Untersuchungen zu nutzerbezogenen und technischen Aspekten beim Langzeiteinsatz mobiler Augmented Reality Systeme in industriellen Anwendungen

Magdeburg, Univ., Fak. für Informatik, Diss., 2009Johannes Tümle

Realism and Experiments: Investigating Virtual Reality Experiments

Experimental research is a fundamental component of scientific inquiry, but the realism of experimental settings may be limited due to a trade-off between internal and external validity. Virtual Reality technology offers a potential solution to this problem by creating highly controlled, yet realistic experimental settings. In this study, we investigate the potential of VR to increase perceived realism in experimental research by identifying and examining the effects of VR experiments on participants\u27 perceived realism. In our experiment, we compare the level of perceived realism between artificial scenarios presented as text vignettes and in VR. Our findings indicate that VR experiments elicite a significantly higher level of perceived realism compared to text-based experiments. Additionally, we use partial least squares structural equation modeling to investigate the identified concepts. We recommend that researchers consider using VR technology to enhance the realism of experimental settings and improve the validity of their findings

Evaluation of SiL Testing Potential—Shifting from HiL by Identifying Compatible Requirements with vECUs

Due to the increasing complexity of vehicle software, it is becoming increasingly difficult to comprehensively test all requirements. This inevitably means that alternative test methods, e.g., simulation-based methods, must be used more frequently. However, the challenge involves identifying appropriate requirements that can be technically tested in a simulation environment initially. The present work is aimed at evaluation and optimization of the effectiveness of software-in-the-loop (SiL) simulations in the testing process of vehicle software. The focus is on supporting the testing process by shifting specific test cases from hardware-in-the-loop (HiL) test benches to SiL-based simulations. For this purpose, a systematic approach was developed to analyze and categorize requirements, enabling precise and efficient allocation of test cases. Furthermore, a detailed review and recommendation for improving the ProSTEP iViP standard for virtual electronic control units (vECU) was carried out. The developed matrix associates the defined requirement clusters with different classifications of vECUs, facilitating the identification of suitable test environment types for conducting specific test cases. By assigning test cases to appropriate vECU levels, the testing processes can be targeted and cost-optimized. Finally, the theoretical results were evaluated in an SiL simulation environment. It was observed that a significant part of the requirements could effectively be tested using a vECU. These findings confirmed the potential of SiL simulation environments to not only support, but also enhance, the testing process for vehicle software by providing a cost-effective and flexible complement to traditional HiL test benches

Investigation of an augmented reality-based machine operator assistance-system

In this work we propose three applications towards an augmented reality-based machine operator assistance system. The application context is worker training in motor vehicle production. The assistance system visualizes information relevant to any particular procedure directly at the workplace. Mobile display devices in combination with augmented reality (AR) technologies present situational information. Head-mounted displays (HMD) can be used in industrial environments when workers need to have both hands free. Such systems augment the user’s field of view with visual information relevant to a particular job. The potentials of HMDs are well known and their capabilities have been demonstrated in different application scenarios. Nonetheless, many systems are not user-friendly and may lead to rejection or prejudice among users. The need for research on user-related aspects as well as methods of intuitive user interaction arose early but has not been met until now. Therefore, a robust prototypical system was developed, modified and validated. We present image-based methods for robust recognition of static and dynamic hand gestures in real time. These methods are used for intuitive interaction with the mobile assistance system. The selection of gestures (e.g., static vs. dynamic) and devices is based on psychological findings and ensured by experimental studies