Rich Squeezable Interactions

Over the last decade, novel paradigms have been suggested to enhance the interaction between humans and computers. The combination of reliable sensors and smart algorithms has paved the way for exploiting the rich potential of the human system, i.e. our senses and our capabilities to manipulate objects and move our body. We want to continue our work on “Skweezee”-technology, allowing users to provide input by touching and deforming soft objects. Current systems rely on conductive wool and electrodes consisting of electric wires. These already allow for creating meaningful and intuitive interactions, but also have some shortcomings. In this PhD project, (1) We will investigate new materials, such as e.g. conductive foams and other conductive fabrics as an alternative for conductive wool. We will create our own materials and investigate the influence of different parameters on the mechanical and the electrical properties of these materials. (2) We will experiment with different materials and shapes for the electrodes, and see how they influence the quality of the measurements, with a focus on consistency in the data for a series of touch interactions (e.g. similar deformations). (3) We will design, develop and test fully interactive systems with rich feedforward and feedback components, such as e.g. audio, light and mechanical movements. The goal is to explore the full potential that skweezees may offer, such as its analogue nature and ability to recognize different gestures. (4) We will perform user tests to investigate the potential of skweezees in different contexts such as health care, learning, arts, and entertainment. (5) We will also investigate possible applications for squeeze interactions and propose solutions on three levels: (a) materials and touch/squeeze; (b) meaningful applications; and (c) interaction design.