A typical stereogram consists of what appear to be two identical images that have been made in such a manner that they can be viewed with a stereo viewer giving a strong sense of depth. Knowing the exact distance between the stereo imaging system and two or more objects can be vitally important in many situations. The purpose of this study is to create a virtually automatic system of stereo perception based on physiological and psychological effect using digital cameras that can be translated directly to a digital readout. The success of this research would make it possible to make precise determinations of the distance between objects and the camera in a vast number of areas. Two digital cameras would be used always bearing in mind that the focal lengths used must be identical so that the images are precisely the same size. Software will be written that makes it possible for a computer and the digital cameras to make exact determinations of the distance between the cameras and a variety of objects withoutusing subjective human perception. It is proposed that the information from the cameras be sent first to the image processing program using Mean Operation Technique and then to the monitor of a computer resulting in a real time digital system. The distance between the cameras is a function of the distance to the object(s) being examined and can be adjusted. The error range is estimated to be +- 5%. The stereograms can be viewed by using LCD shutter/eyeglasses.
