VESPER: Visual Exploration of Similarity and Performance Metrics for Computer-Aided Design Repositories

VESPER (Visual Exploration of Similarity and PERformance) is a visual analytics system for exploring similarity metrics and performance metrics derived from computer-aided design (CAD) repositories. It consists of (1) a data processing module that allows analysts to input custom similarity metrics and performance metrics, (2) a visualization module that facilitates navigation of the design spaces through coordinated, interactive visualizations, and (3) a report generation module that allows analysts to export lifecycle data of selected repository items as well as the input metrics for further external validation. In this paper, we discuss the need, design rationale, and implementation details for VESPER. We then apply VESPER to (1) sustainability-focused exploration of parts, and (2) exploration of tool wear and surface roughness in machined parts.