Usability Evaluation of a Smart Textile-Based Cushion System for Ubiquitous Breathing Exercises

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Digital Health

Background:

• Smart textiles offer novel avenues for mental health interventions, particularly in relaxation and monitoring.
• Independent, home-based relaxation therapies are increasingly important for mental well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the usability of Amiga, a smart textile cushion system for guided breathing exercises.
• To assess the system's effectiveness, user experience, and satisfaction for potential use in relaxation interventions.

Main Methods:

• An experimental user study with 20 participants was conducted.
• Data collected via structured interviews and validated usability questionnaires (System Usability Scale - SUS).
• System performance measured by respiratory phase (Ph) and respiration rate (RR) monitoring accuracy (pace synchronization accuracy - PSA, phase duration accuracy - PDA).

Main Results:

• Amiga achieved an 'Excellent' mean SUS score of 81.875 (σ = 11.8), surpassing the benchmark of 68.
• 90% of participants completed the guided breathing exercise, with 40% meeting quality criteria.
• Average PSA was 61.2%, and PDA was 30% (±1 s tolerance).
• High participant satisfaction and confidence reported, despite identified usability challenges.

Conclusions:

• Smart textile-based devices are feasible for home-based breathing exercises supporting mental health.
• Amiga demonstrates potential but requires refinement in on-boarding and in-app guidance for optimal autonomous use.
• Findings provide a baseline for future development of smart textile relaxation interventions.