Is it getting hot in here? The effects of VR headset microclimate temperature on perceived thermal discomfort, VR sickness, and skin temperature

Thermal discomfort is a driver of negative user experiences with modern VR headsets since they are similar to head-worn gaming computers. Here, we examined the effect of microclimate temperature (MCT; i.e., the air between headset and user) and the effect of standing and seated use on thermal discomfort for a goggle style headset. Users played VR games across three 48-min sessions with different thermal profiles ranging between 28 degrees -43 degrees C. Perceived thermal and weight discomfort were rated by participants every 12-min. Thermal, but not weight comfort declined during the study period as MCT increased. Users sweat more and had greater forehead temperatures while standing with the lowest thermal profile, suggesting thermal management is more critical for active experiences. Overall, this study recommends MCT should be kept below 36 degrees C. Finally design for thermal comfort should be tailored to the individual, experience duration and activity level.

Automated summary

This study examines the impact of microclimate temperature and standing/seated use on thermal discomfort in VR headset users. The results show that thermal discomfort decreased as microclimate temperature increased, but weight discomfort remained unchanged. Users experienced more sweating and higher forehead temperatures while standing with the lowest thermal profile. The study suggests that thermal comfort should be designed according to individual differences, duration of use, and activity level.