An Augmented Reality Serious Game for Learning Intelligent Wheelchair Control: Comparing Configuration and Tracking...

Area of Science:

• Robotics and Human-Computer Interaction
• Assistive Technology
• Augmented Reality Applications

Background:

• Individuals with motor disabilities often face challenges in controlling robotic wheelchairs.
• Serious games offer a promising avenue for enhancing user engagement and training in assistive technology.
• Augmented reality (AR) can provide immersive and interactive environments for rehabilitation and skill development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and evaluate an augmented reality serious game (ARSG) designed to support individuals with motor disabilities in controlling robotic wheelchairs.
• To compare the efficiency and engagement of different devices (smartphone vs. computer) for ARSG environment configuration.
• To assess the performance and usability of distinct motion tracking capabilities (cloud anchors vs. offline tracking) within the ARSG.

Main Methods:

• Development of an ARSG with a racing track narrative, incorporating virtual elements, obstacles, and signs.
• Implementation of environment configuration via smartphone and computer interfaces.
• Evaluation of two tracking conditions: C1 (motion tracking using cloud anchors) and C2 (offline motion tracking).
• Conducting two user studies with 10 and 20 participants to gather performance and usability data.

Main Results:

• Computer-based environment configuration was found to be more efficient and accurate than smartphone configuration.
• The smartphone configuration method was perceived as more engaging by users.
• Motion tracking using cloud anchors (C1) demonstrated higher accuracy and robustness compared to offline motion tracking (C2).
• Offline motion tracking (C2) was perceived as easier to use by participants.

Conclusions:

• ARSG presents a viable tool for enhancing robotic wheelchair control for individuals with motor disabilities.
• The choice of configuration device impacts efficiency and engagement, with computers excelling in precision and smartphones in user appeal.
• Cloud anchor-based motion tracking provides a more accurate and stable AR experience, though offline tracking offers greater ease of use.