RunSync is a revolutionary vest that combines tactile and haptic
technology to enable a novel form of social communication while
engaging in physical activity, especially running. The main goal of
RunSync is to improve the running experience by allowing users to
communicate with one another through a series of taps and vibrations,
even if they are in different spaces. The vest acts as a platform for
communication, enabling users to send and receive messages through
tactile sensations, creating a creative and engaging way to socialise
while running.
The intended experience with RunSync is to provide users, especially
novice runners, with a manageable and enjoyable way to start their
running journey. By donning the RunSync vest, users can quickly locate
and connect with compatible running partners at any time and place,
facilitating supported and encouraged running sessions. Users of the
vest can forge connections with people with similar interests and
objectives by using the vest's haptic feedback and tactile
technology.
When wearing RunSync, users can experience a relay race-like
environment where they communicate with their companions through a
series of taps. In order to facilitate communication, each tap is
converted into a corresponding vibration that the recipient feels.
This eliminates the need for a verbal exchange or the reliance on
nonverbal cues like body language. Inspiring users to feel a sense of
community and camaraderie while running, this exciting and interactive
form of interaction adds a layer of connection and excitement.
The use of haptic feedback and tactile technology in RunSync is
supported by academic research. MacGavin et al. (2021) developed a
Protactile-Inspired Wearable Haptic Device tailored for
sighted-hearing and DeafBlind individuals, utilizing vibration,
pressure, and heat for communication. Another study by Chang et al.
(2002) describes ComTouch, a device that enhances remote voice
communication through touch by converting hand pressure into real-time
vibrational intensity. These papers highlight the potential of haptic
communication and tactile technology in capturing communication
aspects.
Advancements in mediated social touch show promise in enhancing the
quality and expanding the bandwidth of interpersonal communication
(Raisamo et al., 2022). Further exploration of how haptic
communication and tactile technology can be effectively employed for
communication purposes is a significant topic for discussion.
Technical Description
Both vests have back-and-forth tapping interactions with the use of
Duino Tech Uno Wifi Dual Board and touch sensors.
The Duino Tech Uno WiFi Dual Board is a device that combines the
ESP8266 and Arduino Uno components. These components need to be
programmed separately to work together. The ESP8266 acts as a
client, connecting to a WebSocket for communication. It receives
instructions and sends them to the Arduino Uno using serial I/O.
The Arduino Uno board has multiple ports that allow you to connect
various sensors and motors. This feature enables you to express
messages through physical movements and sensations.
To establish communication between devices, a Python WebSocket is
hosted on a laptop, connected via a mobile hotspot. Any device
connected to this WebSocket server can broadcast instructions to all
other devices on the server, creating a network for simultaneous
communication.
During the development process, different components and experiments
were conducted. Initially, a servo motor was tested, but it didn't
provide the desired tapping sensation for effective
communication.
Alternative input options such as a pressure sensor or button were
considered, but they couldn't simulate a friendly tap as
intended.
Another experiment involved displaying a person's heart rate
visually using servo motors wrapped in a sponge, but it didn't prove
useful in the intended context.
Finally, the focus shifted to allowing users to sense and feel the
running pace of another user. The esp32-pico, distributed as
m5stickC, was used to achieve this. It connects to a separate
WebSocket server and calculates the running pace based on step
intervals. The pace information is then sent to another m5stickC,
which controls two motors to simulate footsteps. Rapid arm movements
are disregarded as running pace, while slow movements (over 1 second
per step) stop the vibration.
In summary, the Duino Tech Uno WiFi Dual Board combines ESP8266 and
Arduino Uno components, allowing you to create interactive
experiences using various sensors and motors. Through a WebSocket
server, devices can communicate and respond to instructions. The
device emphasizes conveying messages through physical sensations
like tapping and simulating running pace, providing opportunities
for creative expression and meaningful communication.
References
Chang, A., O’Modhrain, S., Jacob, R., Gunther, E., & Ishii, H.
(2002). ComTouch: Design of a Vibrotactile Communication Device.
Proceedings of the 4th Conference on Designing Interactive Systems:
Processes, Practices, Methods, and Techniques, 312–320.
https://doi.org/10.1145/778712.778755
MacGavin, B., Edwards, T., & Gorlewicz, J. L. (2021). A
Protactile-Inspired Wearable Haptic Device for Capturing the Core
Functions of Communication. IEEE Transactions on Haptics, 14(2),
279–284. https://doi.org/10.1109/TOH.2021.3076397
Raisamo, R., Salminen, K., Rantala, J., Farooq, A., & Ziat, M.
(2022). Interpersonal Haptic Communication: Review and Directions
for the Future. International Journal of Human-Computer Studies,
166, 102881. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijhcs.2022.102881