Orthogonal Three-Mirror Visualization Method

Abstract

We propose a novel visualization technique, the Orthogonal Three-Mirror Visualization Method, to intuitively understand three-dimensional structures obtained from 3D simulations, particularly vector fields such as velocity and magnetic fields. This method places three mutually orthogonal virtual mirrors behind the simulation domain. In addition to the standard front-facing image, mirrored visualizations are simultaneously presented in the left, right, and bottom mirrors. This enables users to intuitively perceive the whole 3D structure of the target field from a single viewpoint. The method takes advantage of the human ability, developed through daily experience, to naturally interpret three-dimensional spatial structures by observing mirror images. We describe the implementation of this method and demonstrate its effectiveness through application examples using flow field data in tetrahedral and cubic domains.