@inproceedings{EichhornWettachHornecker, author = {Eichhorn, Elisabeth and Wettach, Reto and Hornecker, Eva}, title = {A stroking device for spatially separated couples}, series = {MobileHCI '08 : Proceedings of the 10th international conference on Human computer interaction with mobile devices and services}, booktitle = {MobileHCI '08 : Proceedings of the 10th international conference on Human computer interaction with mobile devices and services}, publisher = {Association for Computing Machinery}, address = {New York}, isbn = {978-1-59593-952-4}, doi = {10.1145/1409240.1409274}, pages = {303 -- 306}, abstract = {In this paper we present a device to support the communication of couples in long-distance relationships. While a synchronous exchange of factual information over distance is supported by telephone, e-mail and chat-systems, the transmission of nonverbal aspects of communication is still unsatisfactory. Videocalls let us see the partners' facial expression in real time. However, to experience a more intimate conversation physical closeness is needed. Stroking while holding hands is a special and emotional gesture for couples. Hence, we developed a device that enables couples to exchange the physical gesture of stroking regardless of distance and location. The device allows both sending and receiving. A user test supported our concept and provided new insights for future development.}, subject = {Design}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{WernerWettachHornecker, author = {Werner, Julia and Wettach, Reto and Hornecker, Eva}, title = {United-pulse}, series = {MobileHCI '08 : Proceedings of the 10th international conference on Human computer interaction with mobile devices and services}, booktitle = {MobileHCI '08 : Proceedings of the 10th international conference on Human computer interaction with mobile devices and services}, publisher = {Association for Computing Machinery}, address = {New York}, isbn = {978-1-59593-952-4}, doi = {10.1145/1409240.1409338}, pages = {353 -- 358}, abstract = {This paper introduces a device that creates remote intimacy by the use of two rings named "united-pulse". Each ring can measure the wearer's heartbeat and send it to the partner's ring. Hereby, artificial corporeality is created between the couple. By means of a working prototype, united-pulse has been successfully tested. Among the 28 participants the prototype has attracted large interest. Through the heartbeat - the essential vital sign - a feeling of being very close to the partner is provided. Touching the ring allows a small moment of intimacy in situations where emotional support is needed.}, subject = {Mensch-Maschine-Kommunikation}, language = {en} }