Basic Perception in Head-worn Augmented Reality Displays

Head-worn displays have been an integral part of augmented reality since the inception of the field. However, due to numerous difficulties with designing using such unique hardware, the perceptual capabilities of users suffer when looking at either the virtual or real portions of the augmented reality. We discuss the perceptual background and a series of experiments in the literature and in our laboratories measuring the degradation of basic functions of the human visual system when using head-worn augmented reality displays. In particular, we look at loss of visual acuity and contrast (and how these in turn affect text legibility), distortion of perceived colors, and difficulties of fusing stereo imagery. We discuss the findings and the implications for head-worn display design. Human Factors in Augmented Reality Environments: Springer, 2012.