This research project aims to investigate and quantify tactile spatial acuity (the ability to discern fine details by touch), specifically focusing on the fingertips, utilising 3D printing technology. It will involve designing and fabricating tactile surfaces with controlled geometries, textures, and patterns using resin-based 3D printing techniques, as well as designing a suitable experimental set-up to image the contact between the fingertip and the tactile surface. You will then design a trial that will engage participants in tactile discrimination tasks to assess their ability to detect and distinguish fine details on these surfaces. By systematically manipulating tactile stimuli parameters and measuring participants' behaviour via both the imaging set-up and verbal perceptual reports, the project aims to elucidate the factors influencing tactile spatial acuity, including surface morphology, texture, and contact mechanics. Ultimately, this research has the potential to contribute to fields such as prosthetics design, haptic interfaces, and sensory neuroscience by providing insights into human tactile perception and its applications in various domains.
NOTE: Due to leave, the supervisor in the second semester will be Dr. Luke Hallum.
Undergraduate
None
Microfabrication (405.670, Lab)