Plant-Human Embodied Biofeedback (pheB): A Soft Robotic Surface for Emotion Regulation in Confined Physical Space

Abstract

"pheB,"is a robotic "plant-human, embodied, biofeedback"system to support the wellbeing of human inhabitants in confined, physical spaces. This surface aims to increase users' emotion regulation and foster connections with nature by visualizing the internal states of plants through tactile, expressive movement. Unlike 2D biofeedback visualization models currently in use, our research explores mindfulness practices through immersive, tangible interactions to increase therapeutic effectiveness. This pictorial traces the development of our design (to-date) and presents results from an early user study conducted to (a) assess the prototype at leading breathing exercises, (b) evaluate preferences for different design features, and (c) refine the design of a questionnaire for future user testing. Findings suggest pheB was perceived positively and as an embodied extension of self during guided breathing exercises. This work contributes knowledge toward developing novel biofeedback modalities and offers a design exemplar for interactive artifacts that nurture meaningful relationships with nature.