HiPalm: Wearable Device for Affective Tactile Interpersonal Communication

Abstract

HiPalm is a soft robotic wearable device to augment affective interpersonal communication through tactile interaction. Worn on the palm, it inflates and deflates in response to proximity detection and the wearer's heart rate (BPM), mediating tactile communication and affective social interactions. HiPalm simulates empathetic interactions in three emotional states: calm, normal, and elevated through a rhythmic inflation system synchronized with the wearer's heart rate. With its bioinspired design and behavior, it aims to create lifelike and engaging interactions while remaining responsive and comfortable for individuals. This work contributes to the growing field of mediated touch by exploring the intersection of affective communication, bioinspired design, soft robotics, and wearable technology.