Application of jigsaw-puzzle-like 3D glyph to visualizing grammatical constraints

An extension of three-dimensional visualization using jigsaw-puzzle-like glyphs, or shapes, is presented as a means of representing grammatical constraints in programming. The visualization uses 3D glyphs such as wireframe and hole shapes, as well as convex and concave shapes. A semantic constraint, such as a type constraint in an assignment, is represented by an inclusive match between 3D glyphs. The use of wireframe and hole shapes enables representation of polymorphic constraints. An experimental evaluation showed that the 3D glyphs are easier to learn and are faster to answer than 2D glyphs and 1D symbol sequences.