Location of a grasped object's effector influences perception of the length of that object via dynamic touch.

Abstract

Perception of properties of a grasped object via dynamic touch (wielding) contributes to dexterity in tool use (e.g., using a hammer, screwdriver) and sports (e.g., hockey, tennis). These activities differ from simple object manipulation in that they involve making contact with an intended target. In the present study, we examined whether and how making (percussive) contact with a target influences perception of the length of a grasped object via dynamic touch. Making contact with a target by the tip resulted in a more accurate perception of the length than simple wielding. However, making contact with the target at a point along the length did not influence the accuracy of perception. These findings suggest that the location of a grasped object's effector influences perception of properties of that object via dynamic touch. We discuss these findings in terms of time-varying properties of vibrations generated by the percussive contact of the grasped object and target.