Space Perception in Real and Pictorial Spaces: Investigation of Size-Related and Tone-Related Pictorial Depth Cues through Computer Simulations

Abstract

Extensive studies on the depth perception of real space have enriched the knowledge of depth cues and have advanced the realism of the creation of pictorial space. Architects often use pictorial space mediated on two-dimensional media to envision design alternatives and their resultant three-dimensional qualities of un-built spaces. Thus, the knowledge of pictorial depth cues can be employed in design considerations to enhance the spatial experience of built environments. Recent developments in computer graphics of physically based renderings and perceptually based tone-mapping techniques are utilized in this paper to generate pictorial spaces that can reflect perceptual reality. Psychophysical experiments are conducted to investigate the size-related and tone-related pictorial depth cues in this alternative environment. There are two objectives of this study: the first is to ensure that the size-distance relationship, the underlying principle for size-related pictorial depth cues, can be observed effectively in a computer-generated pictorial space; the second is to demonstrate that perceptually based computer simulation can be utilized to conduct perceptual study on tone-related pictorial cues that are otherwise restricted from the physical setting and, in turn, to provide a pictorial environment for envisioning the effect of the studied pictorial depth cue in the design process.

Keywords:

• space perception
• depth cue
• physically based rendering
• tone mapping