Design and Product Development

An Investigation on the User Experience of Compressive Tactile Stimulation Clothing

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Abstract

This study investigates user’s experience of sensory clothing, specifically how compressive tactile stimulation on different upper body locations is experienced. We designed four compression vests with inflatable sections located on different parts of the torso and evaluated the user experience of 10 female participants in dynamic conditions using a think-aloud protocol and post-use survey. A one-way ANOVA with Tukey HSD test was performed to test significance among compression location conditions and the qualitative data from the think aloud session was analyzed. The results are that injecting air into areas other than the shoulder was more effective in making people comfortable than including the shoulder. And another interesting finding was regarding the difference in pleasantness of the compression based on the body posture. The findings will also be used to develop an aesthetically pleasing sensory clothing for the upper body.

 

Keywords: compressive stimulation, location of compression, hug therapy, tactile sensation, inflatable vest

How to Cite:

Goncu-Berk, G. & Ha, S., (2024) “An Investigation on the User Experience of Compressive Tactile Stimulation Clothing”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 80(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.17509