Dynamic Lighting for Enhanced Sense of Depth in 2D Mid-air Image

This study aims to enhance the realism of two-dimensional (2D) mid-air images. While a 2D light source is often used to create these images owing to its affordability, high resolution, and ease of implementation, it presents challenges in eliciting a depth perception similar to that of 3D mid-air images. Aligning the lighting environments of real space with mid-air images enhances optical consistency, affecting the perception of presence and shape. Therefore, we introduced dynamic lighting in real space, achieving optical and temporal consistency, which enhances the sense of depth in 2D mid-air images. Additionally, a psychophysical experiment suggested that dynamic lighting increases depth perception, offering an enhanced sense of depth in 2D mid-air images compared to that of traditional static lighting.