Comparative study of stereoscopic techniques applied to a virtual globe

Abstract

[EN] For years, stereoscopy has been related to photogrammetry in topography. However, these methods are not efficient for virtual globes because the effect is only visible from one view point and this restricts interactivity. By using synthetic image techniques in order to generate stereo-paired images, we can produce visible effects from any view point. In this paper, we present a comparative study of stereoscopic techniques in virtual globes supported by a test carried out among 51 participants. Three devices were used: anaglyphs, an autostereoscopic screen and a quadbuffer system. The aim was to determine which one of the three devices causes a deeper feeling of immersion and which one can be more efficient in a virtual globe. Results show considerable differences between the quadbuffer system and the other devices. The mentioned system causes in the user a stronger feeling of depth and immersion in the virtual globe.