GeoPeels: deformation-based technique for exploration of geo-referenced networks

Abstract

Spatial relations between geographical entities are typically visualized as a node-link diagram that is depicted over a geographical layout. The node-link diagram representation is well-suitable for tasks that require the analysis of the topology and properties of a spatial graph because it is more intuitive with respect to the matrix representation. However, the readability of node-link diagrams is, especially for large sized graphs, one of the issues studied in literature. In this paper we describe an interactive technique for virtual globes, called GeoPeels, which uses spatial deformations to reveal spatial information otherwise hidden behind the geographical layout. The deformed geometries are rendered around the globe, therefore, occupying space that otherwise would be unused. Additionally, our approach facilitates graph-related tasks by reducing the overall number of actions required to visualize and understand the spatial relations. The evaluation of our approach is based on the analysis of the graphical performance and on a comparison between virtual globes and 2D flat maps.