Abstract:

The aim of this study is to evaluate vibrotactile perception via an e-textile structure on different parts of the body by different signal types and frequencies. First an e-textile structure was developed by the integration of a vibration motor to knitted fabric using conductive yarns. Then various signal waveforms at different frequencies were applied to diverse parts of the user’s body via this novel textile structure. Signals were generated by using a DAQ (Data Acquisition) card. Finally vibrotactile perceptions were evaluated and compared by groups of people using fuzzy linguistic scales. It was found that the signal waveform and frequency had a significant effect on the vibrotactile perception. Furthermore the perception level of vibrotactile stimulation showed differences depending on the part of the human body. This e-textile based vibrotactile information could be highly valuable for applications like directional navigation, where the visual sense is restricted, for driving, for piloting and for medical applications like body relaxation against stress.