Non-Visual Computing
Human-computer interaction without screens.
The NVC Program
The goal of the NVC Program is to facilitate investigations into how humans perceive and organize information in order to inform novel system designs and more natural computing patterns.
Why NVC?
Nonvisual modalities, such as auditory and tactile feedback, are rich enough to support a complete information system; however, these information channels are often overlooked in favor of visual options. We believe that deemphasizing visual information has the potential to create interfaces that encourage physical activity, increase attentiveness and multisensory engagement with the surrounding world, and facilitate healthy interpersonal contact.
Our Research Platform
Human Computer Interaction research focused on alternate modalities can be challenging due to the complexity of the tools required to build haptic or audio-first interfaces. To accelerate research in these areas and assist the academic community, our team has built a suite of prototyping tools intended to remove common roadblocks:
- HDK-1: A plug and play tool to drive vibrotactile signals.
- NOICE: A self-contained system for hand tracking and spatial audio.
- STO: A generalized tracking module.
- XRPA: A software framework that facilitates experimental experiences.