| Beschreibung |
Tangible Interaction (TI) refers to the use of physical artifacts that can be touched and manipulated to interact with a (digital) system. In this research project, we want to investigate the role of haptics in tangible interaction. How can these otherwise passive artifacts be enriched with tactile or haptic output, making the interaction more dynamic and engaging? To approach this question, we have to direct our research in different directions. We begin with the physiological foundations of the human body and move on to literature about topics like the semiotics of touch before exploring technological approaches for prototyping haptic experiences. Throughout the course, we will analyze use cases, identify opportunities, and reflect on the limitations of haptic tangibles. The course follows a Research through Design (RtD) approach and emphasizes collaborative, interdisciplinary work. Students from technical and design backgrounds will work together to develop concepts and designs to implement haptics for tangible interfaces, for example using motor-based actuation. Alongside engaging with relevant literature, participants will explore different methods for developing and prototyping their ideas and eventually implement some of them in practice. This course is well-suited for students who enjoy open-ended challenges, are motivated to find and define their own problems, and value both individual exploration and group collaboration. It offers the chance to combine research, ideation, prototyping, and evaluation in a multidisciplinary setting, drawing on diverse skills such as literature and web research, hardware prototyping with Arduino, material experimentation with wood, fabric, or plastics, and even traditional fabrication techniques like origami. With its broad scope and emphasis on hands-on work, the project is particularly suited for students looking for an 18 ECTS course. Students from HCI Master and Bachelor Informatik apply via the usual project fair mechanism. Students from non-Computing programs (Master Media Architecture, Product-Design (BA/MA), Media Arts/Design (BA/MA): There are up to 2 places for non-computing students. Beside creativity, it would be great if you bring practical experience with physical construction e.g. 3D-printing, laser-cutting, woodwork etc. and ideally some prior experience with electronics and Arduino. Interested students from these non-Computing programs need to apply and contact Hannes and Eva via email. Please apply until 14.10.2025 by E-Mail to Hannes.waldschuetz@uni-weimar.de and eva.hornecker@uni-weimar.de (please include a description of your prior experience in relevant areas, with examples of prior work / portfolio if applicable)! |
