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ComTouch: Design of a Vibrotactile Communication Device Angela Chang, Eric Gunther, Hiroshi Ishii MIT Media Laboratory Sile O'Modhrain Media Lab Europe Rob Jacob Tufts University ABSTRACT
We describe the design of ComTouch, a device that augments remote voice communication
with touch, by converting hand pressure into vibrational intensity between users
in real-time. The goal of this work is to enrich interpersonal communication by
complementing voice with a tactile channel. We present preliminary user studies
performed on 24 people to observe possible uses of the tactile channel when used
in conjunction with audio. By recording and examining both audio and tactile data,
we found strong relationships between the two communication channels. Our studies
show that users developed an encoding system similar to that of Morse code, as
well as three original uses: emphasis, mimicry, and turn-taking. We demonstrate
the potential of the tactile channel to enhance the existing voice communication
channel. |
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