Graphics Evolution at Boeing
March 19, 2013, GPU Technology Conference, San Jose, CA—David Kasik and
Christopher J Senesac from Boeing described the changing nature of computer graphics at their company. Boeing has had substantial influence on the fields of computer graphics, interactive techniques, and computational geometry since 1960.
Boeing is involved in a wide range of technologies from basic physics, to networking, to computing, to materials science, and a host of other functions. In this work, they generate terabytes of data, and need advanced visual analysis techniques to derive insights. The dynamics of compute continue to exponentially increase data volumes, and no much of the data is incomprehensible.
Visualization provides the broadest communications channel to the human brain, which must process those data to gain insight. Visual task analysis proceeds through a number of steps including finding an object, determining the object characteristics, compare those characteristics to neighboring objects, and find anomalies in patterns.
In the past, their work included non-uniform rational b-spline geometry, user interface management systems, fractals, visual analytics, massive model visualization, nurbs algorithms, and augmented reality. Now, they are making extensive use of visualization and computer graphics. Most of the visualization sessions are interactive with model load times of a minute, response times approaching 16 Hz, and graphic feedback appearing in under a quarter of a second.
Data analysis involves the an examination of any size and number of data collections, and analytics is the science behind analysis. Visual analytics is an emerging class of analysis tool, and the types of analysis require different tools. These tools allow rapid exploration of large, complex data sets to detect the expected and discover the unexpected. The ongoing challenge is the data scope.
Now some of these tools are being used for functions like parts information management, worker safety, 3-D work instructions and others. The high-end visualization functions are being applied to design and manufacturing where massive 3-D scans and large parts databases are merged for the production of the latest airplanes like the 787.
The first wave of computer graphics started in the early 60s with CAD/CAM. From about 1985, these functions move to art and entertainment. The next wave may work with display technologies beyond pixels, higher order primitives than geometry, and emphasis on complete graphic systems including input, output, applications, and data.
Of note is that the range of screen sizes calls for a range of interfaces. Small screens are not the same as 10 to 20 inch GUIs, which differ from large screens. These interfaces must accommodate all users from novice to expert and must facilitate their collaborations.
Although they have been using 3-D graphics since the late 80s, they still have to support mixed 2-D and 3-D documentation. Design must pay attention to downstream use, and
3-D data has implications for long-term data retention. Easy data access is a challenge since the visual vocabulary is still emerging and text analysis is difficult.
Trends driving computer graphics include immersive virtual reality and more mobile devices. Augmented reality and analytics are gaining momentum, while you’ll see few large screens installations since most people for working at their desk. In addition, staff moves frequently as globally dispersed. Stereo and immersive technologies are trying to penetrate various areas in companies, but it’s not clear if they will. The input method gap across device classes is growing as new user interfaces emerge.
Costs will continue to drop, but probably not as fast as data volume increases. The different input techniques for ranges of screen sizes have different vocabularies and affect both software and users and also cause problems for both thick and thin clients. Large screens require cumbersome hardware for user interfaces, or a dedicated operator. Stereo could be a problem for some users, especially in long sessions.
