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Echoic Sensory Substitution Information in a Single Obstacle Circumvention Task.
Andrew J Kolarik1,2,3, Amy C Scarfe2,4, Brian C J Moore3
1Centre for the Study of the Senses, Institute of Philosophy, University of London, London, United Kingdom.
Plos One
|August 6, 2016
Summary
Sensory substitution devices (SSDs) help blindfolded individuals navigate obstacles by providing tactile feedback. This study shows SSDs enable collision-free navigation, though with increased buffer space and movement time compared to vision.
Area of Science:
- Human-computer interaction
- Neuroscience
- Robotics
Background:
- Accurate motor control is crucial for obstacle avoidance during locomotion.
- Sensory substitution devices (SSDs) offer a potential solution for navigation when vision is impaired.
- Tactile SSDs can convey environmental information, such as obstacle distance, through vibration patterns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the accuracy of navigation using a tactile sensory substitution device (SSD) in an obstacle circumvention task.
- To compare navigation performance with SSD guidance against unaided visual guidance.
- To analyze kinematic parameters influencing obstacle avoidance behavior.
Main Methods:
- Twelve blindfolded participants navigated around a single obstacle under SSD guidance and full vision.
- A 3D Vicon motion capture system recorded kinematic data.
- Obstacle positions were varied to assess adaptive navigation strategies.
Main Results:
- Participants achieved 93% collision-free navigation with SSD guidance.
- Compared to vision, SSD guidance resulted in significantly larger buffer space (2.1x), longer movement times (9.4x), and more velocity corrections (5x).
- Participants consistently chose the side with more available space to pass the obstacle under both conditions.
Conclusions:
- Tactile SSDs can facilitate effective obstacle avoidance by enabling the formation of a protective spatial envelope during locomotion.
- The findings support the utility of SSDs as assistive devices for individuals with visual impairments navigating complex environments.
- Navigation strategies adapt to sensory input, prioritizing safety and space utilization.
