View-projection animation for 3D occlusion management

Inter-object occlusion is inherent to 3D environments and is one of the challenges of using 3D instead of 2D computer graphics for visualization. Based on an analysis of this effect, we present an interaction technique for view-projection animation that reduces inter-object occlusion in 3D environments without modifying the geometrical properties of the objects themselves. The technique allows for smooth on-demand animation between parallel and perspective projection modes as well as online manipulation of view parameters, enabling the user to quickly and easily adapt the view to reduce occlusion. A user study indicates that the technique provides many of the occlusion reduction benefits of traditional camera movement, but without the need to actually change the viewpoint. We have also implemented a prototype of the technique in the Blender 3D modeler.