Tangible Telepresence: Distributed and Synchronous Tangible Interfaces for Enhancing Interpersonal Connectedness over Time and Space

Abstract

In today's hyper-connected world, digital communication technologies have transformed how people maintain relationships across distances. However, constant digital stimuli and the pressure to always be available can lead to overwhelm, stress, and a lack of personal space. This thesis explores the concept of Tangible Telepresence, enhancing connectedness between intimate dyads through gestural engagement and seamless transitions between synchronous and asynchronous communication.

To demonstrate this concept, this thesis introduces-TeleTangibles- distributed and synchronous tangible interfaces that expand the bandwidth of interpersonal communication. TeleTangibles allow users to adjust their personal boundaries by moving between real-time and slow-paced communication within their physical space. The design space of TeleTangibles encompasses interaction spaces and expression levels, from abstract to concrete, through different motions and forms, focusing on engaging intimate dyads' nonverbal interactions and their perception of their relationship.

The thesis presents two distinct TeleTangible examples, TelePop and Picto, addressing different aspects of the design space and demonstrating asynchronous communication through recording, replaying, and sharing tangible interactions remotely. Insights from these projects contribute to a deeper understanding of TeleTangibles' design space and the factors influencing their effectiveness in promoting interpersonal connectedness and social presence.

The main contributions of this thesis are threefold: First, it extends real-time synchronous remote interaction to include asynchronous interaction through time-delayed responses, allowing individuals to adjust their levels of connectedness and enabling smooth transitions between interaction modes. Second, it proposes essential functionalities for developing Tangible Telepresence, illustrated through two TeleTangible examples, including recording and replaying interaction history and establishing mutual awareness through shared tangible languages and experiences. Third, it highlights that complex meanings or detailed information are not essential for strengthening connectedness when mutual awareness is established, as users perceive TeleTangibles as various forms of interaction that reduce the pressure of immediate response while confirming each other's status.

This research contributes to the fields of Tangible User Interfaces and interpersonal communication by providing a new approach to expanding remote interpersonal communication media through playful gestural engagement. It offers a timely exploration of the challenges of maintaining social connectedness and respecting personal boundaries in an increasingly digital world.