In order to visualize a vector field in a three-dimensional virtual reality environment, a generalization of the streamline visualization method is proposed. In this method, multiple streamlines are traced in real-time. The seed points of the lines are placed on a virtual beam emitted from a portable controller. As one varies the position and direction of the controller by hand, the beam and therefore the seed points follow the motion, and the streamlines change their three-dimensional shape in real-time.

We propose an interactive timeline method for a three-dimensional vector field. In contrast to the usual timeline method applied to experimentally obtained flows, the proposed method is intended for application to the visualization of computer-generated vector fields by various simulations. Based on a large-scale stereoscopic display technology, one can analyze the target vector field in an environment that is immersive as well as interactive. Timelines are released from a virtual "wire" held by the viewer's hand. The wire can be moved arbitrarily. A sequence of timelines is released from the wire, and their three-dimensional dynamics are observed in the stereoscopic view.