Enhancing interactive particle visualization with advanced shading models

Particle-based simulation methods are used to model a wide range of complex phenomena and to solve time-dependent problems of various scales. Effective visualization of the resulting state should communicate subtle changes in the three-dimensional structure, spatial organization, and qualitative trends within a simulation as it evolves. We take steps toward understanding and using advanced shading models in the context of interactive particle visualization. Specifically, the impact of ambient occlusion and physically based diffuse interreflection is investigated using a formal user study. We find that these shading models provide additional visual cues that enable viewers to better understand subtle features within particle datasets. We also describe a visualization process that enables interactive navigation and exploration of large particle datasets, rendered with illumination effects from advanced shading models. Informal feedback from application scientists indicates that the results of this process enhance the data analysis tasks necessary for understanding complex particle datasets.

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