Virtual Reality Simulated Augmented Reality Display on Windshields: Effects of landmark type on the incidental spatial knowledge acquisition of autonomous car drivers

Effects of landmark type on the incidental spatial knowledge acquisition of autonomous car drivers

Abstract
This study investigates the potential of augmented reality (AR) windshields in preserving spatial cognition by assessing their impact on the incidental formation of spatial knowledge in autonomous driving within virtual environments. The research examines how AR windshields influence task accuracy, completion time and gaze behaviour during spatial knowledge tasks, also by looking at the distinct roles of local and distant landmarks. Participants were tested in one of three conditions: no AR windshield, AR windshield with local landmarks and AR windshields with distant landmarks. Results revealed no significant differences between the AR absent and present conditions, challenging prior research suggesting AR windshields enhance spatial knowledge acquisition. However, the findings highlight the importance of integrating both local and distant landmarks for optimal spatial knowledge formation. Local landmarks facilitated fixation based processing, while distant landmarks encouraged visual scanning. Further research is necessary to refine AR windshields for better support of incidental spatial knowledge formation in autonomous driving contexts. The study emphasized the importance of a balanced AR windshield design to support incidental learning and wayfinding strategies in autonomous vehicles.