An HSV representation of non-Newtonian, lattice-Boltzmann flows

An approach to modeling and visualization of non-Newtonian flows that is based on lattice-Boltzmann techniques is described. Important advantages over traditional, finite-element methods include the speed and simplicity of the update and the reduced storage, which is linear in the number of nodes. Because the quantities of interest in the solution depend critically upon directional flow densities, a technique for their direct display is suggested. The HSV (hue, saturation, value) color model is a hexcone whose intersection with any plane of constant V > 0 yields a hexagon that matches the isotropic flow grid. Thus, a natural representation emerges. An auxiliary display is provided in which the HSV cone is shown in partial transparency along with the magnitudes of the contributing densities for the pixel currently identified by the cursor. A variation on LIC is suggested to enhance field visualization.