Variations of Sensorimotor Representation (Structure): The Functional Interplay between Object Features and Goal-Directed Grasping Actions

Abstract

This study investigated the structure of sensorimotor representations during goal-directed grasping actions and explored their relationship with object features. Sixteen 3D-printed spheres that varied in size (i.e., a diameter of 20 mm, 40 mm, 60 mm, 80 mm) and weight (i.e., 40 g, 52 g, 76 g, 91 g) were used as experimental stimuli. The Structural Dimensional Analysis of Mental Representation (SDA-M) method was used to assess the sensorimotor representation structure during grasping. Participants were instructed in each trial to weigh, lift, or transport sets of two different spheres and to judge the similarity of the objects’ features, taking into account the executed grasping movement. Each participant performed a total of 240 trials, and object presentation was randomized. The results suggest that the functional interplay between object features and goal-directed actions accounts for the significant variations in the structure of sensorimotor representations after grasping. Specifically, the relevance of the perceived objects’ size and weight is closely interrelated to the grasping task demands and movement dynamics of the executed action. Our results suggest that distinct sensorimotor representations support individual grasping actions according to top-down influences modulated by motor intentions, functional task demands, and task-relevant object features.

Virtual, augmented and mixed reality for motor neurorehabilitation: a systematic methodological review focused on the role of body representation (Preprint)

“…The SMS is adaptable, undergoing changes in response to experience or injury, leading to corresponding adjustments in body representation. Motor skill learning alters body perception and control, influenced by top-down factors and task demands [9]. Experimental findings suggest that mediated sensory perception, like mirrored hand movements, can induce abnormal body representations [8].…”

Anticipation (second-order motor planning) is stored in memory – processing of grasp postures in a priming paradigm

“…Accordingly, we need our hands to interact with the environment and to be able to act in it. The way we grasp objects depends on various factors such as the perceived physical properties of the object, such as its size, orientation and distance ( Castiello, 2005 ; Desanghere and Marotta, 2015 ; Ansuini et al, 2016 ), but furthermore the goal of the action ( Armbrüster and Spijkers, 2006 ; Rosenbaum et al, 2006 ; Ansuini et al, 2008 ; Rosenbaum et al, 2012 ; Cienfuegos et al, 2022 ). The former, i.e., the planning of actions on the basis of immediate object features and task requirements, has been claimed as first-order motor planning.…”

Cognitive representations of handball tactic actions in athletes–The function of expertise and age

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