Function-based approach to mixed haptic effects rendering

Commonly, surface and solid haptic effects are defined in such a way that they hardly can be rendered together. We propose a method for defining mixed haptic effects including surface, solid, and force fields. These haptic effects can be applied to virtual scenes containing various objects, including polygon meshes, point clouds, impostors, and layered textures, voxel models as well as function-based shapes. Accordingly, we propose a way how to identify location of the haptic tool in such virtual scenes as well as consistently and seamlessly determine haptic effects when the haptic tool moves in the scenes with objects having different sizes, locations, and mutual penetrations. To provide for an efficient and flexible rendering of haptic effects, we propose to concurrently use explicit, implicit and parametric functions, and algorithmic procedures.

3D locomotion biomimetic robot fish with haptic feedback

This thesis developed a biomimetic robot fish and built a novel haptic robot fish system based on the kinematic modelling and three-dimentional computational fluid dynamic (CFD) hydrodynamic analysis. The most important contribution is the successful CFD simulation of the robot fish, supporting users in understanding the hydrodynamic properties around it.

Haptic microrobotic cell injection system

Microrobotic cell injection is the subject of increasing research interest. At present, an operator relies completely on visual information and can be subject to low success rates, poor repeatability, and extended training times. This paper focuses on increasing operator performance during cell injection in two ways. First, our completed haptic cell injection system aims to increase the operator's performance during real-time cell injection. Haptic bilateralism is investigated and a mapping framework provides an intuitive method for manoeuvring the micropipette in a manner similar to handheld needle insertion. Volumetric virtual fixtures are then introduced to haptically assist the operator to penetrate the cell at the desired location. The performance of the volumetric virtual fixtures is also discussed. Second, the haptically enabled cell injection system is replicated as a virtual environment facilitating virtual offline operator training. Virtual operator training utilizes the same mapping framework and haptic virtual fixtures as the physical system allowing the operator to train offline and then directly transfer their skills to real-time cell injection.

Towards an efficient haptic rendering using data-driven modeling

This thesis focuses on the optimisation of haptic rendering of interactions with deformable models. The research demonstrated that data-driven techniques can produce a real-time, accurate and complex simulation experience. Applications include, but not limited to, virtual training, rapid prototyping, virtual presence, and entertainment.

Individually tailored client-focused reports for ubiquitous devices : an experimental analysis

We describe results of a test of a method for tailoring communications based on the recipient’s preferred information processing style and dominant motivational attitude. Results indicate that the greater the match between the style of the report and the individual’s attributes, the more informed the reader feels about the subject of the report. This research has been conducted as part of a study into methods to design patient-centred medical using diabetic patients as an exemplar of chronic disease. The long term aim is to use reports personalised to the recipient to better inform patients about their disease and strengthen their motivation to follow the treatment plan.

The moderating influence of device characteristics and usage on user acceptance of Smart Mobile Devices

This study seeks to develop a comprehensive model of consumer acceptance in the context of Smart Mobile Device (SMDs). This paper proposes an adaptation of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT2) model that can be employed to explain and predict the acceptance of SMDs. Also included in the model are a number of external and new moderating variables that can be used to explain user intentions and subsequent usage behaviour. The model holds that Activity-based Usage and Device Characteristics are posited to moderate the impact of the constructs empirically validated in the UTAUT2 model. Through an important cluster of antecedents the proposed model aims to enhance our understanding of consumer motivations for using SMDs and aid efforts to promote the adoption and diffusion of these devices.

Methods of usability evaluations of mobile devices

The usability of applications designed and developed for mobile devices integral user experience, particularly for current touch-screen mobile devices. This conceptual paper provides a profile of the ways in which mobile device usability evaluation methods are being adapted to better reflect technological. With an increasing capacity for greater user interactivity through a range of tasks and in a variety of contexts, the importance and impact of mobile device context-of-use components is of particular interest to researchers. This requires a need for a shift in evaluation method paradigms with a particular focus on methods involving the user, as part of the overall development process. Having a better understanding of the context-of-use may contribute to improvements in mobile device usability and the overall user experience.