Information processing by humans in a virtual reality (VR) environment is a multi-faceted topic that involves understanding how the brain interprets and makes sense of digital information presented in a simulated environment. In this article, we will explore different types of perception, including human visual perception, perception of space, and depth cues, and examine how these factors impact the overall experience of interacting with a virtual environment.
Visual perception
Human visual perception is the process by which the brain interprets and makes sense of the visual information that is presented to us. This process involves the eyes, the brain, and the visual cortex, which work together to process and interpret the received visual information. In a VR environment, the visual information is presented in the form of digital images and videos, which the brain must interpret and make sense of to create a sense of immersion and realism.
Perception of space is another key aspect of the human experience in a virtual environment. In the real world, we can navigate and orient ourselves in space based on various cues, such as the position of objects in relation to one another, the size and shape of objects, and the texture and color of surfaces. In a virtual environment, these cues must be simulated and presented in such a way that the brain perceives them in a similar way as they would be in the real world.
Depth cues
Depth cues are one of the most important factors in creating a sense of realism and immersion in a virtual environment. These cues are used to give the brain information about the relative distances of objects in the virtual environment. Some examples of depth cues include:
- Linear perspective: This is how parallel lines appear to converge as they recede into the distance.
- Interposition: This is how objects closer to the viewer appear to obscure or block the view of objects farther away.
- Shadows: Shadows can indicate the presence of a light source and give information about objects’ relative positions in the virtual environment.
- Texture gradient: The way that the texture of an object appears to change as it recedes into the distance can provide information about its distance from the viewer.
- Overlapping: Objects that are closer to the viewer will appear to overlap objects that are farther away.
Other examples of depth cues include relative size, relative height, relative motion, and aerial perspective. Using multiple depth cues in a virtual environment can create a sense of realism and immersion similar to what we experience in the real world.
Auditory and haptic information
In addition to visual perception, the human brain also processes other types of information in a virtual environment, such as auditory and haptic information. Auditory information, such as sound effects and music, can be used to create a sense of immersion and to give the brain information about the virtual environment. Haptic information, such as vibrations and force feedback, can be used to give the brain information about the physical properties of the virtual environment, such as the texture of surfaces or the weight of objects.
The human brain is also able to adapt to new environments and learn new information over time. In a virtual environment, the brain can learn to recognize and understand the visual and auditory cues that are used to create a sense of realism and immersion. This can lead to increased immersion and realism over time as the brain becomes more familiar with the virtual environment.
However, it’s important to note that not all individuals may have the same experience in a VR environment. Some may experience motion sickness or discomfort due to the mismatch between the visual and vestibular cues. Furthermore, some individuals may have difficulty with certain depth cues, such as those with visual impairments or conditions that affect human vision.
Human information processing in a virtual reality environment is a complex topic that involves understanding how the brain interprets and makes sense of digital information presented in a simulated environment. The visual, auditory, and haptic cues, as well as the perception of space and depth cues, play a crucial role in creating a sense of immersion and realism. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that not everyone may have the same experience in VR, and factors such as motion sickness and individual differences should be considered when designing and using VR technology. Further research is needed to fully understand how the brain processes information in a virtual environment and how to optimize the overall user experience.
We will discuss each aspect in more detail in future articles.
