In stereoscopic extended reality headsets, the distance between optical systems composed of a pair of displays and lenses can be fixed or adjustable. A mismatch between interpupillary distance (IPD) and the distance between optical systems may cause user discomfort and distortions in spatial perception. Nevertheless, little is known about its potential effect on vergence and accommodation. In the study, we explored how visual parameters changed after using the virtual reality headset with a fixed distance between optical systems using routine eye examination tests. Sixty-two subjects (18-33 years of age) were divided into two groups based on the IPD mismatch: 0-5 mm (n = 29) and 6-10 mm (n = 33). Their visual parameters including near point of convergence, amplitude of accommodation, binocular accommodative facility, near horizontal phoria, and fusional reserves were assessed before and after playing 30 minutes of the virtual reality mini-golf game. The data showed considerable changes in the amplitude of accommodation and near point of convergence after the use of virtual reality. Moreover, the prevalence of adverse changes in accommodation and vergence was higher when IPD was mismatched by 6-10 mm compared with the smaller off-alignment. Overall, the findings suggest that the distance between the optical systems in the headsets should be adjustable and matched with the distance between the user’s eyes to lower the demands on the visual system. Moreover, the contribution of IPD mismatch needs to be considered in the user studies investigating the impact of stereoscopic extended reality on the visual system.
Extended reality human factors studies commonly utilize an approach in which group behavior is reported. This possibly masks the true prevalence of oculomotor changes that appear in response to stereoscopic augmented reality. Thus, the study aimed to elucidate the prevalence, direction, and magnitude of oculomotor changes after the near work in stereoscopic augmented reality. The task of fifty-three subjects (18-28 years old, normal visual acuity, no vision complaints) was to type the text displayed at 60 cm as accurately and quickly as possible. Each subject participated in two sessions – the text was displayed in stereoscopic augmented reality and on the computer screen. Clinical assessments of visual parameters were performed before and immediately after 30 minutes of the task. As a result, individual variations were found in the magnitude and direction of oculomotor changes after the near work. After the use of stereoscopic augmented reality, adverse changes in vergence and accommodation were observed in about 40% of the group. Despite the prevalence of adverse oculomotor changes being similar in the case of text displayed on the computer screen, only less than 20% of the group showed a decline of visual parameters in both viewing conditions. The exploratory study highlights the necessity to consider individual variations in visual responses and identify groups that might benefit or be disadvantaged in using stereoscopic augmented reality technologies.
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