Project Title:

Real-Time Visualization Tool For Windows (RT*Viz)

94-1	07.05	4454		

Real-Time Visualization Tool For Windows (RT*Viz)

Abstract:

There is an urgent need for a low-cost, real-time 3D 
visualization tool that can support animation and virtual reality 
requirements on Personal Computers (PCs) running Microsoft 
Windows. The objective of this effort is to develop a high 
fidelity visualization tool for PC applications that can achieve 
the performance of software running on current Unix workstations. 
This effort will apply unique polygon preprocessing algorithms to 
improve the processing efficiency on the PC by adjusting the 
fidelity used to generate 3D images. The algorithm coupled with 
the advent of higher performance PC processors and commercial 
imaging software makes it possible to generate high fidelity 
animation on the PC.
The product of this effort, Real-Time Visualization Tool for 
Windows (RT*Viz), will address NASA needs for software that can 
support interactive three dimensional animation of 
multidimensional data sets and virtual reality applications. The 
Phase I effort will design the software and produce a 
demonstration of RT*VIZ polygon preprocessing techniques and 
commercial imaging software on a latest generation PC to be 
provided by S*R. The Phase II program will complete the 
functionality of RT*VIZ and improve the image processing 
performance through optimization of the preprocessing algorithms.

RT*Viz will provide a much needed, PC-based visualization tool 
that can satisfy a wide range of scientific domains in both the 
government and private sector. RT*Viz will expand the application 
of animation for applications that currently cannot afford high 
end workstations. S*R market research indicates that a product 
with the features of RT*Viz is currently not available. Rapid 
transition into Phase II and Phase III could address a market 
potential of millions of copies.

Key Words

Spectra Research Inc. 
7071 Corporate Way, Suite 108 
Dayton, OH 45459