Liting Yu

Real connection

The exploration and construction of a pair of electronic hugging device The Real Connection investigates the possibility of creating an emotional experience in which the user receives the physical sensations of a hug or a hand shake. This can be activated by the wearer of the Real Connection top. This project details how simple technologies such as arduino and its relevant sensors can be combined to produce an engaging, enjoyable experience for the user.
The objective of the Real Connection is to allow the users to decide themselves when they want to receive a hug or sense othersÕ movement without waiting until actual seeing each other. It is envisioned that this device would provide an effective tool for the health care industry and the general public. Helping people who suffer from sensory deprivation including prison including prison inmates, the lonely and those suffering from autism and depression.
The thesis is exploring the areas of ubiquitous, wearable and affective computing. It also looking at the technological trend to develop newer and more humanised devices and reflects on the socio-psychological issues that arise from them.