A workflow for viewing biomedical computational fluid dynamics results and corresponding data within virtual and augmented reality environments

Abstract

Researchers conducting computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling can spend weeks obtaining imaging data, determining boundary conditions, running simulations and post-processing files. However, results are typically viewed on a 2D display and often at one point in time thus reducing the dynamic and inherently three-dimensional data to a static image. Results from different pathologic states or cases are rarely compared in real-time, and supplementary data are seldom included. Therefore, only a fraction of CFD results are typically studied in detail, and associations between mechanical stimuli and biological response may be overlooked. Virtual and augmented reality facilitate stereoscopic viewing that may foster extraction of more information from CFD results by taking advantage of improved depth cues, as well as custom content development and interactivity, all within an immersive approach. Our objective was to develop a straightforward, semi-automated workflow for enhanced viewing of CFD results and associated data in an immersive virtual environment (IVE). The workflow supports common CFD software and has been successfully completed by novice users in about an hour, demonstrating its ease of use. Moreover, its utility is demonstrated across clinical research areas and IVE platforms spanning a range of cost and development considerations. We are optimistic that this advancement, which decreases and simplifies the steps to facilitate more widespread use of immersive CFD viewing, will foster more efficient collaboration between engineers and clinicians. Initial clinical feedback is presented, and instructional videos, manuals, templates and sample data are provided online to facilitate adoption by the community.

Development of a Digital Twin Pipeline for Interactive Scientific Simulation and Mixed Reality Visualization

“…It has pros of an immersive environment that matches reality, suitable for any simulations. Solmaz and Gerven [10], Venn et al [11], and Lin et al [12] conducted their XR-CFD studies just in visualization aspects, but not in interactive simulation aspect due to its need of separated specialized authoring tools as well as high computational and network costs. Especially in the aspect of computational modeling technique, several loose approximation models proposed by Stam [13], Nguyen et al [14], Bridson [15] et cetera have been successfully used for interactivity and efficiency.…”