In this paper we present the CyberNet research project. The aim of this project is to study how 3D visualization may help the user in the process of monitoring large amounts of dynamic information. The project focuses on a specific application domain, network management, but it is designed so that it can be applied to other domains. The paper presents how information is collected and structured in order to define services that the user wants to monitor. We also present the impact of the dynamic nature of information on the system. Each 3D world represents a service, that is a model that groups and structures all the information related to a specific aspect of the network. Each modification of the service has a real time impact on the virtual world. This representation is done within the context of a 3D metaphor that defines the rules used to map services onto graphical elements (layout managers and glyphs). It also defines how information is mapped onto the visual parameters (color, size, shape, etc.) of these graphical elements. The metaphor also handles suitable navigation and interaction mechanisms to allow the user to explore and manage the virtual world.
This paper is published in EI 2000, SPIE Electronic Imaging, 23-28 January 2000, San Jose, USA / Proceedings of SPIE, Volume 3960 Visual Data Exploration and Analysis VII, Robert F. Erbacher, Philip C. Chen, Jonathan C. Roberts, Craig M. Wittenbrink, Editors, February 2000 and is made available as an electronic preprint with permission of SPIE. One print or electronic copy may be made for personal use only. Systematic or multiple reproduction, distribution to multiple locations via electronic or other means, duplication of any material in this paper for a fee or for commercial purposes, or modification of the content of the paper are prohibited.
