Abstract:
In this work we present HaptiClay, a low-cost kinesthetic haptic interface that elevates the understanding of mathematics language by providing embodied non-verbal representations of math concepts.

Our interface integrates four key components: a haptic device, a high-level simulation that communicates with a low-level controller for force and position updates, a low-level controller that executes the feedback from the simulation, and a visualization system that provides visual feedback corresponding to the haptic input.

To evaluate the use of our interface, we conducted a user study with 30 undergraduate and graduate students, assessing the interface using the Haptic Experience survey and the NASA Task Load questionnaire. We also conducted a verbal questionnaire to analyze the participant’s gesture-based representations of mathematical concepts. The findings indicate positive reception towards the device, highlighting its capability to deliver varied haptic feedback in response to user interactions. We also noticed patterns in the gestures and speech that people use when explaining math concepts that can help in designing novel haptic interfaces to encourage such gestures.

Committee:
Melisa Orta Martinez (advisor, RI)
Jim McCann (RI)
Zeynep Temel (RI)
Samantha Speer (RI PhD Student)