AR Loading Indicator Spatial Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In augmented reality environments, users face challenges in effectively communicating the loading progress and location of AR objects, particularly when they are outside the current view, leading to potential missed or ignored objects during immersive experiences.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced to present a loading indicator in the AR environment that adapts its size, shape, and position based on the spatial relationship between the user's view and the object's location, including a two-dimensional or three-dimensional appearance, and morphing into a footprint representation, to effectively direct the user's gaze and convey wait time information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a loading indicator is presented for an AR object outside the current view, then the user is informed about the loading status of distant objects, but the indicator may be missed or ignored by the user
Solution Approach 1:
The loading indicator transforms from a standard 2D overlay to a 3D object that exists within the AR spatial environment. This 3D indicator can be positioned at the actual AR object location even when outside the current view, allowing it to become visible when the user moves to different viewing angles or positions, thereby preventing the user from missing the indicator.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary directional indicator (such as an arrow or pointer) that guides the user's gaze toward the location of the loading indicator or the AR object. This intermediary element bridges the gap between the user's current view and the loading indicator positioned outside the view, ensuring the user becomes aware of the indicator's presence.
2Ease of operation
If the loading indicator size is made large to be visible, then the indicator is easily noticed, but it may obstruct the view of the AR environment
Solution Approach 1:
The loading indicator's visual properties (size, opacity, dimensionality) are locally adapted based on its spatial relationship to the user's view. When the AR object is far outside the view, a smaller or less prominent indicator is used. When the object is near the view boundary or partially visible, a larger or more prominent indicator is displayed. This localized adaptation ensures visibility without excessive obstruction.
Solution Approach 2:
The loading indicator dynamically changes its properties (size, dimensionality, position) based on real-time spatial relationships. As the user moves the device or the AR object's position changes relative to the view, the indicator adapts its characteristics to maintain optimal visibility while minimizing obstruction of the AR environment.
3Loss of information
If multiple loading indicators are presented simultaneously for multiple AR objects, then all loading statuses are communicated, but the complexity of the interface increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each loading indicator is segmented as an independent, modular element within the AR environment. These individual indicators are distributed at their respective AR object locations rather than consolidated in a single UI panel. This segmentation allows multiple indicators to coexist without creating a complex centralized interface, as each indicator is a simple, self-contained element that the user encounters naturally while exploring the AR space.
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 6A~7B
AI summary
A method includes: presenting, on a device, a view of at least part of an augmented reality (AR) environment, the AR environment including a first AR location corresponding to a first physical location in a physical environment; initiating a download to the device of first data representing a first AR object associated with the first AR location; assigning a size parameter to a first loading indicator for the first AR object based on a size of the first AR object; determining a spatial relationship between the view and the first physical location; and presenting the first loading indicator in the view, the first loading indicator having a size based on the assigned size parameter and being presented at a second AR location based on the determined spatial relationship.