Development of a Deformable Device to Aid Human Pain Expression

Abstract

In this study, we developed a deformable device to aid human pain expression. We first conducted a pilot study with clay to investigate relations between qualities of pain (types, frequency, amplitude, etc.) and those of deformation. In the interview on pilot study, it was found that pain expression by deformation of clay is effective to express pain. According to the results of this study, we set design guidelines to develop a deformable device. In this paper, we developed a device to express "Zukizuki" (a word which is used to express sharp pain, throbbing pain). We implemented silicon seats made form Dragon Skin and rack and pinion mechanism to show and control deformation. This device can demonstrate two types of deformation and we can control speed, frequency, and amplitude of deformation on this device.