Visualizing 3D time-dependent foam simulation data

Abstract

Liquid foams have important practical applications in mineral separation and oil recovery. However, the details of the foam mechanics in these applications are poorly understood. Foam scientists have used 2D foam simulations to model foam behavior and 2D visualization solutions have helped them explore and analyze their data. Three-dimensional foam simulations remove some of the simplifying assumptions made in 2D so they should provide better approximations of reality. Yet no foam specific 3D visualization tools exist. We describe a software tool for the exploration, visualization and analysis of time-dependent 3D foam simulation data. We present feedback from domain experts and new insights into foam behavior obtained using our tool. © 2013 Springer-Verlag.