2D Vector Field Visualization Using Furlike Texture

This paper presents a new technique for 2D vector field visualization. Our approach is based on the use of a furlike texture. For this purpose, we have first developed a texture model that allows two dimensional synthesis of 3D furlike texture. The technique is based on a non stationary two dimensional Autoregressive synthesis (2D AR). The texture generator allows local control of orientation and length of the synthesized texture (the orientation and length of filaments). This texture model is then used to represent 2D vector fields. We can use orientation, length, density and color attributes of our furlike texture to visualize local orientation and magnitude of a 2D vector field. The visual representations produced are satisfying since complete information about local orientation is easily perceived. We will show that the technique can also produce LIC-like texture. In addition, due to the AR formulation, the obtained technique is computationally efficient.