Natural Visual-Field Features Enhance Vection

When a large optic-flow pattern is viewed, induced self-motion perception (vection) can result even for observers who are stationary relative to Earth. Vection is common in optokinetic drums, large-screen cinemas, vehicle simulators, and other virtual environments. However, not all optic-flow patterns are equally effective in producing vection. We hypothesized that visual-field characteristics that typically accompany self-motion are likely to facilitate vection. The two characteristics tested in the current study were color and global visual-field movement consistent with head bob and sway that occurs when a person walks or runs. Stationary observers viewed first-person perspective video clips on a rear-projection screen that depicted forward self-motion. Vection onset and magnitude were measured with a computer-interfaced slide device. In experiment 1, either a grayscale or color video was presented. In experiment 2, the video was shot either from a smooth rolling cart or with a hand-held camera that yielded gait information in addition to global expansion. Vection onset was found to be faster, and stronger in magnitude, when videos containing color and gait movements were viewed. These results suggest that visual-field features that are common during actual self-motion can enhance vection in a virtual environment, resulting in a more realistic experience for viewers.