Once assembled, the visual module network can be e-mailed to other users, or used to create a custom application embedded into another software system. We have taken the technical lead in European projects to develop cooperative visualization and to make use of virtual reality to offer better 3-D visualization. Starting from scratch would need excessive time and effort. Building on an existing system is attractive, but relies on that system being flexible with well-defined interfaces. Visualization technology is on an innovative path right along with the scientific instruments.
Synchrotrons are the highest power sources of X-rays in the world.
The X-rays are produced when a beam of electrons is bent by magnets as it travels at very high speed. The new system will provide scientists with a unique instrument to investigate complex atomic and molecular structures of all types of physical and biological materials, from proteins to ceramics. The new source will open the way for new magnetic storage media that will find widespread applications throughout computing and data storage industries. Once inside the details of the advanced magnet designs, researchers can ensure the success of today's or future scientific instruments. Similar techniques are employed to visualize microwave antenna patterns at Agilent Technologies and design new stealth aircraft at BAE Systems.