Some thoughts on happenings and happenstance that happen to a happening guy.

2008/12/12

Optical Illusions in Computer Graphics

I wrote this research paper in 2005 for my Bachelor's of Science in Computer Science. As far as I know, it's still the only paper on practical usage of optical illusion effects in software. If anyone knows of any other papers, let me know.


Abstract:
In general terms, all techniques of computer graphics are fundamentally optical illusions. Optical illusions that result from errors in perception are currently unused in the field of computer graphics, remaining merely as novelties in expressionistic art and children’s books. Through the use of illusions that result in the viewer failing to properly perceive parallel lines, it is possible to convey extra information beyond the basic geometry of the scene. Specifically, we demonstrate how such illusions may be utilized to convey Z-axis information on two dimensional displays. This is compared to techniques with similar code complexity and techniques with similar information complexity. Minimum required processing power is extremely low, indicating immediate applications in hand-held and embedded devices.


Get the paper after the jump. Some day I will get the demo running again. Some day, I may even write a new paper that extends on this one

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