Binocular rivalry in monocular augmented reality devices: a review
Abstract
This review aims to clarify the parameters affecting binocular rivalry, in order to improve comfort for users of monocular augmented reality devices. Augmented reality devices allow users to see virtual information superimposed on the environment. The particularity of monocular systems is that they do not stimulate the eyes in the same way and can therefore induce binocular rivalry. This occurs when the brain is unable to merge the different images presented to each eye and perception alternates between them. It can cause visual fatigue, headache and visual suppression. Binocular rivalry can be characterized in terms of alternation rate, predominance (i.e. total proportion of the binocular rivalry viewing time that a stimulus is dominant) and average dominance duration (for all individual dominance periods). The literature suggests that these variables depend on the conditions of use and the visual stimuli available to the subject. Notably, several parameters have an impact, including contrast, spatial frequency, brightness, etc. The impact of other parameters, such as ocular dominance, remains the subject of debate. With respect to the latter, the literature describes various definitions and tests, and it appears that there are three main forms: motor, acuity and sensorial, the latter being of interest for binocular rivalry.