Induced Stereoscopic Motion as an Aid in the Search for Tall Targets

Abstract

Induced stereoscopic motion, ISM, is apparent movement in tall static objects projecting from a reasonably flat background when viewed stereoscopically. ISM is produced by a smooth but extensive variation of the stereo-base (the separation of camera points) in a pair of moving picture films. The two films are projected by two separate but synchronized projectors onto rear view screens which are placed in the field of view of a stereoscope. In a controlled test it was found that subjects located targets faster and with fewer errors with ISM film than with comparable film in which the stereo-base was fixed at the maximum of the ISM film. This improvement of search is due almost entirely to searchs for targets which are difficult to find. Easy targets were always found and found quickly by both methods. ISM is as yet a laboratory production, but plans are being made for developing its field and applicability.