Potentials of monocular augmented reality technology in automobile production

Introduction: Augmented reality (AR) technologies can enrich the real environment with visual data, which has potential benefits for optimising the operator's working process. It offers the possibility to provide context-sensitive information independently of the user's location and position. Data are presented to the dominant eye on a semi-transparent mirror using a head-mounted display (HMD) unit that works with retinal laser technology. In this study the potential benefits and drawbacks of this new AR technology were evaluated. Materials and Methods: 45 participants without any visual impairment were randomly assigned to 3 groups and completed a variety of tasks during a simulated working day. Group 1 received conventional working aids (paper-based documents) to support the task processing. Group 2 additionally wore an HMD unit that was switched off. Group 3 wore a functioning HMD without any additional aids. Evaluation was carried out by means of a standardised questionnaire (BMS) and a concentration test ("d2 Aufmerk-samkeits-Belastungs-Test"). Results: No significant differences between the 3 groups were found in terms of mental strain, concentration-test performance and physical or mental complaints reported in a follow-up interview. Around 20% of the subjects noticed a higher pressure and blurred vision in both eyes as well as headaches. Half of the participants complained about deficiencies concerning the ergonomic hardware design of the AR system. Discussion: Changes in objective ophthalmological investigation parameters were not observed. Subjects reported reduced acceptance of the HMD based on non-ophthalmological reasons, for example, the weight of the unit or the length of the cable. However, for some specific working tasks, advantages in process optimisation and operator support were observed.