Published papers

© Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2018. This paper describes a novel tactile module that can provide both vibratory and thermal feedback onto the skin. The module is composed of two different components; miniaturized vibrator and four units of Peltier devices. The dimension of the vibro-thermal tactile feedback device is 16 × 32 × 7 mm, which is small enough for attaching to fingerpad. We describe basic concept of this module, and the state of current prototype including possible applications.

© 2019, Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. We propose a method to quantify an infant’s exploratory behavior by taking a video of his/her actions and analyzing them. Exploratory behaviors of infants are known to be necessary for the development of cognitive functions and language acquisition. Multiple studies on exploratory behaviors have been conducted; however, exploratory behaviors of infants have been commonly classified and quantified manually, requiring ample efforts. Advances in computer vision research using machine learning in recent years have made it possible to automatically analyze captured videos and register movements of the human body. In this study, we developed a measurement system that enables the quantification of exploratory behaviors of infants by combining OpenPose, OpenFace, and a computer vision library. First, we created a video-capturing environment suitable for capturing an infant’s behavior. Second, we integrated the computer vision library to analyze infants fixating on and touching objects placed in front of them. As a result, we are now able to quantify some aspects of infants’ exploratory behavior. Our measurement system will be useful for investigating the exploratory behavior of six to fifteen-month old children using visual-haptic modalities, and also it will also be valuable in comprehending the developmental stages of each child.

© 2019, Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. This paper describes a new wearable thermal display, the Thermal Feedback Influencer, that can provide chilling stimuli to the skin in order to enhance emotional experiences of music listening. We developed a prototype device that can be attached to behind the ear. The device is designed to be small and lightweight enough to be worn comfortably. In this work, we describe basic concepts of this research, preliminary test results, details and evaluation of the developed prototype. We also summarize methods to provide thermal feedback with music and discuss the possible applications and future research plans.