An experimental investigation of haptic interaction in online negotiation

In this study, we bring the haptic technology into the system and realize “play catch” in a 3D virtual environment by PHANToM haptic device in order to represent making statements in turns. In this system, subjects can express their emotions by changing the ball's color and radius, as well as its speed. We conduct four types of observational comparison experiments to verify the effect that the haptic interaction brings about. Results from the experiments implied that online negotiation involving haptic interaction can increase the sense of presence and is also helpful for expressing one's emotions.