In the last several weeks, we've developed a new workflow for visualizing 3D simulation results in virtual reality (VR). Until now, our endeavors in immersive 3D visualization have required the hardware and technical support of a 3D CAVE, but with recent advances in virtual reality we can now get the same experience in our lab. Our workflow is based on the ParaView data analysis and visualization application, which offers a built-in plugin for OpenVR. By combining ParaView with the SteamVR engine, we can now do fully immersive 3D renderings in VR with the Oculus Rift.
Left: Richard Jayne experimenting with the Oculus Rift system by navigating a 3D model of oilfield wastewater disposal.
Below: VT Geosciences Department Head, Steve Holbrook, reliving his ascent up Half Dome in Yosemite National Park using Google Earth VR.
Special thanks to Gary Glesener and Luca Fedele for allowing us a long term loan of the Oculus Rift system.
And another big thanks to our Department Head, Steve Holbrook, for upgrading the graphics card in our computer. And we can't forget Jim Langridge for his assistance with the hardware upgrade.
We're really excited about this system & we're now looking for interesting data sets in the geosciences. If you have anything to share, please send a note through the Contact Me page on this website.