Navigation and Search in 3D Visualizations of Large Unstructured Photo Collections: An Empirical Study

摘要

We present an empirical study which aims at assessing the effects of dynamic 3D visualizations of randomly ordered photo collections on visual search effectiveness, efficiency and comfort. 20 participants performed visual search tasks in collections of about 1000 colour photos using 2 perspective views of a vertical cylinder: thumbnails were displayed on its lateral surface either on the inside (IV) or on the outside (OV). Scrolling IV suggests locomotion in an immersive virtual space while scrolling OV suggests manipulation of a 3D virtual object. Perspective distortions in OV "channel" gaze towards the centre of the screen while IV permits of freer gaze movements. A majority of participants (12) performed noticeably better with one view (IV or OV) than with the other. Animation and perspective distortions influenced visual exploration strategies (16 participants). Preferences, which varied across participants, were mainly motivated by individual visual capabilities; the influence of interaction metaphors was marginal. Qualitative analyses of participants' behaviours suggest that IV has the potential to support spatial memory. These results indicate that adaptable perspective views may facilitate and improve visual search in unstructured picture collections.