3D visualizations are computer-generated perspective views of a 3D model. They allow users to zoom in/out, rotate and navigate. It is fun to explore the environment using a 3D visualization and it can give a user added value in comparison with a conservative 2D map. For example, Liao and Dong (2017)’s research showed 3D landmarks in 2D maps can help users perform better in direction-pointing tasks. But people can also mistake the information presented in 3D. The visual appearance of objects is highly dependent on the angle and distance of the virtual model, which i.e. makes it difficult to estimate the objects’ size (Liu, Dong et al. 2017). That makes it important to know when and how we should use 3D visualizations. Is it suitable for certain geospatial tasks? To which degree does the background influence the efficiency of a 3D visualization?
Eye tracking is a scientific method for capturing a person’s eye gaze. Eye tracking can be used to evaluate visualisations and interactive applications.
Within this thesis one usability aspect of 3D visualisations is to be examined using eye tracking. This aspect could be i.e. the user focus when rotating or user attention to the background when zooming, etc. After a literature review one (or few) aspects to be evaluated should emerge. A basic 3D model must be designed that meets the test requirements. Then the student must develop and perform a user test. It may be necessary to combine the eye tracking with other user testing methods (i.e. think-aloud).
This topic requires knowledge of map design, experiment design and data analysis.

Proposers: Bing Liu MSc & Dr. Christian Murphy (TUM)