OM: A Comprehensive Tool to Elicit Subjective Vibrotactile Expressions Associated with Contextualised Meaning in Our Everyday Lives

Abstract

The sense of touch offers interesting possibilities as a robust and ubiquitous communication channel. In this thesis, we developed and presented OM, a tool that enables users to design subjective vibrotactile expressions associated with contextualised information that is relevant to them. OM consists of a pair of wrist-worn devices that reproduce complex vibrotactile symbols and a companion editor smartphone app that allows users to create, customise, and store personalised expressions. We studied OM in real-world contexts by allowing participants to explore the functionalities of OM throughout their daily interactions with complete autonomy. Based on the study results we highlight relevant scenarios, design considerations and future directions towards a tool that can help people unveil an alternative, ubiquitous, and private communication system that is accessible to all.