The Impact of AR-Supported Interfaces on Cognition, Hazard Identification, and Task Efficiency in Construction Teleoperation

In teleoperation, limited sensory feedback makes situational awareness critical. Augmented reality (AR) interfaces can enhance awareness through visual cues but may also increase cognitive load, particularly in visually complex environments. This study examines how varying levels of AR-based visual support, reflecting differences in visual information density, influence attention, hazard identification, and task performance during simulated tower crane teleoperation. A virtual construction environment was developed, and thirty participants were randomly assigned to one of three interface conditions: no AR, selective AR near obstacles, or full AR for all visible obstacles. Performance was assessed using task completion rate, hazard detection rate, time to first fixation, monitoring frequency, and perceived cognitive load (NASA-TLX). Results indicate that broader AR support enhanced hazard identification, with higher detection rates, faster fixation times, and more frequent monitoring. These effects extended to unmarked hazards, suggesting that AR cues may promote general vigilance. However, increased AR support was also associated with higher cognitive load and reduced task efficiency. Overall, the findings clarify the trade-offs between AR information density, vigilance enhancement, cognitive demand, and task performance, contributing empirical insights to AR interface design in teleoperation systems.