Implementing Web-based Fluid Simulation: The Potential of WebGL and WebGPU

For many years, realistic Fluid Simulation was only possible using game engines or high-end hardware.

However, with the evolution of graphics technologies like WebGL and WebGPU, these experiences are now possible directly within a web browser.

Our "Fluid Demo" is a real-time fluid simulation that runs directly in the browser. Users can interact with the liquid using a mouse or touch screen. This is not just a visual effect; it showcases the high computing power of modern web technologies.

Fluid Demo: https://innovation-lab.vitalify.asia/en/gallery/splash

1. The Web is No Longer Just for UI

Web browsers used to just display static content. Today, they have evolved into powerful computing platforms. The Fluid Demo shows that real-time physics, GPU rendering, and particle systems can all run on the client side (in the browser) without any extra software.

2. The Power of the GPU in Fluid Simulation

The biggest challenge in fluid simulation is the massive amount of calculation required. Calculating the pressure, velocity, and collisions of tens of thousands of particles every frame is too heavy for a standard CPU to keep a smooth 60 FPS. This is where the GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) comes in. By using Shader Pipelines and GPU Compute for parallel processing, we can achieve fast and smooth simulations.

3. Key Fluid Simulation Algorithms

• SPH (Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics): Represents fluid using many particles. It works great with GPUs and creates natural splashes, making it ideal for real-time processing.
• FLIP / PIC: A hybrid method using both particles and grids. Commonly used in movie VFX, it preserves motion energy to create lively, natural water movement.
• Navier–Stokes Equations: The math behind the physics. It answers the question: "How will this liquid move in the next frame?"
  

4. Technical Challenges of Real-Time Simulation

To recreate fluids in a browser, we must overcome a few hurdles:

• Maintaining 60 FPS: Optimizing performance, especially for mobile devices.
• WebGPU Compatibility: Creating fallback processes (like using WebGL) for browsers that don't fully support WebGPU yet.
• Physics vs. Visuals: Finding the right balance between scientific accuracy and a visually satisfying, immersive experience.

5. Applications of Web Fluid Simulation

This technology goes beyond simple entertainment.

• Web Design & Branding: Creating dynamic and modern digital experiences.
• Game Development: Adding realistic water or magic effects to browser games.
• Industry & Digital Twins: Visualizing physics for smart factories or chemical simulations.
• XR & Metaverse: Adding lifelike, interactive fluids to virtual spaces.

6. Conclusion: The Future of AI and Fluid Simulation

Research combining AI (machine learning) and physics simulation is advancing rapidly. In the future, AI optimization will likely allow us to maintain high realism while greatly reducing computing costs.

The Fluid Demo proves that web browsers can now handle advanced graphics that used to require dedicated software. As WebGPU continues to evolve, real-time physics will become a core foundation of the next-generation Web.

Fluid Demo: https://innovation-lab.vitalify.asia/en/gallery/splash