IFQ: a visual query interface and query generator for object-based media retrieval

There are two major directions for image retrieval system development. The first direction is the direct manipulation of information using query languages, which are precise to computers but not user friendly. The second direction is the development of natural interfaces, such as query by image example. The latter approach has the advantage of better query visualization, but it usually yields a low precision because users' drawings may not be precise. IFQ (In Frame Query) is a visual user query interface for object-based media retrieval systems. It aims at not only providing a natural visual query interface but also supporting precise direct manipulation through automated query generation. Furthermore, IFQ gives users the flexibility of using combinations of semantic expressions, conceptual definitions, sketch, and image examples to pose queries.