Errors in Augmented Reality Interactions Affected Muscular Loads in the Neck and Shoulders

Abstract

The use of augmented reality (AR) head-mounted displays is becoming increasingly prevalent due to their ability to provide interactive experiences with high degrees of freedom. However, AR interactions have been shown to be associated with increased biomechanical loads in the neck and shoulders. This repeated-measures study evaluated the effects of interaction errors on neck and shoulder biomechanical loads during AR tasks. Twenty participants performed two standardized AR tasks (omni-directional pointing and cube placing) with and without AR interaction errors. During the tasks, neck and shoulder angles and muscle activity were collected. The results showed that the presence of errors led to increased neck extension and shoulder flexion angles. Peak muscle activity in the shoulders (anterior and medial deltoids) also increased with errors. These findings highlight the importance of reducing interaction errors in AR interfaces to minimize risks of musculoskeletal discomfort and injuries in the neck and shoulders