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CyberNet: A framework for managing networks using 3D metaphoric worlds

Cybernet : utilisation de mondes 3D Métaphoriques pour L’administration de Réseaux

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Abstract

In this paper we will present CyberNet, an interactive 3D dynamic information visualization tool designed to evaluate the added value this technology brings to network management. This paper explains how 3D metaphoric worlds may help the user and points out the problems raised by the dynamic nature of the information. It focuses on the solutions that were adopted to cope with these problems. We first present some prototypes of network administration tools implemented using the CyberNet framework. Secondly we explain how information is collected and structured, and then we show how this structured information may be mapped onto 3D graphical components in order to automatically build and update metaphoric 3D worlds. The last part of the paper presents the user interaction mechanisms provided by the system.

Résumé

Cet article présente CyberNet, un outil de visualisation d’information dynamique en 3D construit afin d’étudier les apports de cette technologie pour le management de réseaux. L’utilisation de mondes 3D métaphoriques peut être utile à l’utilisateur. Les problèmes soulevés ainsi par la nature dynamique et distribuée des informations et les solutions adoptées pour faire face à ces problèmes sont exposés. Dans un premier temps on étudie quelques prototypes d’outils de gestion de réseaux construits à l’aide du système CyberNet et comment les informations sont collectées et structurées, pour ensuite présenter la méthode d’association de ces informations structurées à des composants graphiques 3D afin d’automatiser la construction de mondes métaphorique 3D. La dernière partie de cet article présente les mécanismes d’interaction avec l’utilisateur supportés par le système.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Eurecom Institute, B.P. 193, F-06904, Sophia Antipolis, France

    Pierre Abel, Pascal Gros & Didier Loisel

  2. France Télécom R&D, F-06904, Sophia Antipolis, France

    Cristina Russo Dos Santos & Jean-Pierre Paris

Authors
  1. Pierre Abel
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  2. Pascal Gros
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  3. Didier Loisel
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  4. Cristina Russo Dos Santos
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  5. Jean-Pierre Paris
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Corresponding authors

Correspondence to Pierre Abel, Pascal Gros, Cristina Russo Dos Santos or Jean-Pierre Paris.

Additional information

The CyberNet project is supported by France Telecom and the Eurecom Institute

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Abel, P., Gros, P., Loisel, D. et al. CyberNet: A framework for managing networks using 3D metaphoric worlds. Ann. Télécommun. 55, 131–142 (2000). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03001906

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