Problem: Use of 3D modeling, simulation and visualization does not live up to its potential, because of lack of interactivity. This is related both to the lack of interactive applications and the time spent transferring information between software modules. Conversion between representations (e.g., from spline surfaces in CAD to tetrahedral meshes in simulation or triangles in visualization) is challenging, reduces quality, and introduces bottlenecks in the data flow. Work to remove these bottlenecks by unifying representations for 3D modeling and simulation has started, but visualization algorithms for these representations do not exist. Likewise, there is a general lack of interactive simulation and few methods utilize modern hardware architectures such as heterogeneous many-core processors.

Project idea: This project will develop methods for high-quality interactive simulation and visualization of large-scale coherent models on workstations and web-based clients. Novel methods will be developed for simulation on and visualization of exact and compactly stored higher-order models. Technology will be developed to enable web-based clients to interactively visualize cloudbased simulation results. The use of heterogeneous computers will be central for both interactive simulation and visualization.

Industrial benefit: Interactivity from superfast simulation, enhanced quality and ubiquitous availability, gives Norwegian industry a competitive edge in all aspects of decision making.

Funding:  3 year strategic internal research grant, 2010-2013.