Perceptional Link Method Based on Dynamic Hypermedia System for Design Image Database System

In this paper, we introduce a Dynamic Hypermedia System (DHS) for distributed design image databases that can provide simple and flexible user access capabilities based on perceptional link, so called Uansei link method. As a proof of concept, we have developed a prototype system incorporating the DHS model. Dubbed the Textile Design Image Database System, this database aids designers using apparel CAD systems in different locations, collaborating or working separately, in the design of clothes, including kimonos. Our purpose has been to create a database that will allow each designer to make the best use of his or her creativity and originalityhis or her “style and sensitivity to beauty, ” or Kansei in Japanese. In our DHS, Metanodes are defined as abstract nodes and Metalinks are defined as flexible Kansei links respectively. Metanodes and Metalinks are combined to organize a dynamic hypermedia space from which users can easily retrieve desired design image objects by querying a knowledge agent. The knowledge agent, utilizing the knowledge-base, sets up links from Kansei word objects provided by the user to suitable design image objects among the multimedia databases distributed over the network. The knowledge agent also performs query conversion of individual users’ subjective Kansei (unique, subjective use of Kansei words) into objective Kansei words using each users’ individual “user model.” These objective Kansei words are then converted to equivalent color values. Color value is the means by which all stored design images are characterized. This dynamic linking of Kansei word objects to equivalent design images allows individual users’ Kansei to influence the retrieval process. The sophisticated andsexible CAD Systems of the future will require multimedia database systems with cooperative supporting capabilities similar to those of our Kansei system.