Readingmate: A head tracking-based content stabilization technique to help runners read text while running on a treadmill
Abstract
The goal of this study is to help people read while running on a treadmill, which is challenging because runners’ eyes should adapt to vertical movements caused by running. To unload the burden of the eyes, we developed a technology, called “ReadingMate,” which basically adjusts the positions of contents (e.g., text) on a computer display along with the head movements of a runner. To explore the unknown factors contributing to the difficulty, we exhaustively reviewed related works and listed hypothetical factors. Among the factors, we chose to test the inaccurate eye compensation while running and the influence of surrounding visual cues. We first conducted a within-subject study with ten participants to evaluate the ReadingMate system. Second, to test the effectiveness of ReadingMate and the influence of visual cues from surrounding environments, we conducted a two-factor within-subject study with 20 participants. The first experiment showed that eight participants preferred the ReadingMate to the normal display system. The results of second experiment showed that ReadingMate showed statistically significant effects on decreasing various adverse experiences, such as shake, dizziness, distraction, and fatigue, but we did not find evidence showing that visual cues disrupt the effects of ReadingMate. Both studies partially proved that ReadingMate could be practically useful to help runners read while running on a treadmill. Additional future research topics were also identified from interviews with participants.
Degree
M.S.I.E.
Advisors
Yi, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Industrial engineering
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