Integrating 2D and 3D Visualizations for Clarity

This article looks at ways to combine 2D and 3D visual representations to make data easier to understand. Using both 2D and 3D together can show different aspects of the same data, helping viewers see more than they would with just one type.

Many existing systems have successfully mixed 2D and 3D visualizations, but there hasn't been a thorough review of how to connect them effectively. This review covers various methods found in major visualization conferences and journals, focusing on papers published between 2012 and 2022.

#Importance of Combining 2D and 3D

Both 2D and 3D visuals have their strengths. 2D representations are good for showing abstract information clearly and simply. They work well for displaying data that doesn't require depth or spatial context. On the other hand, 3D representations can show complex relationships in data that has spatial features, like the layout of buildings or the structure of organs.

However, 3D visuals can sometimes make it hard to see relationships between data points because of hidden areas. That is where 2D visuals come in; they can provide overviews and context that may not be visible in a 3D representation.

#Review of 2D and 3D Visualizations

This review looks at 105 papers that combine 2D and 3D visual representations. By studying how these papers link 2D and 3D, we can understand the common approaches and design choices made by researchers and designers.

The review identifies four main dimensions for linking these representations:

1. Motivation: Why are the two types combined? Is it to provide more information, to allow better interaction, or to serve some other purpose?

2. Display Environment: Where are the visualizations displayed? Are they on a computer screen, in a virtual reality setting, or through some tangible interface?

3. Layout: How are the visualizations arranged? Do they sit side by side, or are they layered on top of each other?

4. Interaction Approaches: How do users interact with the visualizations? Can actions in one change what is seen in the other?

#Types of Visual Representations

#2D Visual Representations

2D visuals rely on height and width to display information. They are effective for showing relationships in data clearly and can easily present abstract concepts.

Common types of 2D representations include charts, graphs, and diagrams. They often serve as the foundation for many visualization systems because they are straightforward for most people to interpret.

#3D Visual Representations

3D visuals add depth to the data, making spatial relationships more intuitive. They can represent complex data sets, like the structure of an object, in a way that seems more real. Common examples of 3D representations include models of buildings, geographical maps, and anatomical structures.

However, they can also complicate tasks such as identifying close relationships between data points. Viewers may struggle to comprehend what's hidden behind other elements in the display.

#Why Combine 2D and 3D?

Combining these two types of visualizations can enhance the understanding of complex data sets. Here are a few reasons for combining them:

1. Complementary Information: 2D and 3D can provide different types of information. For example, while a 3D model shows the shape of an object, a 2D chart can provide statistical information related to that object.

2. Dual Aspects of Data: Sometimes it’s beneficial to present the same data in two different ways. For instance, representing a 3D structure with a corresponding 2D slice can clarify specific details.

3. Control and Interaction: Using one type of visualization to control another can simplify tasks, allowing users to interact with the data in flexible ways.

#Display Environments for Visualizations

The environment where these representations are displayed impacts how viewers interact with them.

#Desktop Environments

Most visualizations are created for desktop environments with a monitor. This is familiar to users and convenient for developers. However, desktop screens have limited space, which can make viewing complex 3D objects difficult.

#Immersive Environments

Immersive environments, such as virtual reality, allow users to engage with 3D representations in a more natural and spatial way. They are great for large datasets, but learning to navigate these environments can take time.

#Tangible Interfaces

Tangible interfaces allow users to interact with physical objects that represent data. For example, blocks placed on a table can form a visual representation. This hands-on approach can improve the understanding of the data by making it feel more real.

#Layout of 2D and 3D Visualizations

The layout of visual representations significantly affects how users interpret the data.

#Juxtaposed Layouts

In juxtaposed layouts, 2D and 3D representations are placed side by side. This layout allows users to see both types simultaneously, which is beneficial for analyses where both views are needed.

#Embedded Layouts

An embedded layout occurs when one representation is placed within another. For example, a 2D graph could sit on top of a 3D structure, providing additional detail without requiring constant switching between different views.

#Substituted Layouts

In substituted layouts, one representation is displayed at a time. This can save space but may lead to a loss of context since viewers can only see one type of data at a time.

#Interaction Approaches Between 2D and 3D

Interaction approaches vary depending on how users engage with the visualizations. Here are some common methods:

#Visual Connections

Visually connecting two representations involves using color, shape, or lines to show how they relate. This method helps users quickly identify connections between the two types of data.

#Interaction Linking

This approach allows users to interact with one type of representation to influence another. For example, clicking on a point in a 2D graph could highlight the corresponding point in a 3D model.

#Animation Links

Animation can show transitions between representations, helping users see how one dataset relates to another effectively. For example, a 3D model could morph into a 2D representation, illustrating how to interpret the data.

#Design Guidelines for 2D and 3D Combinations

To create effective linked systems, designers can consider the following guidelines based on the survey of existing work:

1. Define the Motivation: Understand why connecting the two representations is necessary. This motivation guides design and determines how the two visualizations should work together.

2. Choose the Right Display Environment: Determine which environment is best suited for the data being displayed. This choice can significantly affect user experience and interaction.

3. Plan the Layout Carefully: Choose a layout that enhances understanding and minimizes confusion. A good layout will help users build cognitive connections with the data.

4. Create Clear Links: Ensure that the connections between the visualizations are easy to comprehend, whether through visual cues, interactive elements, or animations.

#Future Directions

This review highlights the need for more structured frameworks that guide designers in creating effective 2D and 3D visualizations. More studies can explore additional ways to link these representations and investigate their potential for interactive data exploration.

Additionally, expanding research to other fields, including human-computer interaction, can yield new insights into designing better combining methods for 2D and 3D visualizations.

#Conclusion

Combining 2D and 3D representations offers a powerful way to visualize complex data. By exploring how to effectively link these types, we can improve understanding and facilitate better decision-making in various fields. This article serves as a foundation for future research and design in this area, aiming to inspire creative and effective visualization practices.