How might we make mixed reality visualisations more accessible and interactive for data analysis?
pyReality is a Python library developed as part of my master's dissertation project for the Design Informatics programme at the University of Edinburgh. It enables users to create mixed reality data visualisations directly within Jupyter Notebooks, supporting interactive 3D visualisations through WebXR. Designed for use with head-mounted displays (HMDs), pyReality allows users to explore and analyse data in an immersive and intuitive way.
MY ROLE
Researcher
Developer
Designer
TOOLS & METHODS
Magic Leap
Python
Jupyter Notebooks
WebXR
Babylon.js
VRIA
TEAM
Dr. Benjamin Bach
Tashfeen Ahmed
DURATION
6 months
Problem
Data visualisations often lack interactivity and immersion, limiting their ability to convey insights effectively. Traditional tools require multiple platforms for modeling, rendering, and viewing, making the process time-consuming and fragmented.
Solution
pyReality streamlines the process of creating mixed reality visualisations by integrating data modeling and visualisation into a single tool. It leverages Jupyter Notebooks and WebXR for rapid prototyping and real-time interaction.
pyReality offers immersive 3D scatterplots that allow users to visualise datasets with spatial depth, enhanced by augmented reality (AR) components rendered using Babylon.js. It also supports 3D bar charts, leveraging VRIA for highly customizable visualisations that can be configured through Python code or graphical user interface (GUI) controls. With a focus on rapid prototyping, pyReality enables users to develop, model, and render visualisations directly within Jupyter Notebooks, eliminating the need to switch between multiple tools or platforms.
Results
pyReality demonstrated the effectiveness of mixed reality visualisations in enhancing data comprehension. Early testers highlighted its accessibility and speed for prototyping complex datasets in AR and VR formats.