3D Perception of Complex Naturalistic Scenes in Consumer Virtual Reality

Vision research has progressed from simple experimental setups, to the immersive capabilities of virtual reality. This thesis will first introduce the reader to key concepts and background literature used throughout the text; a methodological chapter then outlines the practice and reasoning behind how software can be created for experimental studies in virtual reality. The first experimental chapter assesses 3D perception is two virtual reality headsets. Underestimation of distance in simple visual environments was found. Following this up, the second experimental chapter focusses on overcoming this issue using established methods: separating visual cues to determine which are most valuable and worthy of the host PC's processing power. Variability in distance estimation was found to be reduced by the addition of binocular cues, although an environment utilising all pictorial cues produced an equal sense of distance as binocular disparity alone. The third experimental chapter tests of the influence lighting, shadows, and clutter have on perception of virtual surroundings. Here it is shown that additional reference objects within an environment do not enhance distance perception, and visible cast shadows enhanced the precision of estimates. The penultimate chapter, an exploratory online experiment, is then presented which investigated perceptions surrounding immersive technologies. User experiences and impressions were investigated with both qualitative and quantitative data. Finally, a discussion on the results obtained through each stage of research, implications of these findings, and suggestions for future research is presented. Continuous advances in technology cause for continuous adjustments to be made, not only to the type of research being conducted, but also the type of equipment being used. This thesis supports the use of virtual reality as a means of gathering data in scientific research investigation, and also identifies specific visual cues that are vital in creating a realistic sense of depth within virtual scenes.