DOI: https://doi.org/10.15368/theses.2010.114
Available at: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/theses/348
Date of Award
6-2010
Degree Name
MS in Computer Science
Department/Program
Computer Science
Advisor
Zoë J. Wood
Abstract
Scientific visualization computer applications generate visual representations of large and complex sets of science data. These types of applications allow scientists to gain greater knowledge and insight into their data. For example, the visualization of environmental data is of particular interest to biologists when trying to understand how complex variables interact. Modern robotics and sensors have expanded the ability to collect environmental data, thus, the size and variety of these data-sets have likewise grown. Oftentimes, the collected data are deposited into files and databases where they sit in their separate and unique formats. Without easy to use visualization tools, it is difficult to understand and interpret the information within these data-sets.
NORUS, the North America-Norway educational program, has a scientific focus on how climate-induced changes impact the living resources and ecosystems in the Arctic. In order to obtain the necessary science data, the NORUS program utilizes the Slocum Glider, a form of Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV). This thesis aims to create a compelling, efficient, and easy to use interactive system for visualizing large sets of science data collected by the Slocum Glider. This goal is obtained through the implementation of various methods taken from scientific visualization, real time rendering, and scattered data interpolation. Methods include visualizations of the surrounding terrain, the ability to map various science data to glyphs, control over color mapping, scattered data interpolation and interactive camera control.