Motor learning skill experiments using haptic interface capabilities

This paper investigated the influence that proportional feedback programmed into haptic interface (HI) can have in the development of motor skills. The haptic interface design, adapted to the task to be performed, plays a key role inside motor learning processes as the kinesthetic and proprioceptive are the information pathway in the perception of incoming stimuli. Subjects learned to draw a shape using two kinds of training methods: visual, visual and haptic. The error position distance was measured and a statistical analysis was done in order to identify user´s motion improvement when training trials were alternated with practice trials. In order to constraint the user to draw a predefined path, a control law is presented.