Visualization of Time-Varying Features

Accurate feature detection in both imagery (scalar data) and model output (scalar and vector data) is required to verify model accuracy based on real, observed conditions. After applying an appropriate feature detection algorithm, modelers would like to see the features represented visually. Merely having a list of features and corresponding statistical information can be useful, but viewing the features graphically and employing a simple point-and-click GUI for selecting, highlighting, and editing a feature is preferable. It can be useful to both focus on an individual feature and to show a feature in context with other features. With this in mind, we have developed EddyInfo for Ocean Modelers. EddyInfo allows for visualizing and editing eddies. It was designed around the time-varying component of our eddy detection results and currently contains three windows: a main graphics window, a spreadsheet window, and an information window. While the results we present here are in the context of eddies, EddyInfo´s methodologies could be applied to other applications.