Degradation in dynamic visual perception with waveguide-based augmented reality displays

Abstract: We investigated the degradation in visual perception that can occur using augmented reality displays to interact with and interpret real-world reading and spatial response tasks.Background: Stereoscopic augmented reality displays can degrade a user’s visual perception. To distinguish the components of this degradation that result from hardware and software differences, an analysis of this visual degradation for contemporary augmented reality displays is necessary.Method: Participants performed real-world (i.e., not projected in augmented reality) eyechart tests of visual acuity and contrast sensitivity to characterize the degradation of static visual perception caused by each headset in the study (Microsoft HoloLens, Magic Leap One, and DAQRI Smart Glasses), and took a measure of useful field of view to characterize any potential degradation in spatial awareness.Results: From our analysis of user performance, we observed that unlike the headsets previously used for this type of characterization, the majority of contemporary augmented reality displays do not significantly degrade visual perception. However, we did observe slight decreases in visual performance introduced by the Magic Leap One.Conclusions: We defined a methodology to employ real-world measures of visual perception to rapidly characterize degradation of visual perception in augmented reality.Applications: This analysis can inform headset selection and visual stimulus design strategies based on operational requirements and inform future headset development efforts.

Keywords: Visual search, computer interface, mental workload, vision, virtual environments, augmented reality, mixed reality

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1004453

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