Problems Arising in the Design of Workstations Based on Augmented Reality

Recently, workstations have been designed and developed based on augmented reality, for assembly/disassembly of complex devices and mechanisms. Augmented reality should help operators by outputting visual information regarding the device structure, action and operation tips. Augmented reality can also be used to inform vehicle drivers and aviation pilots. For example, a pilot will see itinerary and airspeed data on an augmented reality headset, without looking at displays and indicators in the cockpit. These developments are relevant, but for them to be efficient, rigorous research is needed. First, a full-scale description of an operator's (worker's, driver's or pilot's) activity is necessary. This description includes defining goals, setting tasks, describing conditions, actions and operations. Further, augmented reality devices, suitable for the specific operator, should be chosen. Necessary types of visual information display should be described: for example, displaying the inner structure of mechanisms or their images from different angles. An important aspect of design is the choice of methods for system interactions. One should remember that, at work, an operator's hands are busy. That is why the interfaces should not interfere with their main activity. Thus, design and development of workstations based on augmented reality should be conducted together with experts in specific fields, including the operators themselves. One should note the insufficiency of knowledge regarding an augmented reality user's state when he or she is carrying out serious activities. Theoretical and experimental research is required. All this is necessary for the developed systems to be efficient, comfortable and safe.