A new user interface improves human-computer interactions

In its novel browsing system, Visual Perception has taken inspiration from nature to revolutionise human-computer interactions. The result is a more intuitive user-interface, reducing the frustrations of current photo browsing systems.

Visual Perception has developed ‘Imagetrons’ − image browsing methods that give photos, icons or text a 3D appearance, based on patterns we are familiar with. For example, a sequence of photos can be arranged as a spiral or film reel. The central image is large and clear while the other images decrease in size until they are no longer visible at the centre of the spiral.

Vangelis Pappas-Katsiafas, director of Visual Perception, explains the benefit of his software. “Today’s user interfaces are often inefficient and clumsy. For example, tiles are arranged in a grid rather than as a logical sequence. Also, pictures disappear abruptly at the edge of the screen, whereas in our Imagetrons they fade gradually. The Imagetrons also make scrolling through images much faster.”

From snails to ferns, there are many situations where nature makes use of spirals, so browsing images in these kinds of formations is pleasant and efficient. Vangelis says, “One of the Imagetrons appears like a vortex, a familiar pattern to anyone who has watched water disappear down a drain.”  

A wide range of tasks could be made simpler by using this approach. Lists, for example, could be presented in formats where the text decreases in size, making the central text stand out and enabling more text to be displayed at the edges of the screen. When searching for files, the icons would be more effectively arranged in the style of an Imagetron. Browsing online catalogues would also be a more enjoyable experience.

This interface could be particularly effective on mobile phones where the small screen and no mouse make browsing harder, and it would also be useful on appliances such as laptops and set-top boxes.