Design of the Augmented Reality Based Training System to Promote Spatial Visualization Ability for Older Adults

In this paper, we present the design of spatial visualization training system implemented by augmented reality (AR). Spatial visualization is the ability to mentally transform complex stimuli in space. However, this ability declines with human age, resulting in spatial problems in one’s normal life. Based on the fact that AR interface can reduce cognitive load and provide correct spatial information, we are devoted to designing an AR spatial visualization training system for older adults to use. The system consists of a manual controller and a visualization training task. In the process of manual controller design, think aloud experiment is adopted to generate intuitive manipulation, and morphological analysis is used to evaluate the most elderly-friendly controller. In the process of training task design, by analyzing spatial training factors, a new visualization training task is designed. In the process of AR integration, the system is implemented by Qualcomm AR in Unity3D with Vuforia protal, and the final AR based spatial visualization ability training system is completed.