Visual parameters and transfer functions

Abstract

Assignment of visual parameters is one of the most frequently applied operations in visualization systems. In practical applications, however, this assignment becomes a significant burden for the user due to its vast complexity. This chapter reviews state-of-the-art strategies for the assignment of visual parameters in scientific visualization systems. We introduce the transfer function as a mapping from abstract data values to visual properties. We clarify the terms pre- and postclassification and show the significance of multi-dimensional transfer functions. The chapter covers both image-driven and data-driven techniques for automatic transfer function design as well as general concepts for building intuitive user interfaces.