振動・慣性バイオニック強化システム（VIBES）の特性評価、実験的検証およびパイロットユーザー研究
Characterization, Experimental Validation and Pilot User Study of the Vibro-Inertial Bionic Enhancement System (VIBES)
義手ソケットに組み込んだ振動触覚デバイスVIBESについて、知覚特性の評価と健常者・義手ユーザーによる3課題の検証を行い、触覚フィードバックと義手の身体化への効果を示した。
著者: Alessia S. Ivani, Federica Barontini, Manuel G. Catalano, Giorgio Grioli, Matteo Bianchi, Antonio Bicchi
分類: cs.RO
原文アブストラクト
This study presents the characterization and validation of the VIBES, a wearable vibrotactile device that provides high-frequency tactile information embedded in a prosthetic socket. A psychophysical characterization involving ten able-bodied participants is performed to compute the Just Noticeable Difference (JND) related to the discrimination of vibrotactile cues delivered on the skin in two forearm positions, with the goal of optimising vibrotactile actuator position to maximise perceptual response. Furthermore, system performance is validated and tested both with ten able-bodied participants and one prosthesis user considering three tasks. More specifically, in the Active Texture Identification, Slippage and Fragile Object Experiments, we investigate if the VIBES could enhance users' roughness discrimination and manual usability and dexterity. Finally, we test the effect of the vibrotactile system on prosthetic embodiment in a Rubber Hand Illusion (RHI) task. Results show the system's effectiveness in conveying contact and texture cues, making it a potential tool to restore sensory feedback and enhance the embodiment in prosthetic users.
