Compression is a haptic stimulus used in medical interventions (e.g., compression stockings) and has the potential to be integrated into new research areas (e.g., immersive VR experiences, distributed notification mechanisms), yet remains largely understudied. This work investigates the user experience of compression garment technologies that are dynamic, remotely controllable, and low mass, to better address this research gap. Shape memory alloy-based compression garments, capable of creating spatially- and temporally- dynamic on-body compression, were designed and deployed in a user study (n=17, 8M/9F) to understand the effects of compression, and to draw insights for future compression-based applications. The major takeaways are: (1) importance of and sizing/fit, (2) individual/gender preferences and need for customizability, and (3) the relationship between context-specific stimulation and perception.

This work encompasses the design and development of garment-based shape memory alloy (SMA) compression technology that is dynamic, low-mass, and remotely controllable. Three garment design iterations are presented, consolidated from past user studies [1], [2], [3]. The designed garment system has potential to serve as a research tool for understanding parameters necessary to create a desired compression haptic experience; for broadening the scope of medical/clinical interventions; as well as for enabling new modes of interaction between users separated by distance, especially in areas such as tele-rehabilitation and social mediated touch.

This work translates an inspiration derived from the Disney classic `Sleeping Beauty' to realize a smart child's costume with color-changing capabilities. The dress uses addressable multi-color NeoPixel LEDs to change its surface color based on input from two wand controllers, consistent with the animated sequence in which Princess Aurora's fairy godmothers argue over the best color for her gown. The garment's construction emphasizes diffusion of emitted light to achieve a more uniform color distribution, and explores benefits and drawbacks of two manufacturing methods for embedding LED pixels: a manual method based on hand-soldered wire connections consistent with typical electronic craft, and a more scalable surface-mount manufacturing method based on stitched traces and reflow soldering.

The sensation of touch is integral to everyday life. Current haptics research focuses mainly on vibrations, tap, and point pressures, but the sensation of distributed pressures such as compression are often overlooked. We investigated the subjective comfort and emotional effects of applied on-body compression, specifically on the torso and upper arms, through a pilot user study incorporating a novel, low-profile, and actively-controllable compression garment. The active compression garment was embedded with contractile shape memory alloys (SMAs) to create dynamic compression on the body. Qualitative interview data collected (n=8) were used to generate a list of findings to inform the future creation of a computer-mediated compression garment that is wearable, comfortable, and safe for use.