# Influence of Multi-Cue Interaction on Human Depth Perception in Three-Dimensional Space

## TL;DR

This study explores how motion, color, and object position affect human depth perception in 3D virtual environments.

## Contribution

The study reveals complex interactions between multiple visual cues in influencing depth perception.

## Key findings

- Small motion parallax inhibits depth perception, while larger amounts enhance it.
- Adding color to moving stimuli can improve perceived depth.
- Different stimulus positions affect depth perception, possibly involving higher-level brain functions.

## Abstract

Background: With the widespread application of three-dimensional (3D) display technology, enhancing the realism of users’ experience in virtual 3D space has become important. A deep understanding of the mechanisms of human depth perception is therefore crucial. Objective: This study aims to investigate the influence of motion parallax, color, and object position cues on depth perception in 3D space. Method: Random-dot stereograms based on binocular disparity cues were constructed; three experiments were designed, varying the stimulus movement speed, color, and position; two-alternative forced-choice (2AFC) psychophysical paradigms were employed to collect participants’ responses regarding depth perception; and statistical analyses were conducted to examine the influences of these three cues on depth perception specified by binocular disparity. Results: A relatively small amount of motion parallax indicated a certain inhibitory effect on depth perception, whereas a larger amount might enhance the perceived depth. Introducing red, green, or blue color to the moving stimuli might also have a certain promoting effect. Furthermore, a significant difference in perceived depth was observed when the positions of the Test Stimulus and the Standard Stimulus differed within a trial, which might involve areas of higher-level brain function (such as visual attention). In conclusion, when multiple visual cues are present concurrently, they exhibit complex interactions that affect human depth perception.