Enhancing 3D Applications Using Stereoscopic 3D and Motion Parallax

Australasian User Interface Conference (AUIC 2012)

Ivan Li, Edward Peek, Burkhard Wünsche, Christof Lutteroth

The interaction with 3D scenes is an essential requirement of computer applications ranging from engineering and entertainment to architecture and social networks. Traditionally 3D scenes are rendered by projecting them onto a 2-dimensional surface such as a monitor or projector screen. This process results in the loss of several depth cues important for immersion into the scene. An improved 3D perception can be achieved by using immersive Virtual Reality equipment or modern 3D display devices. However, most of these devices are expensive and many 3D applications, such as modelling and animation tools, do not produce the output necessary for these devices.

In this paper we explore the use of cheap consumer-level hardware to simulate 3D displays. We present technologies for adding stereoscopic 3D and motion parallax to 3D applications, without having to modify the source code. The developed algorithms work with any program that uses the OpenGL fixed-function pipeline. We have successfully applied the technique to the popular 3D modelling tool Blender.

Our user tests show that stereoscopic 3D improves user’s perception of depth in a virtual 3D environment more than head coupled perspective. However, the latter is perceived as more comfortable. A combination of both techniques achieves the best 3D perception, and has a similar comfort rating as stereoscopic 3D.