Data-Driven Flow Visualization

Project Overview

This research focuses on the visualization of large-scale natural fluid phenomena such as tornadoes and tsunamis. By importing real-world simulation or observational datasets into Houdini, we create volumetric, particle-based, and procedural representations that capture the complexity of these flows. The project bridges scientific computing, fluid simulation, and computer graphics, allowing both analysis and visually compelling outputs.

Data Sources

• Simulation datasets from meteorological and geophysical models (velocity, pressure, vorticity fields)
• NOAA and other public oceanographic and atmospheric datasets
• High-resolution terrain and topography maps for realistic wave propagation

The project emphasizes procedural interpretation of real data, maintaining scientific accuracy while allowing creative exploration of flows and patterns.

Methodology

• Importing 3D flow field data into Houdini for volumetric and particle-based visualization
• Generating streamlines, pathlines, and particle trajectories for tornado or tsunami simulation
• Applying procedural solvers (air interaction, whitewater/foam generation) to enhance realism
• Using density fields, vector arrows, and adaptive particle refinement to emphasize key flow structures

Visualization Examples

Data-driven flow fields visualized using procedural Houdini solvers and volumetric rendering techniques.

Research Impact

This project serves multiple purposes:

• Scientific: allows intuitive understanding of complex tornado and tsunami dynamics
• Technical: demonstrates procedural solver frameworks for large-scale data visualization
• Creative: provides cinematic and visually engaging representations of natural phenomena

Collaboration & Opportunities

Vedha Studios R&D welcomes collaboration with researchers in computational fluid dynamics, scientific visualization, and data-driven graphics. Contact: research@vedhastudios.ca