Large-scale comparative visualisation of sets of multidimensional data
This system addresses the need for collaborative and versatile data exploration tools for scientists working with complex datasets, though it appears incremental as an extension of previous comparative visualization systems.
The researchers tackled the problem of comparative visualization and analysis of large multidimensional datasets by developing encube, a system that integrates visualization, analysis, and documentation into a unified platform for both immersive and desktop environments, demonstrating its operation in a hybrid supercomputing setup and showing potential to accelerate discovery rates.
We present encube $-$ a qualitative, quantitative and comparative visualisation and analysis system, with application to high-resolution, immersive three-dimensional environments and desktop displays. encube extends previous comparative visualisation systems by considering: 1) the integration of comparative visualisation and analysis into a unified system; 2) the documentation of the discovery process; and 3) an approach that enables scientists to continue the research process once back at their desktop. Our solution enables tablets, smartphones or laptops to be used as interaction units for manipulating, organising, and querying data. We highlight the modularity of encube, allowing additional functionalities to be included as required. Additionally, our approach supports a high level of collaboration within the physical environment. We show how our implementation of encube operates in a large-scale, hybrid visualisation and supercomputing environment using the CAVE2 at Monash University, and on a local desktop, making it a versatile solution. We discuss how our approach can help accelerate the discovery rate in a variety of research scenarios.