Reaching into pictorial spaces

Robert Volcic, Dhanraj Vishwanath, Fulvio Domini

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

While binocular viewing of 2D pictures generates an impression of 3D objects and space, viewing a picture monocularly through an aperture produces a more compelling impression of depth and the feeling that the objects are aout there, almost touchable. Here, we asked observers to actually reach into pictorial space under both binocular- and monocular-aperture viewing. Images of natural scenes were presented at different physical distances via a mirror-system and their retinal size was kept constant. Targets that observers had to reach for in physical space were marked on the image plane, but at different pictorial depths. We measured the 3D position of the index finger at the end of each reach-to-point movement. Observers found the task intuitive. Reaching responses varied as a function of both pictorial depth and physical distance. Under binocular viewing, responses were mainly modulated by the different physical distances. Instead, under monocular viewing, responses were modulated by the different pictorial depths. Importantly, individual variations over time were minor, that is, observers conformed to a consistent pictorial space. Monocular viewing of 2D pictures thus produces a compelling experience of an immersive space and tangible solid objects that can be easily explored through motor actions.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationProceedings of SPIE-IS and T Electronic Imaging - Human Vision and Electronic Imaging XIX
PublisherSPIE
ISBN (Print)9780819499318
DOIs
StatePublished - 2014
EventHuman Vision and Electronic Imaging XIX - San Francisco, CA, United States
Duration: Feb 3 2014Feb 6 2014

Publication series

NameProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume9014
ISSN (Print)0277-786X
ISSN (Electronic)1996-756X

Other

OtherHuman Vision and Electronic Imaging XIX
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySan Francisco, CA
Period2/3/142/6/14

Keywords

  • 3D
  • binocular
  • depth perception
  • monocular
  • motor action
  • pictorial space
  • reaching
  • vision

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
  • Condensed Matter Physics
  • Computer Science Applications
  • Applied Mathematics
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

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