Programme Of Study (Draft)

Programme of Study Title

An investigation into the collaboration between art, science and technology (3d computer graphics and animation) in the field of visualisation.

Project Rationale

My undergraduate study provided a strong understanding of 3D computer graphics, and developed practical experience of the most common areas – including modelling, texturing, lighting, rigging and animation – but did not focus on the various applications of these skills. My intention as a postgraduate student is to continue developing skills as a digital artist (working with advanced 3D techniques) and apply skills in 3D computer graphics to research into visualisation. This research is important because 3D computer graphics and animation can now be used to communicate complex ideas (often medical or scientific) to an audience who is not trained in the relevant area, using more user-friendly visual methods of displaying information/data.

Aims

The aim of this research is to explore the use of 3D computer graphics and animation, in the field of visualisation.

Objectives

To explore relevant examples of visualisation which use 3d computer graphics (to help communicate their message).

To research the tools and techniques used in creating 3d computer graphics for visualisation purposes.

To create 3d computer graphics that can communicate scientific data sets, using more visual methods.

To identify the benefits of using 3d computer graphics in visualising complex scientific data.

To explore future applications of 3d computer graphics as a beneficial visualisation tool.

Research Strategy

Research examples of visualisation, which make use of 3D computer graphics, and explore how the use of 3D has improved visual communication of complex information. Sources will include related books, academic journals and conference papers (such as SIGGRAPH). Online examples of visualisation will also provide a sense of what is currently being done, and how. All research will be documented and reviewed as part of the final written deliverable.

Research will be supported with practice-based learning – exploring the tools and techniques used in creating 3D computer graphics for visualisation. This could include exploring advanced techniques in Autodesk Maya, such as using dynamics, particles, and MEL scripting to further skills as a digital artist (dependant upon research project). Additional skills in rendering complex scenes and compositing may also be required.

Although the University will offer some classes, self-directed learning will be part of developing technical abilities – undertaking tutorials from books/DVDs/online articles.

All personal development will be reinforced by creating examples of the methods and techniques used in visualisation, which will potentially applied as part of a directed visualisation research project.

Undertaking a collaborative visualisation research project will provide opportunities to develop the necessary understanding of communicating complex ideas visually, and showcase technical skills in 3D computer graphics and animation - whilst working towards a brief, and within a group dynamic. This work will potentially open up new areas for future development or continuing research beyond Masters level.

Expected Outcome(s)

Strong technical toolset, suited to continuing research into visualisation.

Depth of knowledge in using 3D computer graphics for visualisation.

Series of short video clips, generated from collaborative visualisation projects.

Schedule

Stage 1 - Develop personal skills and understanding, relevant to the field of visualisation.

Stage 2 - Apply knowledge to working with scientific data using 3d computer graphics.

Stage 3 - Critically evaluate the outcome of all learning and collaborative projects.

(these stages do not necessarily represent semesters, and may be cycled for multiple short projects if necessary)

Key Challenges and Issues

Developing a wide range of abilities in a limited amount of time.

Collaboration with other (non-artistic) disciplines – essential for gathering information for visualisation, however difficulties in communication can hinder progress.

Resources

Access to both online tutorials (e.g. Digital Tutors) and offline (e.g. Gnomon Workshop DVDs)

Availability of books/papers/journals/etc. (e.g. In Silico, Studio Projects)

Scientific data-sets generated by collaborative teams (e.g. cell visualisation alongside mathematics division)

Reference Materials

Palamar, T., (2010), Maya studio projects: Dynamics, Hoboken, N.J.: Wiley

Sharpe, J., (2008), In Silico: 3D animation and simulation of cell biology with Maya and MEL, London: Morgan Kauffman