Augmented Reality Prototype HUD for Passenger Infotainment in a Vehicular Environment

Wang, Shu; Charissis, Vassilis; Harisson, David K. · 2017 · OpenAlex-citations

DOI: 10.25046/aj020381

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Summary

This paper addresses the problem of driver distraction caused by rear-seat passengers, particularly children, during long-distance travel. The authors note that parents often divert their attention to manage bored or disruptive children, increasing collision risk. To mitigate this, the study proposes a prototype Head-Up Display (HUD) system designed specifically for passenger infotainment. Unlike traditional Head-Down Displays that require looking away from the road, this system projects Augmented Reality (AR) content onto the vehicle’s side windows, allowing passengers to engage with entertainment and educational content while viewing the external scenery. The system was developed and tested in a Virtual Reality Driving Simulation laboratory using a full-scale Mercedes A-Class vehicle. The hardware setup included a high-definition mini-projector projecting onto a transparent film on the side window, superimposing game graphics over real-world video footage of landmarks like Stirling Castle. The software, built on the Unity3D engine, offered two primary AR games: a superhero flying game and a historic castle-assault game. Interaction methods were evaluated using both a Leap Motion gesture controller and an Xbox wireless controller. The study also considered content suitability for different age groups, ranging from toddlers to teenagers, incorporating educational data about en-route landmarks. The evaluation involved a focus group of five adults to determine suitable game mechanics, followed by a main trial with 20 children aged 4 to 13. Results indicated that platform games aligned with the vehicle’s direction of travel were easier to play and less likely to cause motion sickness than 3D movement games. While the Leap Motion device caused arm fatigue due to unsupported hand positions, 70% of participants reported this did not negatively impact their enjoyment. Gesture control was favored by 80% of users, though half noted an initial learning curve. The system successfully engaged passengers for at least 10 minutes, meeting the target for occupying passengers during typical commute segments. Secondary trials with drivers demonstrated that the presence of the engaged passenger HUD reduced driver distraction compared to scenarios without the system. The study concludes that AR-based side-window HUDs offer a viable solution for reducing driver distraction by keeping rear passengers occupied without requiring them to look away from the window. The findings highlight the importance of aligning game mechanics with vehicle motion to prevent motion sickness and suggest that while gesture control is engaging, ergonomic support or alternative controllers like gamepads may be necessary for longer durations. The research implies that integrating AR infotainment into vehicle design can enhance safety by minimizing the cognitive load on drivers caused by passenger management.

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• hud ar windshield