Effects of Interaction Method, Size, and Distance to Object on Augmented Reality Interfaces

Abstract

Augmented reality (AR) technologies are becoming increasingly popular. However, studies regarding the usability of AR interfaces are scarce. This study aims to derive the optimal usability design of the AR interface by analyzing the performance of 12 interface conditions (2 button sizes × 3 distances × 2 interaction types). An experiment was conducted using Microsoft HoloLens, in which participants performed button selection tasks with an array of 3 × 3 virtual buttons. The task completion time and the number of errors were measured along with a subjective satisfaction score. The results showed that a clicker-based interaction was more effective in task completion time, the number of errors and user satisfaction than a hand gesture. Furthermore, large buttons required a significantly shorter task completion time than small buttons. There was no significant difference in the number of errors between the two sizes. A distance of at least 80 cm from the eye to the virtual object is most favorable for a good performance. There was a significant difference in the task completion times between 40 cm and 80 cm and between 40 cm and 120 cm. These results can aid the interface designs for AR applications and devices.

Principles of environmental and social psychology in UI/UX design for metaverse social games: A case study of Horizon Worlds

“…Fitts' Law has wide-ranging applications in UI/UX design. Based on this law, the following principles can be explained: when a button has a larger area, it is easier for users to click, resulting in shorter interaction time [9] . Conversely, when the distance between the mouse cursor or finger and the button is greater, it becomes more difficult for users to click, leading to longer interaction time.…”