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Related Experiment Video

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Frame-by-Frame Video Analysis of Idiosyncratic Reach-to-Grasp Movements in Humans

Frame-by-Frame Video Analysis of Idiosyncratic Reach-to-Grasp Movements in Humans

Published on: January 15, 2018

Hand aperture patterns in prehension.

Raoul M Bongers¹, Frank T J M Zaal, Marc Jeannerod

¹University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands. R.M.Bongers@umcg.nl

Human Movement Science

|December 2, 2011

Summary

Researchers explored alternative hand opening patterns during reaching and grasping tasks. Alternative patterns were used more often for larger distances and smaller objects, suggesting a strategy to time hand aperture for successful grasping.

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Area of Science:

Neuroscience
Biomechanics
Human Motor Control

Background:

The standard prehensile pattern for reaching and grasping is well-documented.
Variations in this pattern have been observed but not systematically studied.

Purpose of the Study:

To systematically investigate alternative hand opening patterns during reaching and grasping.
To understand how object properties and distance influence these patterns.

Main Methods:

Ten participants performed a pincer grip to pick up objects of varying diameters (3, 5, 7 cm).
Objects were placed at different distances (30, 60, 90, 120 cm).
Hand movements were analyzed, focusing on the timing and shape of hand opening and closing phases.

Main Results:

Alternative hand opening patterns included 'bumpy' movements or a 'plateau' before closing.
Two participants showed delayed grasping initiation, increasing with object distance.
Bumpy and plateau patterns were more frequent with larger object distances and smaller object sizes.

Conclusions:

Alternative hand opening patterns may extend the hand opening phase to ensure correct hand aperture for grasping.
These variations offer insights into the complex coordination between reaching and grasping movements.
Further research into these alternative patterns is warranted for a comprehensive understanding of motor control.