Visualisation methods for complex nematic fields

Abstract

In analysis of numerically simulated or experimentally obtained nematic textures, data visualisation plays an important role in interpretation and comparison of results. We review both commonly used, and more recently developed visual presentation methods that expose different aspects of the textures, from director field patterns and topological content of nematic defects, to deformation modes and simulated optical effects. We outline the theoretical background and potential uses, with examples that highlight the features of each of the described techniques.