Media is not only communication for information delivery but also an environment in itself that adjusts the ratio of human senses and shapes the structure of perception. In the fields of immersive content including media art, VR/AR, and gaming the ado...
Media is not only communication for information delivery but also an environment in itself that adjusts the ratio of human senses and shapes the structure of perception. In the fields of immersive content including media art, VR/AR, and gaming the adoption of haptic interfaces utilizing motion sensor and vibration/temperature device is accelerating to enhance interaction with users.
The purpose of this study is to investigate the patterns of sensory transition and expansion in users, focusing on the tactile and auditory experience provided by haptic-interfaced immersive content. To this end, interviews regarding haptic experiences were conducted with seven participants recruited through a research institute that produces immersive content. Based on these interviews, a concept oriented coding analysis categorized into four core codes was applied, yielding the following results:
First, experiences through haptic interfaces in immersive content appeared to possess a distinct specificity in inducing the combination and transition of senses. In particular, shifting the sensory system from vision centric content to tactile or auditory based content proved effective in enhancing the user's cognitive arousal and sense of presence. Second, the tactile and auditory based experiences enabled multi sensory connections, thereby facilitating user immersion within the content in the virtual environment. Third, the process of synesthesia was found to help release emotions and exert a positive influence on emotional cultivation. However, the study confirmed that for haptic interface technology to properly implement, the establishment of technical infrastructure, user’s securing reliability through safety verification, customization to suit users' physical senses, and overcoming the resulting cost increases with the inherent appeal of the content itself.
In conclusion, this study suggests the possibility of positive changes in human sensory perception systems and society resulting from the shift from the visual centric nature of traditional media content to tactile and auditory based experiences.
Keywords: Haptic Interface, Immersiveness, Boundary Fluid, Modality Combination, Sensory hierarchy, Presence, Emotional Effect