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Updated: Aug 12, 2026
19:44
A Tactile Automated Passive-Finger Stimulator (TAPS)
Published on: June 3, 2009
Tactile illusion-produced number perception in blind and sighted persons
G R Gonzales1, S A Lewis, A L Weaver
1Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic Scottsdale, Arizona, USA.
Mayo Clinic Proceedings
|December 30, 1998
Summary
Tactile communication using a vibration device is possible for both blind and sighted individuals. This study found no significant difference in their ability to perceive tactilely presented number sequences.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Sensory Perception
Background:
- Tactile communication offers a potential alternative sensory channel.
- Mechanical devices can create tactile illusions of continuous contact.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate tactile receptive communication via a novel mechanical device.
- To compare the performance of sighted and blind individuals using this device.
- To assess differences in tactile perception between groups.
Main Methods:
- 20 sighted and 20 blind subjects participated.
- Subjects had no prior experience with the tactile illusion device.
- Number sequences (1-4 digits) were presented; trials for correct identification were recorded.
Main Results:
- Sighted subjects identified sequences slightly faster (by ~1 trial) than blind subjects, but this was not statistically significant.
- Younger and female subjects showed a tendency for faster identification.
- Age showed a minor overall correlation with trials needed.
Conclusions:
- Mechanical devices can enable tactile receptive communication through illusions.
- Blind and sighted individuals perceive tactile number illusions equally well.
- Tactile communication is viable for diverse sensory groups.
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