Improving Pointing Accuracy for 3D Target Selection in Virtual Reality Through Depth Perception Biases Correction

Accurate 3D target selection in virtual reality (VR) is fundamentally impeded by pointing uncertainty along the depth axis, a challenge that existing 2D pointing models fail to address due to the complexities of depth perception. Near-eye interactions in VR are influenced by binocular depth cues and vergence-accommodation conflicts (VAC), which introduce significant depth perception biases that impair predictive performance. To address this issue, we first investigate these factors and derive a Gaussian distribution to model near-field depth biases within a 2.5m range. Second, to analyze pointing performance across this extended depth range, we classify 3D target motions into three distinct types: motion-indepth, motion-in-plane, and combined motion. Our analysis identifies that interaction depth and motion amplitude are the two most critical factors influencing pointing accuracy. Accordingly, by incorporating these factors alongside our perceptual bias Gaussian into the Ternary-Gaussian framework, we demonstrate significantly improved predictive performance across diverse 3D motion scenarios. These findings enhance the understanding of user perception in virtual environments and support the development of precise, context-aware interaction cues. Future research can extend these models to design real-time adaptive interfaces, thereby elevating user experiences in VR.