Q'Hand: A fully automated apparatus for studying haptic processing of spatially distributed inputs

Abstract

Q'Hand is an electromechanical system that permits fully automated preparation and presentation of spatially distributed stimulus displays, as well as on-line data acquisition, all under software control. Selected inputs may be presented to any one or combination of the middle three fingertips of both hands. Both accuracy and reaction times are collected on line. Q'Hand was specifically designed to investigate tactile/haptic preattentive and attentive processing of single and multidimensional stimuli. However, it may also be used to study a variety of other research topics, such as pattern recognition, psychophysical issues, and lateralization of somatosensory function. Further, it may be adapted relatively easily for use in clinical settings. For example, with this apparatus, automated psychophysical tests may be designed for the evaluation of the extent of sensory impairment due to peripheral nerve damage otheihander to cortical dysfunction. © 1991 Psychonomic Society, Inc.