title: Topological segmentation in three-dimensional vector fields.
abstract: We present a new method for topological segmentation in steady three-dimensional vector fields. Depending on desired properties, the algorithm replaces the original vector field by a derived segmented data set, which is utilized to produce separating surfaces in the vector field. We define the concept of a segmented data set, develop methods that produce the segmented data by sampling the vector field with streamlines, and describe algorithms that generate the separating surfaces. This method is applied to generate local separatrices in the field, defined by a movable boundary region placed in the field. The resulting partitions can be visualized using standard techniques for a visualization of a vector field at a higher level of abstraction.
authors.affiliation: Center for Image Processing and Integrated Computing, Computer Science Department, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA. kmmahrous@ucdavis.edu
authors.forename: Karim
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Mahrous
authors.forename: Janine
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Bennett
authors.forename: Gerik
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Scheuermann
authors.forename: Bernd
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Hamann
authors.forename: Kenneth I
authors.initials: KI
authors.lastname: Joy
mesh_terms: D000465:Algorithms; D003196:Computer Graphics; D003198:Computer Simulation; D007089:Image Enhancement / Q000379:methods*; D007090:Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods*; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional / Q000379:methods*; D016247:Information Storage and Retrieval / Q000379:methods; D009716:Numerical Analysis, Computer-Assisted; D010363:Pattern Recognition, Automated; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012212:Rheology / Q000379:methods; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D012815:Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted; D014584:User-Computer Interface; D014741:Video Recording / Q000379:methods*