The Foreground Occlusion Effect

This dissertation develops a somewhat new theoretical framework for discussing foreground occlusions, and emphasizes their application to presence and HMD design. However, the existence of a psychological effect associated with foreground occlusions is not a new observation. The below introduces the literature on foreground occlusions from the fields of vection and the monoscopic viewing of 2D, static pictures.

For those wishing to experience the foreground occlusion effect, a simple technique is to hold up a cardboard box with a hole in it which just blocks the edges of a VCR monitor. For best results, play on the monitor a scene with considerable movement. Compare one's impressions looking through the hole with one eye to an unobstructed view of the monitor at the same distance, again with only one eye.

Human Interface Technology Lab

Human Interface Technology Lab