Detecting sudden changes in dynamic rotation displays

Four experiments and controls were run in order to determine the ability of the visual system to detect slight changes in three-dimensional (3D) rotating stimuli in comparison to two-dimensional (2D) controls. A small number of observers (between 5 and 8) viewed computerized displays of pixel-defined transparent rotating spheres or circular patches of pixels drifting linearly in opposite directions. Halfway through the circuit of rotation a letter was briefly displayed and the rotation continued with some change introduced. Our results showed that for horizontal shifts of the stimulus on the X-axis, changes in the axis of rotation, and additions/deletions of pixels, observers were better at detecting the changes associated with 3D motion than 2D motion. There was no good 2D control for approaching and receding stimuli, but on the basis of other results it was concluded that 3D movement had no advantage. It is suggested that rotation in 3D is more readily monitored by the visual system than simultaneous 2D motions in opposite directions.