Human factors of 3D displays in advanced image communications

Three-dimensional displays provide an unambiguous visual representation of the spatial structure of natural scenes and computer-generated virtual environments and thus have proven substantial advantages over conventional displays in remote guidance and inspection tasks and in application fields such as medical imagery and architectural and molecular modelling. Recent years have seen increasing efforts to extend 3D technologies into the domain of image communications. These efforts received support from human factors studies indicating that 3D displays are highly appreciated by prospective users of image communications systems for their enhanced psychological effects (telepresence and communicative presence). On the other hand, these studies have revealed heavy technological requirements that must be met in order to avoid visible image distortions and increased visual strain.