Show: all, bachelor theses, master theses, project theses, diploma theses, PWAL
Type | Advisor | Title |
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MT/BT/PT | Prof. Dr. Florian Alt |
Abschlussarbeiten im Bereich Human-Centered Security and Privacy
Students interested in topics related to human-centered security and privacy have the opportunity to do their master theses / bachelor theses / practical research project (Einzelpraktikum) at the Research Institute CODE (Bundeswehr University Munich). More information on the research group on Usable Security and Privacy Group can be found on our website. We offer a large variety of topics, including but not limited to:
If you are interested in working with us, please get in touch with the respective contact person. Details |
BT/MT | Francesco Chiossi |
Design of a Virtual Reality Adaptive System based on Electrodermal Activity phasic components
DescriptionElectrodermal activity (EDA) denotes the measurement of continuous changes in the electrical conductance properties of the skin in response to sweat secretion by the sweat glands. EDA is autonomously modulated by sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activity, a component of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which is involved in the control of involuntary bodily functions as well as cognitive and emotional states. Specifically, phasic EDA activity correlated with stress, cognitive load, and attention orienting. Therefore, measuring phasic EDA responses can give us information about the user's state.In this thesis project, we want to develop an adaptive system that modifies the visual complexity of the VR environment based on changes in phasic EDA. Specifically, we want to use new signal processing methodologies termed adaptive thresholding and gaussian filtering.The research consists of three main stages: (1) validation of the psychophysiological inference underpinning the adaptive system (2) implementation of a working VR prototype, and (3) an evaluation of the adaptive environment. You will
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BT/MT | Francesco Chiossi |
Physiologically adaptive MR Blending
DescriptionMixed reality (MR) systems refer to the entire broad spectrum that ranges from physical to virtual reality (VR). It includes instances that overlay virtual content on physical information, i.e., Augmented Reality (AR), and those that rely on physical content to increase the realism of virtual environments, i.e., Augmented Virtuality (AV). Such instances tend to be pre-defined for the blend of physical and virtual content. To what extent can MR systems rely on physiological inputs to infer user state and expectations and, in doing, adapt their visualization in response? Measurement sensors for eye and body motion, autonomic arousal (e.g., respiration, electrodermaland heart activity), and cortical activity (e.g., EEG, fNIRS) are widely used in psychological and neuroscience research to infer hidden user states, such as stress, overt/covert attention, working memory load, etc.However, it is unclear if such inferences can serve as useful real-time inputs in controlling the presentation parameters of MR environments.In this thesis project, we will investigate whether this blend can be adaptive to user states, which are inferred from physiological measurements derived from gaze behavior, peripheral physiology (e.g.., electrodermal activity (EDA); electrocardiography (ECG)), and cortical activity (i.e.., electroencephalography (EEG)). In other words, we will investigate the viability and usefulness of MR use scenarios that vary in their blend of virtual and physicalcontent according to user physiology. In particular, we will focus on understanding how physiological readings can passively determine the appropriate amount ofvisual information to present within an MR system. You will
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BT/MT | Francesco Chiossi |
Evaluation of an Adaptive VR environment that Uses EEG Measures as Inputs to a Biocybernetic Loop
DescriptionBiocybernetic adaptation is a form of physiological computing where real-time physiological data from the brain and the body can be used as an input to adapt the user interface. In this way, from the physiological data, we can infer the userâs state and design implicit interactions in VR to change the scene to support certain goals. This thesis aims the develop and evaluate an adaptive VR environment designed to maximize users' performance by exploiting changes in real-time electroencephalography (EEG) to adjust the level of visual complexity. The research consists of three main stages: (1) validation of the input EEG measures underpinning the loop; (2) implementation of a working VR prototype; and (3) an evaluation of the adaptive environment. Specifically, we aim to demonstrate the sensitivity of EEG power in the (frontal) theta and (parietal) alpha bands to adapt levels of visual complexity. You will
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BT/MT | Francesco Chiossi |
Modulating distraction by adapting the perceptual load: implementation of a biocybernetic loop to support performance and prevent distraction
DescriptionResearch from cognitive science and computerized displays of simple stimuli has shown how perceptual load is a critical factor for modulating distraction. Perceptual load is the amount of information involved in processing task stimuli. According to Lavie (1995), our attentional resources are limited and mainly directed towards task-relevant goals, but we might be more prone to distractors if we have cognitive spare resources. Previous research showed that human faces have bigger distracting power than non-face objects. This project aims to assess the distracting potential distracting effect of human avatars in a social VR scenario. We aim to transfer of traditional paradigms that assess attention and distraction to immersive VR. Lastly, we adapt the target-distractor recognizability to evaluate if a physiologically-adaptive system that optimizes for perceptual load can support task performance. The research consists of three main stages: (1) validation of the psychophysiological inference underpinning the physiological loop (2) implementation of a working VR prototype, and (3) an evaluation of the adaptive environment. You will
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BT/MT | Francesco Chiossi |
Design of a physiological loop settled in a Social VR scenario to support task performance and user experience
DescriptionPhysiological computing is a multidisciplinary research field in HCI wherein the interaction depends on measuring and responding to the user's physiological activity in real-time (Fairclough, 2009). Physiological computing allows for implicit interaction; by monitoring the physiological signals of the user, the computer can infer, e.g., if the task demands are either too challenging or easy, and either adapt the difficulty level or when users are getting distracted from the task, the system could give them a notification. Measuring the psychological state of the user creates intriguing possibilities for Social VR scenarios as we can either adapt the number of displayed avatars, their form or even their proxemic distance. This thesis aims the develop an adaptive Social VR environment designed to support users' performance when engaged in a cognitive task using a measure of physiological state (electrodermal activity: EDA) as input for adaptation. The research consists of three main stages: (1) validation of the psychophysiological inference underpinning the physiological loop (2) implementation of a working VR prototype, and (3) an evaluation of the adaptive environment. You will
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BT/MT | Francesco Chiossi, Abdallah El Ali |
Designing and Evaluating Mixed Reality Transition Visualizations
DescriptionPrior work has explored transition visualizations between VR environments, or on specific interaction techniques for transferring objects from VR <-> AR views. However, there has been less attention on what are the more effective transitions across the reality-virtuality continuum. The focus of this work would be to (a) identify suitable MR transitions (b) create a mapping to common tasks where such transitions may be applicable (e.g., keyboard typing) (c) prototype different transitions, from R-->AR-->AV--VR, and vice versa: VR-->AV-->AR--R, and empirically investigating different parameters of each (d) run a user evaluation to assess perceived UX. comfort, sickness, etc. This project extends the work in Keep it simple? Evaluation of Transitions VR, by exploring MR transitions, instead of only across different VR environments. Evaluation metrics will involve both objective and subjective measures. RQ1: What are the most effective methods for transitioning users across the reality-virtuality spectrum? RQ2: How do these transition visualizations influence user experience, user physiological state, workload, and acceptance across tasks? You will
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MT | Sarah Delgado Rodriguez |
Offline QKD II - Perceived vs. "Real" Security
Imagine Bob's office is connected via a (quantum-)encrypted connection to a server. How could Bob access this server from his home office if he does not have the necessary hardware at home? Well, he could get keys in his office and save them on his personal key-safe token. He could subsequently use the token at home and connect to the server. The topic of offline distribution of cryptographic keys is interesting for researchers and practitioners alike, even outside the QKD context. Your thesis would evolve around the evaluation of already existing consumer devices that could be used to store and transport QKD-keys (or symmetric cryptographic keys in general). Details |
BT/MT | Jesse Grootjen |
Adaptive RSVP System Based on Pupil Dilation
Description Project Overview Project MotivationTraditional RSVP systems often rely on fixed speeds or manual adjustments, which may not suit every user's cognitive capacity. This project seeks to enhance user engagement and efficiency by using real-time pupil dilation data to adjust the speed and presentation style dynamically. By doing so, the RSVP system can become more responsive to individual reading habits, reducing cognitive overload and improving comprehension and retention of information. This work has important implications for accessibility, enabling better interaction for users with reading difficulties or neurological impairments. Project GoalsThis thesis will explore the development and evaluation of an adaptive RSVP system, with a focus on the following key objectives:
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BT/MT | Jesse Grootjen, Prof. Dr. Sven Mayer |
Investigating Gaze Estimation Accuracy in Collaborative Virtual Environments (CVEs)
DescriptionProject OverviewThis thesis project offers an exciting opportunity for students to contribute to cutting-edge research on gaze estimation in interactive systems. The focus is on enhancing the accuracy of gaze interpretation within Collaborative Virtual Environments (CVEs), where effective communication is often dependent on understanding where participants are looking. Gaze serves as a vital non-verbal communication cue, yet people frequently struggle to accurately determine another persons gaze direction (i.e., where someone is looking), especially over distances. Project MotivationIn CVEs, precise gaze estimation is crucial for natural and effective interaction. While previous research has explored distant pointing as an interaction mechanism, this project shifts focus to gaze estimation. By addressing common inaccuracies in gaze prediction, this research aims to significantly improve how users interpret each others gaze during virtual interactions, ultimately enhancing the overall immersive experience.Project GoalsThis thesis will investigate how accurately gaze estimation can be performed in CVEs, focusing on two main aspects:
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MT | Teodora Mitrevska |
Assessing Image Similarity via EEG
DescriptionProject OverviewFor human-in-the-loop (HITL) systems, it is important to understand and quantify usersâ perceptions to make the next predictions inline with the userâs intention. HITL systems that employ visual recognition often require inferring similarity between a percieved object and a mental targed. This is often difficult to determine when it comes to complex stimuli like faces. While HITL systems traditionally rely on explicit user input, implicit EEG responses can support the decision-making process effortlessly. Project GoalsIn this project, we will be exploring brain signals (more accurately, ERP components) in similariy prediction for visual stimuli.
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PT | Julian Rasch |
Camera-Based Wave Prediction and Calm Surface Detection Using Optical Flow and Machine Learning (+ Robotic Arm Control)
Individual Practical (6 ECTS) Start Date: Flexible Supervisor: Julian Rasch (julian.rasch ät um.ifi.lmu.de) This project is a collaboration with a Munich-based artist Philip Gröning and part of a larger initiative. Project OverviewThe objective of this project is to create a camera-based system to predict wave movements and identify the calmest surface point on a defined, square water body. This system will employ computer vision techniques, specifically optical flow, to track wave motion across video frames. Machine learning models will be utilized to predict future wave behavior, consistently detecting regions with minimal motion, representing calm areas. The calmest point will serve as the primary output and will be forwarded to a 7-axis robotic arm. The project includes real-time video processing, optical flow analysis, and machine learning for wave pattern forecasting. Project Objectives
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Required Skills & Knowledge
This project offers practical experience in computer vision and machine learning applied to a real-world problem, making it ideal for students interested in AI, robotics, environmental monitoring, and computational fluid dynamics. As part of a larger art project, an interest in the creative domain is beneficial but not mandatory. Please send a brief motivation letter, CV, and transcript of records if you are interested in this project. Details |
MT | Sarah Christin Reichmann |
Infotainment Systems for Motorbikes [Exchange Australia]
We, the Centre for Accident Research & Road Safety - Queensland (CARRS-Q) at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) in Australia, offer you a unique position for your Master/Bachelor thesis in the areas of human-computer interaction and infotainment systems for motorbikes. Join us on the journey of shaping the digital future and break the cycle with newest innovation technology approaches. We are a dedicated research team based in Brisbane in the Sunshine State of Australia and look for creative and out of the box thinking minds to join our team onshore. We work on the most difficult challenges in the automotive industry where the only limits are our own imagination. Digitalization will be key to ensure a safe riding experience in the future. Come join our creative team to shape the future of motorbikes. All in? What awaits you? We will work with you to shape and scope your thesis project to align with any of the following activities:
What should you bring along?
Challenge accepted? Apply now! Earliest starting date: 01.05.2023 Details |
BT/MT | Matthias Schmidmaier |
A German Translation of the Perceived Empathy of Technology Scale
As technology advances, it becomes increasingly important to assess how humans perceive and respond to empathy from digital interfaces and devices. The "Perceived Empathy of Technology Scale" is a tool used to measure how empathetically users experience these interactions. However, this scale is currently only available in English, limiting research to English-speaking populations. With a German translation, researchers can more effectively evaluate perceptions of empathy in technology among German-speaking users, expanding the scaleâs reach and supporting cross-cultural research on empathy in human-technology interaction. You will:
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MT | Kathrin Schnizer |
Analyzing Comprehension of Grouped Bar and Line Charts Through Temporal and Physiological Sensing
DescriptionIn the field of visualization comprehension, existing work focuses on evaluating viewers' cued and uncued responses to data visualizations [1-6]. While they explored the effect of visualization type [6-8], task type [7,8], and the amount of data included in the visualization [9] on users' performance, within their approach, they varied visualizations to an extent that the results cannot be reliably compared to determine the precise impact factors responsible for changes in performance. Furthermore, existing research largely relies on the correctness of responses to measure performance, which can be prone to guessing and fails to provide insights into users' cognitive processes during the examination of the visualizations. Our research aims to systematically and quantitatively evaluate viewers' responses to controlled variations of data visualizations, identifying key impact factors that influence comprehension. These insights will enable predictions regarding users' understanding of data visualizations and help optimize visualization design for enhanced comprehension.This thesis project aims to explore and quantify human comprehension of grouped bar charts and grouped line charts by leveraging temporal measures and physiological sensing. Specifically, the purpose of this study is to measure presentation times, EEG signals, and gaze data for controlled variations of these visualization types, identifying indicators linked to a viewer's comprehension performance. The research is structured around three key stages: (1) expanding an existing automated data and chart generation system to include grouped bar and line charts, (2) designing and implementing an experiment to collect EEG, gaze, and presentation times, and (3) conducting a user study and analyzing the results. The insights gained from this research could enhance our understanding of how individuals process different variations of visualizations and contribute to the development of a prediction model for measuring visualization comprehension. Ultimately, the findings may guide the creation of more effective and user-friendly data visualizations. You will
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BT/MT | Steeven Villa |
Neurotechnologies to Augment Human Cognitive Skills
DescriptionNeurotechnology has been typically used in the medical domain. However, they can bring huge benefits to healthy individuals as well. In this thesis, we will use transcranial direct stimulation in a controlled environment to test inhibition control in individuals (how good is a person at stopping an instinctive action). You will conduct a series of user studies following an established protocol and analyze whether transcranial stimulation helps participant inhibition. This work moves forward the field of human-computer interaction to enhance human capabilities. You will
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BT = bachelor thesis - PT = project thesis - MT = master thesis - PWAL = practical research course