Exploring unmanned systems with virtual prototypes in augmented reality video

The potential of unmanned systems is vast, but pre-procurement evaluation is challenging. This study explores potential uses of and interaction with unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) for dismounted infantry. A remote user study with Swedish Armed Forces personnel is described. Many factors influencing future use and interaction were found. Moreover, this study shows the potential of the innovative mixed synchronous-asynchronous remote evaluation method combining 1) real-world enacted scenario video with 2) overlaid augmented reality virtual prototypes of both a) technical system and b) its interface (Handheld controller, Smartwatch, and Augmented Reality-goggles), with subsequent 3) interaction with a 3D-modeled virtual prototype, and using 4) questionnaires, focus groups, and interviews at various stages of evaluation. This method contributes to the methodological toolkit that the applied human-centred computing research community can employ to investigate future unmanned system use.