Voxler 3 Full Guide

8/10/2019 Voxler 3 Full Guide

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Golden Software, Inc.

QuickStartGuide

2D & 3D Graphing for Scientists,

Engineers & Business Professionals


Full User's Guide


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VoxlerRegistration Information

Your Voxler serial number is located on the CD cover or in the emaildownload instructions, depending on how you purchased Voxler.

Register your Voxlerserial number online atwww.GoldenSoftware.com. Or, complete the Registration Form.PDF,located in the main directory of the installation CD. Return theRegistrationForm.PDFby mail or fax. This information will not be redistributed.

Registration entitles you to free technical support, free minor updates,

and upgrade pricing on future Voxler releases. The serial number isrequired when you run Voxlerthe rst time, contact technical support,or purchase Voxler upgrades.

For future reference, write your serial number on the line below.

_________________________________
http://www.goldensoftware.com/http://www.goldensoftware.com/


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Users Guide

3D Data Visualization


809 14thStreet, Golden, Colorado 80401-1866, U.S.A.

Phone: 303-279-1021 Fax: 303-279-0909

www.GoldenSoftware.com
http://www.goldensoftware.com/http://www.goldensoftware.com/


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COPYRIGHT NOTICE

Copyright Golden Software, Inc. 2012

The VoxlerUsers Guide is furnished under a single user license agreement. Only asingle user may use a single users guide.With the purchase of the Voxler UsersGuide, the user is entitled to download the users guide content to one (1) electronicmedium and print one (1) hardcopy. No part of this document or the related files maybe reproduced or transmitted in any form, by any means (electronic, photocopying,recording, or otherwise) thereafter. Contents are subject to change without notice.

Voxleris a registered trademark of Golden Software, Inc. All other trademarks arethe property of their respective owners.

February 2012


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Contents

Chapter 1 - Introducing Voxler

Introduction to Voxler ..................................................................................... 1

Who Uses Voxler? ....................................................................................... 2

System Requirements ................................................................................. 2

Installation Directions ........................................................................................ 2

Installing Voxler ......................................................................................... 2

Updating Voxler .......................................................................................... 3

Uninstalling Voxler ...................................................................................... 3

A Note About the Documentation ........................................................................ 3

Three-Minute Tour ............................................................................................ 4

View Sample Voxler Files ............................................................................. 4

Using Voxler .............................................................................................. 5

Using Scripter ............................................................................................ 5

Sample Script Files ..................................................................................... 6

Voxler User Interface......................................................................................... 6

Title Bar .................................................................................................... 9

Menu Bar ................................................................................................... 9

Status Bar ................................................................................................. 9

Changing the Window Layout ..................................................................... 10

Tabbed Documents ................................................................................... 15

The Visualization Network .......................................................................... 16

Introduction to Modules ............................................................................. 17

Module Types ........................................................................................... 19

The Network Manager ...................................................................................... 20

Selecting and Deselecting Modules .............................................................. 20

Connecting and Disconnecting Modules ........................................................ 21

Arranging Modules .................................................................................... 21

Moving an Existing Connection .................................................................... 21

Cancelling In-Progress Connection ............................................................... 22

Multiple Input or Output Connections ........................................................... 22

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Right-Click Menu ...................................................................................... 22

Updating the Network ................................................................................ 23

Auto Updating the Network ........................................................................ 23

Network Manager Keyboard Commands ....................................................... 24

Connecting Modules Example ...................................................................... 24

Tips on Working with Modules ..................................................................... 26

The Module Manager ....................................................................................... 27

Show/Hide All Modules .............................................................................. 28

Import .................................................................................................... 29

Samples .................................................................................................. 29

Add Modules to the Network Manager .......................................................... 29

Expand and Collapse Folders ...................................................................... 29

Module Manager Keyboard Commands ......................................................... 30

The Property Manager ..................................................................................... 30

Property Manager Tabs .............................................................................. 30

Applying Property Changes with Auto Update and Update Now ........................ 31

Properties ................................................................................................ 32

Property Manager Controls ......................................................................... 33

Property Manager Keyboard Commands ....................................................... 35

Modules......................................................................................................... 36

Computational Modules .............................................................................. 36

Data Source Modules ................................................................................. 39

General Modules ....................................................................................... 40

Graphics Output ....................................................................................... 41

Getting Help ................................................................................................... 45

Online Help .............................................................................................. 45

Context-Sensitive Help .............................................................................. 45

Internet Resources .................................................................................... 45

Technical Support ........................................................................................... 46

Contact Information ........................................................................................ 46

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Chapter 2 - Tutorial

Tutorial Introduction ....................................................................................... 47

A Note About the Documentation ................................................................ 48

Using the Tutorial with the Demo Version ..................................................... 48

Starting Voxler ............................................................................................... 48

Lesson 1 - Loading Data .................................................................................. 48

Lesson 2 - Creating Graphics Output Modules ..................................................... 51

Creating a Scatter Plot ............................................................................... 51

Adding a Bounding Box .............................................................................. 52

Lesson 3 - Changing Properties ......................................................................... 53

Changing Symbol Colors ............................................................................ 53

Displaying Labels ...................................................................................... 54

Changing the Bounding Box Properties ......................................................... 55

Rotating Graphics ..................................................................................... 56

Lesson 4 - Using Computational Modules ............................................................ 56

Gridding Data ........................................................................................... 57

Creating an Isosurface ............................................................................... 57

Changing the Isosurface Properties ............................................................. 58

A Note About Transparency ........................................................................ 59

Filtering Data ........................................................................................... 59

Lesson 5 - Connecting Multiple Modules ............................................................. 63

Adding Contours ....................................................................................... 63

Changing the Transparency ........................................................................ 64

Lesson 6 - Saving Information .......................................................................... 65

Saving a Network ..................................................................................... 66

Saving Data ............................................................................................. 66

Saving a Graphic ...................................................................................... 67

Copying a Snapshot .................................................................................. 67

Capturing a Video ..................................................................................... 67

Lesson 7 - Importing and Displaying Wells .......................................................... 68

Importing Well Collar Data ......................................................................... 69

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Importing Trajectory Data .......................................................................... 71

Displaying the Wells .................................................................................. 73

Importing Log Data ................................................................................... 73

Displaying Log Data on the Wells ................................................................ 75

Advanced Tutorials .......................................................................................... 76

HeightFields - Advanced Suggestions ........................................................... 76

Math Module - Advanced Suggestions .......................................................... 79

Tutorial Completion ................................................................................... 80

Chapter 3 - General Modules

Introduction to Modules ................................................................................... 81

Add Modules to the Network Manager .......................................................... 82

Module Types ........................................................................................... 82

Info Module ................................................................................................... 83

Inputs ..................................................................................................... 83

Outputs ................................................................................................... 83

Properties ................................................................................................ 83

Info Module - General Page ........................................................................ 84

Info Module - Geometry Page ..................................................................... 86

Light Module .................................................................................................. 87

Inputs ..................................................................................................... 87

Outputs ................................................................................................... 87

Properties ................................................................................................ 88

Light Module General Page ...................................................................... 88

Headlight ................................................................................................. 91

Viewer Window Module .................................................................................... 91

Inputs ..................................................................................................... 92

Outputs ................................................................................................... 92

Properties ................................................................................................ 92

Viewer Window Module General Page ........................................................ 92

Changing the Default Viewer Window Properties ............................................ 95

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Camera Properties .................................................................................... 95

Rotate Viewer Window with Mouse .............................................................. 96

Default Home Position ............................................................................... 96

World Axis Triad ....................................................................................... 97

Chapter 4 - Data Source ModulesIntroduction to Modules ................................................................................... 99

Add Modules to the Network Manager ........................................................ 100

Module Types ......................................................................................... 100

Data Types .................................................................................................. 100

Point Sets .............................................................................................. 101

Well Data .............................................................................................. 101

Lattices ................................................................................................. 101

Geometry .............................................................................................. 101

Source Modules ............................................................................................ 102

Inputs ................................................................................................... 102

Reloading a Source Module File ................................................................. 102

Changing a Source Module File ................................................................. 102

Data Source Modules ............................................................................... 103

Outputs ................................................................................................. 103

Properties .............................................................................................. 103

Import ........................................................................................................ 103

Import Dialog ......................................................................................... 103

Loading Multiple Images .......................................................................... 105

Data Import Options Dialog ...................................................................... 106

Null or Invalid Data ................................................................................. 109

Select Data Columns Dialog ...................................................................... 109

Importing Point Data Options ................................................................... 111

Importing Well Data Options .................................................................... 113

Point Source Modules .................................................................................... 117

Inputs ................................................................................................... 117

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Outputs ................................................................................................. 117

Properties .............................................................................................. 117

Point Source Modules - General Page ......................................................... 118

Data View Dialog .................................................................................... 119

Point Source Module - Geometry Page ....................................................... 121

WellData Module ........................................................................................... 122

Inputs ................................................................................................... 122

Outputs ................................................................................................. 122

Properties .............................................................................................. 122

Well Data Module - General Page .............................................................. 123

WellData Module - Well Paths Page ............................................................ 125

How to Import and Display Wells .............................................................. 127

Gridding and Mapping WellData ................................................................ 130

Modifying Wells ...................................................................................... 131

Lattice Source Modules .................................................................................. 134

Inputs ................................................................................................... 134

Outputs ................................................................................................. 134

Types of Lattices..................................................................................... 134

Properties .............................................................................................. 137

Lattice Source Module - General Page ........................................................ 137

Lattice View Dialog .................................................................................. 138

Lattice Source Module - Geometry Page ..................................................... 140

Lattice Size Example ............................................................................... 141

FunctionLattice Module .................................................................................. 142

Inputs ................................................................................................... 142

Outputs ................................................................................................. 142

Properties .............................................................................................. 142

FunctionLattice Module - General Page ....................................................... 143

FunctionLattice Module - Geometry Page .................................................... 144

TestLattice Module ........................................................................................ 145

Inputs ................................................................................................... 145

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Outputs ................................................................................................. 146

Properties .............................................................................................. 146

TestLattice Module - General Page ............................................................. 146

TestLattice Module References .................................................................. 149

TestLattice Module - Geometry Page .......................................................... 149

Geometry Source Modules .............................................................................. 151

Inputs ................................................................................................... 151

Outputs ................................................................................................. 151

Properties .............................................................................................. 151

Geometry Source Module General Page ................................................... 151

Chapter 5 - Computational Modules

Introduction to Modules ................................................................................. 153


Module Types ......................................................................................... 154

Computational Module Types .................................................................... 154

ChangeType Module ...................................................................................... 155

Inputs ................................................................................................... 155

Outputs ................................................................................................. 155

Properties .............................................................................................. 155

ChangeType Module General Page .......................................................... 156

DuplicateFilter Module ................................................................................... 158

Inputs ................................................................................................... 158

Outputs ................................................................................................. 158

Properties .............................................................................................. 158

DuplicateFilter Module General Properties ................................................ 159

ExclusionFilter Module ................................................................................... 160

Inputs ................................................................................................... 161

Outputs ................................................................................................. 161

Properties .............................................................................................. 161

ExclusionFilter Module General Page ....................................................... 161

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ExclusionFilter Module Examples ............................................................... 162

ExtractPoints Module ..................................................................................... 162

Inputs ................................................................................................... 162

Outputs ................................................................................................. 162

Properties .............................................................................................. 163

ExtractPoints Module General Page ......................................................... 163

Filter Module ................................................................................................ 164

Inputs ................................................................................................... 165

Outputs ................................................................................................. 165

Properties .............................................................................................. 165

Filter Module General Page .................................................................... 165

Filter Module References .......................................................................... 178

Gradient Module ........................................................................................... 178

Inputs ................................................................................................... 178

Outputs ................................................................................................. 179

Properties .............................................................................................. 179

Gradient Module General Page ............................................................... 179

Gridder Module ............................................................................................. 180

Inputs ................................................................................................... 181

Outputs ................................................................................................. 181

Properties .............................................................................................. 181

Gridder Module - General Page ................................................................. 182

Gridder Module - Geometry Page .............................................................. 191

Gridder Module - Search Page ................................................................... 193

Gridding Module Example ......................................................................... 195

Create a Lattice From an XYZC Data File .................................................... 197

Create a Surface From an XYZ Data File ..................................................... 197

Math Module ................................................................................................ 198

Inputs ................................................................................................... 198

Outputs ................................................................................................. 198

Properties .............................................................................................. 199

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Math Module - General Page ..................................................................... 199

Math Module - Geometry Page .................................................................. 200

Math Module Examples ............................................................................ 202

Merge Module ............................................................................................... 203

Inputs ................................................................................................... 203

Outputs ................................................................................................. 203

Properties .............................................................................................. 203

Merge Module - General Page ................................................................... 204

Merge Module - Geometry Page ................................................................ 205

Resample Module .......................................................................................... 206

Inputs ................................................................................................... 206

Outputs ................................................................................................. 207

Properties .............................................................................................. 207

Resample Module - General Page .............................................................. 207

Resample Module - Geometry Page ........................................................... 208

Slice Module ................................................................................................. 209

Inputs ................................................................................................... 209

Outputs ................................................................................................. 209

Properties .............................................................................................. 210

Slice Module - General Page ..................................................................... 210

Slice Module - Cutting Plane Page.............................................................. 212

Subset Module .............................................................................................. 214

Inputs ................................................................................................... 214

Outputs ................................................................................................. 214

Properties .............................................................................................. 214

Subset Module - General Page .................................................................. 215

Subset Module - Geometry Page ............................................................... 216

Transform Module ......................................................................................... 218

Inputs ................................................................................................... 218

Outputs ................................................................................................. 218

Properties .............................................................................................. 218

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Transform Module - General Page.............................................................. 219

Transform Module - Transform Page .......................................................... 221

Chapter 6 - Axes, Bounding Boxes, and Clipping PlanesIntroduction to Modules ................................................................................. 225


Module Types ......................................................................................... 226

Graphics Output ..................................................................................... 226

Axes Module ................................................................................................ 227

Inputs ................................................................................................... 227

Outputs ................................................................................................. 227

Axes Module - General Page ..................................................................... 228

Axes Module - Axis Pages ......................................................................... 230

Changing the Scale of an Axis ................................................................... 233

BoundingBox Module ..................................................................................... 233

Inputs ................................................................................................... 233

Outputs ................................................................................................. 233

Properties .............................................................................................. 234

BoundingBox Module - General Page .......................................................... 234

BoundingBox Module - Labels Page ............................................................ 235

ClipPlane Module .......................................................................................... 236

Inputs ................................................................................................... 237

Outputs ................................................................................................. 237

Properties .............................................................................................. 237

ClipPlane Module - General Page ............................................................... 237

Connecting Multiple Modules to a Single ClipPlane ....................................... 239

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Chapter 7 - Annotation and Text



Module Types ......................................................................................... 242

Graphics Output ..................................................................................... 242

Annotation Module ........................................................................................ 243

Inputs ................................................................................................... 243

Outputs ................................................................................................. 243

Properties .............................................................................................. 243

Annotation Module General Page ............................................................ 244

Text Module ................................................................................................. 246

Inputs ................................................................................................... 247

Outputs ................................................................................................. 247

Properties .............................................................................................. 247

Text Module General Page ..................................................................... 247

Chapter 8 - ScatterPlotsIntroduction to Modules ................................................................................. 249


Module Types ......................................................................................... 250

Graphics Output ..................................................................................... 250

ScatterPlot Modules ....................................................................................... 251

Inputs ................................................................................................... 251

Output .................................................................................................. 251

Properties .............................................................................................. 251

ScatterPlot Module - General Page ............................................................. 252

ScatterPlot Module - Labels Page ............................................................... 254

ScatterPlot Module - Legend Page ............................................................. 257

Changing the Data Min and Data Max in the Legend ..................................... 262

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Chapter 9 - Contours



Module Types ......................................................................................... 264

Graphics Output ..................................................................................... 264

Contours Module ........................................................................................... 264

Inputs ................................................................................................... 265

Outputs ................................................................................................. 265

Properties .............................................................................................. 266

Contours Module - General Page ............................................................... 266

Contours Module - Cutting Plane Page ........................................................ 271

Contours Module - Legend Page ................................................................ 273


Chapter 10 - IsosurfacesIntroduction to Modules ................................................................................. 279


Module Types ......................................................................................... 280

Graphics Output ..................................................................................... 280

Isosurface Modules ....................................................................................... 280

Inputs ................................................................................................... 281

Outputs ................................................................................................. 281

Properties .............................................................................................. 281

Isosurface Module - General Page ............................................................. 282

Isosurface Module - Legend Page .............................................................. 285


Calculating Volume of an Isosurface ................................................................ 291

Modeling Geologic Surfaces ............................................................................ 292

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Chapter 11 - HeightFields



Module Types ......................................................................................... 296

Graphics Output ..................................................................................... 296

HeightField Module ........................................................................................ 296

Inputs ................................................................................................... 297

Outputs ................................................................................................. 297

Properties .............................................................................................. 297

HeightField Module - General Page ............................................................ 298

HeightField Module - Overlay Page ............................................................ 301

HeightField Module - Legend Page ............................................................. 302


HeightField Examples .................................................................................... 308

Display Contours on HeightField ................................................................ 308

Display Overlay on HeightField .................................................................. 308

Load a Uniform Lattice at the Correct Z Height ............................................ 309

Setting the Scale for Grid Imported as a Uniform Lattice............................... 309

Creating a Surface from a XYZ Data File ..................................................... 310

Correcting Distorted HeightFields .............................................................. 311

Chapter 12 - StreamLines and VectorPlots



Module Types ......................................................................................... 314

Graphics Output ..................................................................................... 314

StreamLines Module ...................................................................................... 315

Inputs ................................................................................................... 315

Outputs ................................................................................................. 315

Properties .............................................................................................. 315

StreamLines Module - General Page........................................................... 316

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Chapter 14 - VolRenders



Module Types ......................................................................................... 350

Graphics Output ..................................................................................... 350

VolRender Module ......................................................................................... 351

Inputs ................................................................................................... 351

Outputs ................................................................................................. 351

Properties .............................................................................................. 351

VolRender Module - General Page .............................................................. 352

VolRender Module - Legend Page .............................................................. 355


Blanking a Lattice Above an Irregular Topography Surface .................................. 361

Chapter 15 - FaceRendersIntroduction to Modules ................................................................................. 363


Module Types ......................................................................................... 364

Graphics Output ..................................................................................... 364

FaceRender Module ....................................................................................... 365

Inputs ................................................................................................... 365

Outputs ................................................................................................. 365

Properties .............................................................................................. 365

FaceRender Module - General Page ............................................................ 366

FaceRender Module - Geometry Page ......................................................... 368

FaceRender Module - Legend Page ............................................................ 369


Calculating Volumes ...................................................................................... 375

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Chapter 16 - WellRenders



Module Types ......................................................................................... 378

Graphics Output ..................................................................................... 378

WellRender Module ....................................................................................... 379

Inputs ................................................................................................... 379

Outputs ................................................................................................. 379

Properties .............................................................................................. 379

WellRender Module - General Page ............................................................ 380

WellRender Module - Directional Data Page ................................................. 382

WellRender Module - Interval Data Page..................................................... 390

WellRender Module - Path Data Page ......................................................... 397

How to Import and Display Wells..................................................................... 404

Primary Data Requirements ...................................................................... 404

Importing Well Collar Data ....................................................................... 405

Importing Trajectory Data ........................................................................ 405

Displaying the Wells ................................................................................ 406

Importing Log Data ................................................................................. 406

Displaying Log Data on the Wells .............................................................. 407

Gridding and Mapping WellData ...................................................................... 408

Extracting WellData................................................................................. 408

Gridding WellData ................................................................................... 408

Mapping WellData ................................................................................... 408

Modifying Wells ............................................................................................ 409

Importing Wells ...................................................................................... 409

Importing Additional Wells ....................................................................... 409

Deleting Wells ........................................................................................ 410

Changing Wells ....................................................................................... 411

Displaying Wells ..................................................................................... 411

Setting Well Properties ............................................................................ 411

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Chapter 17 - Views and Altering the View Style

Defined Views .............................................................................................. 413

Customizing the View Orientation .................................................................... 414

Trackball Mode ....................................................................................... 414

Dragger ................................................................................................. 415

Zoom Mode ............................................................................................ 415

Pan Mode .............................................................................................. 416

Maximizing the View................................................................................ 416

Home Position ........................................................................................ 417

Projections ................................................................................................... 417

Drawing Styles ............................................................................................. 418

Still Drawing Styles ................................................................................. 418

Animating Draw Style .............................................................................. 420

Transparency Type ........................................................................................ 422

Default (Fastest) Transparency Type ......................................................... 422

Best Quality Transparency Type ................................................................ 422

Color Blending ........................................................................................ 422

Smooth Rotation ..................................................................................... 423

Notes .................................................................................................... 423

Transparency Types ................................................................................ 423

Chapter 18 - Program Options

Options Dialog - General Page ........................................................................ 429

Default Path ........................................................................................... 430

Show Splash Screen ................................................................................ 430

Show Property Help ................................................................................ 430

Show Axes Triad ..................................................................................... 430

Use Context Submenus ............................................................................ 430

Enable AutoZoom ................................................................................... 430

Enable Hardware Acceleration ................................................................... 431

Automatically Check for Announcements .................................................... 431

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Automatically Check for Updates ............................................................... 431

Update Interval (Days) ............................................................................ 431

Check for Updates................................................................................... 431

User Interface Style ................................................................................ 432

Tab Style ............................................................................................... 432

Connection Style .................................................................................... 432

AutoConnect .......................................................................................... 433

Recent Files ........................................................................................... 433

Undo Levels ........................................................................................... 433

Options Dialog - Colors Page .......................................................................... 434

Program Area Selection ........................................................................... 434

Color Selection ....................................................................................... 435

Options Dialog - Mouse Page .......................................................................... 435

Mouse Button Assignments ...................................................................... 435

Log Path ...................................................................................................... 436

Windows 7 ............................................................................................. 436

Vista ..................................................................................................... 436

Windows XP ........................................................................................... 436

Chapter 19 - Importing, Exporting, and Printing

Opening Voxler Files ...................................................................................... 437

The Open Dialog ..................................................................................... 437

Importing Files from Other Programs ............................................................... 439

The Import Dialog ................................................................................... 439

Loading Multiple Images .......................................................................... 441

Image Coordinates .................................................................................. 441

Null or Invalid Data ................................................................................. 441

Import File Formats ................................................................................ 442

Select Format Dialog ............................................................................... 448

Saving Voxler Files ........................................................................................ 449

The Save As Dialog ................................................................................. 449

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Saving Data ................................................................................................. 451

Tips on Saving Data ................................................................................ 451

Exporting Files .............................................................................................. 452

The Export Dialog ................................................................................... 452

Export File Formats ................................................................................. 454

Copy Snapshot ............................................................................................. 456

Capture Video .............................................................................................. 456

Capture Video Dialog ............................................................................... 457

Video Capture - Suggestions .................................................................... 458

Other Suggestions .................................................................................. 460

Page Setup .................................................................................................. 461

The Page Setup Dialog ............................................................................. 461

Print ........................................................................................................... 463

The Print Dialog ...................................................................................... 463

Chapter 20 - Editing Modules and ColorsUndo ........................................................................................................... 467

Undo Levels ........................................................................................... 467

Undo Limitations ..................................................................................... 467

Redo ........................................................................................................... 468

Clear Undo History ........................................................................................ 468

Copy Module ................................................................................................ 468

Paste Module ................................................................................................ 468

Delete Module .............................................................................................. 469

Delete All Modules ........................................................................................ 469

Rename Module ............................................................................................ 470

Colors and Colormaps .................................................................................... 470

Color Palette .......................................................................................... 470

Colors Dialog .......................................................................................... 471

Colormap............................................................................................... 473

Colormap Editor ..................................................................................... 474

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Chapter 21 - Automating Voxler

Introducing Scripter ...................................................................................... 483

Starting the Scripter Program ......................................................................... 483

Scripter Windows .......................................................................................... 483

Immediate Window ................................................................................. 485

Sheet Tabs ............................................................................................ 485

Break Bar .............................................................................................. 485

Status Bar ............................................................................................. 485

Using Scripter .............................................................................................. 486

Example Script Files ................................................................................ 486

Working with Scripts ..................................................................................... 486

New Script ............................................................................................. 486

New Modules .......................................................................................... 486

Existing Scripts and Modules .................................................................... 487

Saving Scripts ........................................................................................ 487

Closing Scripts ....................................................................................... 487

Writing Scripts ............................................................................................. 487

Running Scripts ............................................................................................ 489

Running Scripts in Scripter ....................................................................... 489

Running Scripts from the Command Line .................................................... 489

Debugging Scripts ......................................................................................... 490

Viewing Errors ........................................................................................ 490

Run-Time Errors ..................................................................................... 490

Script Runs Incorrectly ............................................................................ 491

Debug.Print ........................................................................................... 491

Stop or Pause ......................................................................................... 491

Viewing Variable Values ........................................................................... 491

Changing Variable Values ......................................................................... 492

Step ..................................................................................................... 492

Breakpoint ............................................................................................. 493

Trace .................................................................................................... 493

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Stack .................................................................................................... 493

Module Files ........................................................................................... 494

Type Library References................................................................................. 494

Scripter BASIC Language ............................................................................... 494

Program Statements ............................................................................... 495

Line Continuation .................................................................................... 495

Comments ............................................................................................. 495

Double Quotes and Text........................................................................... 496

Operators .............................................................................................. 496

Flow Control ........................................................................................... 496

Optional Arguments ................................................................................ 497

Subroutines and Functions ....................................................................... 498

Variables ............................................................................................... 501

Code, Class, and Object Modules ............................................................... 504

Getting User Input ........................................................................................ 508

Creating Dialogs ..................................................................................... 508

UserDialog Example ................................................................................ 511

Using Scripter Help ....................................................................................... 513

Suggested Reading - Scripter ......................................................................... 514

Visual BASIC Compatibility ............................................................................. 514

Voxler Automation Model ............................................................................... 515

Application Object ................................................................................... 517

CommandApi Object ................................................................................ 518

Construct Method ................................................................................... 519

Do Method ............................................................................................. 529

DoOnce Method ...................................................................................... 529

Automation Examples .................................................................................... 530

Automation Example - HeightField ............................................................. 531

Automation Example - ScatterPlot ............................................................. 532

Automation Example - VolRender .............................................................. 534

Automation Example - WellData and WellRender ......................................... 535

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Appendix A - Mathematical Functions

Introduction to Mathematical Functions ............................................................ 671

Mathematical Functions ................................................................................. 671

Trigonometric Functions ........................................................................... 671

Bessel Functions ..................................................................................... 671

Miscellaneous Functions ........................................................................... 672

Boolean Expressions ...................................................................................... 673

Logical Operators (and, or, xor, not) .......................................................... 673

Comparison Operators (=, , , =) ............................................ 673

IF Function - IF(condition, true_value, false_value) ..................................... 674

Example ................................................................................................ 674

Index ..................................................................................... 544


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Chapter 1

Introducing VoxlerIntroduction to VoxlerWelcome to Voxler, a three-dimensional scientific visualization program orientedprimarily toward volumetric rendering and three-dimensional data display. While theemphasis is on three-dimensional volumes, Voxlercan also utilize two-dimensionalgrids including DEM files, images, and scattered point data. Voxlercan displaystreamlines, vector plots, contour maps, isosurfaces, image slices, three-dimensionalscatter plots, direct volume rendering, 3D blocks, well traces, and more.Computational modules include three-dimensional gridding, resampling, numerouslattice operations, and image processing. Voxleris designed for displaying XYZC data,where C is a variable at each X, Y, and Z location.

With Voxler, you can create stunning graphics output for your true three-dimensionalmodels. Models can be sliced, displayed at any angle, and even animated with asimple mouse movement. Standard or custom colorization can be applied to themodels.

Create stunning 3D graphics like this one bycombining multiple map types. This example shows

a vector plot, stream lines, and a bounding box.

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Voxler

Who Uses Voxler?

People from many different disciplines use Voxler. The geosciences generate largeamounts of volumetric data from drill cores, seismic studies, ground penetrating radar,subsurface mapping, and remote sensing. Another source of data is from medicalimaging generated by CT and MRI scans. Meteorological data, high-resolutionmicroscopy, flow fields, and groundwater modeling are also sources for volumetricdata. Voxlerusers include archeologists, climatologists, educators, engineers,doctors, hydrogeologists, geologists, geophysicists, medical researchers, students, andmore. Anyone wanting to visualize the relationship of their three-dimensional datawith stunning graphical output will benefit from Voxler'spowerful features!

System Requirements

The minimum system requirements for Voxlerare:

Windows XP SP2 or higher, Vista, 7, or higher

512 MB RAM minimum for simple data sets, minimum 1 GB RAM recommended

At least 100 MB free hard disk space

1024 x 768 or higher monitor resolution with a minimum 16-bit color depth

Video card with OpenGL acceleration highly recommended

Installation DirectionsInstalling Voxler 3 requires logging onto the computer with an account that hasAdministrator rights. Golden Software does not recommend installing Voxler 3 over anyprevious version of Voxler. Voxler 3 can coexist with older versions (i.e. Voxler 2) as

long as they are installed in different directories. By default, the program directoriesare different. For detailed installation directions, see the Readme.rtf file.

Installing Voxler

To install Voxler from a CD:

1. Insert the Voxler CD into the CD-ROM drive. The installation program

2.

automatically begins on most computers. If the installation does not begin3. automatically, double-click on the Autorun.exe file located on the Voxler CD.

4.

Click Install Voxlerfrom the Voxler Auto Setup dialog to begin the installation.

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Chapter 1 Introducing Voxler

To install Voxler from a download:

1.

Download Voxler according to the directions you received.

2. Double-click on the downloaded file to begin the installation process.

Updating Voxler

To update Voxler, open the program and click the Help | Check for Update command.

This will launch the Internet Update program which will check Golden Software'sservers for any free updates. If there is an update for your version of Voxler (i.e.Voxler 3.0 to Voxler 3.1), you will be prompted to download the update.

Uninstalling Voxler

Windows XP: To uninstall Voxler, go to the Windows Control Panel and double-clickAdd/Remove Programs. Select Voxler 3 from the list of installed applications. Clickthe Remove button to uninstall Voxler 3.

Windows Vista and 7: To uninstall Voxler when using the Regular Control PanelHome, click the Uninstall a program link. Select Voxler 3 from the list of installedapplications. Click the Uninstall button to uninstall Voxler 3.

Windows Vista: To uninstall Voxler when using the Classic View Control Panel,double-click Programs and Features. Select Voxler 3 from the list of installedapplications. Click the Uninstall button to uninstall Voxler 3.

A Note About the DocumentationThe Voxlerdocumentation includes the online help and the quick start guide. Use theHelp | Contentscommand in the program to access the detailed online help.Information about each command and feature in Voxleris included in the online help.In the event the information cannot be located in the online help, other sources ofVoxlerhelp include our support forum, frequently asked questions, knowledge base,and contacting our technical support engineers.

Various font styles are used throughout the Voxlerquick start guide and online help.Boldtext indicates menu commands, dialog names, and page names. Italictextindicates items within a dialog such as modules, group box names, options, and fieldnames. For example, the Importdialog contains a Look inlist. Bold and italic textmay occasionally be used for emphasis.

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Voxler

In addition, menu commands appear as File | Import. This means, "click on the Filemenu at the top of the plot window and then click on Importwithin the Filemenu

list." The first word is always the menu name, followed by the commands within themenu list.

Three-Minute TourWe have included several sample files with Voxlerso that you can quickly see someof Voxler'scapabilities. The sample files do not include all of Voxler'smany datatypes, modules, and features. After opening a sample file, the Network Manageris a

good source of information as to what is included in each file. Sample files are locatedat C:\Program Files\Golden Software\Voxler 3\Samples, by default.

Sample files are a great way to quicklydisplay projects made in Voxlerby GoldenSoftware. Browse the sample files to getideas and view different possibilities thatVoxlerhas to offer. Sample files can be

customized and saved to a new location.

The M o d u l e M a n a g e r is one locationto access sample files.

View Sample Voxler Files

To view the example files using the ModuleManager:

1. Open Voxler.

2. Choose the View | Managers | Module

Managercommand to display theModule Manager, if it is not alreadydisplayed. A check mark indicates themanager is visible. The ModuleManageris located on the left side of twindow by default. The sample files arelocated in the Samples folder at the topof the Module Manager.

he

3.

Double-click on a sample file, such asWell Model (WellRender)to open the fileand display the objects in the Viewerwindow. Each time you double-click on afile, the new file opens in the Viewerwindow and the previous file closes.

Alternatively, use the File | Opencommand to open example .VOXB files.

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Using Voxler

To create a three-dimensional model in Voxler, you will need to start with data.Voxlersupports several different data types. Modules are attached to data in order todisplay the data or make adjustments to the data. Alternatively, data can be griddedto be displayed as isosurfaces, height fields, and image slices. The type of data loadeddetermines what kind of operations can be performed on it. For detailed informationabout each type of data, refer to Chapter 4 Data Source Moduleschapter. Refer tothe Introduction to Modulessection for more information on the types of operationsthat can be performed.

1.

Open Voxler.

2. Click the File | Importcommand.

3. In the Importdialog, select the data file and click Open.

4. In the Data Import Optionsdialog, set the file format options. You can selectDelimitersand how to treat text. Click OK.

5. In the Select Data Columnsdialog, set theX, Y, Z, and Componentinformation.Set any additional Optionsand click OK.

6.

The data loads into Voxlerand is displayed as a data module in the NetworkManager. If you do not see the Network Manager, click the View | Managers| Network Managercommand. A check mark indicates the manager is open.Adding modules to the data set will create a visualization pipeline in the NetworkManagerthat will allow you to create the output you desire.

7.

Right-click the data module and select Graphics Output | ScatterPlot. Theoutput is displayed in the Viewer window.

8.

Select the ScatterPlotmodule in the Network Manager and the properties aredisplayed in the Property Manager. Adjust the properties as desired.

9. Choose the File | Save Ascommand. Enter a File namein the Save Asdialogand click the Savebutton to save your Voxlerproject.

The tutorial lessons in Chapter 2contain detailed instructions on using Voxler. It ishighly recommended that you complete the tutorial before beginning work in Voxler.

Using Scripter

Tasks can be automated in Voxlerusing Golden Software's Scripter program or anyActiveX Automation-compatible client, such as Visual BASIC. A script is a text filecontaining a series of instructions for execution when the script is run. Scriptercanbe used to perform almost any task in Voxler. You can do practically everything witha script that you can do manually with the mouse or from your keyboard. Scripts areuseful for automating repetitive tasks and consolidating a sequence of steps. Scripter

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is installed in the same location as Voxler. Refer to Chapter 21 Automating Voxlerfor more information about Scripter. We have included several example scripts so

that you can quickly see some of Scripter'scapabilities.

Sample Script Files

A variety of automation examples are available. You can run the script as is or you cancustomize the script. Example scripts are located at C:\Program Files\GoldenSoftware\Voxler 3\Samples\Scripts, by default.

To run a sample script in Scripter:

1. Open Scripterby navigating to the installation folder, C:\Program Files\GoldenSoftware\Voxler 3\Scripter. Double-click on the Scripter.EXE application file.

2. Click the File | Opencommand and select a sample script .BAS file in theC:\Program Files\Golden Software\Voxler 3\Samples\Scripts folder.

3. Use the Script | Runcommand and the script is executed.

Voxler User InterfaceVoxleruses multi-threading to keep the user interface responsive, even withcomputationally intensive background tasks. The user interface architecture is basedon a single-document, multi-view model. This allows a document to exist with anynumber of view windows open on the document. When the last view window is closed,the program prompts for a save of changes (if any) and the document is closed. Whenthe File | Newcommand is chosen, the existing document (if any) is closed to make

room for the new document.

Voxleruses a visualization network to represent data, processing paths, and output.All data and modules for the current project are visible in the Network Manager.Select a module to modify the module properties in the Property Manager. Thegraphical output from a module is displayed in the Viewer window. Voxlerfiles canbe saved, exported to a variety of file formats, or recorded using the capture videocommand.

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Several data types can be loaded into V o x l e r . Once thedata are loaded, you can select modules applicable to

the data. The data can be visualized and exported.

The Voxleruser interface layout consists of the title bar, menu bar, toolbars, ModuleManager, Network Manager, Property Manager, Viewer window, and status bar.

The V o x l e r user interface includes several toolbars and windows.

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The following table summarizes the function of each component of the user interface.

Component Name Component Function

Title Bar The title bar lists the program name plus the savedVoxler.VOXB file name (if any). An asterisk (*)after the file name indicates the file has beenmodified.

Menu Bar The menu bar contains the commands used to runVoxler.

Toolbars The toolbars contain Voxlertool buttons, which areusually shortcuts to menu commands. Move thecursor over each button to display a screen tipdescribing the command. Toolbars can be docked orfloating.

Module Manager The Module Managerlists example files andprovides quick access to modules. The ModuleManageris initially docked on the far left side of

the screen.

Network Manager The Network Manager displays the visualizationnetwork, consisting of loaded data files, modules,and connections. The Network Manager is initiallydocked in the middle top position of the screen.

Property Manager The Property Manager displays the properties ofthe module currently selected in the Network

Manager. The Property Manager is initiallydocked in the middle bottom position on the screen.

Viewerwindow The Viewer window contains the graphics output asdirected by the modules in the Network Manager.The Viewer window is initially located to the farright side of the screen.

Status Bar The status bar shows information about the activityin Voxler. The status bar is divided into three

sections. The left section displays help messagesand progress text. The middle section displays aprogress gauge for various tasks, such as loadinglarge data files. The right section displays thewindow size and the estimated time remaining forlong tasks.

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Title Bar

The title bar is the top portion of the Voxlerapplication window or the top portion of adialog. The file that is currently open in the Viewer window is listed in the programtitle bar. In a dialog, the dialog name is listed in the dialog title bar. Drag a window ordialog by its title bar to reposition it. Double-click the title bar to maximize or restorethe window. When a document contains unsaved changes, an asterisk (*) appearsnext to its name in the title bar. The asterisk disappears once the unsaved changeshave been saved.

The title bar contains the window or dialog name.

Menu Bar

The menu bar contains the menu commands used to run Voxler. The menu bardisplays in a docked view by default; however, it can also be displayed as a floatingwindow. See Changing the Window Layout for information on displaying the menu baras either docked or floating.

The menu bar contains the V o x l e r menu commands.

Status Bar

The status bar is displayed at the bottom of theVoxler window. The status bar displays additionalinformation about selected items.

Click the View | Status Barcommand to show or

hide the status bar at the bottom of the Voxlerwindow. A check mark appears next to Status Bar

in the Viewmenu when the status bar is visible.Click the Status Barmenu item to remove thecheck mark and hide the status bar.

Click the V i ew | S t a t u s B a r

command to show or hide the

status bar. A check markindicates the status bar is visible.

The status bar is divided into three sections: left, middle, and right. The left side of thestatus bar displays a short description of the selected menu item. The left section isalso used for help messages and progress text. The middle section is used for aprogress gauge to show the amount of work accomplished and the amount left to do

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Opening and Closing a Manager

If a window is not visible, click the

appropriate View | Managersmenucommand. If there is not a check marknext to a particular manager name,Voxlerdoes not display that window.

Click the manager name to make thatmanager visible. If there is a checkmark next to a manager name and themanager is not visible, the managermay be located off-screen or tabbedbehind another window. Check oruncheck the manager name in the View | Managermenu to show or hide themanager.

If there is not a check mark to the left of acommand name in the V i ew menu, then the

window is not displayed. A check markindicates the window is displayed.

To close a window, click the button or uncheck the manager name in the View |Managermenu. Right-click on the following objects to add or remove a check markand show or hide any of the windows:

the Network Managertitle bar;

the Module Managertitle bar;

the Property Managertitle bar or any area outside the white list of properties;

the toolbars; or

the menu bar.

Resizing a ManagerChange the size of a window by moving themouse to the edge of the window. The cursor

changes to the horizontal ( ) or vertical ( )resizing cursor. Click and drag the cursor tochange the window size or shape.

Restore Original Manager PositionThe on the right side of thisNetwork Manager indicates the

window can be resized by dragging

the cursor to the desired size.

To restore the default size and position of allmanagers and toolbars, click the View | ResetWindows command. This command is especiallyhandy if your windows or managers becomehidden for any reason.

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You must restart Voxlerin order for this command to take effect. Click Yesin thedialog, close the program, and reopen Voxler. The managers are now in the default

locations. To cancel the command, click No in the dialog.

Changing Manager from Docked to Floating Windows

Voxlerwindows display in adocked view by default. They canbe detached to display as floatingwindows.

To dock a manager or toolbar in a

new location, click the grip baralong the edge, hold down the leftmouse button, and then drag to anew location. To display as afloating window, drag the bar awayfrom a window edge. Alternatively,double-click on the window title totoggle between having the windowdocked and floating.

To restore the original dockedposition, either double-click on thetitle bar or click and hold the leftmouse button on the title bar and drag the window back to the desired dockedlocation.

A dotted outline displays when a window'sposition is being changed.

To change the position of a docked Module Manager, Network Manager, orProperty Manager, click the window title bar and drag it to a new location. A thinsolid black rectangle indicates that the window is docked in the new location when theTools | OptionsUser Interface Stylesetting is set to Offi