The influence of ceramic tile characteristics on visual comfort and cognitive performance in workplace environments: a study based on VR and EEG

TL;DR

This study uses VR and EEG to show how ceramic tile patterns and colors affect visual comfort and cognitive performance in workplaces.

Contribution

It introduces a novel method combining VR and EEG to evaluate the impact of ceramic tile characteristics on human perception and cognition.

Findings

Non-patterned and light-toned tiles improved visual comfort and increased alpha wave activity.

Light-toned and patterned tiles reduced reaction times and correlated with beta wave activity.

Tile selection can be optimized for different interior spaces based on cognitive and emotional needs.

Abstract

Ceramic tiles are widely used in workplace environments, and their visual characteristics can influence users’ perceptual and cognitive experiences. However, research remains limited on how ceramic tile properties affect visual comfort, cognitive performance, and related neural responses.

This study examines six common types of mass-produced ceramic tiles, employing virtual reality (VR) and electroencephalogram (EEG) technologies to evaluate visual comfort and cognitive performance. A 2 (patterned vs. non-patterned) × 3 (light-toned, medium-toned, dark-toned) factorial design was used to construct six immersive VR environments through 3D modeling. Data on visual comfort ratings, cognitive behavioral performance, and EEG responses were collected from participants in each environment. The effects of tile’s pattern and brightness on visual comfort, cognitive outcomes, and neural activity were analyzed.

The findings indicate that environments with non-patterned and light-toned ceramic tiles received higher visual comfort ratings and elicited increased alpha wave power spectral density, reflecting positive emotional experiences. In terms of cognitive performance, the participants had shorter reaction durations in the environments of light-toned ceramic tiles and patterned ceramic tiles, and were negatively correlated with the beta wave power spectral density values.

The results suggest that ceramic tile selection can be tailored to the functional needs of interior spaces. For instance, in relaxing settings such as lounges, tiles that enhance alpha-wave activity may be preferable, while in workspaces requiring high cognitive engagement--such as studios, meeting rooms, or offices--tiles that promote moderate beta-wave activity may be more suitable. This study provides valuable insights and evaluation methods for interior and ceramic tile designers, especially for design of Chinese region.

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