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Old 08-19-2011, 12:30 PM   #45 (permalink)
jime57
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Join Date: Oct 2008
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OurInsight - '06 Honda Insight
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Vekke View Post
I would say the the half sphere on just basic shape, but depending how and where you would install the mirror the lower version can be as good. For user friendliness IMO round mirror is much easier to use. On narrow and wide view it is diffult to process the data you see on your head.
I think that there is lots of truth in this statement. The way the brain processes the data is very important.

But there are other factors related to the geometry of mirror size and placement which have a strong impact on mirror effectiveness. I tried masking off much of my insight mirror to simulate a small 2x4.6 inch racing mirror. Through the experiment, I began to understand some of the size and geometry constaints. In order to have depth perception, both eyes must see the target simultaneously. Since the eyes are separated by 2.5-3 inches, this factor alone limits the smaller practical limit of mirror size. But that isn't the whole story with effective depth perception. The distance(i.e. placement) of the mirror from the eyeballs also has a complex effect on how depth perception works.

All in all, I found that 2x4.6 inches seems too small for any practical location on the Insight 1. Your results may vary. The experiment is pretty easy to do, all you need is some duct tape or masking tape.
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