Effect of Volumetric Displays on Depth Perception in Augmented Reality

Augmented reality (AR) head-up displays (HUD) have previously been explored as a potential information delivery system for drivers. In driving scenarios, correct perception of virtual object distance assists with effective use of AR HUDs in safety-critical applications (e.g., collision warnings). AR volumetric displays purportedly offer increased accuracy of distance perception through consistent presentation of oculomotor cues such as vergence and accommodation over traditional displays. For this paper, we investigated volumetric AR displays as a mean of enhancing perception of virtual objects registered to the real world, specifically in terms of distance perception as a result of binocular cues. We designed and ran an experiment where participants controlled and placed virtual objects next to real-world counterparts at ranges between 7-12 meters. We found that the volumetric AR display outperformed a traditional fixed focal plane AR HUD when considering distances 5 meters greater than the traditional display's focal depth.