皮膚電気刺激と力覚の融合による三次元形状提示

抄録

Rapid and precise understanding of 3D objects in virtual reality is crucial for proficient manipulation. Generally, relying solely on a force feedback device falls short in conveying intricate shapes, such as the edges of 3D objects, and it is deemed necessary to supplement it with appropriate cutaneous sensory inputs. Electro-tactile stimulation has the potential to provide high-resolution cutaneous sensory inputs when incorporated with a force feedback device. We devised a system that presents cutaneous inputs along an object’s edge through electrical stimulation and reactive force through a force feedback device. We evaluated its impact on 3D shape perception under three scenarios: force feedback alone, cutaneous feedback alone, and combined sensory presentation. Results from experiments on identifying four types of column shapes in single-finger contact and two-fingers grasping indicate that combined presentation of force and electro-tactile sensation significantly hastens shape differentiation time and facilitates more efficient recognition of 3D objects.