Software

The following software and technological equipment were acquired within the framework of PRR funds with a view to investing in DigiMedia’s scientific research. Information about the equipment, as well as the expected impact on DigiMedia, follows.

• software Gaze Viewer

The Gaze Viewer software was acquired to enable the use of the PCEye 5 device for collecting and analyzing eye-tracking data. Impact: It will allow eye-tracker (PCEye 5) assessment in portable mode, since the Tobii Pro is installed in fixed desktop mode.

• software Tobii Pro Spark package including Tobii Pro Lab Edition Migration

The acquisition of a TOBII Spark eye-tracker, together with a Tobii Pro Lab license, is justified by its potential to significantly enhance research capabilities in the field of Human–Computer Interaction (HCI). Eye-tracking technology provides objective behavioral data that complements and extends traditional self-reported measures, enabling researchers to gain deeper insights into users’ cognitive processes, attention allocation, and interaction patterns. Specifically, the TOBII Spark allows for the precise measurement of eye movements, gaze position, fixation patterns, and pupil dilation, generating robust quantitative data on visual attention and user behavior. This equipment will strengthen the methodological rigor of ongoing and future studies conducted within the DigiMedia Media Eye Tracking Laboratory, supporting advanced research that would otherwise not be feasible using questionnaires or interviews alone. Current and planned research projects that will directly benefit from this technology include:

• • Visual attention and information processing during news consumption;
  • Game user experience (UX) research and its implications for game design;
  • Computer-mediated communication and digital interaction contexts;
  • User behavior analysis in multimedia and interactive environments.

The TOBII Spark and Tobii Pro Lab software represent a strategic investment that will enhance the quality, competitiveness, and scientific impact of the research conducted by the research unit, while supporting innovative methodologies and interdisciplinary collaborations.

• Software Boardmaker

Widely used software for the creation of AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) materials, including communication boards and communication resources. It is essential for research, the development of accessible resources, and training activities in the field of inclusion. It will be used within the same exploratory project to produce and adapt communication boards for healthcare settings, supporting the preparation of the ECIU consortium and the development of a European funding proposal aimed at creating inclusive digital solutions.

• Grove – GSR Sensor

Grove – GSR Sensor is a valuable component for our motorbike research project due to its unique ability to measure physiological arousal through skin conductance. This capability is relevant for investigating rider stress, emotional response, and cognitive workload in real-world riding scenarios. The purchase of the Grove GSR Sensor is justified because it:

• • Enables objective physiological measurement of rider stress and arousal
  • Integrates seamlessly into our data acquisition platform
  • Enhances the depth and impact of our motorbike research
  • Supports development of safety and training innovations

Integrating GSR data strengthens the scientific rigor of the project and expands the scope of meaningful insights we can obtain.

• BITalino PsychoBIT

The BITalino PsychoBIT biosensing system from PLUX Biosignals is an advanced, wearable physiological data acquisition device designed to capture a range of continuous body signals including electrocardiography (ECG), electrodermal activity (EDA), respiration, pulse, and light intensity in real time. This makes it extremely valuable for research studies involving human subjects interacting with dynamic environments, such as motorcycle riding. The purchase of the BITalino PsychoBIT system is justified because it:

• • Enables objective physiological assessment of riders in real riding conditions
  • Integrates smoothly with multi-sensor research platforms
  • Provides data crucial for understanding stress, workload, and fatigue
  • Supports advanced scientific analysis and contributes to new knowledge in rider safety and performance.
• Emotiv EPOC X 14, Emotiv INSIGHT (5 channels), and Emotiv MN8

The acquisition of the Emotiv EPOC X 14, Emotiv INSIGHT (5 channels), and Emotiv MN8 systems will support DigiMedia’s scientific activity by enabling advanced experimental research in neurophysiological signal acquisition, human–computer interaction, and user experience studies, particularly in contexts involving media technologies, audience emotion detection, immersive environments, and adaptive systems, with expected impact on high-quality scientific publications, interdisciplinary projects, and innovation in New Media research.

• Screen monitors and mouse

The acquisition of 5 monitors aims to strengthen the working conditions of the researchers and the science manager of the Research Unit, ensuring adequate computer resources for the efficient development of scientific and management activities.