COMPUTER GRAPHICS IN SIMULATION OF CARDIOVASCULAR TRANSPORT PHENOMENA

Simulation is a necessary tool if we are to understand better the complexities involved in cardiovascular transport. While some of the phenomena modeled can be described analytically, perusal of the equations alone often doesn't result in full appreciation of the model system. It therefore becomes pertinent to utilize computer graphics in order to enhance simulation of physiologic transport processes. Graphic representation not only facilitates interaction between the investigator and the simulation, it provides a juxtaposition of the model to the real system, as well as a simplification of relationships between various features of the model.Increased mathematical sophistication required in the investigation of cardiovascular transport phenomena often makes traditional graphic representation cumbersome. Therefore several different types of graphics have been utilized, including 2-, 3-, and 4-dimensional displays. The methods and algorithms for these displays have been generalized to make them easy to use over a broad spectrum of applications. In some cases we have generated motion pictures of sequential model solutions which have increased and accelerated model comprehension, as well as been valuable for teaching purposes.