The 3-sided computer animated virtual environment (3D CAVE) at the Institute of Geoscience offers a modern immersive visualization that supports an improved and faster analysis of complex spatial and temporal multi-scale datasets.
Based on nearly 10 years of experience, we focus on a fast data integration / easy-access usability, building on (1) a fast and smooth data / model transfer from standard software to 3-dimensional visualization, and (2) the immediate possibility of discussing and manipulating models with groups up to 10 users directly within the visualization cluster. The setup offers an inspiring and supportive learning environment, allowing professional interaction with 3D data, presentation and training, as well as knowledge transfer with non-experts.
The focus of the lab is to project complex data sets spatially in order to visually analyze data structures and their internal relationships. Simultaneously, sonification and haptification techniques should be used to detect spatiotemporal patterns.
The laboratory comprises a computer cluster and a visualization platform. The computer cluster manages the massive amounts of data, performs calculations and controls the visualization. The visualization platform allows the temporal-spatial representation of the data through special projection technology. Viewers can interact with the projection system and thus grasp the multidimensional relationships. A tracking system with various interactive tools allows this in-situ communication with the data.
In addition to its scientific use, the lab is of central importance for industrial cooperation. Numerous large and medium-sized companies have registered a need to use the lab. In the course of more intensive cooperation, new (third-party funded) projects with industrial participation have been promised. The laboratory is an integral part of the BMBF joint project PROGRESS and is integrated into the pearls and Geo.X research alliances. Financing comes from federal funds.