Combining virtual reality and tactile stimulation to investigate embodied finger-based numerical representations

Area of Science:

• Cognitive Science
• Neuroscience
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• Finger-based number representation is a key cognitive strategy for numerical processing.
• The role of embodiment in finger-based numerical tasks remains unclear.
• Existing methods lack the precision to decouple sensory and visual feedback.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and test a new experimental setup for studying embodiment in finger-based numerical tasks.
• To utilize Virtual Reality (VR) and a low-cost tactile stimulator for precise sensory-motor feedback.
• To investigate the cognitive strategies underlying finger-based number representation.

Main Methods:

• Development of a VR system integrated with a low-cost tactile stimulator.
• Decoupling visual and tactile stimuli using a virtual hand.
• Precise, targeted tactile stimulation of individual or multiple fingers.
• Simultaneous recording of participant behavior and sensory experience.

Main Results:

• The system reliably delivers tactile stimulation to all fingers.
• High motion tracking quality is maintained during the task.
• Participants achieved over 95% accuracy in detecting single and multiple finger stimulations.
• Successful testing with sixteen participants.

Conclusions:

• The developed VR and tactile stimulation methodology is effective for studying embodied cognition.
• This approach offers new insights into the cognitive mechanisms of finger-based numerical representation.
• The system has potential applications for studying other high-level cognitive functions.