Pneunocchio: Towards Understanding the Design of Playful Bodily Extensions through a Pinocchio-Inspired Pneumatic Nose

Bodily extensions, i.e., shape-changing wearables, are gaining traction in HCI as they allow wearers to learn about their bodies in novel ways. We see an opportunity for physiological sensors to drive bodily extensions as a way to foster self-awareness in playful ways, which led us to design “Pneunocchio”. Inspired by the Pinocchio tale, Pneunocchio features a nose-worn pneumatic inflatable that expands in response to changes in heart rate and electrodermal activity, making the wearer’s internal states more visible on their face. Participants in a study found that Pneunocchio can facilitate playful self-reflection, but it can also lead to social discomfort. The interview analysis revealed three themes: Pneunocchio as a social organ; dichotomy of perceived control; and heightened self-awareness of the body. We also present four considerations for the design of future playful physiological sensor-driven bodily extensions. Ultimately, with our work, we hope to aid HCI in helping people understand themselves.