Nowadays, different visualization techniques offer researchers the option to visually explore spatio-temporal data generated through tracking devises. These data are rapidly increasing and attracts the attention of many researchers. The scientists study them with the aim to extract information from complex movement patterns using visualization and other analytical methods and techniques. However, current visualization solutions face the problem of the accumulated large streams of data. This requires a new approach towards visual analytical and exploratory tools. Alternative representations have to be created and old ones to be revisited. Among those in the last category belongs the Space - Time Cube (STC).

 

The objective of my research was to find out the potential of the STC when it comes to represent large and complex data. Based on the different use case studies varying in complexity and thematic specific attention was given to the cartographic design of the STC’s content that resulted in a design guideline. Since it is expected that good design (the looks of the data) only will not solve the potential overplotting of the large amount of data specific visualization strategies (how to go about data) was suggested as well. Both were realized by extending the functionality of an already existing prototype of the STC in a GeoVisual Analytics environment. Final they were judged through extensive usability research.