Adapting a single-user, single-display molecular visualization application for use in a multi-user, multi-display environment

Abstract

In this paper, we discuss the adaptation of an open-source single-user, single-display molecular visualization application for use in a multi-display, multi-user environment. Jmol, a popular, open-source Java applet for viewing PDB files, is modified in such a manner that allows synchronized coordinated views of the same molecule to be displayed in a multi-display workspace. Each display in the workspace is driven by a separate PC, and coordinated views are achieved through the passing of RasMol script commands over the network. The environment includes a tabletop display capable of sensing touch-input, two large vertical displays, and a TabletPC. The presentation of large molecules is adapted to best take advantage of the different qualities of each display, and a set of interaction techniques that allow groups working in this environment to better collaborate are also presented.