Multivariate Visualization on Parametric Surfaces

Abstract

Attribute Blocks are the basis of a multivariate visualization scheme that has been shown to be effective for two-dimensional data sets such as those common in Geographical Information System (GIS) applications. In this paper, we present an extension of this technique into three dimensions. Specifically, we show how the variation of multiple attributes defined continuously across a parametric surface can be explored using the Attribute Block technique. Any combination of geometric and/or non-geometric attributes can be visualized in this way. We present the method and illustrate it with a few simple examples including the visualization of purely geometric surface differential properties as well as the visualization of non-geometric properties such as the variation of temperature and stress across the surface. The method has educational potential as an aid to help students understand surfaces and surface parameterizations. It also has potential as a surface inspection tool to highlight areas of interest from a differential property point of view that might not be obvious from standard surface displays.

Keywords:

• multidimensional visualization
• programmable shaders
• GPU
• CAD education