Developing 3D information systems for mobile users: some usability issues

ABSTRACT

Location-based services, navigation and way finding in three-dimensional worlds are some challenges of current research in mobile computing and information systems. This paper introduces a prototype of future mobile city information systems. In 3D City Info research project, we integrated in one prototype system a three-dimensional city model, a map and a database, which includes information from the same area. In addition, we have built a fully working mobile laptop version of the 3D City Info with an integrated GPS receiver for our field tests. Our preliminary user study appears to support the conclusion that three-dimensional model integrated to a map appears to visualize motion better than a map alone. In the user interface design a user's possibility to adapt separately a model and a map might be worth considering in the future.

REFERENCES

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  C. Computer Systems Organization
  C.5 COMPUTER SYSTEM IMPLEMENTATION
      C.5.3 Microcomputers
          Subjects: Portable devices (e.g., laptops, personal digital assistants)

Additional Classification:
  C. Computer Systems Organization
  C.1 PROCESSOR ARCHITECTURES
      C.1.3 Other Architecture Styles
          Subjects: Cellular architecture (e.g., mobile)
      C.1.4 Parallel Architectures
          Subjects: Mobile processors

  H. Information Systems
  H.5 INFORMATION INTERFACES AND PRESENTATION (I.7)
      H.5.2 User Interfaces (D.2.2, H.1.2, I.3.6)
          Subjects: Prototyping; User-centered design

  I. Computing Methodologies
  I.2 ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
        I.2.10 Vision and Scene Understanding
            Subjects: 3D/stereo scene analysis

General Terms:
Design, Experimentation, Human Factors, Reliability

Keywords:
3D graphics, GPS, mobile multimedia, navigation, usability, user interface for mobile devices