Getting comfortable in the zone with S3DComfortZone

Abstract

This thesis explains the creation of S3DComfortZone; a visualization tool integrated into the development pipeline displaying the virtual comfort zones of stereoscopic 3D devices. This tool addresses the need for visualization information of unique comfort zones across multiple stereoscopic 3D devices. The comfort zone is defined as a volume of space in which virtual objects would be perceived comfortable by the user. The volume is influenced by unique hardware parameters as well as distance to the display. The result of two studies suggest the mathematical model of the comfort zone defined in past literature holds true and the S3DComfortZone accurately visualizes the comfort zone of stereoscopic 3D devices using the model. The results of the study also suggest the device itself plays a factor in viewing 3D objects comfortably. S3DComfortZone informs developers of comfort zone information of multiple devices in real-time empowering them to make informed decisions regarding content creation.