Using ForceForm, a dynamically deformable interactive surface, for palpation simulation in medical scenarios

We present the initial exploration of using ForceForm, a dynamically deformable interactive surface, for an application in the medical domain. ForceForm provides direct dynamic interaction which is soft and malleable. We are interested in pursuing its use as a training tool in medical scenarios which involve the direct interaction with human skin. As an example of this, we have developed a palpation training application. Previous work in this area uses haptic devices which do not have the soft and direct interaction exhibited by ForceForm. This workshop paper details our palpation application and a discussion of the findings of an expert user consultation involving a doctor and a massage therapist.