Spatiotemporal modulation (STM) is used to render tactile patterns with ultrasound arrays. Previous research only explored the effects of single-point STM parameters, such as drawing speed (Vd). Here we explore the effects of multi-point STM on both perceptual (intensity) and emotional (valence/arousal) responses. This introduces a new control parameter for STM - the number of focal points (Nfp) – on top of conventional STM parameter (Vd). Our results from a study with 30 participants showed a negative effect of Nfp on perceived intensity and arousal, but no significant effects on valence. We also found the effects of Vd still aligned with prior results for single-point, even when different Nfp were used, suggesting that effects observed from single-point also apply to multi-point STM. We finally derive recommendations, such as using single-point STM to produce stimuli with higher intensity and/or arousal, or using multi-point STM for milder and more relaxing (less arousing) experiences.

As we constantly seek to improve and expand upon the capabilities of technology, we frequently wonder whether we use technology to its fullest extent. Studies indicate that increasing our awareness and mindfulness of our senses may lead to a journey of unexplored experiences. In this paper, we focus on the perception of mid-air haptics stimuli and whether it can be improved through mindfulness meditation. We have conducted an experiment with 22 participants given the task to recognize digits 0 to 9 drawn on their palms using a mid-air haptic device under two conditions - with and without prior mindfulness meditation. Results show that for frequencies targeting both Meissner (40 Hz) and Pacinian (200 Hz) receptors, meditation significantly improves performance of the participants, as well as increases their confidence. This suggests that including a short meditation step in haptic user interfaces could lead to improved system performance and user satisfaction.

We present a system for connecting partners in long-distance relationships in bedrooms and at bedtime, a space and time that most couples share. Unlike communications explicitly initiated by users, our system is always-on, staying in the background and enabling remote presence without constant use. We present findings from a field study in which the system was deployed into participants’ bedrooms. The system includes an automated photo-stream (rather than video), which was found to provide a balance between the feeling of presence and privacy, and to remove the pressure to communicate. The system also includes a real-time shared inking canvas with disappearing ink, which was found to provide a rich versatile medium allowing for new patterns of communication, live interventions, and collaborative drawing. Learnings from how our system balances privacy and remote connectedness may also have relevance for other domains such as remote healthcare and education.

Traditional crafting methods such as stitching, embroidering, dyeing and machine sewing can be enhanced to create novel techniques for embedding shape-changing and colour-changing actuation into soft fabrics. In this paper, we show how embedding Shape-Memory Alloy (SMA) wire, copper wire and thermochromic thread into needles and bobbins, we were able to successfully machine sew interactive morphological capabilities into textiles. We describe the results of extensive design experiments, which detail how differing actuations can be achieved through a matrix of parameters that directly influence a fabric's deformational behaviours. To demonstrate the usefulness of our 10 techniques, we then introduce and discuss an interactive artefact we produced, using a subset of these techniques. We contribute such new techniques for creating soft-interfaces, imbued with actuation through tactile and self-morphing capabilities without motors or LEDs. We draw insights from this on the potential of the proposed techniques for crafting interactive artefacts.