VibroGlove

TLDR

The paper introduces a novel interface to enhance interpersonal interactions by conveying facial expressions to blind or visually impaired users. The device uses vibro‑tactors mounted on a glove’s back to deliver haptic emoticons representing six basic emotions and a neutral expression, with a detailed design and icons presented and evaluated in a user study with blind and sighted blind‑folded participants. Results reveal the potential for enriching social communication for people with visual disabilities.

Abstract

In this paper, a novel interface is described for enhancing human-human interpersonal interactions. Specifically, the device is targeted as an assistive aid to deliver the facial expressions of an interaction partner to people who are blind or visually impaired. Vibro-tactors, mounted on the back of a glove, provide a means for conveying haptic emoticons that represent the six basic human emotions and the neutral expression of the user's interaction partner. The detailed design of the haptic interface and haptic icons of expressions are presented, along with a user study involving a subject who is blind, as well as sighted, blind-folded participants. Results reveal the potential for enriching social communication for people with visual disabilities.