Near and Far Interaction for Outdoor Augmented Reality Tree Visualization and Recommendations on Designing Augmented Reality for Use in Nature

Abstract

The application of augmented reality in nature and in the context of environmental education is not common. Moreover, augmented reality is often used mainly for visualization, which puts the user in a rather passive state. To promote a more active user experience, we have created an interactive AR environment for outdoor scenarios. In this article, we investigate how near and far interaction using a head-mounted display can be combined with visualization on a tree. We compare both interaction techniques to decide which is more suitable for future use. We present some educational use cases and investigate the interaction with virtual leaves on the ground in combination with a virtual-real interaction with a physical tree. Parameters such as type of interaction, different real environments, and task performance time as well as the combination and interconnection between them are discussed and studied. In addition, process visualizations in nature, such as clouds and rain, and tree root growth are included in the augmented reality modules and are evaluated in user tests followed by questionnaires. The results show that both near and far interaction can be beneficial for a future educational application. We further present a number of outdoor-specific recommendations for AR design and usage to support future researchers and AR practitioners outdoors in the nature.