Seeing the Distance: Enhancing XR Interaction with Visual Cues
Problem Statement
Spatial perception in Extended Reality (XR) environments is critical for creating effective and immersive user interactions with virtual objects in shared spaces. One of the main challenges is accurately perceiving depth and spatial positioning, especially in multi-user settings where individuals must interact with shared virtual objects that coexist with the physical world. Users often struggle to intuitively understand their surroundings due to inadequate depth cues. This becomes more challenging when users need to perform precise tasks, such as reaching for or manipulating virtual objects. Inaccurate spatial perception can lead to frustrating interactions and reduced effectiveness of XR systems across various applications, from gaming and entertainment to education, healthcare, and collaborative design.
Task
We are looking for students to investigate innovative methods for enhancing spatial perception in XR environments. This project aims to explore the implementation and effectiveness of three key techniques—geometric scaling, shadows, and color maps—in improving spatial awareness for users. Your task will involve both theoretical research and practical application, focusing on understanding how these techniques can provide clearer depth cues to users in real-time. You will examine existing XR systems, identify limitations, and develop strategies to optimize spatial perception. The work will involve coding and testing these methods in real XR environments using either the HMDs. The ultimate goal is to create a more intuitive XR experience that enables accurate distance judgments for users in dynamic and multi-user settings.
Work
- 20% Theory: Study of XR systems, spatial perception challenges, and existing solutions.
- 60% Programming: Implementing and testing methods to enhance spatial awareness and perception in XR environments.
- 20% Writing: Documenting findings, contributing to research reports, and preparing presentations.
Contact
Gwen Qin, (gwen.qin@utwente.nl)