arXiv subjects

Masahiko Inami

Publications and source records attributed to Masahiko Inami.

7 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2026

SRL Proxemics: Spatial Guidelines for Supernumerary Robotic Limbs in Near-Body Interactions

Wearable supernumerary robotic limbs (SRLs) sit at the intersection of human augmentation and embodied AI, transforming into extensions of the human body. However, their movements within the intimate near-body space raise unresolved challenges for perceived safety, user control, and trust. In this paper, we present results from a Wizard-of-Oz study (n=18), where participants completed near-body collaboration tasks with SRLs to explore these challenges. We collected qualitative data through think-aloud protocols and semi-structured interviews, complemented by physiological signals and post-task ratings. Findings indicate that greater autonomy did not inherently enhance perceived safety or trust. Instead, participants identified near-body zones and paired them with clear coordination rules. They also expressed expectations for how different arm components should behave, shaping preferences around autonomy, perceived safety, and trust. Building on these insights, we introduce SRL Proxemics, a zone- and segment-level design framework showing that autonomy is not monolithic: perceived safety hinges on spatially calibrated, legible behaviors, not higher autonomy.

cs.HC↗

arXiv2026

Grand Challenges around Designing Computers' Control Over Our Bodies

Advances in emerging technologies, such as on-body mechanical actuators and electrical muscle stimulation, have allowed computers to take control over our bodies. This presents opportunities as well as challenges, raising fundamental questions about agency and the role of our bodies when interacting with technology. To advance this research field as a whole, we brought together expert perspectives in a week-long seminar to articulate the grand challenges that should be tackled when it comes to the design of computers' control over our bodies. These grand challenges span technical, design, user, and ethical aspects. By articulating these grand challenges, we aim to begin initiating a research agenda that positions bodily control not only as a technical feature but as a central, experiential, and ethical concern for future human-computer interaction endeavors.

cs.HC↗

arXiv2025

A Survey on Methodological Approaches to Collaborative Embodiment in Virtual Reality

The application and implementation of collaborative embodiment in virtual reality (VR) are a critical aspect of the computer science landscape, aiming to enhance multi-user interaction and teamwork in immersive environments. A notable and enduring area of collaborative embodiment research focuses on approaches that enable multiple users to share control, interact, and investigate scenarios involving supernumerary arms in virtual spaces. In this survey, we will present an extensive overview of the methodologies employed in the past decade to enable collaboration in VR environments, particularly through embodiment. Using the PRISMA guidelines, we plan to analyze the study details from over 137 relevant research papers. Through this analysis, a critical assessment of the effectiveness of these methodologies will be conducted, highlighting current challenges and limitations in implementing collaborative embodiment in VR. Lastly, we discuss potential future research directions and opportunities for enhancing collaboration embodiment in virtual environments.

cs.HC↗

arXiv2025

Synchro-Thermography: Monitoring ~10 mK Facial Temperature Changes with Heartbeat Referencing for Physiological Sensing

Infrared thermography has gained interest as a tool for non-contact measurement of blood circulation and skin blood flow due to cardiac activity. Partiularly, blood vessels on the surface, such as on the back of the hand, are suited for visualization. However, standardized methodologies have not yet been established for areas such as the face and neck, where many blood vessels are lie deeper beneath the surface, and external stimulation for measurement could be harmful. Here we propose Synchro-Thermography for stable monitoring of facial temperature changes associated with heart rate variability. We conducted experiments with eight subjects and measured minute temperature changes with an amplitude of about \SI{10}{mK} on the forehead and chin. The proposed method improves the temperature resolution by a factor of 2 or more, and can stably measure skin temperature changes caused by blood flow. This skin temperature change could be applied to physiological sensing such as blood flow changes due to injury or disease, or as an indicator of stress.

physics.med-ph↗

arXiv2025

Beyond Human: Cognitive and Physical Augmentation through AI, Robotics, and XR -- Opportunities and Risks

As human augmentation technologies evolve, the convergence of AI, robotics, and extended reality (XR) is redefining human potential -- enhancing cognition, perception, and physical abilities. However, these advancements also introduce ethical dilemmas, security risks, and concerns over loss of control. This workshop explores both the transformative potential and the unintended consequences of augmentation technologies. Bringing together experts from HCI, neuroscience, robotics, and ethics, we will examine real-world applications, emerging risks, and governance strategies for responsible augmentation. The session will feature keynote talks and interactive discussions, addressing topics such as AI-enhanced cognition, wearable robotics, neural interfaces, and XR-driven augmentation. By fostering multidisciplinary dialogue, this workshop aims to generate actionable insights for responsible innovation, proposing ethical frameworks to balance human empowerment with risk mitigation. We invite researchers, practitioners, and industry leaders to contribute their perspectives and help shape the future of human augmentation.

cs.HC↗

arXiv2024

MoHeat: A Modular Platform for High-Responsive Non-Contact Thermal Feedback Interactions

MoHeat is a modular hardware and software platform designed for rapid prototyping of highly responsive, non-contact thermal feedback interactions. In our previous work, we developed an intensity-adjustable, highly responsive, non-contact thermal feedback system by integrating the vortex effect and thermal radiation. In this study, we further enhanced the system by developing an authoring tool that allows users to freely adjust the intensity of thermal stimuli, the duration of stimuli, the delay time before stimuli, and the interval between alternating hot and cold stimuli. This modular approach enables countless combinations of non-contact thermal feedback experiences.

cs.HC↗

arXiv2023

SolefulTap: Augmenting Tap Dancing Experience using a Floor-Type Impact Display

We propose SolefulTap for a novel tap dancing experience. It allows users to feel as if they are tap dancing or appreciate a tap dancing performance using the sensations of their own feet. SolefulTap uses a method called Step Augmentation that provides audio-haptic feedback to users, generating impacts in response to users' simple step motions. Our prototype uses a floor-type impact display consisting of pressure sensors, which detect users' steps, and solenoids, which generate feedback through impact. Through a preliminary user study, we confirmed that the system can provide untrained users with the experience of tap dancing. This study serves as a case study that provides insight into how a reactive environment can affect the human capabilities of physical expression and the sensation experienced.

cs.HC↗