Transparent Reality

Transparent Reality (TR) is a computerized display technique that combines visualization and simulation.

It borrows from visualization the use of mental models and from simulation real-time interactivity driven by mathematical models. TR simulation is implemented graphically on displays such as computer monitors and LCD projection systems by building the simulation upon a graphic mental model. Transparent reality is especially suited to represent abstract and invisible functions, processes (such as gas flow) and concepts (pharmacokinetic compartments) with visible symbols and icons that users can adjust via standard pointing devices such as mice and trackballs. Users can then visualize in real time the essential effects of their interventions. TR is a computer simulation that runs on standard personal computers and current web browsers and does not require haptic feedback, 3D representations and heads-up displays. It has been disseminated mainly via the web.

Animation (such as in cartoons and in Powerpoint) creates the illusion of movement by rapidly displaying a set of graphics arranged in a given sequence. In animation, there is no interactivity in the sense that a user cannot alter the pre-set animation sequence. TR is an interactive graphical simulation that uses mathematical models to drive the animations that form part of the simulation. At any time, users can interact with the simulation and visualize in real time how their actions alter the simulation.

A concrete example of Transparent Reality is the free Virtual Fabius GS simulation where users can adjust a high fidelity user interface of an anesthesia machine with a standard pointing device and visualize the results of their actions on the flow of color-coded icons representing gas molecules.

In the Horizon Report 2006, a joint project of New Media Consortium and EDUCAUSE Learning Initiative, transparent reality is identified as one of the emerging technologies in the group "Augmented Reality and Enhanced Visualization" that is 4 - 5 years away from adoption. TR is not a form of Augmented Reality (AR). Unlike AR, TR does not attempt to produce a realistic appearance or overlay additional data upon reality. The focus is on mental model formation.

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