Towards Effective Information Display Using Vibrotactile Apparent Motion

Abstract

In this paper, we explore the use of tactile apparent motion at different speeds for information display. A prototype vibrotactile tactor array was constructed, consisting of three rings of five voice-coil tactors each, and mounted on the upper arm of test subjects. The results of two experiments are presented: a study on the sensitivity to differences in apparent motion speed, and a study on users' ability to differentiate four motion patterns at three different speeds. Users had little trouble with pattern identification, but found absolute speed recognition difficult. Several ideas for future exploration of tactile apparent motion for general-purpose information displays are presented.

Vibrotactile feedback for conveying object shape information as perceived by artificial sensing of robotic arm

“…Although the work shows that the vibrotactile channel is informative yet its capability is explored very little conveying only the sense of direction. Kohli et al (2006) has explored vibrotactile apparent motion which is studied using different speed (fast, medium or slow) and pattern (up, down, clockwise and/or counter-clockwise). Successful pattern identification is concluded.…”

“…On the other hand, vibrotactile pattern generation has recently gained attention which will assist in providing the necessary feedback for shape perception. Kohli et al (2006) has explored vibrotactile apparent motion realised using three rings of five voice-coil tractors fitted to the upper arm of the subjects. Cincotti et al (2007) has provided a survey of vibrotactile feedback for EEG-based Brain Computer Interfacing applications.…”

Determining appropriate parameters to elicit linear and circular apparent motion using vibrotactile cues

“…Stimulus-Onset Asynchrony (SOA) is the time difference between one tactor turning on and the next tactor in the sequence turning on. Using three rings of tactors mounted on the arm, we previously measured the ability of users to identify (1) the speed of apparent motion, and (2) individual patterns of apparent motion, including clock-wise/counter-clock-wise movement, and up/down movement from ring to ring [5].…”

“…Our own previous work [5] suggests that information displays using apparent motion could be a feasible approach for presenting multiple types of information through the manipulation of various apparent-motion parameters. Apparent motion is a phenomenon that a stimulus appears to move smoothly, even though the individual display units are discrete.…”

“…Piateski & Jones [3] used tactor arrays on the arm and torso to aid users in navigation tasks. Brown et al [4] used rhythmic patterns and changes in amplitude to explore the use of multiple vibration attributes to relay information to the fingertips.Our own previous work [5] suggests that information displays using apparent motion could be a feasible approach for presenting multiple types of information through the manipulation of various apparent-motion parameters. Apparent motion is a phenomenon that a stimulus appears to move smoothly, even though the individual display units are discrete.…”