Uncovering the Potential of the Foot for Novel I/O Interfaces

Abstract

Augmented foot interfaces have been studied since the beginning of wearable computers. The world’s first wearable computer was an instrumented shoe that consisted of a toe operated switch with a wireless module. Since then, academic research and commercial products on augmented foot interfaces have been booming, with novel interfaces every year. However, there are still areas in the foot augmentation domain that have not been widely explored yet. My Ph.D. research aims to contribute new concepts that will complement previous research in the domain of foot augmentation. To accomplish this, first, I conducted a literature review classifying all the prior work, that helped identify three potential applications where foot augmentation devices can be beneficial. In my first application, I developed a smart shoe to detect acute stress during sedentary tasks, where foot augmentation acts as an input device. In the second application, I developed an output foot augmentation device to provide tickling stimulation that induces fun and causes laughter. As my third application, I present a novel input/output foot augmentation device that senses the Centre of Pressure, an important bio-mechanical parameter. The device was used to improve exercise posture while the wearer was performing squats and deadlifts. Finally, based on the outcome of my thesis work, I suggest design considerations for future research on augmented foot interfaces which will be helpful for HCI researchers and practitioners. My thesis will present the contributions below: 1. An extensive literature review of augmented foot interfaces with a new classification. 2. A smart-shoe based approach to discriminate acute stress and relaxation by four distinct foot movements and posture characteristics., 3. A wearable insole that can create a tickling sensation to the foot to elicit fun and laughter. 4. An artefact which displays the CoP using visual or vibrotactile feedback to significantly improve body posture while performing squats and deadlifts. 5. A set of design considerations for future research on augmented foot interfaces.