Résumé: In this paper, we report our ongoing research into multi- sensory investigation of geoscienti .c data. Our geoscienti .c data investigation system ( GDIS) integrates three- dimensional, interactive computer graphics, touch ( haptics) and real- time soni .cation into a multi- sensory virtual environment. GDIS has been used to investigate geological structures derived from high- resolution bathymetry- maps of the Mid- Atlantic Ridge. It helped us obtain improved models of the mega- mullions, which promise to grant insight into the deeper structures of the ocean .oor. Haptic force feedback was used to precisely digitize line- features on three- dimensional morphology and to feel surface properties via varying friction settings; additional, overlapping data can be perceived via sound ( soni .cation) . We also report on the results of a psycho- acoustic study about the absolute recognition of sound signals, and on the actual feedback that we have received from a number of geoscientists during a recent major geoscience conference.

Langue: Anglais