Unveiling interactions of spatial-temporal information in tactile motion perception

Abstract

The intricate interplay of spatial and temporal information in tactile-motion perception remains elusive. Despite strides in decoding neural signals for direction, speed and texture in tactile perception, nuanced interactions persist as challenges. Addressing this, we investigated direction and speed tactile perception, exploring the intricate spatial-temporal dynamics. Psychophysical experiments manipulated direction and speed parameters using a laboratory-designed fingerpad ball-stimulator. A pivotal discovery includes quadrant-dependent anisotropic distortion in perceived motion direction, expanding the well-known notion of a specific preferred orientation. Spatial features primarily influence inherent responses, while temporal features impact stimulus-specific responses, shedding light on dynamic directional perception. The introduction of a psychometric function improved the modeling of tactile-motion speed perception, incorporating both linear and nonlinear components for a more accurate representation. This study provides intriguing insights into the neural mechanisms in tactile-motion perception, with potential applications for somatosensation in brain-machine interfaces. TeaserThis study unveils the intricate interplay of perceiving tactile motion, shedding light on the mysteries of tactile sensations.