Data Animator — Software that Visualizes Data as Computer-Generated Animation on Personal Computers: an Application to Hamilton Harbour

Abstract

Abstract Data Animator, V1.0, is a scientific visualization package for microcomputers. Its main purpose is to generate two-dimensional animations from any data set collected over time. Geographical references such as a shore and/or bathymetry information, etc., may be added for additional clarity. Visualization of data as animations greatly simplifies the interpretation of field measurements. Data Animator is designed (but not restricted) to display data collected in aquatic environments, lakes, rivers, estuaries, oceans, etc., in a clear, concise way using colour to represent ranges of data values. Data sets can also be displayed as static images (keyframes). A graphic user interface allows the user to choose viewpoint, fonts, colour palette, data and keyframes. All Data Animator's options can be accessed through a graphical user interface (GUI). Point-and-click mouse operations allow the user to manipulate many features, with immediate on-screen feedback. Animations are generated by defining keyframes of known data, each located at a specific time. The program can then interpolate over time, between keyframes, to create smoothly animated transitions (in-between frames). Two types of graphs can be rendered with Data Animator. Plane-type graphs are horizontal slices at a depth specified by the user. Transect-type graphs are vertical slices along a straight line defined by the user. Data Animator can make use of both shore outline information and three-dimensional bathymetry information. This allows for the generation of realistic-looking graphs that follow the shape of the aquatic environment. Animations can be displayed on a computer monitor or transferred to video tape. pH data from Hamilton Harbour have been visualized and the results are discussed.