Internship | Investigating eye-hand coordination in virtual reality

Virtual reality is increasingly being used for gaming and training purposes. Existing virtual reality technology can include images of physical real-world objects, like one’s own hands, by presenting a combination of real-time video in combination with the virtual simulated world. Different virtual reality goggles use different focal (image projection) distances, fixed at for example 85 or 115 cm, while the viewing distance to our hands typically varies. Presenting the visuals at a fixed focal distance creates a convergence-accommodation conflict, which may negatively impact visually guided hand interactions. Furthermore, a convergence-accommodation conflict may also contribute to eye strain and cybersickness. Next to focal projection distance presumably having an impact on eye-hand coordination, the camera on virtual reality goggles to capture the physical world influences users’ visual acuity. The newest generation of goggles uses eye tracking and LIDAR (i.e., depth estimation) to adjust for the distance to the physical object in the real world. This may improve visual acuity, but could on the other hand give rise to small visual delays.

In this study, we are interested in exploring the effects of focal projection distance and (adaptive) camera distance of a virtual reality headset with video-see-through on eye-hand coordination. In the past, TNO has developed a tapping task using touch screen displays to assess eye-hand coordination. You will investigate how focal projection distance and camera distance influence speed and accuracy of hand movements on this tapping task when being required to shift visual attention between objects far away and in closer proximity.

We are seeking for an enthusiastic student at master level who wants to join this project for a duration of 6 months (full-time). Previous experience or an interest in getting acquainted with virtual reality is desirable. Additionally, some familiarity with data processing software such as R, MATLAB, or Python is valued. The starting date of this position is October 2024. A security screening is required. The research location is TNO Soesterberg (Kampweg 55, Soesterberg).

You want an internship opportunity on the precursor of your career; an internship gives you an opportunity to take a good look at your prospective future employer. TNO goes a step further. It’s not just looking that interests us; you and your knowledge are essential to our innovation. That’s why we attach a great deal of value to your personal and professional development. You will, of course, be properly supervised during your work placement and be given the scope for you to get the best out of yourself. Furthermore, we provide:

• A highly professional, innovative internship environment, within a team of top experts.
• A suitable internship allowance (615 euro for wo-, hbo- and mbo-students, for a full-time internship).
• Possibility of eight hours of free leave per internship month (for a full-time internship).
• A free membership of Jong TNO, where you can meet other TNO professionals and join several activities, such as sports activities, (work-related) courses or the yearly ski-trip.
• Use of a laptop.
• An allowance for travel expenses in case you don’t receive an OV-card.

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer and more sustainable life. And for a strong economy. Since 1932, we have been making knowledge and technology available for the common good. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. There is all the space and support for your talent and ambition. You work with people who will challenge you: who inspire you and want to learn from you. Our state-of-the-art facilities are there to realize your vision. What you do at TNO matters: impact makes the difference. Because with every innovation you contribute to tomorrow’s world. Read more about TNO as an employer.

At TNO we encourage an inclusive work environment, where you can be yourself. Whatever your story and whatever unique qualities you bring to the table. It is by combining our unique strengths and perspectives that we are able to develop innovations that make a real difference in society. Want to know more? Read what steps we are taking in the area of diversity and inclusion.

After the first CV selection, the application process will be conducted by the concerning department. TNO will provide a suitable internship agreement. If you have any questions about this vacancy, you can contact the contact person mentioned below.

For this internship vacancy it is required that the AIVD issues a security clearance (VGB) after conducting a security screening. Take into account that this process may take about 8 weeks. If you have been abroad for more than 6 consecutive months, or if you do not have the Dutch nationality, it may take longer. Read more about security screening on the AIVD website.

Important to be aware of before applying:

• Before the start of the internship, the internship agreement from TNO needs to be signed. For students at a college or university based in the Netherlands, TNO uses the UNL-template (supplemented with a number of specific agreements from TNO). For students of foreign and MBO educational institutions, the TNO internship agreement applies. TNO does not sign any other internship agreements.
• Before the start of the internship, the educational institution will need to confirm in writing that:
  • 1) you are enrolled at the educational institution during the internship, and;
  • 2) the internship takes place as part of the programme of the study.
• The confirmation of educational institution takes place by signing the UNL template or forms prepared by TNO.
• Interns at TNO must be in possession of a Dutch residential address at the start of the internship. Performance of internship activities from abroad is not possible.