Fear inducer: A mixed reality audio experience

Abstract

In this paper I present the results from a design research project done at the Eindhoven University of Technology. In this project I explored the possibilities of mixing realities using sound. With this mixed reality I explored ways to make people scared for entertainment purposes, comparable to horror-movies or thrill rides. One of the main elements of the concept was to make the device mobile, so that a thrilling experience can be generated at any time and any place. The user will put on the audio-device and through a biofeedback-loop connect himself to the system. While walking around sounds come from the system that blend in with sounds from the real environment. This effect causes interesting situations, directed by the users own impulses sensed by the biofeedback-loop. © 2009 Springer Berlin Heidelberg.