Haptic Biosignals Affect Proxemics Toward Virtual Reality Agents

Abstract

Encounters with virtual agents currently lack the haptic viscerality of human contact. While digital biosignal communication can medi-ate such virtual social interactions, how artifcial haptic biosignals infuence users personal space during Virtual Reality (VR) experi-ences is unknown. Designing vibrotactile heartbeats and thermally-actuated body temperature, we ran a within-subjects study (N=31) to investigate feedback (Thermal, Vibration, Thermal+Vibration, None) and agent stories (Negative, Neutral, Positive) on objective and subjective interpersonal distance (IPD), perceived arousal and comfort, presence, and post-experience responses. Findings showed that thermal feedback decreased objective but not subjective IPD, whereas vibrotactile heartbeats (signaling agent's closeness) increased both while heightening arousal and discomfort. Agents stories did not afect IPD, arousal, or comfort. Our qualitative fndings shed light on signal ambiguity and presence constructs within VR-based haptic stimulation. We contribute insights into artifcial biosignals and their infuence on VR proxemics, with cautionary considerations should the boundaries blur between physical and virtual touch.