Effects of Frequent Changes in Extended Self-Avatar Movements on Adaptation Performance

Among several perceptive traits of virtual reality, the relationship between the physical body and a self-avatar is unclear. In this study, we investigate a case of hyper-adaptability, i.e., the capability of users to adjust to the movements of an altered self-avatar when such movements abruptly and frequently change. Focusing on movements of the upper limbs, we show experimentally the effect of the frequency of variations in virtual body alterations on adaptability. Moreover, we report a positive evaluation of the sense of embodiment and the overall user experience with virtual reality, and finally underline how these studies can be considered a basis for the design and development of virtual rehabilitation systems.