Evaluation of visual balance for automated layout

Abstract

Layout refers to the process of determining the size and position of the visual objects in an information presentation. We introduce the WeightMap, a bitmap representation of the visual weight of a presentation. In addition, we present algorithms that use WeightMaps to allow an automated layout system to evaluate the effectiveness of its layouts. Our approach is based on the concepts of visual weight and visual balance, which are fundamental to the visual arts. The objects in the layout are each assigned a visual weight, and a WeightMap is created that encodes the visual weight of the layout. Image-processing techniques, including pyramids and edge detection, are then used to efficiently analyze the WeightMap for balance. In addition, derivatives of the sums of the rows and columns are used to generate suggestions for how to improve the layout.

Quantifying Aesthetics of Visual Design Applied to Automatic Design

“…Visual balance however, is one of the challenging concepts in a design process. As delineated in [34], for designers visual balance in layout means "it looks right" and this can be considered as "visual weight". Some of the well-known features that influence the notion of visual weight are light, color, shape, and texture.…”

“…Balance is considered in two general categories: symmetry and asymmetry [34], which in any case relates to harmony [247].…”

Advanced Composition in Virtual Camera Control

“…For example, in figure 1c, the poster in the top-left corner balance the weight of the man, the bottle, the cups, and other elements. Systems that have implemented this rule are [2,12,13]. 4.…”

DEUCE : A Declarative Framework for Extricating User Interface Concerns.

“…The idea of a constraint system to represent a UI layout has been adopted in DEUCE as this has shown to be a very intuitive idea [19]. With DEUCE the UI is described (deified) at a higher logical level.…”

“…Designing complex hierarchical layouts are difficult and tedious. Templates [19], used in word-processing, focus on the format of the presented material (e.g. font, colour) and layout floating objects.…”