Colloid Visualization Tool
Visualization software for colloidal structures and simulation snapshots.
Colloid Visualization Tool
Colloid Visualization Tool (CVT) is a tool for rendering many-particle configuration files, such as simulation trajectories or experimental data sets.
It is primarily aimed at colloidal systems, and supports spherical particles as well as various anisotropic shapes.
In addition to basic rendering functionality (rotation, particle selection, cutting planes, etc.), CVT supports some basic analysis tools, mostly geared towards understanding local structure and symmetry.
CVT is available as open-source software under the MIT license. For Linux and Mac machines, the recommended installation approach is to compile the source code following the instructions on the GitHub page. For Windows machines, the most robust route is installation via the Microsoft Store. (Note that the Microsoft Store version can run slightly behind the GitHub version.)
The Github page also contains documentation (including file format descriptions). You can also find some example configuration files there, which you can use to test the software and get a feel for how it works.
This software is still in early development, and I would be very happy to receive any feedback, suggestions, or bug reports. You can submit these via the GitHub page (either as an issue or as a pull request), or you can contact me directly via email (dev@softmatterdemos.org).
What It Does
Interactive visualization
Render systems of spheres, rods, patchy particles, or convex polyhedra. Flip through multiple frames, rotate the system, select and hide particles, and use various coloring modes.
Structural analysis
Calculate and plot structure factors, radial distribution functions, and bond order parameters on the fly.
(Disclaimer: intended for fast initial exploration only. Please double-check any results and plot them properly before using them for any serious purpose.)
