they worked might potentially lead to better understanding. This in turn might provide insights into setting directions for further quantitative analysis or experimental work. The range of these problems spanned such areas as genetic sequence analysis, chemical separation, crystal growth monitoring, global positioning, and analysis of pavement materials. Prototype visualization techniques to address these areas were developed and evaluated, and the most promising results were the focus of the research efforts of several faculty and graduate students over the next few years. Some have confined themselves to a single application area, but most have been generalized to a variety of domains. A few of these efforts are outlined below.