method and device for automatic animation of three-dimensional graphic scenes for improved 3-d visualization

摘要

A method and apparatus for automated dynamics of three-dimensional graphics scenes (200) for enhanced 3D visualization by a user. In accordance with one embodiment, a virtual camera (310), which creates the 3D graphics scene (200) by capturing a viewing perspective (340) of a 3D space, is moved a small distance along the surface of a plane between first and second viewing positions of the 3D space. Subsequently, the camera (310) "shakes" by repetitively shifting between the first and second viewing positions, thereby improving a user's depth perception of objects present within the 3D space. In an alternative embodiment, the movement of the virtual camera (310) between the first and second viewing positions is animated, thereby creating a series of additional viewing positions between the first and second viewing positions. The "shaking" of the 3D scene (200) is subtle and does not interfere with the user's understanding of the scene. It can occur automatically or, alternatively, designated to start or stop at the user's discretion.