View Projection Animation for Occlusion Reduction

Paper in proceeding, 2006

Inter-object occlusion is inherent to 3D environments and is one of the challenges of using 3D instead of 2D computer graphics for information visualization. In this paper, we examine this occlusion problem by building a theoretical framework of its causes and components. As a result of this analysis, we present an interaction technique for view projection animation that reduces inter-object occlusion in 3D environments without modifying the geometrical properties of the objects themselves. The technique provides smooth on-demand animation between parallel and perspective projection modes as well as online manipulation of view parameters, allowing the user to quickly and easily adapt the view to avoid occlusion. A user study indicates that the technique significantly improves object discovery over normal perspective views. We have also implemented a prototype of the technique in the Blender 3D modeller.