Towards a comprehensive integration of subjective parameters in database browsing

Today, cyberspace provides the user with quantities of distributed multimedia information. Whereas adequate technical tools were developed that enable the user to actually access this database, information technology still lacks plasticity to handle requests based on subjective parameters, i.e. non-explicit requests. In human-human communication however, such complex and variable information can be transmitted by words, even if the meaning associated varies from one actor to the other. We propose an experimental framework in which, through intensive interaction, the machine and the user develop a common language through which they can establish mutual understanding over visual perceptions. We describe the mechanisms underlying the development of this language and which allow the user to have full control, both functionally and structurally of the system.