A model was developed to predict the range of disparities that can be fused by an observer from optometric measurements. This model uses parameters, such as dissociated phoria and fusional reserves, to predict an individual’s fusional range (i.e., the disparities that can be fused on stereoscopic displays) when the user views a stereoscopic stimulus from various distances. This model is validated by comparing its output with data from a previous study in which the individual fusional range of a group of observers was quantified while they viewed a stereoscopic display from distances of 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 meters. Overall, the model provides good data predictions for the majority of the participants and can be generalized for other viewing conditions. The model may, therefore, be used within a customized stereoscopic system, which would render stereoscopic information in a way that accounts for the individual differences in fusional range. Because the comfort of an individual user also depends on the user’s ability to fuse stereo images, such a system is described that may, consequently, improve the comfort level and viewing experience for people with different stereoscopic fusional capabilities.

Date Published: 22 March 2005
PDF: 12 pages
Proc. SPIE 5664, Stereoscopic Displays and Virtual Reality Systems XII, (22 March 2005); doi: 10.1117/12.585967

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 5664:
Stereoscopic Displays and Virtual Reality Systems XII
Andrew J. Woods; Mark T. Bolas; John O. Merritt; Ian E. McDowall, Editor(s)