The usefulness of auricular muscle activation as a means of selection and activation of objects or locations is investigated. We find that in nearly half of those studied, use of this latent communication channel expands total expression channel capacity. A method is described that detects tension in auricular muscles, which is used to signify intent. This intent signal is then transmitted on the person's visual attention vector to select, activate, and control objects in an environment.

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© 2015 by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology
2015

Supplementary data

Auricular Tensing for Indication of Intent on a Visual Selection Vector: Appendix

This appendix presents results of an experimental study of the usefulness of activation of the auricular muscles as an expression of intent by testing the ability of subjects (n = 32) using this method to select and control environmental features.

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