An advection-reaction model for flow visualization

Abstract

A new method is presented for flow visualization based on an advection reaction model. The key point of the method is to use a flow dependent reaction source which couples advection and reaction dynamics. When embedded in semi-Lagrangian advection this reaction source provides systematic pattern generation and integration along pathlines. Based on this idea and a very simple equation with a stable and efficient numerical solution, a visualization model is developed which allows visualization of both Lagrangian and Eulerian structures in a flexible environment and with user control. This system also allows the emulation of conventional dense texture and reaction-diffusion type visualization techniques easily and provides solutions to the problems in these methods.