New visualization approaches are being actively developed aiming to mitigate the effect of vergence-accommodation conflict in stereoscopic augmented reality; however, high interindividual variability in spatial performance makes it difficult to predict user gain. To address this issue, we investigated the effects of consistent and inconsistent binocular and focus cues on perceptual matching in the stereoscopic environment of augmented reality using a head-mounted display that was driven in multifocal and single focal plane modes. Participants matched the distance of a real object with images projected at three viewing distances, concordant with the display focal planes when driven in the multifocal mode. As a result, consistency of depth cues facilitated faster perceptual judgments on spatial relations. Moreover, the individuals with mild binocular and accommodative disorders benefited from the visualization of information on the focal planes corresponding to image planes more than individuals with normal vision, which was reflected in performance accuracy. Because symptoms and complaints may be absent when the functionality of the sensorimotor system is reduced, the results indicate the need for a detailed assessment of visual functions in research on spatial performance. This study highlights that the development of a visualization system that reduces visual stress and improves user performance should be a priority for the successful implementation of augmented reality displays.

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Recent developments in three-dimensional image display technologies for augmentation of reality have led to a growing interest towards spatial perception research. Research in this domain aims to describe the quality of viewing experience and discover potential benefits and limitations of new visualisation approaches intended for use in professional capacities. Precise perception and interpretation of digital spatial information is crucial for decision making in many professional areas, such as healthcare, education, aerospace, and defence.Human spatial perception relies on a combination of multiple information sources -the so-called depth cues [1]. The differences in perception are related to the availability and weight of depth cues. Binocular depth cues (retinal disparity and vergence) ensure the most accurate judgements about spatial relations between objects in the near field, although their contribution to spatial perception decreases with an increase in viewing distance [1,2]. Besides the availability of depth cues, their consistency plays an important role. For instance, accommodation and vergence cues provide the same information about the depth of an object in natural viewing [3].Today, there are different types of display systems used for the three-dimensional presentation of information