A Lack of Restraint: Comparing Virtual Reality Interaction Techniques for Constrained Transport Seating

Area of Science:

• Human-Computer Interaction
• Virtual Reality
• User Experience Design

Background:

• Standalone virtual reality (VR) headsets are usable during travel but constrained spaces limit user interaction.
• Limited physical space increases risks of invading personal space or hitting objects, hindering use of most commercial VR applications.
• Current VR applications are designed for unobstructed 1-2m 360° home environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate adaptation of three at-a-distance VR interaction techniques for constrained transport spaces.
• Equalize interaction capabilities between at-home and on-transport VR users.
• Evaluate Linear Gain, Gaze-Supported Remote Hand, and AlphaCursor for VR movement inputs.

Main Methods:

• Analyzed commercial VR experiences to identify common movement inputs.
• Developed gamified tasks based on identified movement inputs.
• Conducted a user study (N=16) in a constrained 50x50cm space, comparing three techniques against an at-home control condition.

Main Results:

• Linear Gain demonstrated similar performance and user experience to the at-home condition.
• Linear Gain resulted in more boundary violations and larger arm movements.
• AlphaCursor minimized unsafe movements but showed poorer performance and user experience.

Conclusions:

• Linear Gain is the most effective technique for adapting VR to constrained travel spaces.
• Trade-offs exist between performance, safety, and user experience with different techniques.
• Eight guidelines are provided for at-a-distance techniques in constrained environments.