Optimizing Haptic Interface Design: Effects of Spacing and Stimulation Sites

Wearable vibrotactile displays hold significant promise in sensory substitution, assistive technologies, and human-computer interaction. However, the optimal design parameters, particularly actuator spacing and body placement for achieving the best tactile perception remain insufficiently understood. This study systematically examined how inter-actuator distance and stimulation site on the forearm influence vibrotactile localization accuracy using Lofelt L۵ voice coil actuators. In Part ۱, five actuator spacings (۰ mm, ۵ mm, ۱۰ mm, ۱۵ mm, and ۲۰ mm) were tested on both the upper side and underside of the forearm using a relative point localization (rPL) task. A two-way repeated measures ANOVA revealed a significant main effect of spacing (p < ۰.۰۵), with ۲۰ mm yielding the highest discrimination accuracy. In Part ۲, three stimulation locations-wrist, mid-forearm, and elbow-were evaluated. Vibrotactile perception accuracy was significantly higher at the wrist and elbow compared to the middle, suggesting that these regions may serve as perceptual anchor points. The results offer practical design guidelines for developing vibrotactile sleeves, recommending a ۲۰ mm actuator spacing and preferential placement near anatomical landmarks to optimize haptic feedback performance using voice coil actuators (Lofelt L۵). These insights support the development of more effective and user-friendly tactile interface designs for wearable applications.

کلیدواژه ها:

vibrotactile stimulation ، haptic ، stimuli discrimination ، vibrotactile wearable ، stimulus perception