Description: Volumetric data are three-dimensional representations that store information about the internal structure of an object or phenomenon. Unlike traditional 3D models, which are based on surfaces and polygons, volumetric data use a grid of points in three-dimensional space, where each point contains information about physical properties such as density, temperature, or color. This technique allows for richer and more detailed visualization, especially in contexts where understanding internal structure is crucial, such as in medicine or materials science. Volumetric data are fundamental in modern computer graphics, as they enable the simulation and rendering of complex scenes with a high degree of realism. Additionally, their ability to represent data in three dimensions makes them ideal for applications requiring analysis and visualization of scientific data, such as computed tomography or the visualization of physical simulations. In summary, volumetric data are a powerful tool in computer graphics, providing a way to effectively represent and analyze three-dimensional information in a visually impactful manner.
History: Volumetric data began to gain relevance in the 1980s with the development of medical visualization techniques, especially in computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). As computer processing power increased, so did the complexity of volumetric models. In the 1990s, volumetric visualization became popular in the scientific and engineering communities, driven by advances in rendering algorithms and graphics hardware. The introduction of techniques such as ray casting and ray marching allowed for more efficient and realistic representation of volumetric data, leading to its adoption in various disciplines, from meteorology to biology.
Uses: Volumetric data are used in a variety of fields, including medicine, where they are essential for visualizing medical images such as CT and MRI scans. They are also applied in the simulation of physical phenomena, such as fluid dynamics and meteorology, allowing scientists to model and visualize complex patterns. In the entertainment industry, volumetric data are used in the creation of visual effects and in video games to simulate realistic environments. Additionally, in engineering, they are useful for analyzing materials and structures, facilitating the understanding of their behavior under different conditions.
Examples: An example of volumetric data in medicine is the visualization of a CT scan, where internal structures of the human body can be observed in 3D. In fluid simulation, volumetric data allow for the representation of water flow in a virtual environment, showing how it interacts with objects. In the realm of video games, titles like ‘No Man’s Sky’ use volumetric data to create expansive and detailed landscapes and environments. Another example can be found in scientific visualization, where volumetric data are used to represent temperature distribution in climate models.
