Key result
Haptic force feedback during VR-fMRI modulates brain activity during virtual object touching.
Simulation of real-world tasks using virtual reality (VR) and measurement of associated neural activity by functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) have potential utility in research and clinical stroke applications. However, development of fMRI-compatible sensory feedback technology is required. Presented here is the development of a prototype force feedback device for VR-fMRI. Experiments validated device performance in terms of force output, interaction bandwidth, transmission delay, and fMRI-compatibility. A subsequent VR-fMRI experiment involved six participants touching a virtual object and verified modulation of brain activity with force feedback versus no force feedback. This device may facilitate further experiments to clarify the effect of haptics in VR, and may be adapted for characterizing brain function and behaviour associated with stroke-related hand paresis.
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Diodato et al. (2007) studied Stroke-related hand paresis (potential application; tested in 6 participants) (n=6). Haptic force feedback device for VR-fMRI vs. No force feedback was evaluated on Modulation of brain activity during virtual object touching. A prototype haptic force feedback device for VR-fMRI modulated brain activity compared with no force feedback in 6 participants touching a virtual object.
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