A Multi-Space Model for Computer Generated Imagery

Abstract

A computer program is described which allows the creation and manipulation of three dimensional object assemblies using a typed natural (English) language. An object or a grouping of objects is mapped as a point or a set of points in a multi- dimensional space and properties of the object are changes in the coordinates in that space. In this system, new concepts may be input in a conversational manner based upon combinations of previously defined concepts. These new concepts are then reevaluated and may be subsequently used to form higher level concepts at the operator's discretion. New OBJECT concepts exist as hierarchical structures of points in a multi- dimensional feature space, based upon more primitive OBJECTS. MODIFIERS are used to change their appearance by the vector displacement of these points. The concept space model is a quantitative medium for the representation of visual and verbal concepts and is compatible with accepted qualitative linguisitic theories. A portion of the model is implemented as a natural language based computer graphics language. This program uses a 'Structured' parser which incorporates a flexible strategy to transform typed English commands into the appropriate multi- space conceptualization for direct execution by a computer graphics system. A sample dialogue with the program is discussed in the presentation of this paper.