Depth-viewing-volume increase by collimation of stereo 3-D displays

The results from an investigation into whether or not a dramatic increase in depth-viewing volume for stereo 3-D displays would be provided by the application of collimated optics to a stereo display source are presented. As background, some previously used 3-D stereo displays are described. The graphics-generation hardware and software are discussed. The stereo visual system is described. The collimation system consists of a beam-splitter and reflective mirror combination. The curvature of the mirror and display source placement provided a collimated output to the viewer. A conventional stereo 3-D monitor, although it had a nonoptimal size and curvature profile, was mounted on the collimation system. The results show that even though the actual screen distance was set by design at 27 in, the light collimation produced a virtual screen distance, subjectively estimated at between 50 and 100 ft.<>