The Mental Rotation and Perceived Realism of Computer-Generated Three-Dimensional Images

Two experiments were performed, one to investigate the effects of computer-generated realism cues (hidden surfaces removed, multiple light sources, surf ace shading) on the speed and accuracy with which subjects performed a Standard cognitive task (mental rotation), the other to study the subjective perceived realism of computer-generated images. In the mental rotation experiment, four angles of rotation, two levels of object complexity, and five combinations of realism cues were varied as subjects performed “same—different” discriminations for pairs of rotated three-dimensional images. Results indicated that mean reaction times were faster for shaded images than for hidden-edge-removed images. In terms of speed of response and response accuracy, significant effects for object complexity and angle of rotation were shown. In the second experiment, subjective ratings of image realism revealed that wireframe images were viewed as less realistic than shaded images and that number of light sources was more important in conveying realism than type of surf ace shading. Implications of the results for analogue and propositional models on memory organization and integral and non-integral characteristics of realism cues are discussed.

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