This paper on "Visualisation with Virtual Reality Techniques - A Necessary Link Between Data and User" was presented at the NAFEMS World Congress on The Evolution of Product Simulation From Established Methods to Virtual Testing & Prototyping - 24-28 April 2001, The Grand Hotel, Lake Como, Italy.

Introduction to Paper

The increasing computer performance and advance in simulation techniques makes it possible to produce a large number of simulation results. More and more large scale 3D calculations can be done in an acceptable calculation time. However, large 3D-meshes place high demands on the visualisation software and hardware. A good visualisation is necessary to increase the acceptance of numerical simulation. This paper describes novel visualisation techniques developed for the requirements of tunnelling and geomechanics. One of these methods is to display 3D-scalar-fields, in a way, that enables the user to see important information clearly. Fuzzy geological structures (shear-bands) or areas of plasticity can be pictured very well with this method. For the visualisation values are not required on a regular grid of points as it is the case in FEM or BEM simulation. Therefore results from measurements can also be visualised. Real-time-rendering and user-friendliness increase the benefit of such techniques. Simulation or measurement results are seen immediately and changing display options is possible in real-time. The use of specialised hardware, like a spaceball for the purpose of navigation makes the system easy to use. A head mounted display including tracking system completes the virtual reality environment.