mConvShellTex is a Python visualization package for rendering 3D mantle convection simulations. It utilizes 3D cartographic projection and shell texturing to create novel visualizations of mantle dynamics.
- 3D Cartographic Projection: Transforms latitude and longitude coordinates onto a 2D ellipse while using simulation radius as height (e.g., Coppin P.W. 2021). This projection reduces occlusion and enhances the visibility of internal structures.
- Shell Texturing: Visualizes isosurfaces by computing 2D temperature contours at multiple radial shell levels, assigning color variations to improve depth perception (e.g.,
GarrettGunnell/Shell-Texturing).
Each frame of the visualization represents a time step of the simulation, showing surfaces of equal temperature at different depths. The color scheme helps distinguish vertical layering, making it easier to interpret mantle convection patterns.
Rotation can also be added:
This package received an honorable mention in the Acerola Shell Texturing Graphics Competition for its innovative use of volumetric rendering in geophysical visualization.
See here for the highlight: timestamp.
Use the requirements file to install the required dependencies:
pip install -r requirements.txt
To make visualizations, you will need to download the mantle convection dataset: