Virtual reality (VR) and personal head-mounted displays (HMDs) can be a viable tool for the presentation of scientifically accurate and valid demonstrative data in the courtroom. However, the capabilities and limitations of the technology need to be fully characterized. The current pilot study evaluated visual acuity and contrast sensitivity using two commercially available HMDs (Oculus Rift and HTC Vive Pro). Preliminary findings indicated that visual acuity and contrast sensitivity experienced in VR may be less than what is experienced in real-world scenarios. The current pilot study provides a quantitative approach for characterizing the limitations of VR with respect to visual acuity and contrast sensitivity, and provides recommendations for the appropriate use of this technology when performing forensic investigations and developing visualization tools.

The information conveyed through visual cues varies greatly depending on the display method. Digital images are often used as trial demonstratives and are a vital resource in the presentation and transfer of information to a jury during litigation. In the situation where depth perception and spatial awareness are a key factor in the understanding of a subject incident, immersive technology, such as virtual reality (VR), may provide a valuable alternative to traditional media forms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of different display methodologies in conveying depth perception and spatial awareness during an “optical illusion” misstep and fall case. This study provides a quantitative characterization of participants’ responses to various display methodologies ranging from 2D photographs to a VR environment. Results indicate that individuals were able to perceive a larger number of visual cues when immersed in a three-dimensional virtual environment, giving them a more accurate representation of the scene.

The ability to accurately depict the scene of an incident to a jury, who will never be able to experience it first-hand, is a key element of presenting trial demonstratives. In many cases, where visual perception and situational awareness are a key element in understanding the nature of an incident, traditional modes of presentation, such as two-dimensional photographs, may be insufficient and require a more sophisticated methodology. Specifically, as stereoscopic head-mounted displays (HMDs) and virtual reality (VR) programming continues to advance, it provides jurors the opportunity to experience an interactive, and more representative, virtual environment. Further, while immersed in these environments, jurors can direct their gaze to areas of interest, view them from multiple angles, and dictate the pace in which they do so providing an experience tailored to the individual that more fully utilizes the capabilities of their sensory system. Thus, forensic accident investigators, such as human factors expert witnesses, have the opportunity to leverage this technology to demonstrate aspects of perception and human performance. This study discusses the application of HMDs and VR to a real-world incident investigation, and discusses the reasons why such technology is required to accurately depict changes in walking surface level elevations.