The perception of egocentric distances in virtual environments - A review

Abstract

Over the last 20 years research has been done on the question of how egocentric distances, i.e., the subjectively reported distance from a human observer to an object, are perceived in virtual environments. This review surveys the existing literature on empirical user studies on this topic. In summary, there is a mean estimation of egocentric distances in virtual environments of about 74% of the modeled distances. Many factors possibly influencing distance estimates were reported in the literature. We arranged these factors into four groups, namely measurement methods, technical factors, compositional factors, and human factors. The research on these factors is summarized, conclusions are drawn, and promising areas for future research are outlined.

The use of virtual reality and physical tools in the development and validation of ease of entry and exit in passenger vehicles

“…For example, the effect of graphics quality on distance perception has been recognised as an open area requiring more research (Kenyon et al, 2007;Renner et al, 2013). Renner et al (2013) emphasise the importance of a virtual environment with a ground texture, as the "compression" of texture at further distances can be an important cue (Renner et al, 2013).…”

“…Renner et al (2013) emphasise the importance of a virtual environment with a ground texture, as the "compression" of texture at further distances can be an important cue (Renner et al, 2013). Murgia and Sharkey (2009) found that the underestimation of depth was less in a rich virtual environment with textured background surfaces.…”

“…However, accurate depth perception is essential for ergonomics assessments and subjective perceptions of distance have been reported to be less in virtual environments than those in the real world (Klein et al, 2009;Renner et al, 2013). This has been attributed to differences in measurement methods, technical factors (e.g.…”

“…experience with VR, sense of presence). Research to understand the impact of these differences on applications of virtual environments is lacking (Renner et al, 2013).…”

G6-1 Analysis of movement and performance of pointing in real and stereoscopic environments

“…Understanding movement performances and behaviors depicted by the stereoscopic environment and then comparing it with the real world performances and movement behaviors, would help to explain the space perception issues reported in various studies (C. J. Lin & Woldegiorgis, 2015;Renner et al, 2013). …”