Intelligent Technologies for Interactive Entertainment. 8th International Conference, INTETAIN 2016, Utrecht, The Netherlands, June 28–30, 2016, Revised Selected Papers

Research Article

Hold Me Tight: A Tangible Interface for Mediating Closeness to Overcome Physical Separation

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  • @INPROCEEDINGS{10.1007/978-3-319-49616-0_7,
        author={Carina Gansohr and Katharina Emmerich and Maic Masuch},
        title={Hold Me Tight: A Tangible Interface for Mediating Closeness to Overcome Physical Separation},
        proceedings={Intelligent Technologies for Interactive Entertainment. 8th International Conference, INTETAIN 2016, Utrecht, The Netherlands, June 28--30, 2016, Revised Selected Papers},
        proceedings_a={INTETAIN},
        year={2017},
        month={1},
        keywords={Tangible interface User experience Closeness Physical separation Long distance relationship Cultural probes},
        doi={10.1007/978-3-319-49616-0_7}
    }
    
  • Carina Gansohr
    Katharina Emmerich
    Maic Masuch
    Year: 2017
    Hold Me Tight: A Tangible Interface for Mediating Closeness to Overcome Physical Separation
    INTETAIN
    Springer
    DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-49616-0_7
Carina Gansohr1,*, Katharina Emmerich1,*, Maic Masuch1,*
  • 1: University of Duisburg-Essen
*Contact email: carina.gansohr@uni-due.de, katharina.emmerich@uni-due.de, maic.masuch@uni-due.de

Abstract

This paper presents a sense appealing tangible user interface as an innovative technological solution to increase a feeling of closeness for two physically separated persons: an interactive pillow pair allowing intimate voice message exchange over a distance. The pillow shape incorporates the comfortable characteristics of the intimate going-to-bed ritual and is meant to provoke a relaxed and reflective ambience in which dedication for one another can be revealed. A working proof of concept prototype is evaluated in a qualitative study based on a combination of cultural probes and interviews to investigate its applicability for couples living in long-distance relationships. Initial findings indicate that the pillow concept is successful in the matter of providing an appealing solution to make lovers feel closer over a geographical distance. Users slow down, feel warm and safe and compose messages meant to express support, consolation, love and appreciation.