Simple SIRDS and Extensions

Kevin Beach and Mike Wade

Abstract

A Single Image Random Dot Stereogram, or SIRDS, is a single image that creates the illusion of a 3 dimensional scene. This image, composed of seemingly random dots on a 2D surface, can impart a perceived depth by a careful placement of dots such that each point serves for two parts of the image, each part being perceived by only one eye.

The algorithm for dot placement is well defined and can be found in several texts and papers. We propose to implement the SIRDS algorithm for solid objects. Furthermore, there are several extensions that can be applied to the simple SIRDS. Therefore, we further propose to investigate and implement several extensions such as color (or color loss). By coloring corresponding dots differently, it is possible to create a 3d image which, when viewed correctly, will not only create a sense of depth but color as well. Carefully coloring the individual dots and combining them into the 3d image will either cause the dots to cancel each other out and thereby appear in grayscale or, more interestingly, generate different colors in the image. There are other extensions which we propose to investigate, but seem to have less available background information and therefore may not be feasible in a limited time span. These include the use of orientation to create 2 completely different images as well as creating 2 different 3d images from the same stereogram using both the "wall-eyed" and "cross-eyed" technique of viewing the image.

Initial Bibliography:

B. Hankinson and A Hermida. Hidden Images: Making Random Dot Stereograms. Que.

D. Marr and T. Poggio. A Computational Theory of Human Stereo Vision. Proceedings Royal Society of London, 1979. 304-328.

H.W. Thimbleby, S. Inglis, and I. H. Witten. "Displaying 3D Images: Algorithms for Single Image Random Dot Stereograms". IEEE Computer, 10/1994. 38-48.

C. W. Tyler and M. B. Clarke. The Autostereogram. SPIE Stereoscopic Displays and Application, 1990. 182-196.