Man-Computer Symbiosis through Interactive Graphics: A Survey and Identification of Critical Research Areas.

The major distinguishing feature of man-computer symbiosis is the capability of both man and computer to transceive relevant unrequested information. Using this derived definition, basic key requirements of a symbiotic system were projected. These included 1 transceivers and memories, 2 graphics techniques, 3 a language, and 4 an attention-getting capability. A literature survey revealed that raster scan cathode ray tubes hold the greatest promise for use in symbiotic systems, but that a critical problem accompanies their use in that scan conversion methods are required. Existing methods are either too time consuming or too memory consuming. A promising technique was found for reducing the number of vectors comprising a scene. This technique would find its greatest utility in random scan systems, where its use may provide flicker-free displays. Little work has been performed in extending mans memory precision and recall capability. There are no methods with immediate utility for symbiotic systems for efficiently removing hidden lines and surfaces to effect a 3D display. Finally, it was determined that the most promising solution to the language problem lies in the development of hybrid communication techniques using a combination of graphic languages and small scale voice input methods.