Visions of Visualization Aids: Design Philosophy and Observations

Stephen R. Ellis

doi:10.1117/12.952891

11 September 1989 Visions of Visualization Aids: Design Philosophy and Observations

Stephen R. Ellis

Proceedings Volume 1083, Three-Dimensional Visualization and Display Technologies; (1989) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.952891
Event: OE/LASE '89, 1989, Los Angeles, CA, United States

Abstract

Aids for the visualization of high dimensional scientific or other data must be designed. Simply casting multidimensional data into a 2 or 3D spatial metaphor does not guarantee that the presentation will provide insight or a parsimonious description of phenomena implicit in the data. Useful visualization, in contrast to glitzy, high-tech, computer-graphics imagery, is generally based on pre-existing theoretical beliefs concerning the underlying phenomena These beliefs guide selection and formatting of the plotted variables. Visualization tools are useful for understanding naturally 3D databases such as those used by pilots or astronauts. Two examples of such aids for spatial maneuvering illustrate that informative geometric distortion may be introduced to assist visualization and that visualization of complex dynamics alone may not be adequate to provide the necessary insight into the underlying processes.

Citation Download Citation

Stephen R. Ellis "Visions of Visualization Aids: Design Philosophy and Observations", Proc. SPIE 1083, Three-Dimensional Visualization and Display Technologies, (11 September 1989); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.952891

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