Body as display

Abstract

In this paper we describe our explorations of the design space offered by augmenting parts of the human face, in this case, the ears. Using light-emitting add-ons behind the ears we aim to enhance social interactions. Scenarios range from indirect notifications of events, messaging directed to the wearer but communicated via a person face to face, or adding information regarding the internal state of the wearer, like loudness discomfort levels, concentration fatigue, or emotional strain levels.