The Enactive Torch: Open-source sensory substitution device for neurophysiological research

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Robotics

Background:

• Sensory substitution devices (SSDs) are crucial for exploring embodied perception and augmenting human capabilities.
• Existing SSDs often lack seamless integration with neurophysiological recording systems like electroencephalography (EEG).
• The Enactive Torch (ET) was developed to address the need for a modular, accessible, and synchronized sensory substitution platform.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the updated Enactive Torch (ET), an open-source, multimodal sensory substitution device.
• To enable synchronized haptic stimulation and neurophysiological data acquisition (EEG).
• To facilitate embodied perception studies and research in enactive cognition and human-machine interaction.

Main Methods:

• The ET converts LiDAR sensor distance measurements into vibratory feedback using internal and external actuators.
• It features a Teensy 4.0 microcontroller, a real-time trigger interface, and a C++ framework supporting multiple operational modes.
• Hardware components were validated through latency testing (sub-25 ms responsiveness) and vibrational performance characterization.

Main Results:

• The updated ET system demonstrates sub-25 ms responsiveness, ensuring precise haptic feedback.
• The device integrates seamlessly with EEG systems, allowing for synchronized event marking in experimental paradigms.
• All necessary firmware, schematics, 3D models, and build instructions are publicly available.

Conclusions:

• The Enactive Torch provides a validated, accessible, and reproducible platform for advanced research in sensory substitution.
• It lowers engineering overhead, enabling researchers to explore novel paradigms in enactive cognition and human-machine interaction.
• The synchronized data acquisition capabilities facilitate deeper understanding of neural correlates of embodied perception.