The QUICK framework for task-specific asset prioritization in distributed virtual environments

Abstract

In virtual environment systems, the ultimate goal is delivery of the highest-fidelity user experience possible. The paper describes a general form framework for optimizing fidelity on a per-task basis. The virtual world database is priority ordered; the ordering is dynamically recomputed based on display platform, virtual world state, and (possibly shifting) task objectives. Optimization is performed with the QUICK model, which integrates ratings of representational quality, scene node importance, and machine resource cost. The approach has been implemented in a prototype display and distributed cache management system, which can be incorporated into most existing networked virtual reality applications.