Improving perception in 3D stereoscopic disaster response environments

Tristan Hartzell, Purdue University

Abstract

Enhancing depth perception accuracy in virtual environments is an important and ongoing area of study. This thesis examines the effectiveness of a variety of depth cues and graphics techniques on depth perception accuracy in minimized 3D virtual environments for effective disaster response. For these studies, an application was developed that selectively applies various graphical techniques onto 3D terrain maps. Two experimental studies were conducted using a CAVE system with one wall to study the influence of depth cues and the proposed techniques on depth perception. These experiments revealed which techniques are most effective for improving perception in these minified 3D environments. The preliminary study determined what types of techniques might be useful in disaster response environments. Based upon these results, grid line techniques were further developed to enhance perception in these scenes. Several variations of grid line techniques were developed, varying in convergence, style, and location in the virtual environment. The final experiment examined the effectiveness of the proposed techniques. Two techniques that improved depth perception accuracy include grid lines draped on top of the terrain and inverted grid lines floating above the terrain and converging behind the user. In particular, the draped grid line technique appeared to be effective; the draped grid line technique was liked by the participants in their post-experimental surveys.

Degree

M.S.

Advisors

Kim, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Computer science

COinS