Determination of Mechanical Properties of the Human Fingerpad In Vivo Using a Tactile Stimulator
Abstract
A desire to better understand the mechanics of the human fingerpad, in vivo, as related to haptic performance and tactual perception prompted an investigation of the fingerpad's characteristic force response to indentation. A computer-controlled, high- precision tactile stimulator was constructed to deliver a combination of uniaxial static, ramp and sinusoidal indentations normal a specific region of the stationary and passive fingerpads of five different subjects. Both input indentation depth and fingerpad force response were recorded as a function of time to capture transients and steady state features. Three aluminum indentors, a point, a 6.35 mm diameter circular probe and a flat plate, were used for indentation to represent three general classes of loading profiles encountered in manual exploration and manipulation. With each shape, repeatability of the response was tested and the effects of varying amplitude, velocity and frequency of indentation were investigated.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA458343
Entities
People
- Mandayarn A. Srinivasan
- Rogeve J. Gulatl
Organizations
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology