Sensitivity to Vibrotactile Stimulation in the Hand and Wrist: Effects of Motion, Temporal Patterns, and Biological Sex

Abstract

Objective: We investigated the impact of low-tempo, repetitive hand movements on vibrotactile sensitivity by employing various temporal and spatial patterns in the hand and wrist area. Background: The investigation of a human’s ability to perceive vibrotactile stimuli during dynamic hand movements remains understudied, despite the prevalence of slow to mild hand motions in applications such as hand navigation or gesture control using haptic gloves in Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR). Method: We investigated vibrotactile sensitivity, analyzing the impact of various factors, including Motion (static and low-tempo repetitive hand movements), Temporal Patterns (Single or Double vibrations with varying onset times), Tactor Placements (hand and wrist), Spatial Patterns, and Biological Sex. Results: Our study revealed that Motion significantly influences vibrotactile sensitivity in the hand and wrist areas, leading to reduced accuracy rates during dynamic conditions. Additionally, as the stimulus onset approached in Double vibrations, accuracy rates markedly decreased. Notably, Hand Placement resulted in significantly higher accuracy rates compared to the Wrist Placement. Conclusion: Our findings underscore the impact of motion in reducing vibrotactile sensitivity on the back of the hand and around the wrist. Application: This research has wide-ranging practical applications, particularly in the field of VR/AR experiences, rehabilitation programs, and accessibility solutions through the use of haptic gloves. Insights from our study can be harnessed to enhance the efficacy of haptic gloves in conveying vibrotactile cues within these contexts.