Investigation of a haptic illusion created by gravity

Details

Supervisors

Lefèvre, Philippe ; Opsomer, Laurent

Faculty

Ecole polytechnique de Louvain

Degree label

Master [120] : ingénieur civil biomédical, à finalité spécialisée

Abstract

This master thesis investigates the impact of gravity on haptic illusions, building on previous research that identified a perceptual illusion where upward forces (against gravity) are perceived as larger than downward forces (with gravity). Investigating this illusion is crucial for improving human-machine interfaces in aerospace and medical fields. An experimental study with 15 participants was conducted to explore these effects. Participants performed two tasks: creating friction on a manipulandum to analyse the coefficient of friction and executing isometric forces. These tasks were carried out under four conditions, defined by combinations of body orientation (seated or supine) and force direction (vertical or horizontal). These combinations allowed the observation of the forces when the axis of gravity relative to the body and the direction of the forces varied. The aim was to understand how changes in body orientation and force direction influence the perception of exerted forces, providing insights into the underlying mechanisms of haptic illusions.