CAREER: Adaptive XR Interfaces

NSF Award Search · 01002627DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $713,609 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

Extended Reality (XR) technologies, such as Augmented Reality headsets, will transform how people access and interact with digital information and tools. Unlike smartphones or laptops, XR systems present digital content integrated with a person’s physical environment, making information continuously available while allowing people to remain aware of their environment. However, poorly designed XR interfaces can easily become distracting, cluttered, or difficult to use, limiting the usefulness and widespread adoption of XR technology. This project investigates how XR systems can intelligently adapt to a user’s context, including their environment, tasks, and mental state, in order to present information in ways that support attention, safety, and productivity. By developing knowledge and tools that allow XR interfaces to automatically adjust to changing situations, this research aims to make digital information more helpful and less distracting in everyday life. The results will support future applications in areas such as productivity, training, education, and maintenance. This project develops the scientific and technical foundations for adaptive XR user interfaces that dynamically adjust how and where digital content is presented. The research investigates how contextual factors such as physical environment, user activity, and cognitive demands influence effective XR interface design. First, the project analyzes existing XR applications and conducts surveys, expert worksh

Key facts

NSF award ID
2542186
Awardee
Carnegie Mellon University (PA)
SAM.gov UEI
U3NKNFLNQ613
PI
David Lindlbauer
Primary program
01002627DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
Artificial Intelligence (AI), CAREER-Faculty Erly Career Dev, Cyber-Human Systems, GRADUATE INVOLVEMENT
Estimated total
$713,609
Funds obligated
$467,325
Transaction type
Continuing Grant
Period
06/15/2026 → 05/31/2031