Spatial Discontiguity in Three-Dimensional Augmented Reality Spaces

High-demand tasks requiring multiple screens and prolonged attention often lead to cognitive load and fatigue. This study examines the effects of spatial contiguity—both in the visual field and depth—on cognitive load in augmented reality (AR) environments. Two experiments with eye-tracking and pupillary response measures analyzed different separation levels. Findings indicate that increasing spatial separation heightens extraneous and germane cognitive load, leading to greater mental effort. These results highlight the importance of proximity in AR interface design to minimize cognitive load and enhance information integration, contributing to the development of ergonomically optimized workspaces.